The 16 most comfortable bras of 2024: these non-wired bras for all sizes won't sacrifice support or style
Looking for comfortable bras that feel great, while still supporting your boobs? These are the non-wired bras to invest in
Most comfortable bra 2024: Jump Menu
The list in brief ↴
1. Best overall: Fantasie Jacqueline
2. Best everyday: Sloggi Zero Feel
3. Best supportive: M&S Total Support
4. Best pull-on: Spanx Breast of Both Worlds
5. Best pull-on for big busts: MAGISCULPT DD+ Support Comfort Top
6. Best looking: Fantasie Impression
7. Best shaping: Spanx Bra-Llelujah
8. Best loungewear: Curvy Kate Unwind Bralette
9. Best colourful: Freya Snapshot
10. Best smoothing: Boux Avenue Lounge
11. Best plunging: Freya Erin
12. Best full coverage: M&S Flexifit
13. Best lacy: Sloggi Allround
14. Best plus size: Nudea Easy Does It
15. Best DD+: Freedom Bra
16. Best seam-free: Chantelle Soft Stretch
How we test
How to choose
No lingerie collection is complete without one of the most comfortable bras. If you're after the support of a traditional bra but don't want to contend with itchy fabrics and sharp wires, these pieces will hold your shape without any pesky digging in.
Finding best bra can be a lifelong struggle. Finding both comfort and support in one piece is notoriously tricky, but it certainly isn't impossible. With more and more brands offering wire-free alternatives that are just as stylish and practical as traditional bras, this mission has become a lot simpler. The first step to finding a truly comfortable bra is making sure you're wearing the right size, and it is recommended that you get professionally measured every six months. However, if you're shopping for a comfortable bra from home, it's a good idea to check out our handy how to measure a bra size guide.
To find the truly most comfortable bras available to shop right now, we tried and tested each of the styles in this guide to find out if they actually provide day-long comfort. Our expert testers have given their honest thoughts to help you determine which comfortable bra will be best for you, from the best bralettes to fully padded pieces to suit your every need. No matter your budget, bra size, or style preference, we have found the most comfortable bras on the market to shop now - no tight or painful fits in sight.
The quick list: our top 6
Best overall
The most comfortable bra we tried
A hybrid between a bra and bralette, this non-wired bra is great for those with a larger bust, looking for a soft bralette style that still gives great lift and support.
Best for everday
The best for everyday wear
Blending under clothes, the Sloggi Zero Feel can also be worn as one of the best sleep bras as it's entirely seamless. The bra also features removable padding, so that you can adapt the fit and shape effortlessly.
Best for support
The best for support
Lightweight, non-wired and padding free, it has a deep underbust band and side support for good shaping and uplift and a wide back band that aims to smooth out the back area.
Best for large busts
The best for large busts
For sizes XL-3X this non wired bra contains an added layer of stabilizer support, making this one of the best non wired bras for large busts and definitely one of the best pull-on bra for a large bust.
Best looking
The best looking
Fantasie already makes some of the best bras for large busts, so the brand can call on this knowledge for its bralettes. Aiming to offer a prettier finish, the brand has a lace outer and a soft, brushed inner cup lining.
Best for shaping
The best for shaping
Made from soft and stretchy material, this bra is clasp-free, and designed to be pulled on. Featuring molded cups and a supportive underband, it's aimed at a smaller bust, as sizing is limited.
The most comfortable bras, as reviewed by our experts
Why you can trust Woman & Home
Most comfortable bra overall
1. Fantasie Jacqueline Lace Soft Cup Bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
If you've been struggling with the bras vs bralettes debate, then this Fantasie bra could be the one for you. Fantasie specialise in bras for larger cup sizes, so really know how to offer a fuller bust a great shape. With side support, this bra aims to push the bust up and forward for shaping without the need for padding. The lace detailing adds a feminine feel, but its the wide straps that are designed to do the heavy lifting, alongside the deep underbust. A three hook clasp at the back is reminiscent of wired bras and demonstrates the depth and strength of the underband.
What our tester said:
Fit: "I was really impressed with this bra, it has the sturdiness of a wired design but with the comfort of a bralette, offering the best of both. The light V shape is flattering across the bust line, although this is still a full cup bra, giving a bit more of a crop top feel to proceedings."
Quality of Materials: "They've really considered comfort levels on this bra, and I love the fact they've padded the three hook clasp at the back for that extra little bit of comfort, it's these little features and details that make it worth the investment."
