15 Comfy Braless Outfits That Still Provide Support

To bra or not to bra? That is the question. Bras support your breasts, provide coverage, and can help your clothes fit better; they serve a purpose, sure, but they're not mandatory. Wearing them or not is a personal choice. Still, even if you want to go braless, it can be an awkward transition. According to celebrity stylist Cindy Conroy, we may hate bras, but after years of a love-hate relationship, we're accustomed to having that structure.

"We're used to the support while we speed walk to meetings, stroll down the street as we window shop, or sprint to catch the subway before the doors slam shut," she told us. "The feel of the wire under our bust has become normal, so when it's gone, you're going to feel a little weird." 

So what's a girl to do? 

"Easing in is a great way to build confidence and have it feel natural," said Mikado personal stylist Jordan Stolch. "The key is to get to a point where you're not thinking about it, fidgeting with your clothing, or compensating by inverting your shoulders or having bad posture."

Another tip? Take a look at your wardrobe and pick out pieces you can comfortably wear without a bra.

Ahead, we've rounding up 15 expert-approved braless outfits, plus pro styling tips for how to ditch the undergarment once and for all.

Start with Bralettes

If you're still hesitant to go braless, Stolch said bralettes and bandeaus are a great starting point because they're comfortable, wireless, and free of padding. Bonus: They offer light support.

Wear Workout Tops

Fashion consultant Christian Sismone said one of the easiest ways to go braless if you're a bigger cup size is to wear form-fitting workout tops (Note: If you're working out, a sports bra is encouraged). 

"A black tank top is great because it will stay opaque even as it stretches over your body, and having it be a bit tight will help keep you supported," added Originally Lovely designer Kaitlin Barthold.

Opt for Prints

Busy prints distract the eye, so if you want to draw attention away from the fact that you aren't wearing a bra, Stolch recommended opting for patterns around the bust area or extra embellishments, like ruffles or pockets. When you first go braless in public settings, start small with trips to the grocery store or on a morning walk, then ditch your bra on a date with your girlfriends.

If you're above a C-cup, a properly supportive bra is essential, however, there is a workaround. "Often a simple wire-free style with soft cups is all that's needed," revealed stylist and bra expert Jené Luciani Sena.

Accessorize with a Cardigan

"I recently wore a spaghetti-strapped dress that had a great deal of structure without a bra. I'm a 42H, and it was amazing," Sismone told us. That being said, she admitted that wearing a looser-fitting outfit does require a certain level of comfort. 

She continued, "Without a bra, you will have a bit more bounce. If you're not good with that, wearing a cardigan may help."

Find Support in a Smocked Bodice

Because they're fitted and well-tailored around the bust, personal stylist and fashion blogger Vanessa Valiente pointed out how a smocked bodice can offer a nice amount of support, particularly for larger busts.

"Bustier women often have to size up to get a structured garment to fit their bust," Valiente explained, but because these garments are flexible and can accommodate the extra width, wearing this style top or dress is easier and more convenient than having to take everything in at the waist.

Go for Anything Denim

In addition to garments with smocked bodices, Valiente said denim dresses and jumpsuits or rompers are also awesome for not wearing a bra, thanks to the material. 

"It's dense yet stretchy; the perfect combination for bralessness of all sizes," she noted.

Consider V-Necks

One of the keys to going braless is to wear tops that cascade over the bust line and move with the shape of your bust, said personal stylist Nicole Russo of Let's Get You. Case in point: V-neck silk camisoles or blouses.

"The fitted top portion drapes in the direction of how breasts lay, while the volume along the stomach doesn't reveal all the roundness of an entire boob," Russo explained. "This combination hides the lines of a breast, making it less revealing."

Add a Blazer

If you want to minimize the risk of awkward situations, blazers are Conroy's go-to for a cool look that works double-time to cover the nipples. 

"Even if you wear a sheer blouse or linen T-shirt, your braless journey will be your little secret," she said.

Try a Fitted Bodysuit

Bodysuits are a two-for-one special garment that's stretchy enough to be comfortable but tight enough to give you support in lieu of a bra, noted Conroy. 

"If you're nervous that it's not enough coverage, gravitate towards high-neck bodysuits, she added. "While a scoop neck or deep V is alluring, it's also the perfect recipe for spillage."

Get On-Trend with a Corset Top

According to Sena, a garment with a built-in bra style, such as a corset top, can be a great option for anyone looking to ease into the braless category. Thanks to runways and shows like Bridgerton, they're a huge trend.

Sub in a Swimsuit

Consider wearing a swimsuit in lieu of a bra and a traditional top, suggested Michelle Rothenburger of Harm Free Fashion. 

"Style your bikini top like you would a bra top, such as under an oversized blazer or white oversized shirt (either buttoned or unbuttoned), and wear your one-piece as if it's a bodysuit, either with denim shorts or a frilly skirt," instructed Rothenburger.

Choose a Cutout Dress or Top

Digital creator and on-air stylist Liv Schreiber cited cutout dresses and tops as the perfect braless outfit with all their skin-baring. 

"They quite literally force you to not wear a bra," she said. "I especially love an all-black, cutout moment because it's easy to accessorize and pair with outerwear — especially when it's with an oversized blazer or jacket."

Stick with Darker Shades

Not looking to reveal too much? In terms of color palette, black and darker shades will conceal a braless chest more than lighter hues, especially if the sun is shining or rain is coming down.

Step Out in Something Sparkly

Sparkly designs have a knack for drawing attention to themselves and away from, say, the fact that you're not wearing a bra. Also, wearing sequins during the day is highly underrated and therefore highly encouraged. After all, we could all use a little more sparkle in our lives.

Reach for Loosely-Fit Blouses

After a visually effortless look sans bra? 

"Wearing loose, button-up blouses is another great option," commented Barthold. Just make sure they aren't too sheer — unless that's the style you are looking for." 

Silk, rayon, or light cotton blouses will likely feel most comfortable and look the most professional, she added.

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