What Is a Bralette? Your Complete Guide to This Comfortable Favourite

Bralettes have surged in popularity for good reason—they’re stylish, incredibly comfortable, and effortlessly versatile. Loved by people of all ages, bralettes offer a refreshing alternative to traditional bras. But what exactly is a bralette, and how do you know if it’s right for you?

In this guide, we’ll explore the essential differences between bralettes and bras, when to wear one, and why they’ve become a go-to option in so many lingerie drawers.

Bralette vs Bra: What Sets Them Apart?

Although bras and bralettes are both worn in similar ways, they serve different purposes when it comes to structure and support.

A standard bra—wired or not—is built to offer firm support and contouring. With precise sizing that includes both a band and cup measurement, bras are engineered to shape the body and lift the bust, making them ideal for those who need structured support throughout the day.

Bralettes, on the other hand, are all about ease and flexibility. Often resembling a soft crop top, they’re made with stretch fabrics that gently shape without the rigid structure of underwires or boning. Most bralettes come in simple dress sizes (like S, M, L), making them easier to shop for. Though they offer lighter support, they excel in comfort—and their minimalist design lends itself to lounging, sleeping, or even layering as outerwear.

Why Choose a Bralette?

Whether you're winding down at home, looking for breathable options in warmer weather, or want a chic layer to pair under your outfit, a bralette is an ideal choice. Its lightweight feel and soft structure make it perfect for everyday wear when heavy-duty support isn't needed.

From loungewear to streetwear, the bralette has earned its place as a versatile staple that blends comfort with confidence.

Click here to find the perfect bralette for your unique shape

Who Wears Bralettes?

There is no one group of people who is best suited to wearing a bralette. In fact, bralettes are enjoyed by a vast range of people, from teens to the elderly, and from pregnant women to sportspeople.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are one group that particularly enjoy the benefits of a bralette. During the maternity period, the breasts go through rapid changes which can cause a standard bra to become uncomfortable. The stretchy material of a bralette can feel like a welcome relief to sore breasts, which require support without the structure of a bra.

Bralettes are also ideal for loungewear and sleep, when you need support without the restrictions that a bra often brings. If you crave the feeling of being bra-free but still need a bit of support, a bralette could be ideal.

Bralettes: Our Top Picks

If you’re thinking about trying a bralette, you might wonder what type of bralette is right for you. To help you along the away, we’ve picked out some of our favourite bralettes on the market today. Here are our top three bralettes for everyday wear.

Fantasie Impression

The Fantasie Impression is bound to make an impression! With a delicate lace overlay and a range of three different colours to choose from, this bralette puts style at the front and centre. However, comfort doesn’t get left behind when you opt for the Fantasie Impression.

The wire-free design means that the bralette can mould comfortably to your shape, whilst the wide elastic under band provides impressive support without compromising on comfort. Not only that, but the Fantasie Impression bralette showcases a super soft brushed lining on the cups, ensuring that you remain comfortable all day long.

Discover the Fantasie Impression bralette here

Freya Daisy Lace

If you’re looking for a timeless classic that prioritises comfort, look no further than the Freya Daisy Lace bralette. This bralette is made from stretchy and soft fabric, enabling it to mould seamlessly to your shape. The non-wired design features fully adjustable straps, hook and eye fastening and a high apex, ensuring the highest levels of comfort.

However, the Freya Daisy Lace doesn’t forget about style, with a gorgeous design that will leave you feeling both confident and comfortable. The all over lace detailing gives this bralette a classic and elegant appearance, combined with a silver bow charm for a bit of sparkle. The Freya Daisy Lace is bound to leave you feeling your best self, whatever the time of day.

Learn more about the Freya Daisy Lace bralette here

Royce Blossom

If a typical bralette isn’t for you, you might be interested to learn that there is an alternative. The Royce Blossom support bra is a totally unique bralette that is ideal for both sleep and daytime wear. This bralette can be worn as a crop top for sleep, or can be ruched down to provide a plunge neckline to wear under lower cut tops during the daytime.

With a gorgeous polka dot design, the Royce Blossom is a versatile alternative to traditional bralettes which doesn’t compromise on style. With more support than a standard bralette, but without the restrictions that bras often come with, the Royce Blossom support bra is a great option for those looking for comfortable support.

Find out more about the Royce Blossom support bra here

Can You Wear Bralettes If You Have Larger Breasts? 

You may have heard that bralettes and larger breasts don't mix. But guess what? That's a total myth. If you have larger breasts, you can absolutely wear a bralette and enjoy its benefits. In fact, it's crucial to pick a quality bralette that gives you the support you need, but once you find the right one, you're good to go.

Interestingly, larger-breasted women often get the most from wearing a bralette. While those with smaller breasts might find it easy to ditch the bra at bedtime, you might need a bit more support around the clock. Bralettes offer that delicate balance of support and comfort, making them an excellent option for you.

The key is to get the size right and try different shapes and styles until you find the one that suits your unique build. True, a bralette won't give you the intense support that a structured, underwired bra would, but many women with larger breasts find them comfy yet secure enough for everyday wear.

Related Questions

What Is The Point Of Bralettes?

Bralettes are a popular choice amongst those who enjoy the feeling of taking off their bra at the end of the day, without losing all of their support. A bralette is made from soft and stretchy material, offering light support when you need it the most. Bralettes can be worn for sleep, during the daytime and as loungewear, making them a versatile alternative to traditional bras.

Are Bralettes Healthier Than Bras?

Bralettes are made from a soft and stretchy material, without any underwires. This means that the material of a bralette moulds gently to your breast, without any uncomfortable wires digging in. Whilst a traditional wired bra could cause damage to breast tissue if it was the wrong size, bralettes are a safe alternative thanks to their wireless design. This means that even if your bralette becomes too small, it is unlikely to cause any damage to your breast tissue.

Should I Wear A Bra Or Bralette?

Whether you decide to wear a bra or a bralette is down to personal choice. Whilst some people feel most secure and supported in a structured bra, others prefer the comfort that a bralette offers. Others may choose to opt for a bralette whilst lounging around the house or sleeping, whilst switching to a more structured bra when going out. There’s so right or wrong answer – it’s completely down to personal choice.

We hope we’ve provided you with a comprehensive answer to the question of ‘what is a bralette bra’, as well as giving you an insight into the benefits that this type of bra can offer. If you’re ready to find the perfect bralette, you can discover our full range of bralettes here.