Bralettes are a must-have fashion accessory but figuring out how to wear them can be a struggle. Here are our top tips on how to wear a bralette!
Bralettes have been creeping up—and peeking out—everywhere lately, haven’t they? You’ve probably seen one on your favorite blogger, or maybe you’ve spotted one hanging on the rack in your favorite store. Even celebs have been getting in on this trend: Kendall Jenner wowed in a black lace one layered over a fitted white tee, Taylor Swift pairs hers with skirts, and Chrissy Teigen has been known to rock one, too.
At first glance bralettes may seem completely unwearable (too revealing—and of course, what the heck are you even supposed to wear with it?) but that’s actually not the case. In reality, bralettes make the unwearable, wearable. Ever wonder what to wear under an open-back top? What about an off-the-shoulder sweater? Or a sheer lace blouse? Yeah, us too. Believe it or not, bralettes are the answers to all of these problems.
What Is a Bralette?
Of course, if you haven't already been exposed to the bralette trend, you're probably reading this and wondering, “what is a bralette, anyway?” The answer is a little tricky, because really it’s more than just one thing. A bralette can be lacey, sporty, satiny, or even made of leather. Think of it as the crop top’s useful sister—you can wear one alone, sure, but a bralette really proves it’s worth when worn under anything that tripped you up before. Try it under a see-through tee shirt, peeking through a crochet sweater, and even as the perfect layering piece under a blazer. In short, a bralette is a work horse and in this post we’ll prove why you should incorporate one into your wardrobe.
How to Wear a Bralette
Need some inspiration to get you started? Below you’ll find 26 different ways to wear a bralette, along with outfit ideas for everyone. No matter your style, size, or shape, you’re bound to find a version of this mysterious garment that works for your body and your style.
Lace Bralettes
A black lace bralette can make even a classic denim jacket seem sexy.
Add interest to a plain white tee by layering a lace bralette over it. Tip: make sure the tee is fitted to your body.
Basic Bralettes
Not into lace? No problem. You’ll love these simple, black bralettes that have a slightly longer silhouette.
Under an oversized flannel shirt, a bralette doesn’t come off as too revealing.
Try one in a menswear-inspired fabric, like pinstripe, for a borrowed-from-the-boys vibe.
Too modest to wear one by itself? Layer a bralette over a white button-down shirt for a totally different take on the trend.
Halter Bralettes
Need a bit more support up top? A halter bralette is a great option.
This halter bralette makes a mesh top wearable.
Wear a halter bralette under a summer cami—it’s way more comfortable than a strapless bra.
Cage Bralettes
Sometimes battling to hide your bra straps is simply too much work. Instead, try a cage bralette that you won’t have to hide.
An oversized cardigan might slip off your shoulder—be prepared with a cute bralette that you want people to see.
High-Neck Bralettes
If you hate showing cleavage or want an excuse to stop wearing necklaces, these high-neck bralettes are for you.
Bring a summer tee into fall by layering a high-neck bralette underneath.
Leather Bralettes
Make a real statement with this unexpected material.
A leather bralette lends some unexpected style to a matching suit.
A high-waisted full skirt is the perfect match for a leather bralette in a contrasting color.
Miscellaneous Bralettes
Still haven’t seen a bralette for you? Here are a few more styles that might inspire you.
An off-the-shoulder sweater means you can show off some fun straps in a contrasting color.
A simple, white bralette layered under a white crocheted blouse looks like an intentional style choice, not an accidental faux paux.
