Underwire Strapless Bras

A strapless bra without underwire relies entirely on band compression and silicone grip to stay in position. At D cup and above, breast weight is significant enough that a fabric band alone — without a wire supporting from below — will ride down under load. An underwire in a strapless bra provides the structural foundation the cup construction anchors to.

What to look for

The key elements: a wire long enough to span the full base of the breast; a cup tall enough to fully contain the bust; a firm band that carries the support load; and silicone grip that grips skin. Buy on the tightest hook — the band relaxes with wear, and a strapless bra that fits on the middle hook when new won't hold by end of day. The most reliable options at D cup and above are the Panache Faith, Fantasie Smoothing, Elomi Smooth, and Sculptresse Dana. Browse by cup size: E cup, F cup, G cup. For convertible options, see multiway bras.