Style & Attractiveness: "Full cup bras are never the sexiest, but I think they've made the most of it with the additional soft, lace overlay that definitely gives a prettier than your average finish."
Most comfortable bra for everyday wear
2. Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The Sloggi Zero Feel bralette is designed to feel like a second skin. Extremely lightweight, it is made from super-thin fabric and features Lycra for a contoured fit. There are lots of colors, making it a good choice for someone who wants to get away from the basics, and they are all available with matching briefs. However, the Sloggi Zero Feel only goes up to a size L, fitting up to a 38C, making it one of the best bras for small busts.
What our tester said:
Fit: "It's a shame this bra doesn't fit past a 38C because it really does live up to its name. It's exceptionally lightweight and feels absolutely gorgeous against the skin. It's super stretchy and while the shoulder straps are not adjustable the back strap is highly adjustable - which is important as that's where the support largely comes from. I would say if you're after a non-wire bra for large breasts, this is 100% not for you. But up to a C cup and you're in for a treat. It gives a good level of support and due to the almost scuba like fabric doesn't dig in at all."
Quality of Materials: "Unlike any other bra I have ever tried, the fabric literally has Zero Feel, such is its lightness and comfort. It doesn't dig in at all and does not feel overly warm either."
Style & Attractiveness: "With lots of colors to choose from it's a relatively attractive bra, but it has no particular features that make it super stylish. It's quite sporty looking, with a loungewear/crop top aesthetic. Its main appeal really is in the lightweight, unrestricted feel."
Most comfortable bra for support
3. Marks and Spencer Cotton Blend & Lace Non Wired Total Support Bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Marks and Spencer is one of the best bra brands around. Always reliable for both style and price, Marks and Spencer has really upped its game and expanded its offering in recent years. Starting from a B cup and available up to an H cup, this bra, made from responsibly sourced cotton, is great for a huge range of sizes. The thick straps aim to offer added comfort for those with a larger bust.
What our tester said:
Fit: "Offering a lovely fit, it gave good uplift and shaping and was the kind of comfortable, non-wired bra that was made for wearing out and about and not just lounging on my sofa. I felt secure and it gave good shape under my clothes. I love that it has considered bigger boobs too."
Quality of Materials: "M&S is known for its quality and I definitely can see that here in this bra. With two layers of material, I have seen in comments that some have felt that the two cup layers didn't align, but I found the fit smooth and comfortable. I like the non slip shoulder straps, as there's nothing more annoying than having to adjust straps on a bra whilst wearing it. It has a decent level of cotton, so was not too warm to wear either."
Style & Attractiveness: "As a full cup bra it is not the most attractive, but I do appreciate the slim lace detail across the top of the bust line. As a nonwired bra for big busts, it puts support before style, but I think it's ok as on this occasion as I was largely looking for performance over form."
Most comfortable pull-on bra
4. Spanx Breast of both worlds
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Spanx Breast of Both Worlds is highly regarded when it comes to comfortable non wired bras. The soft but sturdy Spanx fabric aims to ensure your breasts are held up and supported - even without the use of a wire - and it features removable cups, allowing you to adapt the bra's shape depending on the occasion. Perfect for wearing under the best summer dresses for seamless support, it is a versatile and reliable piece. Made from 100% cotton for breathability, it's ideal for year-round wear.
What our tester said:
Fit: "This bra gave me sports bra vibes in terms of how it fits. Coming fairly far down under the bust, it has thick, non-adjustable straps and pushed my bust together to keep it securely in place. It's a good choice for busts of all sizes too as it's very stretchy. It was incredibly supportive and is definitely, in my opinion, the best pull on bra for a large bust as it gave a firm hold."
Quality of Materials: "Known for some of the best shapewear, you can really feel the quality in Spanx's stretch fabric. It had good give, but also contoured well. It could be quite hot to wear in the summer though as it's double lined, but made from 100% cotton it is breathable too."
Style & Attractiveness: "Entirely a winner on the practical side, I'd say this was the least attractive non wired bra that I tried. It has no decoration and isn't there to be sexy, but if you want a bra to hold you in place and want to forgo underwire, it's definitely a top choice."
