Bras aren’t known to be the most comfortable things. Just as you wouldn’t opt to sleep in a thong – or we wouldn’t, at least – we doubt you’d reach for an underwired model for a session of chilling out on the sofa.
But it’s time to think again, as we have rounded up the best, most comfortable bras we can find – and we aren’t just talking about sports bras and crop tops. Welcome to no pokey wires, straps that dig in, or strange fits that have you awkwardly shimmying in public.
With options from high street favourites such as Boux Avenue, H&M and Matalan, as well as the coveted brands including Skims and Alexander Clementine, there’s something for every price point, size and style preference.
Whether you’re still working from home, are looking for a bra you can sleep in, or are just well and truly tired of uncomfortable options, nip below for our guide to what to buy right now.
How we tested
Whether going to work, the supermarket or out on a date, a lot of us like a bra to support, lift and smooth out our chests. So we (a 30D) judged on each of those categories alongside style and quality, to pick the best comfortable bras.
Skims fits everybody triangle bralette
If you haven’t yet heard of Skims, you’ll definitely have heard of the brand’s founder Kim Kardashian. Like millions of other people across the globe, we were well aware of Skims but had not yet got our hands on any of the products. But there’s no turning back now.
This bra was so soft we forgot we were wearing it, so it doesn’t really get more comfortable than that. It has quite a high elastane content at 10 per cent, meaning it moves and stretches with the body, but is also strong enough to offer just the right amount of support for everyday wear. The mesh inner cup lining has a silky feel meaning there’s no nipple chaffing – always a plus – and the classic minimalist design should work under almost any top. Well done KKW.
Pretty Polly botanical lace non wired triangle bra
Not only is this Pretty Polly lace bra beautiful – a rarity when it comes to comfortable bras – it’s actually extremely supportive. With large cups that cover the whole boob and a lace overlay for an extra inch of coverage, this is definitely one for those who like to keep their boobs close to their chest. The thick, shiny band also adds to the support while giving just a bit of added lift. If you’re after a comfortable bra that’s still sexy, look no further.
Freedom Underwear the freedom bra
Independent underwear brand Freedom is quickly making its mark as a go-to for D+ sizes. Stocking from 28D to 40HH, it’s one of the largest runs we’ve seen and with only two styles – the freedom bra or sports bra – they’ve clearly nailed each design.
We are one of the smallest sizes within this range, but the mechanics of this bra were not lost. Again, there’s no underwire, meaning it’s soft enough to sleep in while still having enough support to rival a wired option. With thicker straps, three hook and eyes compared and a wrap-over front cup design, if you’d ruled out comfortable bras for a larger chest, it’s time to think again.
Boux Avenue ribbed seamless lounge bralette
A pull-on bralette with no hook and eye at the back, no shoulder adjustment on the straps, or any bows, metal logos or fancy details – if we had to pick a bra for sleeping, or to spend a long-haul flight in, it would be this one. Part of the lounge collection, it literally has been made for comfort. Ribbed on the outside but smooth on the inside, with removable pads in each cup, the simple design does exactly what it needs to do: nothing more, nothing less.
Intimissi Greta natural cotton balconette bra
We know we’ve gone on about how all of these other bras are comfortable because they don’t have a wire, but for some people, it’s a necessity, so of course we had to include an underwired option. This Intimissi Greta cotton balconette bra is the comfiest we tried. The wire is nicely padded and sits right against the breastbone, so there’s no poking, and it’s barely visible when on. The front strap is all in one piece with the cups, so no seams are there to rub, and you can’t really go wrong with the minimalist design. But be warned – without any padding, it may show nipple outlines on a particularly cold day.
Cotton On seamless chunky straight neck crop
After a bra that doubles up as a crop top? This is your answer. Simple in its design with a modern straight cut, it looks more like a Kendall Jenner-esque crop top than your everyday bra. Support wise, we wouldn’t go running a 5k in it, but as an everyday summer throw on, it’s perfect. It did come up a little bit wider than shown in this image, but personally we’d still wear an overshirt too – we’re not that brave yet!
Matalan 3 pack non wired bralettes
Working out at just over £4 per bra, this set of bralettes is perfect for anybody just starting to wear bras, anyone in need of a full lingerie refresh, or savvy savers who can spot a great deal. Of course, there’s a no-frills approach to these bras – there’s no fancy pattern, lace, ribbing, or little details – but they get the job done (and rather well, we must add). The sweetheart cut gives a nice touch of visible cleavage and works under V-neck tops easily. And, since they’re made from 94 per cent cotton, they’re lovely and soft too.
Les Girls Les Boys ultimate comfort bra
You may have spotted Les Girls Les Boys across your Instagram feed. It’s cool, to say the least. The founder of the brand knows a thing or two about underwear, as they created none other than luxury lingerie brand Agent Provocateur back in the Nineties. Now it makes non-gender-conforming clothing and also, of course, great bras. We’ve dubbed this one as best for vest tops, owing to its super-slim, double-layered straps that aren’t seen on any of our other picks. Of course it’s also very comfortable, and the standout logo is sure to score you some serious cool points.
H&M padded bra
For under a tenner, this bra is quite a steal. And, even better, it’s part of H&M’s conscious collection, meaning it’s made from a good percentage of recycled materials. The khaki colour was a standout for us in the blacks, whites and pinks we usually see. It’s ribbed, which is a nice design feature but one that doesn’t fare too well under a tight-fitting T-shirt. But, unlike our other pullover options, it does have adjustable straps. The inner cup pads are removable and the overall shape is rather flattering too.
Pour Moi India non wired soft T-shirt bra
If support and comfort are the aim of the game, Pour Moi has smashed it with this bra. Padded all over for a sculpted feel, everything about it has been designed to keep your chest in one position. The cups reach well under the armpit and join in the middle of the breastbone for full coverage while also leaving room for some cleavage to be on show. Completely smooth with no lumps or bumps, this would work great under even the thinnest of tops or vests, thanks to a handy little hook to turn it into a racerback. And now that it’s on sale at half price, it’s looking even better.
