8 Best Strapless Bras, Tested by 60 Women
Get support and lift without any straps peeking out.
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Many of us have had that same feeling when we know we need to wear a strapless bra: dread. And it's because there are so many strapless bras out there that dig in uncomfortably, lack sufficient support, and can even shift under clothes. But supportive and comfortable strapless bras actually do exist. If you wear dresses or tops that are strapless, one-shoulder, or have tricky necklines, a well-fitting strapless bra can make you look and feel infinitely better than one that just fits OK. Plus, many strapless bras are convertible, so you can wear them with straps to get even more use out of them.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Bali One Smooth U Strapless Bra
- Best wireless: Soma Enbliss Wireless Strapless Bra
- Best for large breasts: Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra
- Best for small breasts: Pepper MVP Multiway Strapless Bra
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, comprised of fiber scientists and fashion experts, tested over 200 bras, including 12 strapless styles, to find the best bras for all cup sizes. We consider stretch recovery to make sure a bra keeps its shape, washability to ensure the bra will hold up to regular laundering, and construction to determine if a bra is well-made and easy to wear. For our latest test, we also enlisted 60 consumer testers ranging in A–H cup sizes and 30–48 band sizes who wore these strapless bras to weddings, dinner parties, and everyday outings.
Pros
- Silicone grips to keep this bra secure
- Testers gave this bra a perfect score for fit
- Full-coverage cups
Cons
- Fabric felt a bit rough, according to testers
Yes, this Bali bra is our best-performing style and our pick for best value—it currently costs just $25 on sale and outperformed styles over four times its price. With lightly lined, full-coverage foam cups, it has an underwire for support and lift and silicone grips to help keep it in place, which testers especially appreciated. We had B, C, and D cup size testers wear this bra and they all reported that it was a perfect fit.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: This bra received the highest consumer score out of all the strapless bras we tested, with all testers giving it perfect scores for running true to size, staying in place, and being easy to take on and off. "I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this, for a strapless bra," reported one tester with a 36C bra size. "I typically can't stand strapless bras because they feel uncomfortable and slide down, but this one stayed in place and I even forgot I was wearing it." Another tester with a 34D bra size said, "It gives you a little lift and doesn't give you that uni-boob look that some strapless bras will give you."
Some testers noted that the fabric felt a little rough and wished it were softer. And while this bra washed beautifully in our Lab tests with minimal shrinkage, it stretched out a bit in our stretch recovery tests.
| Band sizes | 32–42 |
| Cup sizes | C–DDD |
| Materials | Nylon and spandex |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Buttery-soft brushed fabric
- Molded cups provide shaping without underwire
- Five rows of hook-and-eye closures
Cons
- Band stretched out a bit in our stretch recovery tests
Most strapless bras feature an underwire, but this wireless, strapless bra from Soma is designed to provide the same support without any wire. (The version of this bra with straps cinched the top spot in our wireless bra test.) The Enbliss strapless bra features molded cups to create a natural shape and ample lift, as well as fabric that's luxuriously soft because it's lightly brushed.
Unlike most bras with three rows of hooks and eyes in the back, this style has five rows, so you can tighten it even if it stretches out. This is especially helpful as we did find this bra to stretch out a bit in our stretch recovery tests.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Testers especially liked the Soma Enbliss line for offering ample lift to create natural-looking cleavage without a wire that pokes and prods. "The fabric was buttery soft and smooth; I really liked it and was comfortable all day," said one tester with a 32DD bra size.
Another tester with a 36B bra size said, "I liked that it felt very smooth and supportive, and fit nicely." It received high marks across the board from consumer testers for being comfortable to wear, supportive, and staying in place.
| Band sizes | 32–42 |
| Cup sizes | A–G |
| Materials | Nylon and spandex |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Wider sides to prevent any digging in
- Silicone grips on the top of the cups and bottom of the band
- Aced our Lab durability tests
Cons
- Cups may dig into sides, according to testers
Available in an impressive size range up to an I cup size, this Wacoal bra has been a top performer in our evaluations for years. We tested this bra both in 2017 and 2023, and it continues to be a tester favorite. In our Lab evaluations, this bra proved to be durable, maintaining its shape after our stretch recovery tests, and it didn't shrink or change appearance after laundering.
The thoughtful design, which includes a slightly padded bottom band to prevent any digging in, helps it feel supportive and comfortable throughout the day. There are also silicone grips along the top and bottom band of the bra to keep it secure. We especially appreciate the boning on the sides and the wider band to help provide ample support for larger cup sizes without any bulging or uncomfortable pinching.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One tester with a 38DDD bra size said, "Overall, the bra is great and the bra felt secure for someone with a larger chest." She also said, "I love the feel of the cups; they are so smooth and soft on my skin." Another tester with a 32G bra size said, "The cups were large enough and did not cut into my breasts."
