The Bra Top Trend Is So Unwearable It's Already Outdated - What To Wear Instead

Years of staying at home birthed one of the biggest micro-trends of the last year: bra tops. As going out became possible again, many felt the need to add a sexy touch to their wardrobes, and "less is more" became a visible statement. The trend quickly became a phenomenon, immediately copied by fast-fashion companies after being showcased on spring/summer 2022 runways. Italian luxury brand Missoni featured both tiny-triangle tops and skimpy tube tops that bared it all in its fashion show. Dolce & Gabbana also included bra tops in its summer 2022 show that featured lace and sheer fabric. These and more were inspirations for the tiny tops we began to see on the streets in the aftermath.

As we enter summer one year later, more women are realizing that these tops are so unwearable that they don't even deserve a place in our closets. While they may have a time and place, for most of us, those moments are few and far between. Ditch the bra tops taking up space in your wardrobe this summer and instead opt for other timeless yet fun options.

If you're a free-spirited individual looking for a breezy, cool summer top that is also appropriate for everyday summer wear, the boho babydoll top might be for you. Babydoll tops cinch just below the chest and flow loosely the rest of the way down. Available in tank, tee, or shirt form, the babydoll top is easy to throw on with any bottoms for a simple yet stylish look.

High-neck tanks are an it-girl essential for this summer. Kendall Jenner is one of many celebrities who have hopped on this trend, as shown in a post on Instagram. This style allows for some skin to show while still maintaining modesty, covering both the midriff and chest.

Halter tops are the Y2K staple piece that has come back around to become a basic in modern fashion. These tops are fastened behind the neck and still show plenty of skin. Halter tops offer better security than bra tops, as small and delicate bras increase the likelihood of accidental exposure.

Basics don't have to be boring. A basic tee is one of the most wearable and versatile pieces out there, the complete opposite of the bra top. Swap out your bra top for a basic tee paired with elevated accessories. We recommend wearing a solid neutral t-shirt paired with denim jeans or shorts and then adding a designer bag, sunglasses, and flats.

The corset top trend is here to stay. While still considered an intimate piece, the corset top reveals less skin than a bra top and is often regarded as a more feminine take on the "underwear as outerwear" philosophy. This trend took flight alongside the rise of the Regencycore aesthetic on social media, with users sharing their modern interpretations of princess-like looks. Instagram fashion influencer Elena Katey shared how she brings royal style into her everyday life with a light pink corset, beige trousers, and silk pink heels.

A short-sleeve button-down is a versatile option that works well for a variety of events, from the office to a dinner party. If you want to keep it sexy but not quite wear a bra top alone to an event, try wearing a short-sleeve button-down open over a more revealing top. This will give you flexibility throughout the day or night, in case you start to feel the need to cover up or bare it all.