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Best bralettes 2023: comfy and stylish non-wired bras

Leave your uncomfortable underwired bras in the drawer with our pick of the best bralettes for all bust sizes and budgets.

By Rebecca Roberts | Last updated Jul 14, 2023

Best bralettes

If three years of working from home has taught us anything, it’s that comfort is key. Nothing is more notoriously uncomfortable than an underwired bra, which is why bralettes have taken off in such a big way. Sitting somewhere between a sports bra, a crop top and a non-wired bra, a good bralette provides moderate support without wires, clasps, or rigid bra bands and straps digging in.

For years bralettes were the reserve of people with smaller busts, but as they've become more of a staple in our wardrobes, great leaps have been made to create bralettes that offer support for F cups and above. They look great, too!

Whether you’re after seamless and supportive, or pretty and provocative, here are the best bralettes for all bust sizes.

Still in need of wardrobe essentials? Don't miss our guides to the best leggings, best strapless bras, best socks for women, best lingerie, best boob tape and even the best underwear for women to make sure you have everything you need.

Best bralettes: a quick glance

1. Best overall bralette: Marks & Spencer Flexifit Non-Wired Bralette

Marks and Spencer black Flexfit bralette

RRP on writing: £12 | Buy now from Marks & Spencer

Key specs

Size: 8 - 22 D-E | Material: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane (exclusive of trimmings) | Colour: Black, white, opaline

What we like

  • Simple clean fit

  • Smooth and lightweight feel

  • 30% recycled better than 0%

What we don’t like

  • Confusing sizing system

What Mumsnet users say

"These are really comfy and supportive. It’s more like a cross between bra and bralette" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Branleuse

"M&S are fab. I’ve not worn a ‘proper’ bra since discovering them about 5 years ago" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, IvorCutler

Our verdict

The Marks & Spencer Flexifit style dominates the Mumsnet threads when it comes to recommendations for comfortable and supportive bralettes. This wireless option offers super soft, shaped cups, adjustable straps and a back clasp, and even a handy racerback converter. Style-wise, the options are simple, with white, black and nude colour options. However, this is an excellent everyday option that will convert even the biggest of bralette sceptics. Can’t see your size? No problem, there’s also a full cup version that goes up to a size 44H (and it’s our top pick for a fuller bust bralette, FYI).

2. Best budget bralette: Tu at Sainsbury's Black & White Non-Wired Comfort Lounge Bra Two Pack

A black and white bralette from Sainsburys

RRP on writing: £14 | Buy now from Tu

Key specs

Size: 32B - 42E | Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane | Colour: Black, white

What we like

  • Good price

  • 2 pack

  • Adjustable straps

  • No wires, extra comfortable

What we don’t like

  • No wire and padding might not bring the best out of your bust!

What Mumsnet users say

"Sainsbury's has loads - search for non wired bra not bralette, you get lots more options" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Swallowridge

“Tu at Sainsbury's. It's really soft and comfortable” - vetted by Mumsnet user, DagenhamRoundhouse 

Our verdict

This two-pack works out at only £7 a bralette - a total bargain! Even better, Mumsnetters are seriously impressed with the comfort and quality of Sainsbury's’ bralettes. This bra/bralette hybrid offers the comfort of a bralette but with the support and shape of a conventional bra. The plunge front means these work with most tops, and the adjustable straps and clasp back enhance the fit. Sainsbury's bralettes are incredibly popular, so you may need to keep checking the website for your size to come back in stock.

3. Best cotton bralette: Ann Summers Cotton Bralette

Ann Summers Cotton Bralette

RRP on writing: £14 | Buy now from Ann Summers

Key specs

Sizes: XS to XXL | Material: Cotton, elastane | Colour: Black

What we like

  • Rounded neckline style

  • Elasticated waistband to under-bust

  • Racer back style for comfort

What we don't like

  • May not be suitable under certain outfits

Our verdict

Designed for ultimate comfort, this cotton bralette from Ann Summers has been made with COTS cotton fabric. With its rounded neckline style and elasticated waistband to the under-bust, you'll be comfortable at all times while wearing this. There's even matching leggings to go with it.