Both of these testers noted that the bra was more supportive when they wore it with the adjustable straps. Some testers also noted that the cups dug a bit into their ribcages a bit.
| Band sizes | 30–44 |
| Cup sizes | B–I |
| Materials | Polyamide and spandex |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Gore between cups for separation
- Shallower cups prevent gaping
- Silicone strip keeps the band secure
Cons
- Pepper bras weren't very durable in our Lab tests
Those who have a small chest may be familiar with the frustrating gaping that can happen with underwire bras. Pepper designs their bras specifically for people with AA to B cup sizes to ensure a proper fit. The cups on this bra have a more shallow design to help prevent gaping, and a silicone strip along the band keeps it from any sliding down.
The flattering balconette cups are lightly lined to enhance your natural shape and provide nipple coverage without feeling bulky, and the gore between the cups is wide to provide separation.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One tester with a 36A bra size tried this bra and said it was a "total game-changer for small-busted women." Our testers with small cup sizes loved Pepper bras for providing a proper fit that feels comfortable enough for all-day wear. Pepper bras have previously shown signs of wear and shrinkage after laundering, so it may not be the most durable long-term.
| Band sizes | 30–40 |
| Cup sizes | AA–B |
| Materials | Polyester and elastane |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Super smooth material
- Six different nude shades
- Inclusive size range up to a 4X
Cons
- Minimal nipple coverage
Free of bulky padding, scratchy seams, or stiff underwires, this simple Skims bandeau bra offers a comfy solution compared to traditional strapless bras. With a snug fit and smooth, stretchy polyamide and elastane fabric, this bra has a seamless look.
Our favorite part: It's available in six different nude shades, so you can find a close match to your skin tone. Because this bra lacks any padding, it has minimal nipple coverage.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: We have tested a variety of Skims bras, and our testers applaud Skims' commitment to inclusivity with a size range that goes up to 4X and a variety of nude shades. "I loved the material and think it could be great for a casual bra," reported one tester.
RELATED: Skims Bra Review
| Sizes | XXS–4X (covers sizes 30–44, A–H) |
| Materials | Polyamide and elastane |
| Convertible | No |
Pros
- Lightly lined cups
- Wide band with silicone grips to help it stay up
- Wide range of sizes, including half-cup sizes
Cons
- Some testers said this bra ran small
Featuring a classic design, this Thirdlove strapless bra offers lightly lined, full-coverage cups with an underwire. There's a bit of padding around the underwire to prevent any uncomfortable digging in and the wide band with silicone grips on the top and bottom help keep the bra secure for a full day of wear.
This bra is convertible with straps included. Our testers especially liked that it comes with two sets of straps: one matching the color of the bra you ordered and another that's clear.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Some testers found this bra to run a bit small. Thirdlove offers a unique sizing system with half-cup sizes, so we recommend reading the size chart closely to find your best fit.
"[This bra] kept my boobs supported very well for a strapless bra," said one tester with a 34DD bra size. Another tester with a 32C bra size said, "This bra was very supportive and has the perfect amount of padding." A tester with a 32G bra size "thought it was smart the way they made the padding/lining thicker at the bottom to help keep your boobs up and it worked."
| Band sizes | 32–44 |
| Cup sizes | AA–H (with half-sizes) |
| Materials | Nylon and spandex |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Side boning and silicone grips to stay put
- Easy-to-use convertible straps
- Stylish silhouette with mesh detailing
Cons
- Some testers wished it had more lift
Strapless bras with boning have more structure and shape, which can help them stay in place better for more support. Like a corset, this Maidenform strapless bra has boning on the sides, and the lightly padded underwire cups create lift while staying hidden under clothes. The breathable mesh between the cups helps prevent overheating while creating a stylish silhouette. It features silicone grips to keep the bra from sliding down (which testers said really worked!).
WHAT TESTERS SAY: All testers liked that this bra stayed perfectly in place. One tester said, "It is such a pain to pull a strapless bra up all day, but with this brand it didn't move an inch!" Testers liked using the convertible straps with one saying, "The straps were easy to remove from their loops." Another tester noted, "This bra was very supportive, but I do wish it had more lift."
| Band sizes | 32–40 |
| Cup sizes | A–DD |
| Materials | Nylon and spandex |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
Pros
- Slight push-up padding
- 12 configurations with the adjustable straps
- Stayed in place perfectly, according to testers
Cons
- Some testers wished the padding was removable
Victoria's Secret is known for its high quality push-up bras that actually work, and this style—despite being strapless—is no exception. It features slight push-up padding and a plunging neckline to create natural cleavage while staying hidden underneath lower-cut tops. Ideal to don under practically any apparel, this strapless bra can be worn in 12 different ways for ultimate flexibility, thanks to adjustable straps that you can switch to halter, one-shoulder strap, racerback, and more.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: A tester with a 32C bra size said this bra "stays up and doesn't fall down or move [and] it's comfortable!" She added, "You honestly forget you are even wearing a strapless bra when you have it on (which is saying a lot)." All testers said this bra was true to size and easy to take on and off. Plus, they loved this bra's appearance on its own.