Best pull-on bra for large busts
5. MAGISCULPT DD+ Support Comfort Top
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
This affordable bra has simple, minimalist appeal that you can wear under pretty much anything when comfort is your top priority. Designed for large busts, it has a sport, top-like feel that provides that little bit of extra coverage for everyday wear. Our tester was seriously impressed, and given the price, it's easily one of the best comfortable bras on the market.
What our tester said:
Fit: "One of the best non-wired bras I've ever worn, this has become a work from home day staple for me. Technically called a 'Comfort Top', this is more like a vest or crop top style bra that has no wires, no adjustable straps, no hooks - just one perfectly-crafted piece of supportive material. It features a very wide underband and wide straps to really hold you in place and prevent any lump, bumps or back fat, and the super soft fabric is really comfortable to wear and looks smooth under clothing."
Quality of Materials: "The fabric is extremely soft and high-quality. What I was really surprised about, given the softness of the fabric, was how supportive it actually was on my 36G boobs. The ruched elastic creates almost a faux cup around the boobs to hold them up - giving them some shape and preventing any backache from an unsupported chest."
Style & Attractiveness: "My only drawback would be that it's not the most attractive piece and it doesn't create enough shape or lift to wear under fitted outfits - but if it's for a comfy day at home or even running a few errands with a baggy jumper on top, I'm sold."
Best looking comfortable bra
6. Fantasie Impression Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
For years, bralettes have very much been seen as an item only for those with smaller busts. Similar to a crop top, the original bralettes didn't offer support to bigger boobs, but as technology and engineering (yes, the best bras are essentially construction and science) have developed, so-to have bralettes that are aimed at larger breasts.
Most of the support from a bra comes from the underband, so a deep underband is a key feature to look out for if shopping for a non wired bra for large breasts. Choosing the right size on this one is a little more complicated than usual, so make sure to use the size guide on-site to work out what you need.
What our tester said:
Fit: "This was a really comfortable bra and I did feel supported in it, however, the band did roll up throughout the day and have to be readjusted, although I didn't find this annoying. It featured easily adjustable straps that were nice and thick and gave great support. The inside cup lining is particularly soft, meaning it had long lasting comfort."
Quality of Materials: "I was really impressed with the quality of the materials. The lace gave it a premium finish, but it was also soft, rather than scratchy. The lining was extremely high-quality and contributed hugely to why this is one of the most comfortable bras."
Style & Attractiveness: "Full cup bras are rarely deemed the most attractive, but the added lace definitely makes this one of the most attractive styles that I tried. The white lace made it feel feminine and most importantly I felt good in it whilst it was also practical to wear. However, due to the lace, it can be seen through thin white tops."
Best comfortable bra for shaping
7. Spanx Bra-llelujah smooth wire free bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Although the bra features fabric with back-smoothing properties (inline with Spanx's shapewear offering), the back strap isn't particularly deep, making its impact a little more limited. The bra is seamless so it has to be pulled on and off and the straps are not adjustable, however this means there is no chance of it digging in.
What our tester said:
Fit: "Very soft, this is definitely one of the most comfortable bras. Unfortunately, one of its downsides is that it has to be put on over the head, which is not something everyone will enjoy, but it does eliminate a hook and eye across the back, giving this bra a more crop top appeal. The straps are not adjustable, which means you can't personalize the fit particularly well. It gives good lift but is still lighter in terms of support than your average underwired style."
Quality of Materials: "The material has a lot of give, which means it is really comfortable, but thanks to the thickness of the material it will, in the way that Spanx often does, sculpt nicely to your shape for a contoured and streamlined finish, so you feel securely held in."
Style & Attractiveness: "If you size down this bra will show some cleavage if you want that look. Due to the stretchy material it doesn’t scream ‘sexy’ but is very flattering on the boobs and makes them look good. A great option to look and feel good without being too revealing or impractical."
Most comfortable loungewear bra
8. Curvy Kate Mesh Non-Wired Bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Curvy Kate not only makes gorgeous Quiet Luxury swimsuits, but it is also one of our favorite bra brands for larger busts, so it's no surprise that when it comes to the best non wired bras for big busts, they're up there on our list. The brand set about wanting to make better and more attractive bras for fuller busts and this mission is something that is evident throughout the brand's range. Already producing some of the best strapless bras and best plus size lingerie, we have high hopes for Curvy Kate's foray into the wire-free sphere.
