Since their invention in the late 1800s, bras have traditionally been worn as an undergarment. It was rare to even see an exposed bra strap until the mid-1900s at least, and even then it was considered somewhat risque. But now wearing bras as tops has become a hot fashion trend and common practice.
The bra top trend has been popularized by some of the biggest celebrities and style icons, including Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid and Rihanna. And it’s not just reserved for red carpets and runway shows. More and more women are incorporating this look into their everyday style, from sports bras to bralette tops.
What is it about wearing a bra as a top that is so appealing? For one, it‘s a great way to show off your assets. A bra that fits perfectly can accentuate your curves and give you a boost of confidence. And who doesn’t love feeling a little bit sexy?
Let’s take a closer look at the bra top trend and some of the best ways to rock it.
Women’s bras were originally designed to support the bust and create a shapelier figure underneath clothing. But over time, they have evolved into so much more. Nowadays, there are all sorts of different bras available, from push-up to soft cup bras, and each one serves a different purpose.
But why have bras become such a popular fashion item? For one, they are now more comfortable than ever before. Gone are the days of stiff wire frames and scratchy fabrics. Today’s bras are designed with comfort in mind. Thanks to technological advances, there are now bras that can do everything from lift and support to minimize sweat and prevent chafing.
Wearing your bra as a crop top has plenty of benefits, including:
If you’re interested in making the most of this trend, there are so many possibilities when it comes to wearing bras as tops.
Wearing your bra as a crop top has been a growing trend since the days of low-rise jeans in the early 2000s. So where did this look come from? The trend can be traced back to the 1990s, when celebrities like Britney Spears and Jennifer Lopez popularized the bare midriff look. And who could forget Madonna’s iconic cone bra? Wearing a bra as a crop top was the perfect way to show off toned abs while still maintaining a bit of modesty – and it was a step above the already popular tank top and tube top trends.
This trend has been gaining popularity in recent years – Kim Kardashian West was rocking the bra top look way back in 2017 – but it really blew up thanks to the 2019 Spring Fashion Week bra-and-blazer trend. Since then, celebrities and models have been embracing the look on the red carpet and runway. Katie Holmes made showstopping public appearances in a triangle bra-and-blazer combo, as well as a knitted bra and cardigan set. Gigi Hadid attended the 2019 LOVE party in London wearing a sleek blazer and black bralette. Hailey Baldwin rocked an iconic bra, blazer, and denim hot pants moment on a regular day out running errands.
Celebrity appearances like these flooding Instagram feeds have helped to make wearing bras as tops more mainstream. So, how can you rock the look as well as Katie Holmes and Gigi Hadid?
Bralettes are similar to bras, but typically lack the same level of wiring, support and visible structure. This makes them much more comfortable to wear – and perfect for showing off as a fashion statement. One of the easiest ways to wear a bralette top is simply to pair it with high-waist jeans or shorts. This look works especially well with denim, but can also be dressed up with black pants or a skirt.
If you want to add a bit more coverage, try layering a lace bralette under a semi-sheer top or dress. This is a great way to show off your bralette while still remaining modest. And of course, who could look past the cotton bralette top underneath an open blazer? Pair a black bralette with a tailored blazer for a chic and stylish look that can be dressed up or down.
A newer trend than bralettes as tops, the idea of wearing a regular bra as a top has been gaining popularity thanks to celebrities and models. In the past, it may have been considered scandalous or mildly inappropriate to walk around outside with your bra on display. Now, it’s a fashion-forward way to show some skin.
One of the best things about this trend is that it can be as modest or revealing as you want it to be. If you’re feeling daring, try a lace bra or one with cut-outs. Or, if you want something a bit more subdued, stick to a classic black bra or sports bras. Pair your bra with high-waist pants, a skirt or shorts to create a variety of different looks. Just like with the bralette trend, layering a blazer or shirt jacket over a bra is a great way to add some coverage while still showing off your style.
We can thank the beach babes of California for this trend – wearing your bikini as a top! You don’t need to be a surfer girl or model to rock a bikini top. The key to making this look work is finding the right top. A bandeau-style bikini top or crop top are both great options. You can also find bikini tops with built-in support, which will help keep everything in place (and avoid any wardrobe malfunctions).
Pair your bikini top with high-waist denim shorts or a skirt for a casual yet stylish look. Bikinis look especially good with flowing maxi skirts if you want that boho-chic vibe.
Remember when lace teddies were reserved for romantic nights in? They’re now making their way into the mainstream as a fashion statement. Bodysuits are having a moment in the fashion world, and lingerie bodysuits are at the forefront of the trend. These pieces are often made from lace or mesh and can be found in a variety of styles.
One of the best things about lingerie bodysuits is that they can easily be dressed up or down. Wear one with a pair of jeans and heels for a night out, or with some shorts or a skirt for a more casual look.
Before bras were even invented, corsets were the go-to undergarment for women who wanted to achieve a smaller waist. While they’re not as popular as they once were, corsets have never left the fashion world. Walk into any trendy clothes store, and you’re bound to find at least one corset fashion top. The corset top is typically a hybrid of the traditional corset and a modern top, with straps or sleeves added for support.
Corset tops are beloved for their figure-enhancing function and unique, stylish boning used throughout the garment. Laces in the back can be tightened or loosened to adjust the fit. A corset bra top looks great paired with high-waist pants or a skirt.
There are plenty of outfit ideas for wearing bras as tops. From comfortable picks like seamless bralettes, padded tank tops and strappy sports bras to bolder options like lace bralette tops, bandeau bras and cute bikini tops, YesStyle is here to help with a wide selection of bra tops.
