Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
We checked in with Miami-based lingerie brand, Eberjey to chat with expert Diana Gdula on how to rock the trend without looking trashy. "Deliberately showing your bra is a more comfortable way of working with difficult trends, especially with cutouts, open backs, innovative straps, and plunging necklines," adds Gdula. "Exposing a hint of vintage-inspired lace or delicate grosgrain strap makes [a look] much more interesting"
We totally agree, so we perused Eberjey's ogle-worthy collections to find must-show bralets for those tricky top situations, with delicate details that are just too pretty to hide.
Muscle Tanks and Mesh Tops: A Basic Bralet
Muscle tanks, side cutouts, and organza mesh tops seep into serious side boob territory and while it's embraced on red carpets, it may not be the best move for everyday outfits. This where Eberjey's India Retro Bralet ($49) comes in. Says Gdula, "The trick is to make the bra the star by showing it off in a deliberate way," says Gdula. "Our India Retro Bralet can balance the masculinity of a muscle tank with its feminine scalloped lace trim and floral pattern." To boot, India's extra lining provides frontal coverage (no nip peek-a-boos either!) and its Spandex-mixed fabric allows for all-day comfort.
Open Back Tops and Dresses: A Hookless Bralet
"If you're having trouble finding the right bra to wear with open styles, Eberjey has your back!" jokes Gdula. "Our Amaya Racerback Bralet ($27) has a no-closure style that offers a tasteful response to tricky open-back tops and dresses and provides a smooth look under clothing." Amaya's pull-over-the-head design eliminates the annoyingly awkward, bulging back hook, making it perfect for open back tops or dresses. Add edge to this soft but snug number in its deep eggplant or black varieties, or create the illusion of skin with a nude tone. Either way, you won't feel the need to take Amaya off as soon as you get home. You might even let her sleep with you.
Low Cut Tops and Dresses: A Deep V Bralet
When you're wearing something low cut, you need a low cut bra with some support. The Manuela Bralet ($46) provides gentle but noticeable support and its low-cut lining is perfect for deep V's and maxi dresses. "The bralet's ethereal embroidery and golden front closure are ideal for plunging necklines," says Gdula. "Its simple, barely-there back straps make for a fashion statement when worn with a deep-V-back top or dress."
Crop Tops: A Longline Bralet
Love them or loathe them, crop tops don't seem to be going anywhere. For those looking to experiment with midriff or switch up their belly-baring style, opt for a bralet that stretches down to your waist, like Eberjey's Pattern Play ($56). "With crop tops having their moment in the sun this summer, a Longline Bralet is a versatile pick," says Gdula.
You can also wear it as an actual top. "Copy it-girl style by pairing a longline bralet with boyfriend jeans and blazer," suggests Gdula. "...or keep [the look] subtle [by letting it] peek out from a cardigan or loose-cut button down." She adds, "If you dare to bare lingerie as outerwear, I recommend picking a soft or neutral color that is muted and doesn't scream ‘wardrobe malfunction.'"
Racerback Tops, Dresses, and Overalls: A Racerback Bralet
Although we're all about letting your bra show, when it comes to racerbacks, you only want to let it show just a little. For that, there's the Collette Racerback ($58). Sexy, sporty, and stretchy, Collette's cut makes it a natural choice for sleeveless tops, plus the honeycomb detailing is to die for. It's also great for overalls and open back outfits. Gdula's top style tip? "Pick one in the same color family as your top, or go for a pop with contrasting but complementary color."