From camis to basic tees, there’s a built-in bra top for every fashion fan this spring
Let’s face it, bras are a necessary but sometimes uncomfortable wardrobe essential. Come warmer weather, they can leave us feeling hot and sweaty, but there is an alternative option for spring outfits.
The high street is awash with tops with built-in support, which are ideal for those who fancy bra-free days. Not only are they a comfortable option, they’re also practical since there’s no pesky bra straps ruining a carefully thought-through outfit.
Whilst not a replacement for a well-fitted bra, they’re a great idea for those who want to ditch restrictive designs in favour of something a little more comfortable every now and then. From M&S to Next, there’s a whole host of big name retailers offering built-in bra designs, covering everything from classic vest tops through to basic T-shirts.
Here’s our pick of some of the best on the high street, with prices starting from as little as £12.
M&S Cotton Rich Secret Support Bra Vest – £12
M&S’ cotton rich secret support bra vest comes in black, white or biscuit shades, making it the perfect staple for building spring outfits around. Boasting inbuilt hidden bust support with removable bra cups, it’s been rated highly by shoppers.
One said: “Very comfortable and fitted well and easy to wear under numerous tops.” Meanwhile another wrote: “Love the padded bra in this.
Get spring ready
Shop the Cotton Rich Secret Support™ Bra Vest at M&S
“Very supportive but not restrictive. A great length too.” It is worth noting another commented: “Hard to fit over the head as neck very small and the pads move around. Not a suitable purchase.”
Despite this, I own one of these vests and also rate it highly for everyday comfort.
AbercrombieBra-Free Rib Scoopneck Tank – £20
Sitting at a slightly higher price point is Abercrombie’s scoopneck tank. Available in a stylish fiery red, it also comes in more neutral designs, though many of the sizes are already sold out. Boasting a pretty edge detailing, it’s made using the brand’s softAF rib fabric.
The design features a shelf bra with removable pads for added coverage, and fans have rated it an impressive 4.9 out of five stars. One said: “The quality is amazing, love the fit.”
Meanwhile, it is worth considering that another did note: “Nice top too but much too tight for me.”
Uniqlo
Uniqlo’s Ribbed Bra Top is available in a wine shade as well as a spring ready light blue, but those who prefer more basic options can also shop the design in beige, white or black. Available in sizes XXS-XXL, the tops are ideal for adding to a capsule wardrobe.
Fans can expect to find 360-degree support for a secure and flattering fit. Whilst there’s currently no reviews of the item, it cannot be tumble dried, meaning some wearers may find it high maintenance.
Despite this, the handy top is long enough to be worn tucked in or left out, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Next Hidden Support Ribbed T-Shirt– £22
Those who want a basic t-shirt option for layering can shop Next’s Hidden Support Ribbed t-shirt which comes in grey or black. The retailer also stocks other hidden support designs including a bandeau, a cami and a long-sleeved design.
One reviewer said: “Really good quality, love the secret support, fitted perfectly, washed well, purchased the grey one as well.”
It is worth noting one shopper expressed an issue with the sizing, commenting: “I bought my first one in a medium size but had to give it to my daughter as it was too small for me, then I bought the large and it’s still tight but I’ll keep it for now.”
Amazon CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Square Neck Top – £31
Amazon’s CRZ Yoga tops offer light support ideal for lounging in. Featuring a soft and stretchy material, they also have a built-in bra with removable pads and wide straps.
Whilst they are sportier in design, it seems shoppers rate the tops for teaming with denim, as well as for exercise. One fan said: “I honestly can’t rate these tops highly enough, never before have I felt comfortable bra-less especially when hiking! I also love them with high wasted jeans or under a shirt, no wires digging in, just really comfortable.
“For anyone wondering, I usually wear a 34DD/E and I’m getting older so they’re not as pert as they once were! I’ve also bought the strappier style which are equally as great but I prefer the wider strap under a rucksack.”
Those who don’t like more cropped designs may not be a fan of the shorter style, however fashion lovers can team the item with high waisted bottoms for a little more coverage.
Bravissimo Non Padded Strappy Top With Built-In Bra – £46
Those with fuller busts can head to Bravissimo for their non-padded strappy top with built-in bra which comes in cup sizes DD-J. At £46, the price is undoubtedly higher than some of its other high street counterparts which is one of the downsides, however the item is popular among the brand’s shoppers.
Available in black and white, it features a non-padded underwire bra that offers hidden support. Boasting non-padded cups and adjustable straps, it’s a comfortable alternative for warmer days that doesn’t compromise on feeling secure.