The Unwind Bralette is very much billed as a loungewear option, as opposed to a bra for everyday, so we only expected a very light level of support. The design has all the style signatures of all Curvy Kate bras, which is practical with a hint of sexy thrown in for good measure. Available in dual sizing - generally another sign it's light on the support level - it's great to see a non wired bra up to a JJ cup, a part of the market that is often woefully catered for.
What our tester said:
Fit: "Despite the fact it is aimed largely at a loungewear market, I found this bra pretty supportive for everyday wear and there was no cup spillage. I felt the underband was quite thin, particularly considering the size the bra goes up to and because of that it did dig a little across the back at times, however the shoulder straps were really comfortable. The shape was pretty and relaxed, and I liked the crop top aesthetic."
Quality of Materials: "Using mesh it was extremely lightweight, making it ideal for warmer months. The fabric was still thick and sturdy, despite the lightness, and I didn't see any signs of the material straining."
Style & Attractiveness: "This full cup bra manages to swerve frumpy thanks to its sports luxe aesthetic and sheer mesh fabrication. I love the cut out detail - it definitely ups the wow factor on this one and means it's quite a unique design compared to the other non wired bras for big busts. I thought it straddled the line between practical and sexy pretty well. The shoulder straps were quite thick, so this is not a bra I would wear under a camisole, but it would be fine under t-shirts or sweaters."
Most colourful comfortable bra
9. Freya Snapshot Star Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Freya have a longstanding reputation for fantastic lingerie so we had high hopes for this one. But aside from its great fits, the brand's use of pretty colors and silhouettes are often what grabs our attention. Not afraid of bright hues, they manage to dance the fine line between fun and functional. With the mainline fitting up to a K cup though, it's not just about looks, the brand's bra designers know a thing or two about support, so although as a general rule Freya's price points can be a little higher, you are buying into a quality and experience. The plunge front and low back means this is a non wired bra you can wear in or out of the house and goes up to a size 38FF.
What our tester said:
Fit: "I was surprised at how good the fit was considering the shoulder straps weren't adjustable. I found the size guide online really accurate and that helped to ensure a good fit, even without the ability to customize the strap size. I'm not usually keen on bras that are not cup sized, but the methodology works here. The bra had a good structure, despite the lack of wires, and gave a nice shape."
Quality of Materials: "The mesh was nice and sturdy. It was not overly heavy but it still felt thick and supportive. The charm detail at the center of the bra was a cute touch too."
Style & Attractiveness: "Of all the bras I tried, this design was by far the most attractive. A gorgeous color, it's playful and I love the central charm detailing as well as the star embroidery. The deep V frontage was flattering on my bust and created an almost push up like effect, all without wiring. I really like the low back too, meaning you can wear it with low back tops and dresses."
Most comfortable smoothing bra
10. Boux Avenue Lounge Non-wired bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Makers of some of the best strapless bras, Boux Avenue make affordable and fashionable bras - a great bet if you're after a little treat. This bra uses molded microfiber material for a supremely smooth finish making it one of the best t-shirt bras without wires.
The website states that the bra is for lounging (although the clue is in the bra's name), so this isn't one to rely on for a strong uplift. Only available up to a DD, this is not a non wired bra for large breasts but is a good option for smaller busts. Available in white, beige or black, this bra is a solid basic for a lingerie arsenal.
What our tester said:
Fit: "Initially, I did not think the fit across the back was as good as some of the others I tried, and I did not feel it sat as flush under the bust. Having said that, it was comfortable and it didn't dig in at all. I liked the adjustable straps and I thought this was a strong alternative to a wired t-shirt bra, if that's the particular silhouette you're after, but don't want the digging."
Quality of Materials: "The fabric is lovely and soft, both on the outside and on the inner lining. It is padded for a nice rounded shape and it feels supportive."
Style & Attractiveness: "It's quite a plain bra, considering the vibrancy of some of the other Boux Avenue styles, however this is built for practicality and I really liked the flattering V-neckline at the front, which was more attractive than some of the fuller cup styles I tried at other brands."
Most comfortable plunging bra
11. Freya Erin Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A really pretty bralette, this Freya design is available in six colourways - so whatever your mood, there's an Erin to suit. Makers of some of the best bras, the brand really understands how to make great lingerie. While the largest size is an XL, the conversion charts on-site state that the XL fits up to a G cup in this particular style, making this one of the best non wired bras for big busts.
