Whether you’re seeking an everyday underwire bra, a lounge bralette, or a bra for larger cup sizes that actually delivers, these 10 picks have got you covered. Updated April 30, 2025

• Staying powerWe chose popular, established bras from brands that are likely to be around for many years.
• FitWe looked for bras that would work for a wide range of body types. Picks range in cup size from AA to M and band size from 30 to 52 inches.
• StyleWe considered bras in various styles—with a range of cups, materials, and coverage—to suit different needs and preferences.
• ComfortWe sought bras made from touchable fabrics and those constructed to comfortably fit a variety of body types.

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best underwire bra for precise cup sizing

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra

This versatile bra offers outstanding comfort and a subtle push-up, and the deep plunge works with many necklines. It comes in cup sizes AA to H—including half-cups, for a fine-tuned fit. But it might not provide enough support for larger busts.

$72 from Amazon$72 from ThirdLove- Especially great for: small to medium breasts, close-set and wide-set breasts

The ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra is a top-drawer staple. Testers found themselves reaching for this bra again and again, thanks to its light, comfortable build, versatile silhouette, and gently enhancing lift. This bra is especially great for small to medium breasts—and it comes in half-cup sizes, improving your chances of finding a bra with a good (perhaps life-changing?) fit. As one Wirecutter editor put it, “ThirdLove’s 24/7 is the only bra I’ve ever worn that I don’t fling across the room as soon as I get home.”

This model is wearing the ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra in Nightshade, size 32B. Testers found the light, low-coverage style comfy for everyday wear. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIn size 32B, this bra has three rows of hooks, with two hooks in each row. (Larger sizes have a wider band and more hooks, for more support.) Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra in Nightshade, size 32B. Testers found the light, low-coverage style comfy for everyday wear. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis bra comes in half-cup sizes (think 32D½ and 36A½), which can provide a better fit. The 24/7 Classic Uplift bra is our only pick offering this sizing option. “It had never before occurred to me that I might be between cup sizes,” said supervising style editor Ingela Ratledge Amundson. “It turns out I actually am a half-size, and it completely made a difference. Mind. Blown.” Just note that half-size options are limited to cup sizes A½ to E½, with varying availability across band sizes 32 to 38.

This bra fit all of our panelists—sizes 34A, 34F, and 36D—equally well. The cups themselves are covered in a fine-mesh overlay, which helps curb minor gaping and spillage; one tester (34F) marveled at how it smoothed her silhouette and prevented a “double bubble” bulge at the top of the cup.

However, Wirecutter staffers who wear cup sizes D and above have generally reported that this bra doesn’t feel adequately supportive for all-day wear.

It gently boosts the bust. The 24/7 Classic Uplift bra offers a subtle lift without uncomfortable digging or obvious theatrics. (ThirdLove bills it as a push-up; we’d describe the effect as more of a pleasant pick-me-up.) The adjustable straps and band feel silky-smooth, and the molded cups are made from a thin, lightweight memory foam that conforms to the body.

Multiple staffers who have owned this bra for a year (and, in some cases, for far longer) confirm that its straps, cups, and band have all remained in excellent condition, even after they’ve worn and washed the bra frequently.

The plunging design works with lots of necklines—and body shapes. The 24/7 Classic Uplift bra has a deep V-shape that remains incognito under low-cut tops. One of our testers (34A) loved the “taller, more angular cups.”

If you have close-set breasts, the plunging shape works well because the low gore (the part joining the cups) won’t cut into your flesh. This bra works equally well if you have wide-set breasts and you’re looking to create a bit of cleavage.

Inside each cup there is a small removable pad. These pads provide a bit of extra fullness and lift. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIt comes with removable padding. The 24/7 Classic Uplift bra comes with a pair of small oval pads, which can be tucked into a slot in the lower portion of each cup for a bit of extra oomph.

In theory, inserting one pad could also help create symmetry for someone with uneven breasts. But how effective this is will depend on many factors, including the size difference between breasts and how breast tissue is distributed. (It didn’t work particularly well for one lopsided tester, who preferred to forgo the pads altogether.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra’s color selection includes only two nude shades, both of which are light; this is limiting if you’re looking to match darker skin.
• This bra’s light construction may not provide enough support for larger busts.

Specs

• Sizes: AA to H cup (including some half-cup sizes), 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: six, including black, purple, rose dust, and taupe; also available in a lace model, in five colors

Other styles we like from ThirdLove

• A full-coverage bra with wide, sturdy, no-dig straps: The ThirdLove 24/7 Perfect Coverage Bra is comfy and supportive, and it comes in cup sizes B to H and a 32- to 44-inch band.
• A lightweight, everyday bra with pleated straps: The ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra has soft, memory-foam cups and no-slip straps. It comes in cup sizes A to H (including half-cup sizes) and a 32- to 44-inch band.

Best underwire bra for precise cup sizing

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra

This versatile bra offers outstanding comfort and a subtle push-up, and the deep plunge works with many necklines. It comes in cup sizes AA to H—including half-cups, for a fine-tuned fit. But it might not provide enough support for larger busts.

$72 from Amazon$72 from ThirdLove

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra

• The ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra’s color selection includes only two nude shades, both of which are light; this is limiting if you’re looking to match darker skin.
• This bra’s light construction may not provide enough support for larger busts.

Specs

• Sizes: AA to H cup (including some half-cup sizes), 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: six, including black, purple, rose dust, and taupe; also available in a lace model, in five colors

Other styles we like from ThirdLove

• A full-coverage bra with wide, sturdy, no-dig straps: The ThirdLove 24/7 Perfect Coverage Bra is comfy and supportive, and it comes in cup sizes B to H and a 32- to 44-inch band.
• A lightweight, everyday bra with pleated straps: The ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra has soft, memory-foam cups and no-slip straps. It comes in cup sizes A to H (including half-cup sizes) and a 32- to 44-inch band.

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best luxe and lacy underwire bra for band sizes 30 to 36

Journelle Anais Plunge Bra

Wrapped in delicately scalloped floral lace, this exquisite bra is sexy and surprisingly comfortable. Since the band sizing tops out at 36 inches, it’s ideal for those with smaller frames.

$128 from Amazon$128 from Nordstrom$128 from Journelle- Especially great for: close-set breasts, narrower frames

Lacy, luxe, and unapologetically romantic, the Journelle Anais Plunge Bra is the kind of lingerie you treat yourself—or someone special—to. The winsome floral lace and plunging cut aren’t the only things this bra has going for it: Testers found this beautifully constructed bra to be surprisingly comfortable and supportive enough for small to medium breasts.

This model is wearing the Journelle Anais Plunge Bra in Petal, size 30E. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Anais bra has four rows of hooks, with two hooks in each row. Though it’s offered in a limited range of band sizes, this bra’s band is one of the more adjustable that we tried. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Journelle Anais Plunge Bra in Petal, size 30E. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterSpecial details make it absolutely gorgeous. This lightly molded plunge bra is overlaid with delicate, intricately detailed panels of sheer floral stretch lace. The combination of sheer and opaque parts creates an alluring transition from cup to skin. There’s more lace detailing across the gore (the part that joins the cups together) and the wings (the sides and back of the bra), and it continues across the fine-mesh band. The result is a glamorous look from all angles.

The sizing is best for those with smaller frames. The Anais bra comes in a limited range of band sizes, from 30 to 36 inches. Cup sizing goes from A to G, but the full range is available only up to a 32-inch band size. (A 36-inch band goes up to a D only.)

Even if you typically fall within the range of available sizes, you may not find a perfect fit because this bra runs a touch small in the cups. I consulted with a Journelle fit expert and tried two recommended sizes—32G and 36D—but neither worked well. For our 34A tester, however, the Anais was a perfect fit. She said, “I love the shape of the cups and the lace overlay. It gives me a really nice silhouette with no gaps.”

It feels just as good as it looks. Sexy lace bras get a bad rap—often deservedly so—for being itchy and uncomfortable. But the Anais bra is a pleasant surprise. Every part that touches your skin—the band, the straps, the inside of the cups—has a velvety-smooth lining. The lace has the perfect amount of stretch, too, so this bra is easy to move around in.

