The Range: Wire Free Bras That Aren’t Terrible
May 2, 2023
At some point between age 33 and age 40, my desire to suffer for my vanity died. Gone was the daily full face of makeup. Gone were the high heels that I once couldn’t live without, and the super-charged shapewear that cut off my circulation. And gone was the underwire push up bra that I had been wearing since 14.
If you have also lost your desire to wear an underwire, here are a few options for bras that don’t pinch and poke.
I like this Bali Comfort Wireless Bra. Unlike many wireless bras, it has a shape. The molded cups keep you from developing a uni-boob, and the thicker straps are a nice addition. But my favorite feature is that the material is thick enough that the bra isn’t too showy on a cold morning walk.
Skims Wireless Form Bra is a great option if you like a plunge neckline. Also the expansive skin-tone options and wide size range (30/38-A/H) are a great feature. If you have a smaller bust, I’m told this bra is probably as sexy as you can get with a comfortable bra. I haven’t purchased one yet, but it’s on my list.
This Aerie Lace Back bra is a pretty option with molded cups and a deeper neckline. It’s also fun to wear under athleisure tops for something lacy and sultry.
Wacoal’s Allure Wire Free Bra has a great mesh detail and is widely considered the best plus-size bra. Sizes begin at 32C. I ordered this bra to try it, since I love the Wacoal strapless bra, I will report back.
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Although the brand feels a little, “young,” I really love Aerie’s Real Sunnie Wireless bras. They have a few styles, but this is my favorite: https://www.ae.com/us/en/p/aerie/bras/push-up-bras/aerie-real-sunnie-wireless-push-up-bra/0737_4967_153?nvid=pdp%3A0737_4967_153&menu=cat4840006
It does have a small amount of molded padding, but it isn’t suffer-tier (otherwise, there’s no way I’d be a 5+ year fan). For context, I’m a 32B.
Unfortunately, they have work to do on providing inclusive skin-tone options in this line.
Highly recommend the Natori Bliss Perfection Contour Soft Cup Bra, which comes in many band sizes and truly fits like a wire bra.
Bought during COVID and it’s still a daily wear. Great for those who struggle with S, M, L sizing as it uses a real band size – they carry it at Nordstrom.
I’ve had good luck with this one from Warners. I like that the straps are front adjustable, and it’s padded but not overly so. I have a small bust, so I can’t speak to how well it works for larger busts.
https://warners.com/intimates/cloud_9_wirefree_contour/#
Eagerly looking for options like these that will fit a 44D. Looks like most brands stop at a 42. Ive seen some on social media I may have to try. Thanks!
I am a 36G/H and most wireless bras are way too stretchy to be able to provide enough lift and support. The only one that comes close is Chantelle’s wireless bra because it’s stitched to size rather than relying on stretch/elasticity to fit. If anyone else with similar sizing has had luck with other brands, please do share!
Huge fan of Cosabella here at a 38I. Some styles are more supportive than others, so you have to try and see what works. Evolution curvy and forte curvy probably give me the best support.
Thank you! Will check these out.
I will second the recommendation for Cosabella. I only wear it for sleep and lounge, but the fit is great and it hasn’t stretched out over time. I have three of the Never Say Curvy racer back. I’m a 32G and the small is a great fit. If you are open to color choices, you can find good sale prices on Zappos, Amazon, etc.
I generally don’t mind my underwire bras; so long as they fit, they aren’t uncomfortable. The problem is finding ones that fit my petite-ish, busty self.
+1 for the Skims bra. It’s my favorite of all the Skims bras – I’m obsessed. Not a KimK fan but I was gifted some boy shorts underwear and a bralettte during a wedding lingerie party and it’s RUINED me; I love every single item I’ve purchased from Skims. My poor wallet.
During the pandemic I switched over to wearing wireless bras only. This affordable one is my favorite: https://www.target.com/p/women-s-bliss-lightly-lined-wirefree-bra-auden-8482-soft-beige-36c/-/A-53934280
I highly recommend the Cosabella Curvy bralette. It’s all I plan on wearing once I get out of nursing bras. My husband considers that it counts as lacy lingerie which is a plus, but it’s super comfortable and comes in a lot of fun colors.