What’s the Difference between a Bra and Bralette?

When shopping for the perfect bra, you may wonder about the difference between styles, specifically a bra and a bralette.

Put simply, a bra provides more structure, padding, and a back or front closure, while a bralette provides a softer structure and a more natural look under clothing.

SKIMS has solutions for every body, and for many people, the bralette provides a perfect combination of comfort and light support. Available in several styles—from triangle bralettes to scoops and plunges—so there are plenty of options to get the look and feel you want.

Bra vs. Bralette: Explained

Structure

When you think of a bra, you may picture the classic structure of cups, underwire, adjustable straps, and hook-and-eye closure. Whether you like your bras to be sexy push-up bras or lightly lined t-shirt bras, they’re great for any occasion—and once you find your proper size, you’ll forget you’re even wearing one.

Bralettes are constructed slightly differently in that they don’t use underwire and tend to have a minimally molded cup (although some of our latest bra innovations don’t have underwire either). The lower band is the foundation of support and can be made with elastic or another smooth, stretchy fabric.

Bralettes can come in several different styles and coverage options:

• Triangle bralettes cover the bust with a flattering triangle shape.
• Scoop bralettes cover the bust with a slightly scooped cut across the top.
• Plunge bralettes are like triangle bralettes but leave a bit more space between the breasts at the bottom band.
• A bandeau is a strapless, seamless solution that slips over the head.

Padding versus Lining

Because of their construction, bras can also handle extra padding, ranging from lightly lined bras to push-up style with foam pads. Bralettes, on the other hand, are lightly lined and don’t use padding to enhance your cleavage.

Support

A bralette generally has lighter support than a bra. While a bralette will gently lift and enhance your bust, it gives you a lightweight, comfortable hold that feels soft when wearing it. Alternatively, a bra provides more structured support throughout the day.

Shape

Wearing a bra like the Fits Everybody T-Shirt Bra will give you a classic bra-shaped silhouette under your clothing, whereas a bralette will give you a more natural curve under your clothing.

Can you wear a bralette as a regular bra?

Absolutely. A bralette is a great everyday option because it’s lightweight and comfortable against your skin. But if you’re looking for more structured support or added cleavage, stick with traditional bras.

Check out the SKIMS Bra Guide to see all of your options.

Do people wear bralettes by themselves?

You absolutely can, if that’s the look you want. We suggest the SKIMS Scoop Bralette, our Bandeau, or our High Neck Bralette, which has high coverage and a cropped look. Top any of these with a hoodie or a blazer.