Small to medium breasts will be comfortably supported. The Anais bra’s encased underwire provides ample support for small and medium busts. If you have larger breasts, however, you may find that this bra isn’t up to snuff. Our 30E tester described herself as “spilling out” of the low-coverage design. A 36D panelist noted, “If you’ve got bigger boobs, this is a bra for sitting pretty in your boudoir, not for running around in.”

The entire bra is overlaid with panels of delicate floral stretch lace, making the Anais feel romantic and special. Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The Journelle Anais Plunge Bra is the most expensive bra in this guide, by a long shot.
• Journelle provides a short return window (just 14 days).
• Sizing is limited, and this bra runs slightly small.
• The bra’s light construction may not provide enough support for larger busts.

Specs

• Sizes: A to G cup, 30- to 36-inch band
• Colors: three—black, light pink, and white

Best luxe and lacy underwire bra for band sizes 30 to 36

Journelle Anais Plunge Bra

Wrapped in delicately scalloped floral lace, this exquisite bra is sexy and surprisingly comfortable. Since the band sizing tops out at 36 inches, it’s ideal for those with smaller frames.

$128 from Amazon$128 from Nordstrom$128 from Journelle

Journelle Anais Plunge Bra

• The Journelle Anais Plunge Bra is the most expensive bra in this guide, by a long shot.
• Journelle provides a short return window (just 14 days).
• Sizing is limited, and this bra runs slightly small.
• The bra’s light construction may not provide enough support for larger busts.

Specs

• Sizes: A to G cup, 30- to 36-inch band
• Colors: three—black, light pink, and white

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best lacy underwire bra for cup sizes D to M

Panache Allure Full Cup Bra

As sexy as it is supportive, this lacy, unlined bra lifts and centers larger breasts. Its intricate design and texture might be visible under some fabrics, so you’ll have to choose your outfits accordingly.

$71 from Amazon$74 from Her Room$71 from Nordstrom- Especially great for: large breasts, projected breasts (breast tissue is distributed forward and/or downward)

Think a supportive, fuller-coverage bra can’t be sexy? Think again. The Panache Allure Full Cup Bra is a lovely option for people with larger breasts—it’s beautiful yet also supportive. Our testers loved the gorgeously detailed lace cups—as well as the perky, uplifted profile the cups created.

This model is wearing the Panache Allure Full Cup Bra in black/latte, size 32DD. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Allure bra has three rows of hooks, with two hooks in each row. The leotard-style back offers extra support and stability. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Panache Allure Full Cup Bra in black/latte, size 32DD. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterIt’s beautiful and oh-so-flattering. Sheer, boldly patterned floral stretch lace splays across the entire front of this sultry unmolded style. “I love the scalloped edges on both the cup and band,” one tester remarked. “It’s a thoughtful detail that gives the bra such a romantic look.”

Others were enamored with how gorgeous the Allure bra made them feel. “It’s so beautiful and sexy and romantic. I couldn’t take my eyes off my own smoking reflection,” another tester gushed.

Don’t let this bra’s looks fool you—the support is robust. Far from a frivolous piece of lacy lingerie, the Allure bra is actually one of the sturdiest ones we tested. In addition to providing underwire support, this bra keeps heavier breasts comfortably lifted. It has wide, sturdy straps; a leotard-style back (for a secure, slip-proof fit); powerful, snug mesh side wings (the parts of the band that wrap under your arms and around your back); and supportive side slings within its three-piece cups.

“My breasts felt like they were resting in cups made of flower petals, made just for me by forest fairies!” said one poetic tester (40DDD). A less poetic, more relatable panelist (34DD) told us, “The support is good for everyday, including running up and down the stairs in my home.”

The Allure bra’s three-piece underwire cups are built for larger breasts. Angled and vertical seams help to support and shape, while side slings coax breast tissue forward. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe clever construction lifts and centers larger breasts. The Allure bra’s cups—with their mesh bottom, interior side slings, and clever seaming—do a marvelous job of coaxing breast tissue up and forward. And the stretch lace overlay, with scalloped edging, curbs minor spillage.

Testers raved about the effect. “This bra gives a nice, rounded, lifted shape. The side panels gently push breasts in and up—it’s the perfect nudge,” said one panelist (40DDD).

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The Panache Allure is not a T-shirt bra—the bold lace and intricate seaming are visible beneath tighter clothing and thinner fabrics.
• Panache makes customers cover the cost of return shipping, and it does not offer exchanges.

Specs

• Sizes: D to M cup, 30- to 40-inch band
• Colors: four—black/latte, ivory, navy, and raspberry

Best lacy underwire bra for cup sizes D to M

Panache Allure Full Cup Bra

As sexy as it is supportive, this lacy, unlined bra lifts and centers larger breasts. Its intricate design and texture might be visible under some fabrics, so you’ll have to choose your outfits accordingly.

$71 from Amazon$74 from Her Room$71 from Nordstrom

Panache Allure Full Cup Bra

• The Panache Allure is not a T-shirt bra—the bold lace and intricate seaming are visible beneath tighter clothing and thinner fabrics.
• Panache makes customers cover the cost of return shipping, and it does not offer exchanges.

Specs

• Sizes: D to M cup, 30- to 40-inch band
• Colors: four—black/latte, ivory, navy, and raspberry

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best unlined underwire bra for a natural look

Cuup The Scoop Micro

This bra comes in cup sizes A through H, and it’s so lightweight you might forget you’re wearing it. Yet its underwire band and wide straps provide plenty of support. The thin, silky material tends to stretch out, so be sure to let it rest between wears.

$78 from Cuup$78 from Nordstrom- Especially great for: shallow breasts (breast tissue is more distributed across the chest)

If you prefer a bra that gives you a natural look, but you still want or need the support of an underwire, Cuup’s The Scoop Micro could be the answer. This unpadded, unlined bra feels as light as air, and it celebrates your natural shape, while providing more lift and separation than you’d get from wearing a bralette (or going sans bra).

This model is wearing Cuup’s The Scoop Micro Bra in taupe, size 40E. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterLarger sizes of this bra have three rows of hooks on the band; the smaller sizes have just two rows of hooks. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing Cuup’s The Scoop Micro Bra in taupe, size 40E. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIt has a barely-there look and feel. The Scoop bra’s silky, unlined cups are so lightweight that you almost feel as if you’re wearing nothing at all. Panelists with smaller breasts, in particular, praised the bra’s slinky, minimal design; our 34A tester gave it a perfect score.

The Scoop bra disappears under clothing. Its band is smooth and seamless, and the wide, low-profile straps lie flat on the shoulders; this is an especially good bra to wear with tank tops or thin blouses. Plus, it comes in an inclusive range of six nude hues.

The Micro model that we tested is made from a polyamide and elastane fabric. The Scoop also comes in two other fabric models, Modal and Botanical Lace, which we have not tested.

Despite its airy fabric, this bra has structure. Its sturdy underwire, adjustable band, and rounded, leotard-style back all keep breasts lifted and separated—and the wide, adjustable straps add to this bra’s comfort.

Even larger-busted testers found it secure and supportive—our 34F tester gave it a four out of five. A 36D tester marveled, “I rarely get to rock the more natural look, but I can with this bra, because of the well-built band and straps. The cups are so thin, but they still lift and shape in a flattering way.”

We’ve seen a number of online reviews from customers complaining that their breasts spill out over the top of The Scoop bra’s cups. This is more likely to happen if your breasts are projected—that is, if the breast tissue is mostly distributed forward, away from the body. The bra fits better on people with shallower (more spread-out) breasts.

The construction is on point. This bra has a luxurious feel. Most of the stitching is hidden on the underside of the bra, creating a sleek silhouette, and our testers didn’t find any loose threads. Though the satiny, polyamide-blend material is thin—and shows sweat and deodorant stains easily—the cups retained their shape throughout the day.

Staffers who own The Scoop have reported that the band stretched out over the course of several months. To prolong the bra’s lifespan, always allow it to “rest” a few days between wears, and (as with all bras) never put it in the dryer—lay it flat to dry instead.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The Scoop Micro bra’s silky fabric readily shows sweat and other stains.
• The (unusually stretchy) band tends to lose its elasticity, compromising the bra’s support.
• The thin material reveals every contour, and it doesn’t provide much nipple coverage.

