When I turned 13 (and finally started to go through puberty), all I wanted was to start wearing a bra. By the time I was 14, all I wanted was to stop wearing a bra. I quickly learned what most of us already know—that bras are typically uncomfortable, rigid, and cut into your under-boob area. The most relieving part of my day was when I finally got home and could peel off my bra. So I soon decided to stop wearing bras altogether.
That brought challenges, however, as I wasn't yet entirely comfortable with the idea of going braless. So I decided to dip my toes in the water by rotating through several bra alternatives—all of which were certainly more comfortable than my go-to underwire bra. If you, too, want to forgo bras, keep scrolling to find some excellent tops and bra-style pieces that have kept my ladies (and me) happy throughout the years.
1. Camisoles
Style Notes: This is just as comfortable as wearing a thin shirt, but the secret is that you're wearing a shirt under a shirt. Note: if you feel that a fuller bust needs more support, then you might want to skip this one.
Shop Camisoles:
. Made from GOTS-certified organic Pima cotton-jersey for a soft and comfy fit.
. Looser fit for comfortability.
. Features a v-neck design for discreet wear under clothing.
. Made with Secret Support™ technology for a seamless, supportive fit.
. Added stretch for comfort and flexible movement.
. Made with a gentle flare hem and loose fit for comfort.
. Features a curved-neckline and ultra thin straps to allow for wear both underneath clothes as well as on its own.
2. Bandeau
Style Notes: In the late '00s, I'd wear a bandeau over my bra in some sort of peculiar fashion statement of the time (I'm pretty certain we all went through that phase in secondary school). These days, however, I've dropped the bra and just wear the bandeau any time going strapless is appropriate.
Shop Bandeaus:
. Created with Butter™ stretch-Micro Modal to be soft on the skin.
. Made with raw edges to ensure a seamless effect under clothing.
. Available in 10 shades to suit a number of skin tones.
. Made with Max-Stretch technology for all day comfort.
. Seamless design for easy wear under clothing.
. Created with a thick elastic band for extra support.
. Removable bra pads.
3. Bodysuits
Style Notes: Bodysuits are particularly fun because you can effectively get rid of any undergarments and just throw on a bodysuit instead. No bra? No undies? No problem. Plus, it can act like a shirt. That's a three-in-one deal if I've ever seen one. This option is great if you have a fuller bust but want to go braless. Try a more form-fitting lingerie style to get the support you need.
Shop Bodysuits:
. Made from a blend of nylon and elastane for comfort.
. Contains all-over firm control to sculpt and smooth the body.
. Made with a firm control material to sculpt the body.
. Features a fastening crotch for practicality.
. Contains a hidden waist sculpting feature for a flattering fit.
. Made using seamless technology for a "second skin" feel.
4. Nipple Covers
Style Notes: My nipple covers have saved me from many a dangerous nip-slip situation. So I want to wear extremely deep V-cut shirts and dresses upon occasion—sue me. My pasties are always the hero of the day.
Shop Nipple Covers:
. Has a discreet shape to mold to the skin and be invisible under clothing.
. Contains four pairs of disposable covers.
. Available in 3 neutral shades to suit a number of skin tones.
. Made with silicone for those with sensitive skin.
. Can be re-used up to 20 times.
5. Bralette
Style Notes: Okay, yes, it has the word bra in it, but the "-lette" suffix makes all the difference. Wireless, loose, and entirely comfortable, bralettes are my favourite alternative when wearing a loose T-shirt.
Shop Bralettes:
. Has 2-ply supportive stretch.
. Created with max-stretch fabric to avoid cutting into the skin.
. Features two layers of soft Lyocell-blend jersey for support and comfort.
. Made with a wide herringbone underband and adjustable straps.
. Non-wired for comfortability.
. Has removable bust inserts for optional extra support.
6. Braless
Style Notes: After dipping your toe in the water with the other bra alternatives listed above, you may decide to take the plunge and get rid of your bras altogether. It's comfortable and relieving on this side—come on over.
Shop No-Be-Necessary Clothing:
Between the thick ribbed fabric that will prevent nipples showing through as well as the flattering high neckline, a bra really isn't needed.
Denim is a thick enough material that you can go bra-free without anyone blinking an eye. Put this straight on and feel your absolute best.
This linen bandeau is structured enough that you can go braless without encountering any sudden nip slips. Not to mention the darker colour prevents it from being see-through.
This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.