Triangle bras and bralettes: lightness for everyday wear

A triangle bra is made up of two triangles of fabric without underwire or constructed cups; a bralette follows this principle but adds a wider back band and often decorative lace designed to be seen. The non-wired triangle bra is by far the most common, but there are now versions with fine underwires for those seeking a bit more support. Neither aims for major hold: they cover, adorn, and are easy to forget.

Who are triangle bras and bralettes suitable for?

Petite to medium busts, up to about a C cup, will find a comfortable and pretty piece that doesn’t compress. Beyond that, fabric alone can’t support the volume: the bralette distorts and the straps dig in. The structured triangle bra, known as a padded bralette, with reinforced cups and a wide elastic back band, pushes this limit a bit, but a larger bust is better served by a full-cup style without underwire.

Is a bralette meant to be visible?

That’s actually its purpose today. Under a deep-neck tank top, a blazer worn alone, or an open shirt, the lace that peeks out is part of the outfit. The buying criteria then change: one considers the lace design, the strap finish, and the cleanliness of the back as much as comfort. Styles with decorative backs, cross-over or racerback designs, are made to be seen under a swimmer's back.

Choosing the size of a triangle bra or bralette

Most of these styles are sold in sizes S, M, L, which simplifies things but makes fitting less precise. If you are between two sizes, go for the smaller one: these pieces stretch with wear, and a bralette that's too big won't hold anything. Styles offered in classic numbered sizes, which are rarer, are preferable once you go beyond a B cup.