Specs

• Sizes: A to H cup, 30- to 50-inch band
• Colors: over a dozen, including light brown, medium brown, and dark brown, plus a selection of limited-edition colors; also available in a Modal model, in five colors, and a Botanical Lace model, in three colors

Best unlined underwire bra for a natural look

Cuup The Scoop Micro

This bra comes in cup sizes A through H, and it’s so lightweight you might forget you’re wearing it. Yet its underwire band and wide straps provide plenty of support. The thin, silky material tends to stretch out, so be sure to let it rest between wears.

$78 from Cuup$78 from Nordstrom

Cuup The Scoop Micro

• The Scoop Micro bra’s silky fabric readily shows sweat and other stains.
• The (unusually stretchy) band tends to lose its elasticity, compromising the bra’s support.
• The thin material reveals every contour, and it doesn’t provide much nipple coverage.

Specs

• Sizes: A to H cup, 30- to 50-inch band
• Colors: over a dozen, including light brown, medium brown, and dark brown, plus a selection of limited-edition colors; also available in a Modal model, in five colors, and a Botanical Lace model, in three colors

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best ultra-comfy underwire bra for large, wide-set breasts

Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra

This supportive, full-coverage bra comes in cup sizes from B to I, and the shape is ideally suited for wide-set breasts. With a velvety band and silky, lace-wrapped cups, this is the comfiest bra we’ve tried in large cup sizes.

$82 from Amazon$82 from Nordstrom- Especially great for: medium to large breasts, wide-set breasts, shallow breasts (breast tissue is more distributed across the chest)

The Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra is the most comfortable underwire bra for larger breasts that we’ve tested—hands-down. It’s especially wonderful if your breasts are wide-set and more spread out. Soft and supportive, this full-coverage bra earned effusive praise for its fabric, construction, and overall quality. As one tester put it, “If most underwire bras are like old-school tutors trying to convince you that pain is good, the Norah is like Maria von Trapp, come to gently guide you through the world.”

This model is wearing the Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra in black, size 30F. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Norah has four rows of hooks, with two hooks in each row. A leotard-style back offers extra support and stability. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra in black, size 30F. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis is the comfiest underwire bra we’ve found for larger busts. The Norah comes in cup sizes from B to I and band sizes from 30 to 42 inches; it’s purpose-built for pampering bigger boobs. “Can I rate this a 10 out of five?” quipped one tester (34H). “It’s like going to a spa and wearing the softest robe.”

A lot of this bra’s luxurious feel comes down to the quality of its materials and construction. Behind the (surprisingly soft) exterior lace, every part of the bra that touches skin is a treat. The unmolded cups are constructed with a silky knit fabric at the bottom and a sheer mesh at the top, and the band is smooth and decadently stretchy. “It felt so luxe—soft and buttery,” gushed one panelist (32E).

Wide, full-coverage cups create a rounded, separated shape. The Norah is particularly well suited for wide-set and shallow breasts (where breast tissue is more spread out across the chest). Compared with the Wacoal Back Appeal (another pick for large breasts), this bra has shallower cups and a wider gore (the part that joins the cups together), so it creates more separation and deemphasizes cleavage.

If you have a narrower frame, close-set breasts, or breasts that project out prominently from your body, the Norah may not be the ideal fit. I wore this bra in a 34DD, and the wider gore dug into my flesh.

This bra creates a relaxed-yet-rounded silhouette. “It makes my boobs look proportional to my body,” remarked a tester (42E). “When I’m wearing a T-shirt, I don’t want a lot of lift or padding.” Other panelists said they found the shaping a little lackluster, and they wished the Norah did a bit more to perk up the bust.

Panelists gushed over the Norah’s silky-smooth cups and buttery band. Said one (42E) tester, “Props to the fabric! I can wear this all day.” Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterIt provides great everyday support. The Norah has a sturdy underwire and well-built straps that don’t have too much give. “I felt held in and secure during day-to-day adventures,” said one tester (32E). For some, this bra was up to even tougher challenges. Reported our 40E tester, “I wore this during a low-impact but very sweaty workout!”

The band on the Norah is stretchier than the bands on our Wacoal Back Appeal and Panache Allure picks, which we also recommended for larger breasts. Several testers remarked that they would’ve felt more supported by the Norah if they’d ordered it in a smaller band size. (Chantelle offers a fit guide on its site.) Because of the stretchiness of the band, it’s particularly important to let this bra rest between wears, to prolong the lifespan of the elastic.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• If it’s not cared for properly, the Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra’s stretchy band can lose its elasticity, compromising the bra’s support.
• This bra creates a subdued, separated shape, which may not be to everyone’s liking. (Some of our testers weren’t fans.)

Specs

• Sizes: B to I cup, 30- to 42-inch band
• Colors: nine core colors (including black, light pink, two nudes, and white), plus limited-edition colors

Best ultra-comfy underwire bra for large, wide-set breasts

Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra

This supportive, full-coverage bra comes in cup sizes from B to I, and the shape is ideally suited for wide-set breasts. With a velvety band and silky, lace-wrapped cups, this is the comfiest bra we’ve tried in large cup sizes.

$82 from Amazon$82 from Nordstrom

Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra

• If it’s not cared for properly, the Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra’s stretchy band can lose its elasticity, compromising the bra’s support.
• This bra creates a subdued, separated shape, which may not be to everyone’s liking. (Some of our testers weren’t fans.)

Specs

• Sizes: B to I cup, 30- to 42-inch band
• Colors: nine core colors (including black, light pink, two nudes, and white), plus limited-edition colors

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best budget-friendly underwire T-shirt bra for cup sizes A to F

Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra

This well-priced bra creates a smooth, defined silhouette, and it comfortably supports breasts through whatever the day throws at you. The cups are deep and generous—a plus for fuller busts—but sizing doesn’t go beyond an F cup.

$48 from Nordstrom$48 from Harper Wilde- Especially great for: projected breasts (breast tissue is distributed forward and/or downward)

The Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra is inconspicuous under clothes, and it’s a pleasure to wear all day long—especially if you like the smooth shape and cradling support of deep, molded cups. Our testers appreciated its sturdy construction, stylish criss-cross design, and easy-to-maneuver, front-adjusting straps. And it’s a bargain, to boot: This is one of our least expensive picks.

This model is wearing the Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra in tan, size 34C. Testers found the front-adjusting straps especially convenient. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIn smaller sizes, this bra has a band with three rows of hooks, featuring two hooks in each row. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Base T-Shirt Bra in rose, size 38C. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterTesters with fuller breasts liked the Base T-Shirt Bra’s full coverage and deep cups. Unfortunately, the sizing doesn’t go beyond an F cup. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterLarger sizes have three rows of hooks, with three hooks in each row, for added support. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra in tan, size 34C. Testers found the front-adjusting straps especially convenient. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIt’s supportive and inviting. The Base bra is made from a smooth, supple microfiber fabric, and it has lightly lined, molded cups. The underwire supports breasts without digging into skin, and the sleek, stretchy band lies perfectly flat.

Testers generally praised the amount of support that the Base bra provided. But one staffer (size 36D) who purchased this bra complained that the thin straps dug into her shoulders, making her breasts feel heavy.

Deep cups keep breasts comfortably contained. Our testers with larger busts (sizes 34F and 42D) gave this bra high marks for fit, reporting no spillage over the tops or sides of the cups.

The Base bra worked well for smaller cup sizes, too. Our 34A tester enjoyed wearing it on days when she wanted more coverage, and she gave it a perfect score.

It’s easy to adjust. Cleverly, the strap-adjustment sliders for the Base bra are located on the front rather than the back, so you can move them up and down without reaching behind you or turning the bra around. (This design should be standard!)

A small J-hook on the back of the bra allows you to switch the slender straps into a racerback design, to create extra support or to keep them from sliding down your shoulders.

A J-hook on the back of the straps allows you to convert this bra to a racerback style. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThe criss-cross design of the gore looks pretty; it also helps the band lie flush against the chest. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterA J-hook on the back of the straps allows you to convert this bra to a racerback style. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterStylish details set it apart. The gore (the part that joins the two cups) has a unique, criss-cross design that adds some visual flair. It’s functional, too, helping the band lie flat against the body and keeping breasts separated and defined.

