Most wanted bralette tops that work for literally any type of vacation.
Bralette Tops
Nevermind if your arms aren’t Michelle Obama-level toned: You can — and should — wear more bralette tops.
Remember that Katie Holmes paparazzi photo that went viral a couple of years ago? The one where she was spotted traipsing around New York City in a matching cashmere bra and cardigan?
The cardigan, which was oversized, had “accidentally” fallen down on one side (a well-executed styling move worth copying), exposing her shoulder region and subsequently revealing the famous Khaite bra that caused the internet to lose its mind at the sheer, unapologetic chicness of it all.
Pro Tip 😎
The beauty of the bralette is in its versatility, but the fact that it’s relatively tiny — we’re talking about, like, half a top here — comes in a close second.
In other words, consider it your new summer vacation staple that just so happens to work with literally everything: A-line skirts, relaxed trousers, high-waisted shorts, and so much more.
Trust us: It’s time to wear bralette tops.
Below, shop 19 of our favorite bralette tops on the market, from sporty and sexy to sophisticated and artsy.
OUR TOP PICKS
Classic pinstripes get a nautical makeover. The sturdy yet breathable fabric (a mix of denim and cotton) makes this one ideal for a breezy seaside lunch somewhere like Cape Cod, or even Turks & Caicos.
We like it paired with a roomy trouser or a billowy skirt.
The silver bar detail in the middle adds a sexy, artsy element.
The stretch-jersey fabric is lightweight enough to carry you through a day of museum-hopping — and then a long evening filled with drinks and dinner (and maybe a nightcap when the kids go to sleep).
Don’t let the revealing silhouette turn you off: Throw a blazer over it for instant chicness.
The unique braided rope detailing on the straps anchored (sorry) us in immediately, and we’re sure it’ll make this pretty, peach-colored bralette top a standout among the array of humdrum linen garments you’ll find on virtually every beach this season.
The vibrant colors and interesting patterns of this asymmetrical bralette top recall the gorgeous tiles found in Portugal, Morocco, or Mexico City.
Made almost entirely of silk, this one’s worth splurging on, especially for a far-flung getaway somewhere mystical and picturesque.
The price is right for this 100 percent cashmere bralette top that feels decidedly sporty, thanks to the bright neon green and simple, non-fussy silhouette.
We think this’ll quickly become a mainstay in your luggage for any locale due to its versatility, but it feels especially fitting to take somewhere that’s pulsing with energy (ahem, Miami).
This black crochet-knit bralette top has a ‘70s-style appeal to it that feels modern rather than dated.
We’d sport this with anything from roomy beige trousers to a simple black (or patterned) midi skirt; layered over a satin dress would add an even cooler twist.
When sunset calls for an outfit change, consider a sexier top—ideally an asymmetrical one that features multiple braided straps.
The detailing is just unique enough to be interesting, but it’s not too ‘out there’ that it feels like a departure from your typical aesthetic.
With a black, form-fitting skirt, let your accessories (and shoes) do most of the talking.
Black and white color-blocking lends this bralette (okay, swimsuit top) a modern sleekness perfect for a minimalist.
The cut out hole in the middle adds a subtle sexiness, and the price tag works great if you’re not in the place to drop a lot of money on bralette tops.
If you’re feeling a retro vibe, candy-colored bralette tops (featuring a fun woven buckle in the middle) will scratch the itch without making you look dated or costumey.
With lightweight linen fabric, it’s basically the ideal uniform for sipping a Mai Tai poolside while the kids do their thing.
Amp up the romance on a parents-only getaway with a ruffled floral-printed bralette top that feels sweet but still grown-up.
Wearing it with the matching pop skirt is our preferable route (especially with chunky gold jewelry as an accent), but we’d happily sport this feminine number with a solid midi skirt or even high-waisted denim for a cool twist.
This bralette top wins for three reasons: the breathable, second-skin material (organic cotton, mostly); the artistic pattern (great for those averse to loud colors or patterns); and the price (less than $100).
Sporty in its silhouette, the interesting color-blocking pattern makes this a solid option for a trip that calls for a more sophisticated wardrobe.
At less than $20, this bralette top is a steal.
Better yet, it provides welcome coverage around the torso region, and the quick-drying, stretchy material will feel like a godsend on hotter days, or when the itinerary calls for a bit more activity, whether that’s exploring kid-friendly amenities at the resort or going on a strenuous (yet lush) hike through Hawaii.
Alright, so this is technically a swimsuit top, but hear us out: Who will know the difference? Better yet, who will care?
The super-thin spaghetti straps make this a sexier option, for sure, but a high-waisted black trouser will prevent it from feeling too young, especially on a trip with the family in tow.
The back tie and sweetheart neckline make this a more playful option on the bralette circuit. But the black chiffon pleating stops it from veering into territory that’s too childish.
We especially like the sleeves, which quells an occasional craving for coverage and provides unique detailing.
Pro Tip
😎If it’s too hot to throw a sweater or jacket over your bralette tops, but you’re worried about exposing so much, balance it out by opting for a roomier bottom—something high-waisted (especially if you’re concerned about showing your torso) with a relaxed, wide-leg fit works well.
Bralette Tops to Explore
Yes, you can pull off bralette tops without looking too young or revealing too much.
With so many different colors, styles, and fabrics out there, the bralette is quickly establishing itself as the perfect vacation piece.
QUESTIONS?
What is a bralette? Wondering what bralettes actually are? While bralettes can appear similar to actual bras, they’re quite different in that they lack the padding, underwire, and general ‘structure’ of bras.
And depending on the silhouette, bralette tops typically offer a bit more coverage than bras, making them a great choice for vacation tops. In other words, think of bralette tops as a comfy crop top-bra hybrid and you can get one in virtually any material, pattern, and color.
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