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There’s no such thing as too much support.
Warm weather is finally encroaching after a long, cold winter, which means it’s time to pack your schedule with walks in the park, cute picnics, and a plethora of outdoor activities. A springtime staple, the halter top brings a level of sophistication and stylishness to all your warm-weather outfits. One problem: finding a bra to go with it can be an absolute headache.
"Halter tops often pose a challenge for many women because of their atypical cut, which diverges from the conventional design of most bras,” says stylist Lola Banjo. “We're accustomed to wearing bras in a certain way, so consider halter tops as your chance to think outside the box and get a bit creative!”
Meet the expert
Lola Banjo is a stylist and Founder & Creative Director of Silver & Riley.
Whether you opt for nipple covers, a strapless bra, or a classic racerback style, the right support will make a world of difference in the overall look of your halter top. A well-fitted bra not only lifts and supports you but also gives you the freedom to experiment with fun fashion choices. While it might take a little adjustment or trial and error, once you find the right fit, it's so easy to rock a halter top and explore new styles.
Read on below for inspiration and must-have bras to match your favorite tops.
Strapless Bra
Strapless bras often get a bad reputation, but they are an easy solution for all unconventional tops, especially halters. Finding a strapless bra that provides the right amount of shaping and support can be a challenge, especially for gals with larger chests, we won’t deny that – but when you find the perfect fit, it makes stylizing spring outfits that much easier.
We love the Aerie Sunnie Strapless Lightly Lined Bra ($38) for a variety of factors – but mainly, it’s insanely comfortable, thanks to the flexible underwire that sits like a feather on your skin. Available in an inclusive size range, this bra provides full coverage while also being lightweight and supportive of the girls. It also comes with removable straps, so if you wind up loving it as much as we do, you can wear it with any garment or style.
Nipple Covers
Though not technically a bra, it does the trick for particularly complicated tops. For fits with sheer material or skin-tight pieces where you don’t want your bra line showing, nipple covers are a go-to for a bit of coverage and protection while remaining invisible.
Some options even provide a bit of lift, such as Nippies Lifting Nipple Covers ($33), which is perfect for peekaboo tops where you may want to flaunt some cleavage. We love Nippies for their super-smooth material that provides seamless coverage on the breast while simultaneously contouring the chest and providing the lift of a traditional bra. No more worrying about exposed bra straps – just stick a pair of covers to your chest, and enjoy your spring activities!
Bralette
Want something a bit more feminine and relaxed? Try your hand at a lace bralette. Easy to wear and uber comfortable, bralettes also provide great support and can come in endless colors, fabrics and styles so you can mix and match for any occasion. Not only this, but for those with larger bust sizes, it’s an amazing option that offers both support and flattering shape without the need for additional undergarments, says Banjo.
The Gilly Hicks Lace Halter Bralette ($20) is made with super soft lace and floral detailing, so even if it does peek out underneath your top, it will still look cute and purposeful. The right bralette can even give you that lingerie feeling if you’re looking to bring a bit of sensuality into your day-to-day wardrobe.
Boob Tape
We know, we know – not a bra, and definitely not for everyone. For those willing to explore the world of bra alternatives, boob tape is a godsend. Ideal for when your fit calls for a bit of lift but without the pain point of pointy underwires or shifting strapless options, boob tape allows you to wear halter tops with the comfort of coverage.
Nood’s Game Changer Lift & Shape Bra ($49) is a great option for all shapes and sizes (they go up to DDD/G+!). Best yet? If you’re dressing for a hot summer wedding or an afternoon in the sun, Nood is made of breathable fabric that is sweatproof and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about any outfit fails throughout the day.
Racerback
SKIMS are seemingly everywhere right now – and that’s for good reason. Made of comfortable, smooth fabric, you will never see an unflattering bra line through your favorite tops. Now available in a classic racerback bra style ($38), it’s the perfect summer option to provide coverage without peeking through a halter neckline. Our favorite part is the matching panties, thongs and boy shorts, so you can elevate your fit from start to finish and feel confident all day, and all night long.
Criss Cross
A criss cross bra is designed to be worn with unconventional necklines and to hide unflattering bra straps in elevated outfits. Unlike all the others (even the racerback, which is a close cousin), this bra’s straps cross over on the back and fall closer to the neck than the shoulder, making it a perfect pair for high halters. When picking out your next springtime outfit, try a criss cross design, like the Simone Perele Essential Triangle Bra ($75), that can “provide the necessary support while enhancing your silhouette” and without compromising style, according to Banjo.