What our tester said:
Fit: "It isn't the sturdiest of bralettes that I tried, as the back strap is slim, so it only offered a light level of support. However, it was ideal for lounging around in. I liked that I could adjust both the back and the shoulder straps, as it made it feel more bra like, even though it had no wires. The plunge V-neck with both sheer lace and solid body helped to give a nice shape."
Quality of Materials: "I loved the lace fabric here. It was soft and not scratchy. The mix of lace and opaque fabric made this bra better to wear and more attractive."
Style & Attractiveness: "I really love that it comes in lots of colourways, both basic and bold designs, as it makes this bra a lot more fun and attractive. The lace is a nice addition too as it feels a little sexier and dressed up than other more sporty styles."
Most comfortable full-coverage bra
12. M&S Collection Flexifit Non Wired Crop Top
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Marks & Spencer's Flexifit is used in some of the brand's best bras, including this sleep bra. The idea is to create a second-skin feel, so you'll barely notice it whilst it's on. This crop top style bralette offers a full-coverage fit and has removable padding, so you can decide on the shape that's right for you.
Available in eight different colorways it has a sports luxe, crop top style, giving it a fashion-forward twist and it has extra support thanks to the hidden gel underband. There is a wide back band making it ideal for those looking for a bralette to smooth back fat. Available up to a size 22 (it is offered in dress sizing), it offers good support, but those after the most comfortable bra for large busts might want to look to more bra-like styles for better lift.
What our tester said:
Fit: "This bra offers a lovely fit and overall I'm very pleased with it. It has a slightly longer line, again with the appearance more of a crop top than a traditional bra, making it closer to a sports bra. It is very smooth and the removable padding helps to create a molded shape over the nipples and shapes the bust, and I liked the fact the padding was removable too. The flat and smooth back is ideal under close fitting fabrics."
Quality of Materials: "It's an M&S bra so you can expect lovely quality at a great price. It's soft, smooth and comfortable and I love the fact there are fun colors to choose from too."
Style & Attractiveness: "It's a pretty basic design but it gets extra style points for having eight colorways, I'm particularly fond of the antique rose hue."
Most comfortable lacy bra
13. Sloggi Go AllRound Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Featuring a front and back V-neck, this non wired bra can be worn with low cut tops. It only comes in one size, so is not aimed at larger busts, although Sloggi says the bra adapts to all body shapes. The non-wired bra has a wide, double under-bust ribbon for a good basis of support and features wide straps for comfort.
With flexible seams that will move with your body so that you don't get any digging, it comes in six different pretty colors so that you can choose whichever best matches your style.
What our tester said:
Fit: "By far the comfiest bra I tried, it did not have an adjustable back strap but for me that was one of the highlights of this bra - I really like a pull on bra, and I felt that this one fit and molded to my shape for excellent, high levels of support. The padding also helped to ensure my nipples were well covered."
Quality of Materials: "The actual bra and padding feels thick and good quality and I really like the lace overlay. It adds a premium look and feel to the bra."
Style & Attractiveness: "Although it is a full coverage bra, with a larger bust it offers less coverage than it does on the model. I think it balances support and attractiveness well. I do however rate it as one of the most attractive non wired bras thanks to the lower cup shape and lacey finish."
Most comfortable plus size bra
14. Nudea The Easy Does It Bralette
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Available in nine colourways, both muted and pops of bright colour including some of the fashion colour trends 2023, this non-wired bra is soft and lightweight. Invisible under t-shirts, it features a unique jacquard print for added detail. Recently increased sizing means this bra is now available up to a G cup and a 40 back, great news for those on the hunt for a non wired bra for big busts. With adjustable straps to help you get the right fit, this pretty, premium-looking bralette is ideal for those who want a non wired bra with strong aesthetic.
The brand prints its labels onto the backband for added comfort, so you don't have to cut the information out to get it to sit flat. Nudea also have some of the best packaging on the market, sending each bra with a wash bag, meaning you can wash your bra more carefully, minimising how often you should change your bra.
What our tester said:
Fit: "This bra offers decent lift, although it's more for downtime, rather than everyday if have a larger cup size. It has a nice V frontage which is flattering on all bust shapes, but the softer, unstructured cup just means there is naturally not hefty uplift. It ticked the box on comfort though."
Quality of Materials: "Crafted from recycled lace, this has a lovely handle and loads of stretch. I was really impressed with the premium feel of the fabric."
