A bralette is a soft, lightweight bra typically made without an underwire or heavy padding. The loungewear style offers a more natural fit with low to medium support. This makes it ideal for small breasts or casual wear for any size and shape. Bralettes often come in a range of designs, from minimal seamless styles to detailed lace options. Made from soft, stretchy materials like cotton, spandex, or stretch-lace, bralettes are a highlight of comfortable bra options.
There are a few simple tips that extend the life of any bra. Hand washing is the most delicate way to care for your bra or bralette. Close your bra on the first line of hooks to prevent catching and stretching out the band. Fill a sink or small container with lukewarm water and add one tablespoon of mild laundry detergent. Let your bra soak for 15 minutes, gently rubbing into dirty areas with your hands. Rinse your bra under cool water to remove detergent. Lay out a towel and wrap the bra to absorb excess water. Be careful not to wring out the bra. Leave the bra flat to dry and reshape cups and straps while the bra is still wet. If hand washing is not realistic, close your bra hooks and place your bralette in a mesh laundry bag before using a delicate or gentle cycle in a machine. Always use a mild detergent and never use fabric softener which can damage its elasticity. Remove from the wash and lay flat to dry on a towel, reshaping the cups and straps. You can also hang the bra by its center on a drying rack.
Make sure your bra is completely dry before putting it away. Flip the bra face down on a flat surface. Try to minimize bunches in the fabric that cause wrinkles. First, fold the straps into the center of the bra. If your bra has a wide or longline band, tuck it into the center as well. Gently fold the bra in half vertically, so that the cups are laying one over the other. When it comes to storing your bralette, avoid overcrowding it in a drawer to prevent any misshaping. With these simple steps, you can extend the lifetime of your bra and get more wear.
Bras should make you feel comfortable and confident, so finding the perfect size and fit is key. Shop bralettes in any Victoria’s Secret Store where we offer professional services like in-person bra fittings with a Bra Fit Expert—or ask an associate for recommendations on different fabric types and outfitting. Shop online and use resources like our Bra Fit Quiz and detailed size charts to find the perfect fit at home.
Wearing a bralette top is a fun, easy outfit, perfectly acceptable depending on the context and your own comfort. Of course, wearing a bra as a top will reveal more skin, but bralettes are designed to be comfortable with options like longline bralettes and high necklines for comfort. Unlike traditional bras, which focus on structure and a more typical undergarment look, bralettes have an understated style that complements a variety of outfits, from high-waisted skirts to loose tops and jackets. Consider the occasion and remember that professional or formal events might require more conventional outfits. Ultimately, the decision to wear a bralette as a top should reflect your personal style preferences, and your level of confidence with sexy, revealing outfits.