Wireless bras are effective. This statement comes from my years of evading wired undergarments and the idea of holding on to uncomfortable designs — yet keeping them in my drawer for past-due laundry days.
Unlike traditional supportive bras, wireless ones offer a level of comfort that is unparalleled (as experienced). For the most part, wireless brassieres feel like a second skin layer — and they hold your bust, similarly to wired versions.
Two experts debunk the myth of push-up bras, their lack of effectiveness and how breaking up with the wire can be good for your bust and back. Plus, discover our editors' favorites, including the most comfortable bras for everyday use.
Are wireless bras effective? | Features to look for in wireless bras | Editor-approved wireless bras | How we chose | Meet the experts
Are wireless bras effective?
Yes, wireless bras are supportive as well as effective, and anyone can benefit from the design. "When you are breastfeeding, have a mastectomy or breast augmentation, breast surgeons always recommend wireless bras," says CEO and founder of Evelyn & Bobbie, Bree McKeen.
When patients are told to wear a wire-free bra, it's because everyone should be wearing them, according to McKeen. "I think wired bras belong in a museum. That was a technology invented in 1932 and you don't need it for support," says McKeen.
"I think wired bras belong in a museum. That was a technology invented in 1932 and you don't need it for support."
"Anyone with pain should immediately switch to wire-free bras," says McKeen. While some wireless bras are not as supportive, you have to replace the wired bra with something that offers an ergonomic design.
Features to look for in wireless bras
According to bra-fitting expert and founder of BraTenders, Lori Kaplan, comfort is the main thing to look for in a wireless bra. "Full-breasted women often don’t feel comfortable braless, and wire-free bras and bralettes add some support so you’re not bouncing around when you’re home doing activities," says Kaplan.
What clothes to wear with wireless bras
According to style expert Sandra Okerulu, you can wear wireless bras with items that don't need a lot of support. "I love it when I can wear an undergarment that doesn’t have insane restrictions on the body. Wireless bras go well with T-shirts and dresses, especially dresses with a long, flowy feel. The two together feel so comforting against the skin," says Okerulu.
Editor-tested wireless bras
Seamless look: Maidenform M Rib Seamless Brami
- Adjustable straps
- Extended sizing
- Thin straps
- Slight support
Size: S-2XL | Colors: 7 | Material: 91% nylon, 9% spandex
Associate editor Lauren Witonsky's first thoughts when she wears this bra are about how flattering and comfortable it feels.
"Once I find a bra I love, I tend to wear it repeatedly — and this is definitely my next go-to bra. There are no clasps in the back but it has the perfect amount of stretch to feel secure," she says.
What she loves the most is how sturdy the ribbed fabric feels and how seamless it looks under clothing. "The low neckline in the front and back allows you to wear it with almost any top, and the built-in cups give just enough shape. I also like that it can be worn as a base or outer layer, and I’ve already put it to the test during yoga!"
Designed for the bra haters: Bali Breathe Wireless T-Shirt Bra
- Convertible straps
- Very soft
- Full coverage
- Non-traditional sizes
- Cups are thin
Size: S-3XL | Colors: 6 | Material: 48% cotton, 48% modal, 4% spandex
This is a must-have bra if you're looking for comfort with a feminine touch. Production associate Audrey Ekman raved about this bra for its aesthetic, comfort level and structure.
"I kind of hate wearing a bra, especially in summer, because I usually find underwires restrictive and pokey. I just got this full-coverage bra and I am so impressed. This collection is literally called “Bali Breathe” and it earns its name with its lightweight construction and soft lining that keeps me feeling comfortable, cool and dry, even on 90+ degree days."
Yes to convertible: Maidenform Everyday Luxe Wireless T-Shirt Bra
- Straps can be worn crisscross
- Adjustable straps
- Very soft
- Hook is hard to reach
Size: 34A-40D | Colors: 5 | Material: 94% modal, 6% spandex
I have been wearing this bra (in different colors) daily. It's one of my most trusted undergarments for its soft material and strap functionality. While the bra features a basic design, it is far from simple.
The straps are the main player offering a convertible option to wear it crisscross. It's a great feature that offers wardrobe versatility and the ability to hide the straps when wearing tank tops or sleeveless tops.
