Listen, we love bras more than the average Jane, and we’ll still be the first to admit they can get rather pricey. So while we firmly believe there’s a time and a place for luxury in both life and lingerie, we’re equal opportunity shoppers. Sometimes all we want is cheerful on the cheap, trendy yet thrifty, the best for less.
We checked in with Bare Necessities contemporary buyer Megan Irvine to get her recos for seriously standout bras that, ringing in for under $50 a pop, won’t break the bank. Here’s what she’s loving, now and forever….
Camio Mio Lace Balcony Bra, $38
“This brand is exclusive to Bare Necessities and is designed, start to finish, with everything we know about our shoppers in mind. This particular bra is for trend-conscious women who don’t want to spend a lot. It’s soft and strong, with great support from the foam-lined underwire cups and side boning. The straps are fully adjustable and it comes in pretty black and lilac floral lace, which feels perfect for a spring-summer refresh,” says Megan.
Gossard Glossies Sheer Bra, $49
“Year after year, this is my top-selling bra, and for so many good reasons,” Megan says. “It’s unlined yet has amazing support all the way to a U.K. G-cup! More than 100 reviews rave about its fit and lift. The smooth, sheer cups are flawless under absolutely everything and lightweight to keep you cool in the heat. This is one sexy bra that can take you effortlessly from day to night.”
Calvin Klein Perfectly Fit Modern T-Shirt Bra, $46
“For the price, this is the best T-shirt bra you can find. It’s one of favorites because of the sleek, minimalist, contemporary design in a color for every day of the week. What’s most amazing is how well it fits everyone, from small busts up to a 36DDD,” says Megan. “It’s made of an extremely stretchy microfiber, so it’s also comfortable all day.”
B.Tempt’d by Wacoal B.Wow’d Convertible Push-Up Bra, $42
“This is my best-selling push-up bra and my personal favorite,” Megan says. “The amount of push-up is just right for all cup sizes—not too little, not too much. The scalloped cups and interior leopard print wake up your lingerie a little bit, and the seamlessness means it disappears under even the thinnest top. It creates a nice shape, is comfortable enough to wear for hours on end and I find they last a really long time.”
OnGossamer Next to Nothing Wire-Free T-Shirt Bra, $40
“The name of this bra says it all: Thanks to the extremely plush microfiber and wire-free construction, you really do feel like you’re wearing nothing all day long,” says Megan. “You get all the support and shaping of an underwire bra with the comfort and forgiving, easy fit of a bralette.”
DKNY Modern Lace Bra, $44
“If you like a lacy look, then this unlined bra is a perfect update for your collection. The unfussy stretch lace is both functional and fashionable for the average bust. This style is always available in multiple colors, so you can match your bra to whatever mood you’re in,” says Megan.
B.Tempt’d by Wacoal Future Foundations Wire-Free Plunge T-Shirt Bra, $42
“This is a new style for us that’s been strong from the start. It’s a part of B.Tempt’d’s new Future Foundations collection, which is about all-day comfort. Made of smooth microfiber, this style seriously feels like you’re wearing a cloud,” says Megan. “It has a J-hook as well, so you can wear it all summer under tanks.”
Calvin Klein Perfectly Fit Strapless Push-Up Bra, $44
“If you have a smaller bust and can’t seem to find a strapless bra that does its job without flattening you or falling down, try this bra,” says Megan. “With a small bust myself, I know the challenge of finding a strapless bra that’s comfortable but gives me a lift so that I don’t look flat-chested in my clothing. This bra stays up. Because it comes with straps too, you’re really getting the best bang for your buck.”
OnGossamer Beautifully Basic Convertible Plunge T-Shirt Bra, $46
“Our favorite summer bra!” says Megan. “With that beautiful lace strap detail, this style is perfect for showing off. Its J-hook helps it work with more revealing tops. It’s perfect for anyone who wants the look of a bralette from the back, and the function and support of a bra in the front.”