4. Best bralette for a large bust: Marks & Spencer Flexifit Non-Wired Full Cup Bra

Marks and Spencer bralette designed for a fuller bust

RRP on writing: £22 | Buy now from Marks & Spencer

Key specs

Size: 32 - 44 F - H | Material: 56% polyester, 24% polyamide and 20% elastane (exclusive of trimmings) | Colour: Black, white, rose quartz, raspberry, blue

What we like

  • Simple design

  • Adjustable straps

  • No wires for extra comfort

What we don’t like

  • Some report not very supportive

What Mumsnet users say

"I've got 7 of the M&S bralettes above, I'm a 34FF/G and they are pretty good. If I'm going out out then I'll wear a wired bra but 95% of the time I wear my bralettes" - rated by Mumsnet user, BusterGonad

Our verdict

We told you the Flexifit bralettes are great! Mumsnetters love this option for comfort, even with a fuller bust. The full-cup version is designed to offer support for F to H cups, with moulded support and four-way stretch. The straps can be adjusted for a cross-over fit for maximum versatility. Reviewers say this bra is so comfortable it feels like wearing nothing at all.

5. Best seamless bralette: H&M Seamless Padded Bralette

H&M Seamless Padded Bralette

RRP on writing: £12 | Buy now from H&M

Key specs

Size: XS - XL | Material: Jersey | Colour: Old rose, black, blue

What we like

  • Simple design

  • Comfortable feel

  • Adjustable straps

What we don’t like

  • Hard to tell sizing

Our verdict

With its simple unfussy design, the H&M padded bralette is a comfortable, supportive option if you’re looking to keep things simple. The jersey material has a soft feel against the skin, and the straps adjust for your desired fit.

6. Best bralette with removable pads: Marks & Spencer 3-Pack Seamless Non-Wired Bralettes

Marks and Spencer leopard, white, and burgundy bralettes

RRP on writing: £20 | Buy now from Marks & Spencer

Key specs

Size: S - XXL | Material: Polyamide, polyester and elastane blend | Colour: Soft pink, navy, black, white, lipstick, blue, medium blue, grey marl, dark grey, grey

What we like

  • Pull on

  • No pads no wires

  • Also suitable for some sports

What we don’t like

  • No padding if you’re looking for lift.

Our verdict

It’s another great bralette offering from reliable retailer M&S, this time as a three-pack of seamless styles. These bralettes are a pull-on style, with plenty of stretch for maximum comfort. They also feature removable cups and adjustable straps to ensure a perfect fit. We like the colour combinations of these bralettes, with three sets-of-three available to choose from. There’s also matching pants available if you want to feel really pulled together (without sacrificing comfort!).

7. Best under t-shirt bralette: Sloggi Women's Zero Feel Non-Wired Top Sloggi Seamless Bralette

Sloggi Seamless Bralette

RRP on writing: £18 | Buy now from Sloggi

Key specs

Size: XS - L | Material: Lycra | Colour: White, pink, burgundy, blue, olive green, yellow, pink, blue, black, multi coloured

What we like

  • Super comfy

  • Removable pads

  • Completely seamless

What we don’t like

  • Can’t tumble dry

What Mumsnet users say

“Sloggi do lovely soft and stretchy bralette type things. With removable pads to give shape. Super comfy and no lumps and bumps of straps/fabric under tshirts in summer” - recommended by Mumsnet user, Frozentoo

Our verdict

Sloggi is one of the most respected brands in shapewear, so it makes sense that their bralettes are also top-notch. Unlike other styles with removable padded cups, this ‘Zero Feel’ option from Sloggi is crafted with moulded cups to provide support and shape without any annoying seams or show-through. The pull-on design and wide straps also make this bralette super comfortable and secure. For the ultimate ‘no show’ under t-shirts, be sure to choose the colour option closest to your skin tone.

8. Best bralette with a thick strap: Bravissimo Zara Bralette Bravissimo Lacy Bralette

Bravissimo lacy bralette

RRP on writing: £36 | Buy now from Bravissimo

Key specs

Size: 22 - 40, D - DD to HH - J | Material: 80% Polyamide | 20% Elastane | Colour: white, black, burgundy, blush, navy, gold

What we like

  • Non wired

  • Fastens at the back

What we don’t like

  • Very busy design

What Mumsnet users say

“I LOVE Bravissimo! They have literally changed my life” - as loved and recommended by Mumsnet user qumquat

Our verdict

Even larger busts can wear this lovely lacy bralette from Bravissimo. The style of the Zara bralette provides the shape and support of a conventional bra, but with the comfort offered by a bralette. It’s non-padded and non-wired, with an adjustable clasp back and supportive, thick straps. The low back and subtle V-neck front means this bralette works under pretty much anything. There is also matching lacy pants that turn this comfortable bralette into a pretty lingerie set.