Style & Attractiveness: "Extra points for the whopping nine colourway options, this non-wired, comfortable bra keeps its shaping pretty simple, but I love the fact there are jade green, pink and purple options. Made from recycled Italian lace, the fabric has a geometric design which is the brand's signature style - taking this basic to new levels. The high-quality wash bag that I can use for this bra and others, as well as the lovely tissue paper wrapped goods, is another plus point for the brand."
Most comfortable bra for DD+
16. Freedom Bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The Freedom Bra was created by Alex, CEO of the brand, who herself struggled to get a great wire-free comfortable bra. The result of her research and development was 'Freedom bra'. Launched in June 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, the company has quickly become a favourite among bigger-busted shoppers. Expanding its product offering to sports bras and a selection of colour options in the original bralette design, this incredibly comfortable bralette offers the same level of support as a regular bra, making it ideal for every day. With a plunge finish, this simple silhouette also feels a little sexy, making comfort attainable and stylish.
What our tester said:
Fit: "The best non wired bra for large breasts, this bra still utilises a hook and eye system, but it is well padded and made from great fabric. The fit is fantastic, with a slight plunge cut, the bra sits comfortably against the body and the slightly thicker cups helped me feel supported and gives good uplift on larger boobs, something that's not always easy without wire."
Quality of Materials: "I was really impressed by the quality of the materials, the fabric is thick but not heavy."
Style & Attractiveness: "It's a got a crop top style appeal, but I like the V-neck, plunge style as it makes it feel more attractive and less 'loungewear', which can be the reality for lots of non wired bras for big busts."
Most comfortable seam-free bra
17. Chantelle Soft Stretch Padded Triangle Bra
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
One of the best French lingerie brands, Chantelle is a firm favorite for busts large and small. Whether it's underwired or a comfortable non wired bra you're after, Chantelle delivers in both the style, lift and comfort department. While many of Chantelle's pieces are on the lacy side, this bralette iteration takes on a much cleaner aesthetic, conjuring up a more modern and fashion-forward feel. With a sporty V-neck cut this bralette is ideal for those looking for a practical silhouette.
What our tester said:
Fit: "Perfect. The soft and stretchy fabric molds perfectly to your body shape, meaning that the back feels tight yet comfortable. However, there are no adjustable shoulder straps. This was no problem for me and I still felt adequately supported, but something to keep in mind if you often need extra support. It is the ideal layering bra as it is thin and lays flat against the skin, so ideal under tight clothes where you want a seamless fit."
Quality of materials: "Very good. The material is extremely soft against the skin - you forget you're wearing anything. Despite being stretchy it doesn't feel like it will overstretch or weaken. The padding is soft and moldable but not weak - still provides adequate protection. Definitely a bra that will last a long time."
Style/attractiveness: This is where it lacks. Not conventionally attractive, it's definitely more on the practical side. However, it has a sports bra/ shapewear look, which some people do find attractive and like the look of. For a practical bra, I think it's more on the stylish side than most. It is seamless and hugs the chest nicely, plus the brown shade is universally flattering."
How many bras should I own?
The answer to this question is very personal, and can change over time depending on your needs. In general, though, we recommend you own at least 7 bras to see you through the week, but you will probably want more like 15 to ensure every style is covered and that you have more than one of your most worn type of bra. The styles we recommend investing in are:
- T-shirt bra
- Underwired bra
- Non-wired bra
- Bralette
- Strapless bra
- Sports bra
- Nude bra
- Plunge bra
- Backless or stick-on bra
And our biggest piece of advice is that if you find a bra that fits perfectly and is extremely comfortable, you should buy multiple - especially if there are several different colours available. You won't regret it!
Are wireless bras good for big busts?
Although it can be harder to find wireless bras that properly support large busts, there are plenty on the market. As well as being comfortable, they can sometimes work better for large busts as they tend to have more stretch for an adaptable fit. We recommend opting for styles that have adjustable straps and backs or plenty of stretch to get a supportive fit.
Are non-wired bras better for your breasts?
Non-wired bras aren't necessarily any better for your health than wired bras, but they can help spinal health for those who choose to go braless just to get away from more restrictive wired bras. As we reported, not wearing a bra can impact your posture meaning other parts of your body could face the consequences.
“Your bra has a very important role, and that is to protect and bear the weight of your bust," Alexandra Thrower, Brand Manager at bra brand Chantelle, explained to woman&home. "Don’t wear one and you will get saggy boobs. It’s as simple as that. It’s gravity after all. And the heavier the bust, the worse it gets.
