Are wireless bras actually supportive?

WHAT IS A WIRELESS BRA?

Wireless bras are, simply, bras that are made without underwire. You might also see them called non-wired bras, wire-free bras, or soft cup bras. 

IS WIRELESS BETTER THAN UNDERWIRE?

When you think of a supportive bra, you probably imagine a bra that has underwire. The traditional underwire bra was designed in the 1930s and became standard by the 1950s. The sturdiness of the wire offered extra support, especially for those with a bigger bust size. However, underwire bras have not always been universally loved. Many people have reported pain due to the hard wire pressing against them, especially after long-term use. In the worst case scenario, the wire can become dislodged from its fabric casing and cause mild to severe injury. 

Because of the underwire backlash, bra technology has evolved to include more comfortable alternatives that provide the same level of support. That’s where the wireless bra comes in. Instead of relying on wire for lift and support, designers and clothing manufacturers have been developing cutting-edge, underwire-free technologies that provide the same effect as a traditional bra.

WIRELESS VS UNDERWIRE BRAS 

One is not better than the other; it’s simply a matter of preference. While a high quality wireless bra will achieve the same lift as a traditional underwire bra, everyone’s body and fit preferences are unique. The only way to know what you prefer is to try each style. 

Wireless bras

• No digging or poking from underwire
• More flexible construction
• Smoother silhouette
• Maximum comfort

Underwire bras

• Enhanced shaping 
• Maximum lift and separation
• More support for larger chest sizes (DDD+)

HOW WIRELESS BRAS WORK

Just because there’s no underwire doesn’t mean wireless bras can’t be supportive. In fact, many modern advances have been made in bra technology that make them just as effective as their wired counterparts. 

• A strong underband and cradle, which is the part of the bra that encircles the breasts, can be achieved without an underwire. One method is to employ bonding, which is an adhesive that stabilizes fabric layers in the cradle. Another option is to use silicone, which stretches and recovers in a way that’s similar to elastic, to provide comfortable grip and support. 
• Molded cups provide separation and support. Earlier bras used to rely on seams to achieve a rounded cup. Today, that effect can be achieved by heating up the fabric with a rounded mold that creates a more natural, seamless shape. 
• Flexible boning can be added on either side of the chest for extra stability. This method also mimics the side support you would get with a traditional bra without needing to include a stiff underwire.
• An extra layer of fabric is placed at the bottom of the breast, which is known as a bra sling. This fabric often has less stretch than the rest of the bra fabric, and that rigidity holds the breasts up. Think of it as a little hammock.
• The band of the bra can be extended down the body to create a longer, sturdier base.

WHAT WIRELESS BRAS ARE MADE OF

Fabric choice is a major factor in determining how much support a wireless bra will deliver. 

Cotton and modal

Cotton and modal wireless bras will typically provide less support than their nylon or polyester equivalents, unless the fabric is heavily blended with another fiber like nylon or polyester that can better withstand body heat.

Nylon/Spandex and Polyester/Spandex

Nylon/spandex or polyester/spandex microfiber fabrics are common in wireless bras because you can achieve support and still use a fabric that feels soft and gentle against the body. Nylon and polyester both have moisture-wicking properties, which can be helpful in combating the dreaded boob sweat. If you sweat, bras made from these fabrics will dry faster than their cotton counterparts. 

Elastic

Bra straps are usually made out of elastic which, if you get the right strength, will nicely complement the support from the cradle. Making sure the elastic is soft against the skin will help with abrasion from sharp edges. 

REMOVABLE COOKIES

Removable cookies are the molded pads within each bra cup that provide optional support and modesty. These vary in quality as well as thickness and flexibility. The best removable cookies are flexible enough to mold to your shape, but have just a bit of extra thickness at the apex for modesty and taper off at the edges to stay invisible under clothes. Cheap, uncomfortable cookies are cut in a way that makes them noticeable underneath clothing. The small triangular cookies commonly found in swimwear, for example, are more likely to show through or flip and fold inside the cup lining.

The best way to keep cookies from bending and flipping in the washer is to use a lingerie wash bag. Look for ones that are cylindrical in shape and reinforced with plastic cages. These are best for reducing smashing and flipping of the cookies in the cup cover. A short dry cycle with low heat will help remove wrinkles in the cookies.

WIRELESS BRA CONSTRUCTION

Bonded seams

As opposed to stitching pieces of fabric together, bonding is when two fabrics are merged together using lamination techniques or bonding agents that permanently adhere each piece of fabric to the other.

Cut and sew

Cut and sew is a more traditional method of garment production that involves cutting fabric and sewing them together.

Bonded seams are often more flat, while cut and sew can be bulky and more abrasive against skin. Bonding can be used to create stability when used in the cradle of the bra and can also smooth fleshy areas without adding additional layers of fabric. 

Cut and sew, when done correctly, can be effective at creating stability and compression in specific areas, but careful attention should be paid to the quality of fabrics and threads used, as they will greatly impact the effectiveness and comfort of garments. 

The same applies with bonding. Not all adhesives are created equally. You wouldn’t want to use the same type of bonding that an outdoor apparel brand is using on backpacks on the waistband of underwear. 

STYLES TO TRY

Have we piqued your interest in going wire-free? Check out our top wireless bra picks.

V-Neck Bra

Shop the V-Neck Bra

Features:

• Nylon/Spandex fabric
• Removable cookies for optional coverage
• Bonded support
• Flexible boning at the side of the bust

Why you’ll love it: The V-Neck Bra is the ultimate underwire-free smoothing bra. Made with wide, thick straps that lay gently against the skin and a seam-free design that disappears under clothing, this bra is your new everyday go-to for comfort and support.

CrossOver Bra

Shop the CrossOver Bra

Features: 

• Nylon/Spandex fabric
• Removable cookies for optional coverage
• Adjustable elastic straps
• Bonded support
• Flexible boning at the side of the bust

Why you’ll love it: Sexy, meet supportive. Mesh details add a flirty touch to this best-selling, wireless bra. Adjustable straps and a hook and eye closure let you customize your fit. 

Silhouette Bra

Shop the  Silhouette Bra

Features: 

• Nylon/Spandex fabric
• Removable cookies for optional coverage
• Adjustable elastic straps
• Bonded support
• Flexible boning at the side of the bust

Why you’ll love it: 3D printed velvet adds structure and style to this soft-as-butter wireless bra. Adjustable straps and a hook and eye closure let you customize your fit.