9. Best lace bralette: Ann Summers Lace Planet Bralette

Ann Summers Lace Planet Bralette

RRP: From £12 | Buy now from Ann Summers

Key specs

Size: XS to L | Material: Polyamide, elastane | Colour: Black

What we like

  • Delicate lacy design

  • Recycled materials

  • Soft, non-wired cups for comfort

  • Affordable price

What we don’t like

  • Only available in black

Our verdict

Made with recycled materials, this lace bralette at Ann Summers has been updated with an improved fit to suit all shapes and sizes. Not only is it better for the planet, but it’s also made for every day, every night and every body. It’s been designed with soft, non-wired cups and features a charm at the centre front for an extra touch of femininity. There’s lace edging, and a hook and eye closure for easy fastening on the back.

10. Best pretty bralette: Passionata Georgia Bralette Green Lacy Bralette

Green lacy bralette

RRP on writing: £33 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Size: S, M, L | Material: 100% Polyester. Lace: 90% nylon, 10% elastane | Colour: Black, white

What we like

  • Gorgeous lacy design

  • Subtle sheer look

  • Non wired

What we don’t like

  • Hand wash only

Our verdict

The Passionata Georgia Bralette is proof that comfort can be sexy too. With its plunge design and delicate lace fabric, this pull-on style is lingerie you’ll want to wear every day. Integrated foam cups provide coverage, while a racerback adds to the design. OK, this might not be the most supportive option on our list (big busts beware!) but it sure is pretty. The Blackcurrant and Sequioa Green colour options are especially striking.

11. Best bralettes on Amazon: Iris & Lilly Women's Lace Bralette

Iris & Lilly Women's Lace Bralette

RRP on writing: £15 | Buy now from Amazon

Size: 8 - 14 | Material: Lace | Colour: Burgundy, black, rose, teal, blue

What we like

  • Fun lace design

  • Unique neckline

What we don’t like

  • Not a massive range of sizes

  • Comes up small

Our verdict

A great value bralette option if you’re looking for something that’s going to give you that subtle support. Iris and Lilly is Amazon’s in house lingerie brand, and this stylish choice pulls over the head with chic lace details. Not the greatest size range, XS-L, but this is a good option if you’re in the market for something cost effective yet sexy.

What’s the difference between a bra and a bralette?

As we seek out more and more comfort from our clothes, the line between a bra and a bralette is becoming increasingly blurred. However, a bra will usually have a clasp back fastening, a shaped cup, and often underwire. By contrast, bralettes are designed for maximum comfort and feature stretch, and either no padding or removable pads. Appearance-wise, bralettes often resemble crop tops or sports bras.

Are bralettes supportive?

Bralettes are generally designed to provide lighter support than a conventional bra, and therefore are well suited to smaller busts, or for relaxing at home. However, more supportive bralettes for larger busts are available. These feature a fuller cup design, and sometimes other support-giving features like wider straps and structured cups.

What’s the best material for a bralette?

Bralettes are often made from polyester or other synthetic fabrics with a mix including elastane. This is to provide maximum stretch and comfort. Natural fibres like cotton and bamboo are also used to make bralettes, and these have the added advantage of being breathable fabrics.

What’s the best bralette to buy?

We weighed up the opinions of Mumsnetters and individual product reviews, and decided that the Marks & Spencer Flexifit Non-Wired Bralette is the best bralette to buy. With a comfortable, supportive and neutral design, this option is hard to beat. We also love that there's a similar design available for fuller busts.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

Mumsnetters have certainly put bralette brands through their paces when dressing up for nights out and special events, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the bralettes they’ve personally tried and tested.

First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite bralettes, as well as the brands that they have tried, rated, and would recommend to their friends.

We also looked out for any negative reviews, where Mumsetters highlighted products that they felt were poor quality, ineffective, didn't fit or simply failed to be supportive.

Expert opinions

We then cross-checked our recommendations with the bralettes praised by top stylists, fashion industry experts, and tastemakers, to ensure we were bringing you the best products that are rated across the board.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best bralettes, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Amazon, John Lewis, Next and independent sites to get broader consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, Rebecca knows all too well how hard it is to find a bra or bralette that actually fits after spending months in maternity underwear. So, you can trust her opinion when it comes to finding the best bralette for you.

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog.