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I Haven’t Worn a ‘Real’ Bra in 5 Years—This Is the Best Bralette I’ve Tried, Hands Down

Psst…it’s currently on sale

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gap bra review 2
gap
  • Value: 20/20
  • Functionality: 19/20
  • Quality: 19/20
  • Aesthetics: 18/20
  • Comfort: 20/20

Total: 96/100

I have never been a bra person. I know what you’re thinking: OK, but is anyone really a bra person? I get that most people probably don’t love wearing bras, but my distaste for traditional bras—the underwire, the padding, the impossible-to-secure clasps—borders on a deep, burning hatred. It’s why I have not put a “real” bra on my body since well before the pandemic began. But lest you think I’m walking around entirely braless (which, if that’s your thing, go for it), know that I’ve become something of an expert on bralettes. They’re infinitely more comfortable than classic bras, often quite a bit more affordable and, in the case of my current favorite style—the Gap Seamless Plunge Bralette—they’re not bad to look at, either.

gap bralette

Gap’s seamless bralette, which is available in six colors (including neutrals, muted blue and pink hues), features thin, adjustable spaghetti straps, a plunge neckline and a longer silhouette that hits lower on the ribcage than a traditional bra would. It’s made with 88 percent nylon and 12 percent spandex and feels so soft against your skin. I’ve machine washed and dried it tons of times and haven’t noticed any pilling or stretching out.

I’d say the support you get with this is pretty typical of a seamless bralette; it comfortably holds your boobs in place but isn’t suitable for any workout other than a brisk walk. Because of the seamless construction, it’s undetectable under clothes. I’ve worn mine under T-shirts, button-downs, sweaters and even a dress or two and no one’s the wiser. I especially love the straps, which are thin enough to be concealed under tank tops and easy to adjust depending on how supported and lifted I want to feel. In my experience, it runs true to size: I wear roughly a 36D in regular bras and find the large to fit perfectly, with enough room in the cup area and no straps digging into my shoulders. 

Best of all, it’s wallet-friendly. Usually $36, it’s currently on sale for $27, which, in my opinion, is a terrific price for a high-quality item you’ll get tons of use out of. (I’m considering snagging one or two additional colors while they’re on sale.)

If you’re like me and find the act of fastening a traditional bra around your ribcage to be akin to torture, please treat your boobs to Gap’s Seamless Plunge Bralette—I promise they’ll thank you. 



sarah stiefvater

Wellness Director

  • Oversees wellness content
  • PureWow's resident book reviewer
  • Has worked in lifestyle media for 11 years