Though the Base bra offers plenty of coverage—no chance of a nip slip here—its deep neckline and wider-set straps stay hidden under low-cut tops and allow for some airflow.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Although the Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra is supportive, the straps are thin, and if you have heavier breasts, they may dig into shoulders.
• We wish this bra came in larger sizes, especially given its appealing price point.

Specs

• Sizes: A to F cup, 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: six, including beige, black, brown, and tan

Best budget-friendly underwire T-shirt bra for cup sizes A to F

Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra

This well-priced bra creates a smooth, defined silhouette, and it comfortably supports breasts through whatever the day throws at you. The cups are deep and generous—a plus for fuller busts—but sizing doesn’t go beyond an F cup.

$48 from Nordstrom$48 from Harper Wilde

Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra

• Although the Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra is supportive, the straps are thin, and if you have heavier breasts, they may dig into shoulders.
• We wish this bra came in larger sizes, especially given its appealing price point.

Specs

• Sizes: A to F cup, 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: six, including beige, black, brown, and tan

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best smoothing underwire bra for cup sizes C to H

Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra

This sleek, lightweight T-shirt bra provides exceptional support for larger breasts, and its wide, firm band smooths out lumps and bumps. It may not be the cutest bra out there, but it’s the one our large-busted testers kept reaching for.

Buy from Amazon$72 from Wacoal$72 from Nordstrom- Especially great for: large breasts, projected breasts (breast tissue is distributed forward), pendulous breasts (breast tissue is distributed downward)

For those with larger busts, it can be surprisingly tough to find a smoothing and supportive underwire bra that’s not hopelessly over-engineered. The Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra is a happy exception. This full-coverage, unlined T-shirt bra provides exceptional lift, hold, and gentle shaping, but it doesn’t feel like a lot of bra. It’s comfortable, inconspicuous beneath clothing, and marvelously forgettable.

This model is wearing the Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra in Praline, size 32D. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Back Appeal has three rows of hooks with two hooks in each row. A leotard-style back offers extra support and stability. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra in Praline, size 32D. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterIt’s our most supportive pick for larger busts. The Back Appeal is designed with support in mind. Among the details that count: a sturdy underwire; a thick, snug-fitting band with three hooks in each row; close-set front straps and a leotard-style back for stability and slip-resistance; and hidden slings inside the deep, full-coverage cups, for additional support and shaping.

Our seven testers—all wearing cup sizes D and up—rated it the most supportive of all the bras they tried. “I was immediately impressed with the fit: It lifts and hugs,” said one (42DD). Another tester (32D) raved, “It feels like my boobs are suspended in anti-gravity!”

This bra is light, sleek, and comfy. The Back Appeal bra is made from a silky, stretchy nylon-elastane fabric; its two-ply construction feels light and airy. It has unmolded cups that form seamlessly to the body. (It provides some nipple coverage, but if you want the shape of the nipple completely obscured, our Chantelle Norah pick is a better option, since its cups have an additional lace overlay.)

This bra received the highest scores for fit among all of the large-cup-size bras we tested. And thanks to its smooth texture and lack of prominent seaming, the Back Appeal bra easily slips under the radar: It’s not noticeable beneath close-fitting clothes—or at all, really. “It’s very comfortable—I don’t even think about it,” remarked one tester (34DD).

This bra’s tall wings (the parts that wrap under the arms and around the back) are designed to minimize lumps and bumps, creating a smooth silhouette. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterBack-smoothing magic keeps “bra bulge” at bay. This bra’s name is no accident: The Back Appeal’s tall, sturdy wings (the parts that wrap under your arms and around your back) are purpose-built for smoothing. They’re made from an ultra-thin “Spacer Fabric,” a breathable 3D knitted shaping material, and they do a great job of minimizing lumps and bumps.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra isn’t the cutest bra out there. With its full-coverage silhouette, it has a pretty utilitarian look, and it comes only in shimmery, dotted jacquard patterns, which we weren’t crazy about.
• It doesn’t come in many nude shades, so finding a match for darker skin could be challenging.
• Since this bra is unlined (unmolded and unpadded), the shape of your nipples may be visible through its light cups.

Specs

• Sizes: C to H cup, 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: 12, including beige, black, and pink

Best smoothing underwire bra for cup sizes C to H

Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra

This sleek, lightweight T-shirt bra provides exceptional support for larger breasts, and its wide, firm band smooths out lumps and bumps. It may not be the cutest bra out there, but it’s the one our large-busted testers kept reaching for.

Buy from Amazon$72 from Wacoal$72 from Nordstrom

Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra

• The Wacoal Back Appeal Underwire Bra isn’t the cutest bra out there. With its full-coverage silhouette, it has a pretty utilitarian look, and it comes only in shimmery, dotted jacquard patterns, which we weren’t crazy about.
• It doesn’t come in many nude shades, so finding a match for darker skin could be challenging.
• Since this bra is unlined (unmolded and unpadded), the shape of your nipples may be visible through its light cups.

Specs

• Sizes: C to H cup, 32- to 44-inch band
• Colors: 12, including beige, black, and pink

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best wireless lounge bralette for small to medium breasts

Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette

Constructed of smooth, pleasantly stretchy material, this cute and comfy wire-free bralette is made for relaxing. It’s made to fit cup sizes A to F, but the medium support may not feel like enough for heavier breasts.

$49 from Amazon$46 from Harper Wilde- Especially great for: small to larger breasts

When you’re seeking the ultimate in comfort and ease, nothing beats a wireless bralette. The Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette offers the best combination of comfort, versatility, style, and quality that we’ve found. (In fact, it’s the only one I wear in my off-hours.) It’s ideal for lounging—or even sleeping. Yet it’s also supportive enough to wear out and about if you have small to larger breasts, though it may not be substantial enough for people with heavier breasts.

This model is wearing the Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette in steel, size XS. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis bralette has a deep-V cut on both the front and the back. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Bliss Triangle Bralette in steel, size L. Sizes L and up have a higher, less-plunging neckline, for more support. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterFor our A-cup through D-cup testers, this bra felt comfy and supportive. But our E-cup and G-cup panelists didn’t find it substantial enough to wear out and about. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis soft, stretchy bra is a pull-on style; the straps are adjustable, but the band size is not. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette in steel, size XS. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterIt has a flattering triangle cut. The Bliss Triangle is a pull-on style bra with a wide, stretchy band, adjustable straps, and a deep V-cut in both the front and back. Due to the plunging style, this bra is more wearable under low-cut and low-backed tops than many other bralettes, and it effectively separates and defines breasts (no uniboob here).

This bralette comes in sizes XS to 6XL, the equivalent of 30A to 50F. Note that on smaller sizes (XS to M), the central V in the front plunges all the way down to the bra band; on the larger sizes (L to 6XL), the center of the V is higher, to provide more coverage and support.

With its deliciously soft and stretchy fabric, this bra is a pleasure to wear. The Bliss Triangle bra’s silky-smooth nylon-elastane microfiber material fits like a second skin, with no pinching, digging, or rolling. “It was really easy to slip on, and so comfortable that I accidentally slept in it without even realizing,” reported one panelist (38E), who tried a size 2XL.

This ultra-comfy bralette provides medium support. All of the panelists who tested the Bliss Triangle bra—their usual sizes are 34A, 36D, 38E, and 40G—raved about its comfort. The wide, stretchy band and adjustable straps offer more lift than you get from a typical bralette. “It’s enough to keep everything secure and supported, but it’s so light and soft that I barely notice it,” said our 36D tester, who tried it in a size L.

If you have heavy breasts, this bralette is probably better suited to loafing around than to gallivanting. “It’s perfect to put on when I work from home,” said our 40G tester, who tried a size 3XL. “But it’s not supportive enough to wear in public.”

The construction quality is evident. The stitching on the Bliss Triangle bra is straight and even. The seams around the front V are hidden on the interior, so they lie flat, making them barely visible through clothing. And the band, which is sturdily attached with a double row of stitching, has a seamless edge that doesn’t dig into skin. After multiple washes and wears during testing, the bralette still looked practically new.

