Turtlenecks are a must-have in every winter wardrobe, but their snug fits and high necks put demands on your foundation garments. One visible strap, bumpy seam, or lackluster support and your sleek look is ruined. The fix? Here’s the short answer: A smooth, supportive, invisible-under-knits bra. Wireless t-shirt bras are often the right starting point.
Read on for essential tips on shopping for in a bra to wear under turtlenecks. We’ll also share five top bra picks you can shop right now.
How turtlenecks affect your shape
Turtlenecks make your torso look looooong. They can also give your bust a flatter profile and cling to every detail underneath. Now we love some fashion texture, but we don’t advise showing off your bra seams, straps, and lace to the world — especially atop a set of girls that are drooping.
Avoid that fate by keeping these tips in mind when shopping for a turtleneck-appropriate bra.
Look for lift
A turtleneck’s high neckline visually elongates the space between your bust and your chin. This can bring unwanted attention to a sagging bustline. It can even make a perky set of boobs look less lively.
Counteract that effect by opting for a bra with a natural lift. Try light padded, molded-cup, and subtle push-up bra designs as your first options. Note that fully padded bras that promise to add a size could be too aggressive for a body-hugging knit.
Style and fabric matter
Most turtleneck knits are clingy. That cling-factor can expose any and all embellishments on your bra. Unless it’s stay-at-home date night, you probably don’t want that kind of attention.
Find a bra with smooth, seamless construction. The simpler, the better. Seamless cups, flat edges, and wireless designs work well. Wireless styles are the most forgiving since wires can create extra lines and ridges. You’ll want to avoid lace, bows, and textures. Suitable fabrics include microfiber, spacer foam, and ultra-thin molded foam.
Prioritize fit
You don’t want a bra that’s too tight or too loose under a turtleneck because it will show any gaping, spilling, and pinching. If you haven’t had a bra fitting in recent history, get one. A professional can provide an educated and objective opinion on what size you need, and which brands can deliver on the seamless, smooth style you want. You can wear other bras that don’t fit as well under looser garments. But always wear your best bra under a turtleneck.
Read next: The best places to shop for women’s turtlenecks
Opt for adjust-ability
To get the most from your bra purchase, look for styles with adjustable features. The shoulder straps should be fully adjustable and the band should have multiple hooks and eyes. Bras do stretch out over time, so avoid styles that only fit you when adjusted as tight as possible.
Bras that have convertible straps that can be worn racerback or criss-cross are nice also. You may find that one strap position is more flattering than another, especially underneath a tight knit sweater.
Try on with a thin turtleneck
Bras are best purchased in-store unless you already know the brands and sizes that fit you perfectly. To buy a good bra for a turtleneck, wear your thinnest high-neck top to the dressing room. Check your silhouette carefully. Move around and see if any lines or bulges pop up. It’s also worthwhile to test out the bra in natural light — which you usually cannot do before you pay for the garment. So hang on to those receipts and repeat your try-on process at home, with the adding step of walking outside.
You can also try layering a smooth camisole between your bra and the turtleneck. The cami can minimize chafing and mask minor bumps and lumps.
Read next: How to wear a turtleneck stylishly
5 turtleneck bras to try
ThirdLove
ThirdLove’s fan-favorite wireless bra combines lift and invisibility. Soft, smooth microfiber cups are seamless and lightly lined for a rounded shape without bulk. Half-cup sizing provides a sure fit and wide, cushioned straps stay concealed under sweaters. With medium support and a smooth finish, ThirdLove bras are comfortable and cute — ideal for everyday wear. Shop ThirdLove now.
Honeylove
Designed for curvier frames, Honeylove’s wireless bra is a powerhouse for plus-size support. Compression fabric and reinforced side panels smooth back bulges and redistribute weight. A U-shaped back keeps straps from slipping. The bra also has wide, padded straps and a structured band for lift that doesn’t dig. It’s exactly what you need to wear under a body-skimming knit. Shop Honeylove now.
Skims Fits Everybody Push-Up Bra
Kim Kardashian’s Skims line lives up to the name. The line’s push-up bra is made to feel like a second skin. Constructed of a stretchy, seamless nylon blend that’s stitch-free, the undergarment molds to your curves. The bra also features light foam pads for lift and the cup is a demi style. Shop Skims Fits Everybody now.
Victoria’s Secret Dream Angels smooth wireless push-up plunge bra
Want a hint of lift without looking overdone? This bra’s smooth molded cups and lightweight push-up padding create a natural, lifted shape. The straps are fully adjustable and the microfiber construction fits soft and close against. your body. Shop VS now.
Pepper lift up bra
Designed for smaller busts, Pepper solves the gaping-cup problem. Angled padding and adjustable straps create the illusion of volume while seamless, unlined cups disappear under thin fabrics. The wide band and full-coverage design keep everything secure to make it your go-to for petite frames or minimalist turtlenecks. Shop Pepper bras now.
The right bra for turtlenecks
The right bra for your turtlenecks is usually one with with good support and a smooth, seamless construction. You’ll know when you find it — it’s the style that leaves you feeling confident in your body, no matter what top covers it.