Diving into comfort: Brabar Everyday Longline Cami Bra
- Compression below the bust
- Very Supportive
- Can feel tight after hours
Size: S-L | Colors: 2 | Material: 92% nylon, 8% spandex
This cami bra is perfect for buttondown shirts or lounge days when you need a cozy feel. I enjoy wearing this bra when I need something less structured yet comfortable. Because of the thickness of the band and its double-layered fabric, this bra feels more like a shapewear for your bust.
It offers a snug fit, and you can even wear it as a crop top instead of a bra. Plus, this bra will adjust with weight or size fluctuation.
Second skin: Eby Sheer Bralette
- Super breathable
- Seamless and comfortable
- Not enough support
Size: XS-XLDD | Colors: 4 | Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
This bra [which I wore on a humid day] feels so breathable the moment you put it on. It's stretchy, non-restrictive and easy to pull over. Because of the lack of wires and hooks, this design offers a better and improved seamless look.
However, it can lose elasticity due to wear and tear. This one is ideal to wear with tighter clothing and light sheer garments. The mesh material makes it suitable for warmer days, especially if you sweat a lot. If you're looking for something with adjustable straps, this wireless iteration from Eby also promises all-day comfort and support. I wore it with a tank maxi dress and it felt like a best friend supporting me throughout the daily hustle.
The trusted one: Soma Enbliss Wireless Bra
- Soft fabric
- Supportive feel
- Material can stretch over time
Size: 32A-42DDD | Colors: 19 | Material: 72% nylon, 28% spandex
Associate editor Kamari Stewart loves comfort and functionality, so when it comes to choosing a favorite, Soma is at the top of her list.
"I pretty much only wear Soma bras and this wireless one is super comfy and soft. I've found that it provides good support for me and it’s definitely one of the bras I wear when I don’t want to wear one at all but, the outfit needs one," says Stewart.
Two scoops up: Bobbie Scoop Bra
- Very supportive
- Comfortable
- Seamless design
- It's an investment
- Non-adjustable strap
Size: 32A-42DDD | Colors: 19 | Material: 72% nylon, 28% spandex
Whether you're postpartum or need to hold everything in place, this wireless bra has the ultimate support. Plus, donning this bra is way different than other traditional ones. You have to step into the garment and pull it up, since doing it the reversed way is complicated and challenging.
The first time I tried this option, I understood its effectiveness. Evelyn & Bobbie's undergarments are designed to scoop up the bust, effectively. Also, the wide band and thick straps feel comfortable without digging into the skin. Another feature I appreciate is its EB Core technology which helps lift and separate your breasts [the right way]. Therefore, this one receives a gold medal during my wireless bra testing.
Disclaimer: This bra was not recommended by an expert. I've been wearing this design for several months and is a personal review.
Expert-recommended wireless bras
Truly affordable: Auden Bliss Lightly Lined Wirefree Bra
- Provides support
- Fit can be uneven
Size: 32A-40D | Colors: 5 | Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex
"My favorite go-to is this bra from Auden, which is extremely affordable, and they wash so well. The support feels comfortable, and I can wear anything from a tank top, dress, and loose or tight blouses. The bra is still giving me the support I need," says Okerulu.
This one is a very affordable and lightweight option when you want to feel supported yet free. Also, you can clip it as a racerback.
Built for comfort: Wacoal How Perfect Wire-Free T-Shirt Bra
- Velvety soft
- Great support
- Not bigger sizes
Size: 30A-40DDD | Colors: 6 | Material: 81% nylon, 19% spandex
Okerulu's next go-to bra is this one from Wacoal. "Much like the Auden, it also has the variation of offering the support of a sports bra while giving you the bra feel without wiring," says Okerulu.
With a construction similar to a wired bra, this one offers comfort with its foam-lined cups and brushed stretch microfiber.
How we chose
We considered the features advised by experts and asked our Shop TODAY editors for their most-trusted wireless bra. The bras selected for the story were tested by the author and approved by editors. We also included two bras recommended by a style expert.
Meet the experts
- Bree McKeen is the CEO and founder of Evelyn & Bobbie, a brand focused on offering comfortable bras.
- Lori Kaplan is the founder and fitting expert of BraTenders. Affectionately known as The Fairy Bra Mother, Kaplan has been uplifting her clients since 1978.
- Sandra Okerulu is is an accomplished celebrity style expert who has styled some of the biggest names across the world.