The Bliss Triangle bra comes in three core nude shades of nude as well as black, so many people can find a color to match their skin tone. (There are more whimsical hues, too, including blush, steely blue, and a rotating selection of limited-edition colors.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• If you have heavier breasts, the Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette may not be supportive enough to wear out and about.
• It doesn’t provide full nipple coverage or much in the way of shaping; if you have smaller breasts, this bra can have a “flattening” effect. (To solve that, one Wirecutter editor—size 36A—wears the Bliss Triangle with silicone nipple covers.)

Specs

• Sizes: XS to 6XL (A to F cup, 30- to 50-inch band)
• Colors: 13, including beige, black, brown, and tan, plus a selection of limited-edition colors

Other styles we like from Harper Wilde

• A super-soft bralette with more coverage and support: The Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette is made from the same sumptuously soft fabric as the Bliss Triangle. It has a more-substantial cut, with thicker, non-adjustable straps and a higher scooped neckline. It comes in sizes XS to 6XL.

Best wireless lounge bralette for small to medium breasts

Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette

Constructed of smooth, pleasantly stretchy material, this cute and comfy wire-free bralette is made for relaxing. It’s made to fit cup sizes A to F, but the medium support may not feel like enough for heavier breasts.

$49 from Amazon$46 from Harper Wilde

Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette

• If you have heavier breasts, the Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette may not be supportive enough to wear out and about.
• It doesn’t provide full nipple coverage or much in the way of shaping; if you have smaller breasts, this bra can have a “flattening” effect. (To solve that, one Wirecutter editor—size 36A—wears the Bliss Triangle with silicone nipple covers.)

Specs

• Sizes: XS to 6XL (A to F cup, 30- to 50-inch band)
• Colors: 13, including beige, black, brown, and tan, plus a selection of limited-edition colors

Other styles we like from Harper Wilde

• A super-soft bralette with more coverage and support: The Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette is made from the same sumptuously soft fabric as the Bliss Triangle. It has a more-substantial cut, with thicker, non-adjustable straps and a higher scooped neckline. It comes in sizes XS to 6XL.

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best sheer wireless bralette for small to medium breasts

Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra

This sexy, sophisticated wireless bralette is made of a fine, peekaboo mesh that’s soft and stretchy. It has an adjustable band and straps, so you can fine-tune the fit, and it’s designed to fit cup sizes A to G — though it provides only light support.

$70 from Amazon$70 from Negative- Especially great for: small to medium breasts

The Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra is a sultry take on a lounge bralette, offering just a smidgen more lift than going braless. It’s an appealing option if you’re not seeking a ton of support, but you also don’t want to ditch bras altogether. Plus, the sheer mesh and clean lines give this bra a sexy, modern look that’s pretty hard to resist.

This model is wearing the Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra in Buff + Black, size 3. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis bra has four rows of hooks—with two hooks per row—so it’s more adjustable than many other bras. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Sieve Non-Wire Bra in slate, size 1. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis sheer, airy bra is light on coverage but high on style. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterSizes 0 through 5 (pictured here, a size 1) have a straight, camisole-style back. Sizes 1+ through 5+ (recommended for cup sizes DD and up) have a leotard-style back, for more support. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra in Buff + Black, size 3. Michael Murtaugh/NYT WirecutterThe sheer mesh fabric is a touch revealing. The Sieve bra is constructed from a single layer of luxe-feeling, see-through fine mesh that reveals a hint of nipple. It has a gently V-shaped neckline and is minimally structured, with no wires, pads, or lining. A thin seam between the cups helps to define and separate breasts, and side seams add subtle shaping.

It’s light and breathable. This bralette’s mesh fabric is delicate, slightly stretchy, and barely there against skin. The seams around the arms, band, and neckline are cleanly stitched and lie flat, and the thin, ribbonlike straps are made from a sturdy, silky fabric. Though the mesh material is airy and light, it’s far from flimsy; one staffer’s Sieve bralette has been tumble-dried a few times, and it emerged unscathed. (As with all bras, air-drying is recommended.)

This bralette offers minimal support. The Sieve bra comes in sizes 0 to 5; it fits people with cup sizes from A to DD cup and band sizes from 30 to 42 inches. The straps are adjustable, and the narrow band has four rows of hooks, enabling a more-customized fit than many other bralettes we tested.

This bralette provides a featherlight lift. Its design makes some small breasts look pleasantly perky; our 34A tester (wearing a size 1) loved the fit and awarded it a perfect score. But another staffer (size 36A/B, size 2) reported that the Sieve bra “gently smothered” her breasts instead of boosting them, making them look smaller and droopier.

For larger breasts, the bra’s thin, stretchy band and ribbonlike straps don’t offer much lift. Our 36D (size 3) tester didn’t find the Sieve bralette supportive enough to wear out of the house.

Negative also makes a version of this bra in plus sizes 1+ to 5+ (DDD to G cup, 30- to 40-inch band). It has a sturdier band, a leotard-style back, and additional paneling at the sides of the cups. Our tester (wearing a size 3+) found it adequately supportive, but noted that it wasn’t as cute as the regular-sized version, and said that it gave her “a slight uniboob.”

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• If you have larger breasts, the regular Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra may not be supportive enough to wear out and about; the plus-size version of this bra offers more support, but sacrifices some of the sleek aesthetics.
• Negative uses its own sizing convention, so you’ll need to consult the size chart to find your fit.
• This bra doesn’t provide much shaping or nipple coverage—the material is sheer.
• Negative charges a $5 shipping/restocking fee for returns; exchanges are complimentary.

Specs

• Sizes: 0 to 5 (A to DD cup, 30- to 42-inch band) and plus sizes +1 to +5 (DDD to G cup, 30- to 40-inch band)
• Colors: 10, including black, light brown, peach, and slate blue

Other styles we like from Negative

• A whisper-soft knit bralette: The Negative Whipped Non-Wire Bra has the same cut as the Sieve bralette, but it’s not sheer—it’s made from a light, touchable micro-modal fabric with subtle vertical ribbing. It comes in sizes 0 to 5 (A to DD cup, 30- to 42-inch band).
• A sheer mesh bralette with underwire support: Like the Sieve Non-Wire Bra, the Negative Sieve Demi Bra is made from fine, airy mesh—but this version offers the extra lift of an underwire. We preferred the ease of the wire-free version, but this one is still surprisingly comfy. It comes in B to G cup sizes and a 32- to 40-inch band.

Best sheer wireless bralette for small to medium breasts

Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra

This sexy, sophisticated wireless bralette is made of a fine, peekaboo mesh that’s soft and stretchy. It has an adjustable band and straps, so you can fine-tune the fit, and it’s designed to fit cup sizes A to G — though it provides only light support.

$70 from Amazon$70 from Negative

Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra

• If you have larger breasts, the regular Negative Sieve Non-Wire Bra may not be supportive enough to wear out and about; the plus-size version of this bra offers more support, but sacrifices some of the sleek aesthetics.
• Negative uses its own sizing convention, so you’ll need to consult the size chart to find your fit.
• This bra doesn’t provide much shaping or nipple coverage—the material is sheer.
• Negative charges a $5 shipping/restocking fee for returns; exchanges are complimentary.

Specs

• Sizes: 0 to 5 (A to DD cup, 30- to 42-inch band) and plus sizes +1 to +5 (DDD to G cup, 30- to 40-inch band)
• Colors: 10, including black, light brown, peach, and slate blue

Other styles we like from Negative

• A whisper-soft knit bralette: The Negative Whipped Non-Wire Bra has the same cut as the Sieve bralette, but it’s not sheer—it’s made from a light, touchable micro-modal fabric with subtle vertical ribbing. It comes in sizes 0 to 5 (A to DD cup, 30- to 42-inch band).
• A sheer mesh bralette with underwire support: Like the Sieve Non-Wire Bra, the Negative Sieve Demi Bra is made from fine, airy mesh—but this version offers the extra lift of an underwire. We preferred the ease of the wire-free version, but this one is still surprisingly comfy. It comes in B to G cup sizes and a 32- to 40-inch band.

