Bra vs. Bralette: What's the Difference?

You've probably heard of bralettes, but what makes them different from bras? And which should you wear? We're here to give you all the information you need to figure out which option is best for you.

• Supportive: The main appeal of underwired bras is the lift and support they give. They are particularly great for full-busted and full-figured women as the underwire can take pressure off the shoulders and alleviate back pain.
• Can change the appearance of breast size and shape: Bras with underwire come in a variety of styles that can alter the appearance of your breasts. If you want them to look bigger, a push-up bra will achieve that. If you want them to look smaller, a minimizer bra is a great option. In addition to size, bras can also alter (or maintain) your breast shape. If you want a smooth, rounded look, grab a molded t-shirt bra, and if you want lift without changing your natural shape, an unlined bra will do the trick.
• Available in a wide range of sizes and styles: Because bralettes are typically sized with the cup and band together if you have a very large bust or a large difference between your band and cups, it can be difficult to find a bralette that fits. Bras being sized with separate band and cup measurements means they are able to fit everybody according to their individual measurements.

• Comfortable: There's no denying that bralettes are super comfortable. The lack of underwire makes them perfect for relaxing at home or for less active days.
• No poking or irritation: As bras wear out, the underwire can deform or poke through the fabric leading to discomfort and irritation. Because bralettes don't have underwire, you don't have to worry about those issues; however, it's important to make sure you're wearing the right size, as wearing the wrong size can cause discomfort even without underwire.
• Can be worn on their own or as a layering piece: Many bralettes are designed to be worn both as underwear and as a shirt on their own. Bralettes with lining can function as a crop top on

• Can be uncomfortable: Some people find that even when wearing the proper bra size, they just don't like the feeling of underwire, and that's OK.  
• Underwire may poke into skin: If you're wearing the wrong size or your bra has worn out, the underwire may poke uncomfortably into your skin. This can be avoided by choosing to forego underwire.
• May cause skin irritation: Bras with underwire tend to be made of sturdier fabrics that are great for support, but some people may not like the feeling of them against their skin.

• Less supportive: Although bralettes provide more support than going braless, they'll never give the same lift and support as a bra with underwire.
• Provides less shaping: Because of the lack of underwire or padding, bralettes maintain the breasts' natural shape more than traditional bras. This is a pro for some, but an underwire bra will provide more shaping if that's what you're looking for.
• Can be more challenging to find the right size: Most bralettes are sized the same as clothing (S, M, L, etc.) which can make it difficult to find the right size if you have a large difference between your band and cup or if your larger busted in general. If that's you, it's best to look for bralettes that are sized by band and cup. Our favorite bra-sized bralettes are the Parfait Mia and Parfait Dalis. However, even bra-sized bralettes designed for larger busts unfortunately don't have the same size range as underwire bras and only go up to an H (UK) / K (US) cup
• May not work as well for larger busts: The smaller size range of bralettes combined with their reduced level of support means that those on the high end of the bra size chart may have better luck with an underwire bra. The key to getting the comfortability of a bralette with the support of a traditional bra is to make sure you're wearing both the right size and style for your body type and to choose a bra with soft, breathable fabric.

RELATED: Large Cup Size Guide

Because of all the options available for both bras and bralettes, there's no right or wrong answer to when you should wear each. You may find that bralettes are better for everyday wear, but for special occasions you like underwire. On the other hand, you may want all your bras to either have underwire or be wire-free and just choose different styles for different occasions.

So, for most occasions, it's up to your personal preference on wearing a bra vs a bralette. The only exception is when exercising. You should always wear a sports bra when engaging in physical activity since they are designed to give the extra level of support that's needed during your workout.

Bralettes are for everyone! If you want to wear a bralette, you should wear a bralette. However, bralettes may be a particularly good choice if you:

• Prioritize comfort: Most of us love taking our bras off as soon as we get home, but bralettes are made to be so comfortable you'll want to keep wearing them all day.
• Have asymmetrical breasts: Because bralettes are typically made with flexible materials, they can stretch to accommodate cup differences without cutting into the skin.
• Experience frequent bra size fluctuation: Unlike traditional bras, clothing-sized bralettes are designed to fit multiple band and cup sizes, so if you find that your bra size is constantly changing, a bralette might be the perfect choice for you.
• Want a natural look: Everyone's bodies are perfect the way they naturally are, but sometimes we need a little support. Bralettes are great at providing a subtle lift while allowing your natural shape to shine through.

Because bralettes are so comfortable, they are a great option for sleeping. The light support of a bralette can help keep you in place during sleep without restricting your breathing or movement.

RELATED: Should you sleep in a bra?

What to look for in a bralette depends on the qualities you want most in a bralette. If comfort is your primary goal, look for a bralette with soft, breathable fabric and a smooth, seamless design. If you're looking for style, you have endless choices of fun colors and frills to suit your personal taste. If you're in need of support but don't want underwire, a bralette with a wide underband and multi-piece cups will be best.

Just because you have a large bust doesn't mean you're restricted to bras with underwire. Whether you're small or large busted, bralettes are a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable bra option.

RELATED: Best Plus Size Wireless Bras

Many bralettes are designed to be able to be worn on their own. They can be a great summer top option or worn with a jacket or on their own for a going-out look.

Because bralettes are often sized the same as clothing, it can be just as tricky to find the right size bralette as it is to find the right size dress. When in doubt, look at the size chart for the bralette you're interested in. If you fall outside the size chart or if clothing-sized bralettes make you apprehensive, go with a bra-sized bralette in your usual bra size.

Not sure of your bra size? Check out our Size Guide or better yet, get a professional bra fitting at your local lingerie store!