One tester with a 34C bra size wore this strapless bra "with a spaghetti strap dress for a wedding and it stayed in place for the whole event (plus getting there and getting home), which was roughly 12 hours." Some testers noted that the padding is built-in, and they would have preferred if it were removable for customizable cleavage and lift.
Features at a Glance
| Band sizes | 32–38 |
| Cup sizes | A–DD |
| Materials | Polyamide and elastane with lycra |
| Convertible | Yes, straps included |
How we test strapless bras
When testing strapless bras in our Textiles Lab, our process consists of Lab evaluations for performance and durability as well as feedback from consumer testers with a variety of cup sizes and body shapes during real-life use.
Factors we evaluate include:
- Stretch recovery: To ensure each bra will maintain its shape wear after wear, we conduct stretch recovery tests. We mark a section of the bra band and stretch it out to a standard measurement for two hours. We measure the markings after we release the bra to see how well it returns to its original shape after one minute and one hour.
- Washability: We launder each bra according to its care label five times to assess if the material has shrunk or shown any damage after laundering.
- Wear tests: Testers with a range of band and cup sizes try the bras and fill out thorough survey responses, providing feedback on ease of putting it on and taking it off, fit, comfort, support, stay-in-place capabilities, visibility under clothes, and overall appearance. In our latest test, our testers wore sizes that ranged from AA to H cups and 30 to 48 bands.
What to look for when shopping for the best strapless bra
✔️ Bra size: If you can never find a comfortable bra, it's possible you aren't wearing the correct bra size. Because each brand has slight variations in sizing, it can be helpful to try a few different sizes to find a proper fit. A strapless bra should fit snugly under your breasts with your breasts filling out the cups without any gaping or spillage out the top. If possible, it can be extremely helpful to get measured by a professional at a retailer you trust. Use our guide to measure your bra size at home if you cannot go to a store in person.
✔️ Boning: These rigid inserts add extra structure and stability to strapless bras. Unlike an underwire that offers support just underneath your breasts, boning is positioned on either side of the bra to maintain the shape of the bra and prevent any bending. Because of its stiff nature, boning can sometimes dig in, but it is especially helpful in strapless bras for larger cup sizes as it offers extra support.
✔️ Padding: Consider the level of padding you want in your strapless bra. Most strapless bras feature some padding whether it's in the form of lightly lined foam cups or push-up padding to create more lift like the Victoria's Secret Every-Way Strapless Bra. There are some styles that offer no padding like the Skims Bandeau Bra too.
✔️ Occasion: While you can wear convertible strapless bras with straps like a regular T-shirt bra, you likely won't find them as comfortable as your reliable everyday bra. Strapless bras have a tighter fit and many have silicone grips to help them stay in place. Strapless bras are extremely handy for a variety of occasions and outfits like strapless tube tops, off-the-shoulder sweaters, or spaghetti strap dresses. Most of our testers reported that they usually wear their strapless bras during wedding season when they're wearing formal dresses and need to keep their bra completely hidden.
Should you go down a size in a strapless bra?
No, we recommend going with your true size for strapless bras. Many people aren't wearing the proper bra size (even if it's the size you have been wearing for decades!). If you're wearing a strapless bra that's too small, you'll experience even more spillage and squeezing as this style tends to run tighter to stay properly in place.
On the other hand, if you're wearing a bra size that's too large, your strapless bra will slide down your rib cage and lack proper lift and support for your breasts.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Textiles Lab, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for all different types of bras, including strapless bras, bralettes, and sports bras. She studied Fiber Science and Apparel Design at Cornell University with research experience in product quality assessment. As a lifetime sewer with previous product development experience, she has a strong fashion background with expertise in proper fit and construction.
Amanda Constantine is a home & apparel reviews analyst in the Textiles Lab. She tests a variety of apparel like bras, underwear, shapewear, and swimwear. Constantine has a background in apparel merchandising and was a fashion lecturer prior to joining GH. She used her expertise when updating the article and also coordinated recent bra consumer testing and photoshoots.
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