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter

Best for…

Best supportive wireless bralette for cup sizes C to K

Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra

This smooth, stretchy bralette achieves something bordering on the miraculous: It comfortably supports large breasts without the use of any metal parts—wires, clasps, sliders, you name it. Just be aware that pulling it on, over your head, isn’t the easiest undertaking.

$98 from Nordstrom$98 from Evelyn Bobbie- Especially great for: larger breasts

If you have larger breasts, chances are good you’ve had some version of this thought: “I wish I could wear wireless bralettes, but they’re just not made for me.” And it’s true—most bralettes aren’t built to support big boobs. But the Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra—available in cup sizes C through K—offers full coverage and exceptional support, plus all of the buttery-soft, wire-free comfort that your smaller-breasted friends have been going on about.

This model is wearing the Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra in Sand, size S. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Defy is a stretchy, pull-on style without any strap or band adjustments. With its full coverage, this bra is exceptionally smoothing under clothes, though it can limit your outfit choices. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis model is wearing the Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra in Sand, size S. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe sizing is inclusive—and surprisingly spot-on. Our panelists were gobsmacked at how well the Defy fits—especially since it doesn’t use traditional cup and band sizing, and it isn’t adjustable. It comes in sizes from S to 3XL, so it works for an impressively wide range of bra sizes (C to K cup, 30- to 52-inch band). “I’m so surprised that a straightforward size fit me at all,” said a 32DD tester, who wore this bra in a size S. “I usually avoid bras that are sized small/medium/large, because there’s always something funky going on.”

This bralette is made from a firm, stretchy polyamide-elastane fabric—it will feel snug at first, especially in the band, but it flexes and forms to your body with wear. Fair warning: Pulling the Defy on over your head can be a bit of a struggle, due to its compressive material and (very) full coverage. Putting it on is similar to shimmying into shapewear. “God forbid you’re a little damp from the shower,” warned one 40DD (size L) panelist. “Then it becomes a two-person job.”

It’s soft enough for lounging. The Defy is very smooth to the touch—this bra contours to your body with a seamless hug. (I’ve even fallen asleep wearing this bralette.)

There’s no pinching or digging, thanks to the bra’s ultra-wide, comfortable straps and tall wings (the parts that wrap under your arms). “Once you get over having to pull it over your head, you may never want to take it off. It’s super-comfortable, almost like wearing nothing,” said our 38DD (size L) tester.

Yet it’s supportive enough for active days. Inside the cups, the Defy uses Evelyn Bobbie’s patented “EB Core” technology, a “seamless lamination design that lifts three-dimensionally.” We’re not 100% sure what that means—but we can tell you that it does a pretty remarkable job. A tester (38DDD) who wore a size L said, “I was amazed at the support. I’ve never encountered a bra like this—with no underwire, no hardware, no adjustability—that still keeps my boobs in an ideal position.”

Several testers wore this bra while working out. And one of those testers (32DD, size S) enthused about its performance in a barre class, exclaiming, “It’s the sports bra/real bra crossover event I’ve always dreamed of!”

The Defy (pictured inside out) comes with removable molded cups that offer a rounded shape and complete nipple coverage. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThis wire-free bra (pictured inside out) is shockingly supportive for large breasts. Evelyn Bobbie credits its patented “EB Core” technology. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Defy (pictured inside out) comes with removable molded cups that offer a rounded shape and complete nipple coverage. Marki Williams/NYT WirecutterThe Defy creates smooth, soft contours. This bra has softly molded removable cups; they offer complete nipple coverage and give your breasts a rounded shape. (If you prefer a more-natural look, you can take the cups out.) And the bra’s high-backed design and seamless edges create an exceptionally smooth silhouette under clothes. “No side-boob spillage, and no back fat!” reported one tester (38DDD, size L).

Due to its full coverage and high back, the Defy is not the right choice to wear with a low-cut or strappy top. But testers agreed that it was perfect under wispy tees and sweaters; plus, it comes in a good selection of nude hues to match different skin tones.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra is expensive, especially for a wireless bralette.
• This is not the cutest bra out there—it resembles a sports bra. And due to the full-coverage silhouette, it can limit outfit choices.
• Some testers found the bra’s full coverage and compressive material too hot and stifling.
• It can be difficult to pull this bra on over the head.
• The removable molded cups can slip out of place in the wash.

Specs

• Sizes: S to 3XL (C to K cup, 30- to 52-inch band)
• Colors: over a dozen, including beige, black, light brown, dark brown, and a selection of limited-edition colors

Best supportive wireless bralette for cup sizes C to K

Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra

This smooth, stretchy bralette achieves something bordering on the miraculous: It comfortably supports large breasts without the use of any metal parts—wires, clasps, sliders, you name it. Just be aware that pulling it on, over your head, isn’t the easiest undertaking.

$98 from Nordstrom$98 from Evelyn Bobbie

Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra

• The Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra is expensive, especially for a wireless bralette.
• This is not the cutest bra out there—it resembles a sports bra. And due to the full-coverage silhouette, it can limit outfit choices.
• Some testers found the bra’s full coverage and compressive material too hot and stifling.
• It can be difficult to pull this bra on over the head.
• The removable molded cups can slip out of place in the wash.

Specs

• Sizes: S to 3XL (C to K cup, 30- to 52-inch band)
• Colors: over a dozen, including beige, black, light brown, dark brown, and a selection of limited-edition colors

I’m a senior staff writer covering style and accessories for Wirecutter. When I’m not rhapsodizing about my favorite bras and undies, I’m writing guides to shapewear and putting nipple covers through their paces.

For the 2025 edition of this guide:

• I tested eight fresh options, with a focus on finding the best bras for larger busts.
• A panel of seven additional people tested the new contenders and provided detailed feedback.
• I interviewed Laura Henny, owner of The Rack Shack, a lingerie and bra-fitting boutique in Brooklyn, New York, to learn more about bra fitting for different breast shapes and sizes.
• I built on the reporting from previous iterations of this guide.
• From 2022 to 2024, I tested all of our existing bra recommendations, plus five new releases.
• In 2021, senior staff writer Sarah Witman tested 43 bras and interviewed seven experts, including Cora Harrington, author of In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie; Holly Powell, owner of The Pencil Test, a lingerie store with locations in Portland, Oregon, and Renton, Washington; and Jaclyn Fredenburg, an instructor at Fashion Institute of Technology who specializes in undergarments.

Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of our editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.

There are a dizzying number of bras out there—more than we could ever possibly test. To narrow the field, we interviewed experts and retail buyers, pored over online reviews, and scoured internet forums, including the passionate A Bra That Fits subreddit.

We concluded that our bra picks should tick the following boxes:

• Mainstay models: We avoided limited-edition bras (like those from Savage X Fenty) because they tend to sell out quickly and get replaced with new styles.
• Different style and material options: We chose bras in a variety of materials and cup styles—including underwire and wireless models—that would flatter and support different body types.
• Comfortable and well fitting: A bra shouldn’t be a torture device. We looked for those with touchable fabrics and clever designs that wouldn’t dig, pinch, gape, slip, or chafe.
• Easy return policy: Since finding the right fit can be hard, we gave preference to bras that the buyer could return or exchange for free within a reasonable time period.
• Good value: It’s really hard to find exceptional bras that are really inexpensive. But you don’t need to overspend, either. Our picks range in price from $45 to $130, and many of them can often be found on sale for much less.

I personally wear every bra that becomes a pick for at least one day, and my favorites go into frequent rotation. I also wash them (mostly) according to best practices, to assess how they’ll hold up.

My typical bra size is 36D/34DD. Because no two boobs are alike—even on my own body—I also rely on a diverse panel of Wirecutter staffers to help with testing and provide detailed feedback.

When this guide was first published, in 2021, we tested 43 bras with a panel of four testers (cup sizes A to F, band sizes 34 to 42). Since then, we’ve continued to solicit feedback on our picks from staffers, as well as to test promising new bra models as they’re released.

In 2025, I tested eight additional styles, focusing on bras for larger busts. Our panel of seven testers (cup sizes DD to H, band sizes 30 to 42) wore each bra for one full day. And they completed in-depth surveys assessing factors such as fit, comfort, support, construction, style, and value.

