Experts help you find the best strapless bras for every occasion

Whether for fashion purchases or just to switch things up, if you’ve got boobs you’ll likely want to wear a strapless bra at some point or other. But which bra to choose?

Finding a bra that fits correctly and gives your girls the support they need can take some work, and finding a good strapless bra can be even harder. Without straps giving you additional lift from your shoulders or neck, you need a bra that won’t slide down or cause you to slouch.

We’ve reached out to a handful of experts ranging from professional midwives to cosmetic surgeons to help you know what to look for when choosing a bra and how to pick the perfect strapless bra for you.

The best strapless bras on the market

Best strapless bra overallBest strapless push up braMost comfortable strapless braBest lace strapless bra

Tips for finding a strapless bra that fits well

Measure yourself

Daniela Meier, a professional midwife of over 10 years, explains the measuring process. ‘When it comes to sizing, it's crucial to get both the band and cup size right.

‘To determine your band size, measure around your torso directly under your bust. To determine your cup size, measure around the fullest part of your breasts.

‘Make sure to follow the sizing chart provided by the bra manufacturer to find your perfect size.’

Dr Paul Banwell, a cosmetic breast surgeon, adds, ‘New research has revealed 90 per cent of women are wearing the wrong bras. It’s really important to have a proper fitting.’

Check the fit

Meier highlights, ‘When trying on a strapless bra, ensure the band fits snugly around your torso without being too tight or loose. The cups should fully encase your breasts without spillage, gaping, or wrinkling. The bra should also sit flush against your skin without sliding down or shifting.’

Founder and CEO of Perky Pear, Samantha Ryder says, ‘Strapless bras with a wider band or silicone piping can help keep them in place, but boob tape is also a great alternative.

‘Boob tape is great for those who struggle with strapless bras and can give a secure fit without the worry it will fall down — plus, unlike strapless bras you can cut boob tape to your exact needs, meaning no bras peeking out and ruining your look.’

Stay supported

Dr Banwell tells us, ‘Breasts are heavy, and over a long period of time going braless will affect your posture and may lead to hunching in some people.’

‘A bra's main purpose is to support and hold up the breasts,’ says Ryder. This ‘means it does have the added benefit of supporting the back — especially if you have a larger bosom. 

‘A good-fitting bra can take the strain off your back and chest muscles and help you stand more upright.’

However, Meier cautions that ‘wearing an ill-fitting bra can affect posture and back support.’

She says, ‘A too-tight bra can restrict breathing and cause back pain, while a too-loose bra can lead to poor posture and rounded shoulders.

‘To improve posture and reduce back pain, it's essential to wear a properly fitting bra that provides enough support, especially for those with larger busts.’

In addition, ‘Taking breaks from wearing a bra throughout the day can also help to maintain good posture’ she says.

Best strapless bra overall

Photo: John Lewis

Wonderbra Ultimate Strapless Bra

If you’re looking for the perfect strapless bra, this may be it. Not only is this Wonderbra the best seamless strapless bra we’ve seen, but it also comes with rave reviews regarding its fit, support and feel. From the way it provides support without shifting or sliding, to its various hook and eye closures for different sizing, to its seamless construction and look, we can’t rave about this piece enough.

Best strapless push up bra

Photo: Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein Strapless Bra

A well-known name in the world of undergarments, Calvin Klein offers us one of the best push up bras on the market that can be converted to a strapless option as needed. Though it only comes in Black and Birch colours, you’re sure to appreciate the nice lift this bra offers your girls while also keeping you secure and supported.

Most comfortable strapless bra

Photo: John Lewis

Chantelle Essential Strapless T-Shirt Bra

Another convertible option, this bra can be worn with or without straps, and its knit finish makes it incredibly comfortable and smooth to the touch. The internal silicon band keeps the bra from slipping, so you can lounge worry free. Customers from all over the UK agree that this bra is worth the money and the comfiest they’ve ever owned.

Best lace strapless bra

Photo: Pour Moi

Flora Non Padded Underwired Multiway Strapless Bra

Who said strapless bras had to be all business and no play? This flirty piece from Pour Moi shows that bras without straps can have fun too. The sheer lace cups are unlined, but they do offer underwire support. With two colour options of black and white, this bra can work well under a wide variety of clothing.

Best strapless bra for small chest

Photo: NOOD

NOOD Shape Up Adhesive Bra

If your bra size is on the smaller side, you’ve actually got loads of options for strapless bras. But our favourite option has to be this itsy bitsy option from NOOD. Not only does it give you a clear back (hello backless dresses!), but since it's adhesive, you can adjust it the way you want and give yourself a bit more cleavage thanks to the handy front closure. Even better, this nearly invisible stick-on bra comes in four different skin tones.

Best backless strapless bra

Photo: John Lewis

John Lewis Winged Stick-On Bra

Another backless bra option, this adhesive John Lewis strapless bra offers a bit more coverage and support. Choose from two neutral colours for ultimate no-show. The fabric cups are lined with silicone and two silicone wings extend around your sides, ending just before your back — perfect for pairing with all those backless dresses you’ve been dying to wear. 

Best plus size strapless bra

Photo: Yours Clothing

YOURS Black Moulded Underwired Full Cup Multiway Bra With Removable Straps

With the smallest size being a 38C, this piece from Yours Clothing is an obvious contender for the best strapless bra for big busts. For those looking for mid to plus size strapless bras, this multiway bra provides a great option; you can wear it as a regular bra or go strapless. We especially love that this one has additional side boning for extra support.

Best multiway bra

Photo: John Lewis

John Lewis Jessica Multiway Bra

If you’re the kind of gal who loves a good do-it-all piece, then this Jessica Multiway Bra from John Lewis is perfect for you. The bra itself offers good coverage and three colour options. And you can adjust the straps in many many ways — cross back, traditional, one shoulder, halter neck and, of course, strapless.

Best bandeau bra

Photo: John Lewis

John Lewis Ivy Seam Free Bandeau Bra

Possibly the most comfy bra on this list, John Lewis’ well-made basic bandeau bra offers enough support to keep you secure but not so much that you feel strapped in. Perfect for wearing on holiday under strappy tops, this bra comes in two colour options — black and white — and three sizes: small, medium and large.

How can you make a bra strapless?

If you want to get the support you need, you won’t want to simply cut the straps off one of your regular bras.

However, if you have a multiway or convertible bra, you can remove and reattach the bra straps to make your bra strapless and vice versa.

Our verdict: what is the best strapless bra?

Finding a bra that fits your girls just right is never an easy feat, but with so many strapless bra options, you’re sure to find at least one that suits your needs.

Whether plus size or petite, stick-on or full coverage, there is a strapless bra for you.

Want a comfy bandeau? John Lewis’ Ivy Seam Free Bandeau keeps you snug and secure. Love lace? The Flora from Pour Moi is très magnifique! And you can’t beat the Wonderbra for seamless and long lasting support.