The Lively Busty Bralette offers similar support to a regular bra, but with the superior comfort level of a bralette.
My life changed when I got my hands on a Busty Bralette from the Instagram-famous lingerie brand Lively. Modeled after the brand's Mesh Trim Bralette, the Busty Bralette has a similar design with added support elements for a larger chest.
I appreciate the effort the brand put into making the bra both functional and cute. The triangular cups are made of a soft, scuba-like material that gently hugs the chest and keeps it in place without the help of an underwire, and the elastic band is strong but not uncomfortably tight. Mesh side panels allow you to wear shirts with large arm holes without sacrificing your look.
The Busty Bralette is available in three colors — Jet Black, Soft Pink, and Toasted Almond — plus some cute printed options. There are three sizes, each with adjustable straps. The brand recommends sizing up, and I am inclined to agree. I have the size 1 and while it does fit, I need to adjust quite frequently throughout the day. Plus the elastic band is tight enough that you should be able to size up without sacrificing support.
Editors and writers at countless publications, including The Strategist, HuffPost, and BuzzFeed, recommend this style.
Refinery29's Caroline Ammarell especially loves the thinner straps. She writes, "I understand the need for support, but I can't tell you how many times I've looked in envy at the delicate straps of my smaller-chested friends' bras, wishing I could find the same? Well, mission finally accomplished."
Pros: Thin and adjustable straps, gives support, sturdy band, affordable
Cons: Only three sizes (but material is fairly flexible), not a pullover design
Buy the Busty Bralette at Lively for $35