The Strapless: An Engineering Marvel

By John Festa

Forth Bridge via Getty Images

Summer approacheth. A time for fewer, lighter clothes and more baring outfits. Tis the season for strapless bras. As if bras were not already an enigma, wrapped in a riddle, surrounded by mystery, now the job must be accomplished with no visible means of support. Finding a strapless bra that works seems to be an unending quest. In fact, there are quite a few bras today that perform this function quite well.

Va Bien Ultra Lift & Panache Evie

Bras work by two main classifications of design:  lift and compression. In order for a strapless bra to have lift, an underwire is necessary. Those without underwire, most notably the circular, engineered knit bandeau type, only use compression on the bust. This will not enhance your shape in any way. This can be useful for smaller busts that simply desire some privacy.

Natori & Fashion Form

Technology and design have brought forth many successful strapless bras onto the market. Some key elements to look for:

• A snug fitting band, being sure center gore lays against the body.
• Wide side wings
• Silicone (rubber) beading on band to minimize slippage (avoid powder or moisturizer on this day)
• The lower the plunge, the more precarious the support.

Once in the bra, jump up and down. Raise your arms. Take a deep breath. See what happens. There’s your answer. I suggest staying in the fitting room for these activities.

Freya Deco & Elomi Smoothing & Simone Perele Celeste

Wacoal Red Carpet and Le Mystere Sculptural

In days of yore, most strapless bras had an overwire.  For formal events, I just love long line strapless bras. The boned bodice provides the perfect support base for the bust while also providing waist shaping. But these are all but extinct in this day and age.

1930’s Vintage Strapless at Victoria and Albert Museum

Be prepared to try on many bras. Definitely visit a specialty store with experienced fitters. Do not be discouraged if the first few bras don’t work. There is nothing wrong with you. Like any other ‘intimate’ relationship, it is always how well things fit together and if it supports you as you are.