Underwire bras

If you want an affordable smoothing bra that comes in lots of colors: The Aerie Smoothez Full Coverage Lightly Lined Bra is made of a soft, nylon-elastane material with smooth, barely visible seams. It has a supportive underwire and an adjustable band, and it comes in cup sizes from A to G, band sizes from 30 to 42 inches, and more than a dozen colors.

If you want a budget-friendly minimizer bra: Minimizer bras aren’t known for their exquisite comfort—but the Bali Passion for Comfort Minimizer Underwire Bra is one of the easiest-wearing bras we’ve found. It effectively minimizes the appearance of a fuller bust, and it feels soft and smooth against skin. While this bra is nothing special to look at, it’s a bargain. It comes in cup sizes from C to G, band sizes from 34 to 44 inches, and more than a dozen colors.

If you want a delicate and flexible lacy bra for larger breasts: The Bravissimo Millie Bra is a gorgeous bra that nearly all of our testers (wearing cup sizes DD+) loved. Compared with our similar Panache Allure lace pick, the Millie has a lighter build, with softer, more-delicate lace. It’s not quite as supportive or lifting as the Panache Allure, and it’s a bit more expensive—but it’s less conspicuous under clothes. It comes in cup sizes from D to K, band sizes from 28 to 40, and over a dozen colors.

Wireless bras

If you want a cute and comfy lace bralette that comes in a wide range of sizes: The Cosabella Never Say Never Sweetie Bralette is flirty and fun, and it’s one of the most comfortable lace bralettes we tested. Although it’s stretchy and wire-free, the broader-than-average adjustable straps provide a surprising amount of support. It’s not as lifting as our bralette picks from Evelyn Bobbie and Harper Wilde, but it’s a solid option. It comes in petite, curvy, super curvy, ultra curvy, and extended sizes (to fit cup sizes A to L and band sizes 28 to 40 inches) and over two-dozen colors.

If you want a well-priced wireless bralette for larger breasts: The Soma Embraceable Wireless Unlined Full Coverage Bra is a soft, underwire-free bra that some people—including one passionate Wirecutter staffer—adore. Unlike the Evelyn Bobbie Defy—our wireless bralette pick for larger breasts—the Embraceable bra is adjustable, and it costs half the price. Ultimately, testers preferred the smooth, seamless lift of the Defy—both in look and feel—but this bra remains a solid option. It comes in cup sizes C to H, band sizes from 34 to 44 inches, and four colors.

If you want an affordable smoothing bra that comes in lots of colors: The Aerie Smoothez Full Coverage Lightly Lined Bra is made of a soft, nylon-elastane material with smooth, barely visible seams. It has a supportive underwire and an adjustable band, and it comes in cup sizes from A to G, band sizes from 30 to 42 inches, and more than a dozen colors.

If you want a budget-friendly minimizer bra: Minimizer bras aren’t known for their exquisite comfort—but the Bali Passion for Comfort Minimizer Underwire Bra is one of the easiest-wearing bras we’ve found. It effectively minimizes the appearance of a fuller bust, and it feels soft and smooth against skin. While this bra is nothing special to look at, it’s a bargain. It comes in cup sizes from C to G, band sizes from 34 to 44 inches, and more than a dozen colors.

If you want a delicate and flexible lacy bra for larger breasts: The Bravissimo Millie Bra is a gorgeous bra that nearly all of our testers (wearing cup sizes DD+) loved. Compared with our similar Panache Allure lace pick, the Millie has a lighter build, with softer, more-delicate lace. It’s not quite as supportive or lifting as the Panache Allure, and it’s a bit more expensive—but it’s less conspicuous under clothes. It comes in cup sizes from D to K, band sizes from 28 to 40, and over a dozen colors.

Wireless bras

If you want a cute and comfy lace bralette that comes in a wide range of sizes: The Cosabella Never Say Never Sweetie Bralette is flirty and fun, and it’s one of the most comfortable lace bralettes we tested. Although it’s stretchy and wire-free, the broader-than-average adjustable straps provide a surprising amount of support. It’s not as lifting as our bralette picks from Evelyn Bobbie and Harper Wilde, but it’s a solid option. It comes in petite, curvy, super curvy, ultra curvy, and extended sizes (to fit cup sizes A to L and band sizes 28 to 40 inches) and over two-dozen colors.

If you want a well-priced wireless bralette for larger breasts: The Soma Embraceable Wireless Unlined Full Coverage Bra is a soft, underwire-free bra that some people—including one passionate Wirecutter staffer—adore. Unlike the Evelyn Bobbie Defy—our wireless bralette pick for larger breasts—the Embraceable bra is adjustable, and it costs half the price. Ultimately, testers preferred the smooth, seamless lift of the Defy—both in look and feel—but this bra remains a solid option. It comes in cup sizes C to H, band sizes from 34 to 44 inches, and four colors.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we’ve tested for previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

Underwire bras

The Cacique Smooth Boost Plunge Bra and Cacique Smooth Lightly Lined Balconette Bra both come in a truly impressive range of sizes: The Plunge is available in cup sizes B to G and band sizes 34 to 50 inches, while the Balconette comes in cup sizes B to K and band sizes 34 to 54 inches. However, our testers said the fabrics on both felt rigid.

For the Cosabella Soire Confidence Molded Underwire Bra, our 36D tester found the material scratchy and the shape unflattering.

The sheer mesh fabric of Cuup’s The Balconette bra felt slightly rough, and most of our testers didn’t find the shape sufficiently flattering.

Nearly every source we consulted on bras for larger busts mentioned the Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra. Our testers gave this sheer, unmolded bra high marks for style, but they complained that the mesh cups felt stiff and itchy.

The Goddess Keira Banded Underwire Bra (in solids) and the Goddess Kayla Banded Underwire Bra (in prints) are well-priced full-cup options with the same design. They’re sturdy and supportive, and they come in cup sizes from DD to O and band sizes from 34 to 46 inches. But testers were not crazy about the fabric, which looks and feels cheap.

Like our Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette pick, the Everlane Invisible Bra has a plunging triangle cut and adjustable straps, and it’s made from a similarly smooth, stretchy material. But it comes in fewer colors and in a much more limited size range (from XXS to XXL, roughly equivalent to 30AA to 40D).

We tried two unlined lace styles from Journelle: the Isabel Balconette Bra and the Romy Demi Bra. They’re lovely, but they aren’t as comfortable as our Anais Plunge Bra pick.

The Soma Vanishing 360 Perfect Coverage Bra comes in a wide variety of sizes (B to G cup, 32- to 42-inch band) and nine colors. However, in our tests the cups showed through tops more obviously than those of other full-coverage bras, and the materials felt bulky and inexpensive.

Wire-free bras

The Aerie Sunnie Wireless Lightly Lined Bra delivers the shaping and definition of a more-structured bra, but it wears like a bralette. Alas, we found the non-adjustable and not-that-stretchy band tight and uncomfortable.

The stretchy, unstructured Bali Comfort Revolution ComfortFlex Fit 2-Ply Wireless Bra and the pull-on Bali Comfort Revolution Easylite Wireless Bralette are basic, comfy, and inexpensive, though plain. But we couldn’t quite wrap our minds around the dated aesthetic of the adjustable, softly shaping Bali Double Support Wireless Bra.

The Cosabella Soire Confidence Bralette and the Cosabella Soire Confidence Curvy Bralette are available in a wide range of colors (over a dozen each) and sizes. But their fabrics were among the roughest we encountered, and their triangular cups were unflattering.

The Hanky Panky Supima Cotton Padded Bralette comes in a narrow range of colors and sizes, topping out at a size medium (approximately 36B). Plus, its thin straps and band provided hardly any support: A representative for the company told us that even the large-size bras were not supportive enough for those who wear anything above a B cup.

We didn’t like how the seams on the front of the Lively Mesh Trim Bralette and the Lively Busty Bra showed through most tops. Still, most of our testers found them comfortable and easy to wear, and between the two variations, there are plenty of size options to choose from.

