Going Wireless: My Picks for Comfortable, Attractive Wire-Free Bras
Sometimes you need a little less structure in life, and that goes for bras too! The last thing you want is an uncomfortable bra that pokes and prods, especially after surgery. I recommend no underwire or push up bras for 3 months after elective breast surgery.
Wire-free bras often get a bad rap for two reasons: many don’t provide the same support as underwire, or we just think “sports bra.” Contrary to popular belief, wireless bras can provide comfort under casual clothes even for large-breasted women—and can be equally sexy. Additionally, wireless bras are often less tight and restricting and can be more forgiving to minor weight fluctuations.
So, I went on a search to find options that are supportive and pretty, and here is what I found:
The Hot Shot Bra from Moving Comfort
Okay, so this is technically a sports bra, but who said sports bras have to be frumpy? Moving Comfort, a leading intimate activewear brand, features pretty, comfortable wire-free bras such as the Hot Shot bra. Great for A, B, & C cups, the Hot Shot is as comfortable as it is stylish. With separated, removable cups and a scoop neck-friendly cut, it is functional enough to wear under a tee shirt or tank top, but pretty enough to not feel like your old gym clothes. Moving Comfort’s website also features a size guide to help you find the perfect fit for this perfect sports bra. Check out Fort Worth Running Company or Sun & Ski to get yours locally.
Leading Lady’s Front-Closure Crossover
Another one I love is the Leading Lady Front-Closure Crossover, available at HerRoom.com. It has just about everything going for it: adjustable hook-and-eye front closure, molded cups that support, shape, and separate, plus a pretty design. As a racerback style bra, it is perfect for a no-show look under a tank top or basic tee. Best of all, even larger gals can find a good fit—this bra runs from a 36B to a 48DD. Find yours with HerRoom.com’s sizing system.
Joan’s Bra from Title Nine
Title Nine is one of my go-to sites for bras that meet the demands of an active lifestyle. If you need good support and the appearance of a “regular” bra but hate underwires, you’ll love Joan’s Bra: a gorgeous bra that looks like a carbon copy of an underwire bra, but instead of molded metal there’s reinforced fabric adding support to the molded cups. Wear it under a plunging neckline dress, t-shirt, or your regular office attire. Available in a range of sizes from 32A up to 36D, it’s a wire-free bra that’s perfect for augmented women too.
To find your perfect fit, check out Bounce, Title Nine’s headquarters for bras of all kinds.
Comfort Devotion Ultimate by Maidenform
Thought underwire was your only option to get a “lift” from a bra? Maidenform Comfort Devotion Ultimate Wirefree with Lift bra will change your mind. This bra has it all—lace detailing for sexy style, molded cups for a flattering shape, and best of all, no wires! It comes in sizes 32A to 38C, so it’s a great option for those who want a little support and a lot of comfort.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
A common complaint I hear from many women is that they wear different bra sizes in different brands. While this can be true, you can get a perfect fit every time by ignoring labels and using these tips:
- Bras should fit snugly around the underside of your bust on the largest enclosure, leaving room to tighten the fit as the material stretches from wear and lengthening the life of your bra.
- There should be no gaping in the cups or “spillage” at the top of the cup.
- Test band size by slipping the straps off your shoulders. If the bra still fits comfortably and only slightly slips down, you’ve got a good fit.
- Band and cup size often work together in interesting ways. You might think that a C cup is always a C cup, but a larger band size increases the cup size. If your weight has fluctuated and your band size has changed, you may be surprised to find that your cup size is different as well.
While sizing can be tricky, determining your measurements is a great place to start. Try this handy bra size calculator to help you determine your typical size.
Ready to overhaul your lingerie selection to include a few more wire-free choices? Whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or just want a little less underwire in your life, it’s clear that wire-free bras can provide comfort, support, and style.
