Wardrobe Solutions Over 40 – 8 Bralette and Bandeau Styles You Need to Know

Last week, after posting on one of my favorite bralettes here on AskSuzanneBell.com, I received quite a few reader requests asking for more bralette options. If you missed last weeks post featuring my favorite racerback bralette,you can get caught up (HERE). Being I own 12 bralettes and only 4 traditional bras, I figure I have something to share in this category. Before bralettes became popular, I would cut the bottom half of my Target knit camisoles and create custom bralettes to wear with spaghetti strap tops. I never understood why someone simply didn’t just invent a bra, that could be worn in the summertime under all of our skinny strap, racerback, and strapless pieces. Summer is hot – who wants to wear a structured bra in 100 degree heat? Not me!

So what is a bralette anyway? If the everyday bra is the mother of all support, think of a bralette as the sassy cousin to your favorite sports bra. Less support, but enough to get you through the day. She’ll usually come with some cute straps (that are meant to shine!), and provide lots of movement and comfort. She won’t pinch you – you may even forget you are wearing her. Nowadays she may even come equip with removable padding, allowing for nipple coverage. A bandeau is simply a bralette without the straps. The bandeau I am sharing with you today can be worn not only with strapless garments, but reattach those straps –  and you can wear it as a halter, cross back, or traditional spaghetti strap.

Type “Bralette” into the search engine on say Nordstrom – I got 485 results! There really is something for everyone. You may have to try a few on to find your perfect match.

Today I’m sharing 8 of my personal favorites – each of which serve a different purpose in my wardrobe. Are there tops you love but don’t wear? Perhaps you don’t own the correct foundation, to take that pretty piece out on the town!

The Convertible Bandeau can be worn 4 ways: halter, one-shoulder, racerback or strapless. 

Nordstrom | $19.00 | | HERE

This bandeau works well with styles that “cut in” on the arms or strapless garments. This style also works great with billowy summer tops that have open arms or kimono sleeves. At times I remove the pads and wear the bandeau over my bra – when I want the support of a bra, but don’t want it to show.

Amazon | lace v-neck (HERE) | scoop neck (HERE)

I love my Coobie Bras for the wide selection of color, reasonable price, and I find they hold up great. Padded, with a bit more support, I wear the lace option when I need more of a camisole look or v-neck. The straps can be worn as a halter or racerback.

The Natori Bliss Bra is similar to the Coobie bra, but it is so soft I can sleep in it. Less support, it feels like I’m wearing a cami. The neckline is different than the Coobie bra – it’s a bit more like a bandeau, so it works well with dresses like the one pictured above.

Natori Bliss Lace Trim Bra | Macy’s | $32.00 HERE

The Calvin Klein ‘Iron Strength’ Bralette is a cross between a bralette and sports bra – it’s also a bit more pricey.  I purchased this bra simply because of the straps, but I could wear it for yoga as well. In my opinion, it runs a size small.

Nordstrom | $36.00 | HERE

I wear this bralette with cut-in tops or high neck styles – and if it shows, no biggie as it is pretty as well!

Free People | $28.00 | HERE

I wear a ton of coral and orange. For the price, this Target Find is a big bang for the buck!

Target | $12.99 | also in black | HERE

A friend of mine just bought this bra. After she showed it to me, I had to share. This bra is a cross between a bralette and bra. With a bit more support, it still is super comfortable, offers a deep v-neck as well as the option to wear it as a racerback when you connect the straps with the j-hook.

Nordstrom | $28.00 | HERE

Let’s Chat!

Do you have a favorite bralette or bandeau?

Do you have a favorite convertible bra you’d like to share?

I’ve only touched the tip of the iceberg here today. Please drop a line down below if you have a favorite foundation, I know we’d all love to hear. Questions are always welcome, drop them down below as well!

And, don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Early Access begins this Thursday, it is a great time to stock up on bras, foundations, panties, shapers and more!

Thanks for stopping by today, have a fabulous week!

XOXO

Suzanne

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