There are a few fashion items that consistently stump even the savviest shoppers: the perfect pair of jeans, an exact foundation shade, and strapless bras that actually stay put. You know the kind: no slipping, no gaping, no digging in. Just seamless support that holds its own, whether you’re shimmying into a bandeau top or styling a strapless dress for a special occasion.

Think you can get away without one? Just wait until you’re wrestling with your trusty T-shirt bra, tucking its straps under your underwire like some sort of lingerie origami. Or worse, rolling down your sports bra while it attempts to cut off your circulation. As someone who has tried (and failed) with both, investing in a solid strapless style (or at least a bra with removable straps) is the kind of wardrobe upgrade your future self will thank you for.

In a rush? The best strapless bras at a glance:

1. Best strapless bra, according to a GLAMOUR editor: Body By Victoria Strapless Bra, £39, Victoria’s Secret
2. Best strapless bra for bigger boobs: Definitions Lightly Padded Multiway Strapless Bra, £28, Pour Moi
3. Most comfortable strapless bra: Strapless Microfibre Multiway Bra, £32, Boux Avenue
4. Best lace strapless bra: Lace Wired Strapless Bandeau Bra A-E, £20, Marks & Spencer

Body By Victoria Strapless Bra

Definitions Lightly Padded Multiway Strapless Bra

romina introini

romina introini

Strapless Microfibre Multiway Bra

Lace Wired Strapless Bandeau Bra A-E

romina introini

But what actually makes a strapless bra great? According to Pour Moi’s lingerie buyer, Emma Woodrow, it’s all about the trifecta: function, comfort and versatility. “A great strapless bra combines all three without being bulky,” she explains. For those with a fuller bust, extra support is essential. “Look for styles with silicone strips along the back wings to help keep everything in place, as well as underwires and lightly padded, moulded cups for added structure.”

The good news? The bandeau and strapless bra market has come a long way. From inclusive nude tones and luxe fabrics to clever cuts and thoughtful design features, there are options out there for every body type, size and outfit dilemma. So if you’re looking for the ultimate strapless bra (be it push-up, plunge, backless, with or without underwire), we’ve road-tested 11 of the very best so you can skip the trial and error and get straight to the support.

One final note before you click add to basket: caring for your bra is crucial if you want it to go the distance. “Always hand wash in cold water to avoid heat damage,” advises Woodrow, “and air dry flat rather than folding or wringing out.” Store them flat, too, to keep those cups in great shape.

Now, onto the good stuff: the best strapless bras that work with every neckline — and actually stay put.

What’s the best strapless bra to buy? We’ve put them to the test…