7 of the best summer bras for every occasion
Want more summer fashion, shopper-approved buys and the hottest trends? Sign up for Yahoo Lifestyle Canada’s newsletter!
Yahoo Lifestyle Canada is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
Summer weather calls for the obvious wardrobe changes (goodbye sweaters!), and the less obvious ones as well. Increasing temperatures mean shedding some of the layers that we’re used to wearing throughout the rest of the year, but one layer in particular can be especially tricky to live with in the heat: bras.
Not only are they often uncomfortable and ill-fitting at the best of times, but they can feel even more oppressive as soon as the weather starts to warm up. If you’re not comfortable going braless or just need the extra support, it can be an even bigger challenge to find ways to look and feel your best this season.
ALSO SEE: Nordstrom's bestselling bra 'fits beautifully' and is backed by thousands of five-star reviews
Personally, I’ve given up on traditional underwire bras for everyday wear, due to having sensitive skin that gets easily irritated. Instead, I reach for a collection of different bralettes that offer both comfort and support.
Unfortunately, bralettes aren’t always easy to disguise under strappy tanks and plunging necklines, which is why I’ve put together a list of summer-ready bras to suit any occasion this season.
For lounging
LuxeLift Pullover Bra
The thing I look for in a bra that you can wear while lounging at home, is that it shouldn’t really feel like you’re wearing one at all. The Knix LuxeLift Pullover Bra certainly fits the bill, and though it starts out snug, the more often you wear it, the more it stretches to perfectly hug your curves for a light yet supportive fit.
SHOP IT: Knix, $65
For special events
24/7™ Lace Back T-Shirt Bra
Let’s be real - these days, any occasion that calls for underwire is considered a special occasion in my books. Luckily, this bra offers the same fit and comfort as ThirdLove’s Classic T-Shirt Bra, so you can feel fancy with the added lace details without missing out on comfort.
SHOP IT: Thirdlove, $103 ($76 USD)
For everyday wear
Sculpt Bra
Adapted from Bravado Designs’s hit nursing bras, this sculpting bra is a great choice for everyday wear. To me it feels like a hybrid undergarment, since it does feature hook and eye closure, but it has the softness and stretch of more casual bralettes.
SHOP IT: Bravado Designs, $50
For versatility
Wacoal Staying Power Convertible Strapless Bra
If you’re looking for versatility and comfort this season, a convertible bra is the way to go. This one from Wacoal features a seamless design and molded cups to keep it in place rather than underwire, which feels just as supportive and way more comfortable. It also comes with removable straps that can be adjusted to suit nearly any neckline.
SHOP IT: Saks Fifth Avenue, $95
For workouts
Exert Recycled Polyester Medium Support Bra
Since transitioning to working from home, I’ve had more free time to dedicate to regular workouts, which means the need for more sports bras. I recently discovered MPG Sport, and was impressed by the incredibly soft fabric of the Exert bra (it almost feels like T-shirt material), along with its recycled plastic content and incredible price point.
SHOP IT: MPG Sport, $38
For tricky clothing
Real Magic Backless Lightly Lined Bare Bra
Summer comes with its own unique set of challenges when it comes to undergarments, specifically when you’re trying to figure out what to wear under plunging or backless clothing. This adhesive stick-on bra provides coverage and light lift for A to DD cups, and can be re-worn again and again.
SHOP IT: Aerie, $50
For overnight wear
Mae Women's Cotton Pullover with Logo Elastic Everyday Bralette
Yes, I’m one of those weird people who often wears a bra to bed, but I’m not a complete monster. This bralette feels just like wearing a T-shirt, but it does run a little small so I’d suggest sizing up for a truly relaxed fit.
SHOP IT: Amazon, $13
Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram and sign up for our newsletter.