We were intrigued by the Molke Original Bra, a 100% cotton bralette that comes in a more-inclusive size range (cups sizes A to M, band sizes 26 to 54) than any we’ve ever seen. Alas, this bra got uniformly dismal scores from our test panel. The sizing is confusing, the fit is awkward, and the design is unflattering.

The Natori Bliss Perfection Contour Soft Cup Bra is terrifically soft and smoothing. However, the lace wasn’t attached securely enough to the band; during testing, we noticed that it started to pull away from the bra. The sizing (A to DDD cup, 30- to 38-inch band) is also fairly limited.

The Soma Enbliss Racerback Bralette was especially comfy, and its fabric was soft and stretchy; we also liked its removable pads. However, its high-cut neckline was strangely ill-fitting on all of our testers, and the sizing ran very small.

We had high hopes for two wireless models from ThirdLove: the smooth nylon-spandex ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Wireless Bra and the lace-covered ThirdLove All Day Lace Wireless Bra. Unfortunately, both felt uncomfortable, with prominent, itchy interior seams and too-short adjustable straps. We also found their cuts to be overwhelming, with entirely too much material (especially at the sides).

The True & Co. True Body Lift Scoop Neck Bra is a stretchy seamless bralette with removable padding. But it’s not as flattering—and a touch more expensive—than our Harper Wilde Bliss bralette pick.

The True & Co. True Body Wirefree Push Up Bra is a comfy, seamless style that subtly highlights curves. It has pillowy-soft padded cups, but it doesn’t create much of a push-up effect. Sizing is very limited—it comes in cup sizes A to DDD and band sizes from 32 to 36 inches.

The Victoria’s Secret Lightly Lined Wireless Bra comes in a fairly wide range of sizes (A to G cup, 32- to 44-inch band) and more than 30 colors and prints. But our testers gave it a relatively low overall average score of three (out of five), reporting fit and flattening issues.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter. A previous version of this article was written by Sarah Witman.

The Cacique Smooth Boost Plunge Bra and Cacique Smooth Lightly Lined Balconette Bra both come in a truly impressive range of sizes: The Plunge is available in cup sizes B to G and band sizes 34 to 50 inches, while the Balconette comes in cup sizes B to K and band sizes 34 to 54 inches. However, our testers said the fabrics on both felt rigid.

For the Cosabella Soire Confidence Molded Underwire Bra, our 36D tester found the material scratchy and the shape unflattering.

The sheer mesh fabric of Cuup’s The Balconette bra felt slightly rough, and most of our testers didn’t find the shape sufficiently flattering.

Nearly every source we consulted on bras for larger busts mentioned the Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra. Our testers gave this sheer, unmolded bra high marks for style, but they complained that the mesh cups felt stiff and itchy.

The Goddess Keira Banded Underwire Bra (in solids) and the Goddess Kayla Banded Underwire Bra (in prints) are well-priced full-cup options with the same design. They’re sturdy and supportive, and they come in cup sizes from DD to O and band sizes from 34 to 46 inches. But testers were not crazy about the fabric, which looks and feels cheap.

Like our Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette pick, the Everlane Invisible Bra has a plunging triangle cut and adjustable straps, and it’s made from a similarly smooth, stretchy material. But it comes in fewer colors and in a much more limited size range (from XXS to XXL, roughly equivalent to 30AA to 40D).

We tried two unlined lace styles from Journelle: the Isabel Balconette Bra and the Romy Demi Bra. They’re lovely, but they aren’t as comfortable as our Anais Plunge Bra pick.

The Soma Vanishing 360 Perfect Coverage Bra comes in a wide variety of sizes (B to G cup, 32- to 42-inch band) and nine colors. However, in our tests the cups showed through tops more obviously than those of other full-coverage bras, and the materials felt bulky and inexpensive.

Wire-free bras

The Aerie Sunnie Wireless Lightly Lined Bra delivers the shaping and definition of a more-structured bra, but it wears like a bralette. Alas, we found the non-adjustable and not-that-stretchy band tight and uncomfortable.

The stretchy, unstructured Bali Comfort Revolution ComfortFlex Fit 2-Ply Wireless Bra and the pull-on Bali Comfort Revolution Easylite Wireless Bralette are basic, comfy, and inexpensive, though plain. But we couldn’t quite wrap our minds around the dated aesthetic of the adjustable, softly shaping Bali Double Support Wireless Bra.

The Cosabella Soire Confidence Bralette and the Cosabella Soire Confidence Curvy Bralette are available in a wide range of colors (over a dozen each) and sizes. But their fabrics were among the roughest we encountered, and their triangular cups were unflattering.

The Hanky Panky Supima Cotton Padded Bralette comes in a narrow range of colors and sizes, topping out at a size medium (approximately 36B). Plus, its thin straps and band provided hardly any support: A representative for the company told us that even the large-size bras were not supportive enough for those who wear anything above a B cup.

We didn’t like how the seams on the front of the Lively Mesh Trim Bralette and the Lively Busty Bra showed through most tops. Still, most of our testers found them comfortable and easy to wear, and between the two variations, there are plenty of size options to choose from.

We were intrigued by the Molke Original Bra, a 100% cotton bralette that comes in a more-inclusive size range (cups sizes A to M, band sizes 26 to 54) than any we’ve ever seen. Alas, this bra got uniformly dismal scores from our test panel. The sizing is confusing, the fit is awkward, and the design is unflattering.

The Natori Bliss Perfection Contour Soft Cup Bra is terrifically soft and smoothing. However, the lace wasn’t attached securely enough to the band; during testing, we noticed that it started to pull away from the bra. The sizing (A to DDD cup, 30- to 38-inch band) is also fairly limited.

The Soma Enbliss Racerback Bralette was especially comfy, and its fabric was soft and stretchy; we also liked its removable pads. However, its high-cut neckline was strangely ill-fitting on all of our testers, and the sizing ran very small.

We had high hopes for two wireless models from ThirdLove: the smooth nylon-spandex ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Wireless Bra and the lace-covered ThirdLove All Day Lace Wireless Bra. Unfortunately, both felt uncomfortable, with prominent, itchy interior seams and too-short adjustable straps. We also found their cuts to be overwhelming, with entirely too much material (especially at the sides).

The True & Co. True Body Lift Scoop Neck Bra is a stretchy seamless bralette with removable padding. But it’s not as flattering—and a touch more expensive—than our Harper Wilde Bliss bralette pick.

The True & Co. True Body Wirefree Push Up Bra is a comfy, seamless style that subtly highlights curves. It has pillowy-soft padded cups, but it doesn’t create much of a push-up effect. Sizing is very limited—it comes in cup sizes A to DDD and band sizes from 32 to 36 inches.

The Victoria’s Secret Lightly Lined Wireless Bra comes in a fairly wide range of sizes (A to G cup, 32- to 44-inch band) and more than 30 colors and prints. But our testers gave it a relatively low overall average score of three (out of five), reporting fit and flattening issues.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter. A previous version of this article was written by Sarah Witman.

671. Laura Henny, owner of The Rack Shack lingerie shop, phone interview, December 5, 2024
672. Cora Harrington, author of “In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie” and founder of The Lingerie Addict blog, phone interview, May 8, 2020
673. Holly Powell, owner of The Pencil Test lingerie shop, phone interview, May 15, 2020
674. Jaclyn Fredenburg, Fashion Institute of Technology instructor, phone interview, May 18, 2020
675. Colleen Hill, Fashion Institute of Technology museum curator and author of “Exposed: A History of Lingerie”, phone interview, May 20, 2020
676. Dr. Andrea Madrigrano, breast surgeon at Rush University Medical Center, phone interview, June 12, 2020
677. Doug Farmer, The Lycra Company end-use research fellow, email interview, January 27, 2021
678. Majid Sarmadi, PhD, University of Wisconsin School of Human Ecology professor, phone interview, January 27, 2021 Zoe Vanderweide

What I CoverI focus on clothing, bags, shoes, and other wearables, plus gear and tips for wardrobe maintenance. The guides I’ve written include those for women’s jeans, white sneakers, cheap sunglasses, bras, and laptop backpacks.

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​Miss-Sexy.com offers comprehensive insights into Honeylove bras, featuring detailed reviews, sizing guides, and purchasing options to help you find the perfect fit. ​

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