“Most women don’t realise how heavy their bust is (anything between about 500g for B/C cups, to 2+ kg for G+ cup). They need to be supported. You may also find that not wearing a bra will worsen back, shoulders, or neck pains and give you headaches."
Non-wired options can also make for more comfortable bras for anyone who suffers from tenderness, especially during different times of the menstrual cycle or at different stages of the menopause.
Why the fit of your bra can impact comfort
Of course, one of the factors that can move objectively comfortable bras into the non-comfy category is simply not fitting right. You could purchase what are renowned as the most comfortable bras in the world, but if they don't fit you right then you'll never reap the benefits.
With a simple traditional tape measure lying around at home, you can use our expert guide on how to measure bra size to find your perfect fit, so that you know you're doing everything you can to get the most comfortable bra fit.
If you're not confident going through the process on your own and you're unable to get to a professional, companies such as Nudea lingerie and Triumph are modernising the measuring process with online measuring services.
The Nudea Fit Tape: £5 | Nudea
To make life easier and comfortable bras fit better, Nudea has even invented a bespoke tape measure that allows for accurate, hands-free measurement quickly and simply at home. It features helpful guidance and colour-coded zones to help you read band and cup size easily.
How we tested the most comfortable bras
It is important to remember that every pair of boobs are different (in fact even both of your own breasts are unlikely to be identical in size) and the above information is the experience of our testers. Finding a great bra, like with your favourite jeans can be a little trial and error, however we hope that our pointers, particularly on comfort and fabric will help guide you in making a supportive choice.
We asked our testers to look out for:
Fit - The key to this test was long term comfort, so we asked our testers to wear the bras over a day to ensure that the results were balanced against length of wear. It's easy to slip a bra on for a few moments and feel like the fit is great, however a longer wear allowed us to investigate if the bra in question was truly a comfortable, non wired wear. We asked out testers to consider the level of uplift and support and if the straps dug in or not. We have also looked at whether the bras in question can support both small and large busts.
Quality of fabric - Not all non wired bras are equal, and to get the most comfortable bras we needed to know whether the fabrics would hold their own. Non wired bras often need to consider stronger and stretchier fabrics to offer the correct amount of lift and of course, as comfort was the name of the game, they had to be smooth and soft.
Style & Attractiveness - Aesthetics are always important when making a purchase but perhaps less important than the function in this scenario. When it comes to the most comfortable bras, the look was often more pared back, but we still wanted testers to consider how the style contributed to the overall fit and look of the bra and how that impacted on how they felt in the bra.
How to choose the most comfortable bra for you
As we mentioned above, picking the most comfortable bra for you is a highly individualised thing and so you need to consider your own fit needs to make the best choice.
When it comes to the best non wired bras, you're looking for high levels of comfort with enough lift to support your bust line. As a general rule, non wired bras tend to be less supportive than their wired counterparts, although as this guide shows, we have found a number of designs that we felt worked for more than just lounging around. The same rules apply with non wired bras as with wired designs when it comes to fit.
These are the factors you will want to consider when shopping for a non-wired bra:
- Fit: The back strap should not ride up and the shoulder straps should not dig in or leave marks. You should be filling the cup, without over-spilling and your breasts should still sit in the correct position, although as there tends to be less lift and sculpt, they might not be quite as high as usual.
- Fabric: Consider the fabric of your non wired bra and how hot you get, as bralettes and non wired bras are often made of thicker materials for added sculpt and support, but if you're finding your skin is getting too hot and sweaty, then you might want to consider more mesh led styles, and cotton fabrications.
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Amelia joined woman&home in 2022 after graduating with an MA in Magazine Journalism from City University and is now a senior writer. She began building her career as a lifestyle journalist after completing a fashion journalism course at the Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design in 2019, writing for a variety of titles including OK! magazine, New! magazine and Notion on topics such as sustainable fashion and entertainment. She specialises in fashion and beauty content, covering everything from product reviews and nail art trends to reporting on fashion weeks and the best-dressed celebrities at red carpet events. With a keen eye for lifestyle trends, she is always on the lookout for the latest products and brands to hit the market.
- Hannah HughesGroup Fashion Editor
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- Aleesha BadkarDigital Beauty Editor, woman&home
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