Underwire bras are back in fashion, and they're no longer hiding under your clothes. This fashion month, underwear as outerwear dominated catwalks, with high fashion endorsing the underwire bra like never before. From Prada to Tom Ford, designers are embracing the structural bra as a statement piece.
Why Underwire Bras Are Trending in 2024
The resurgence of the underwire bra is part of a broader movement celebrating femininity and body positivity. Designers are treating lingerie as complete outfits rather than hidden essentials. At the Matieres Fecales show, Rihanna wore a bra from her Savage X Fenty range peeking out of an unbuttoned jacket, while Anya Taylor-Joy sported a Balmain fuchsia underwire bra with a cardigan and floral jacquard skirt.
Model Kaia Gerber recently wore a wool crepe Alaïa bra top on the red carpet, featuring an exposed underwire as part of the design. At the VMAs, Tyla wore a blue snakeskin-print Mowalola bra with a matching low-rise skirt. Designer Mowalola Ogunlesi explains, "I'm finding power in femininity and treating lingerie as something complete in itself, rather than something that needs to be hidden or layered."
How to Style Underwire Bras as Outerwear
Styling an underwire bra as outerwear is all about balance. Pair a bold bra top with high-waisted trousers or a tailored skirt for a chic look. Layering under a blazer or sheer shirt can add sophistication while still showing off the bra's structure. The key is to choose bras with interesting details—exposed underwires, lace, or satin finishes. The background to this story is set out in Lace Trend 2024: The Perfect Autumn Fashion Statement. A related thread runs through Ringer T-Shirt Trend 2024: Why It's Back in Fashion.
Key Takeaways for Wearing the Trend
- Choose structured bras with exposed underwires or unique fabrics.
- Balance proportions by pairing with high-waisted bottoms.
- Layer strategically under blazers or sheer tops for a subtle take.
- Embrace color—red, black, and metallics are trending.
- Confidence is key—this trend is about owning your style.
Underwire Bras vs. Push-Up Bras: What's the Difference?
Unlike push-up bras designed to squish breasts together (think Wonderbra's Hello Boys era), today's fashion-forward underwire bras focus on structure and shape. They sculpt the body in a unique way, as Ogunlesi notes, without necessarily enhancing cleavage. This shift reflects a more modern, empowering approach to lingerie. Earlier coverage in Fashion: latest articles shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Underwear as Outerwear: Why Bras and Unitards Are Trending.

| Feature | Underwire Bras | Push-Up Bras |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Support and shape | Enhance cleavage |
| Design Focus | Structural, often exposed | Padded, hidden |
| Trend Status | High fashion favorite | Classic, less trendy |
| Styling | Worn as outerwear | Typically under clothing |
Celebrity Endorsements and Runway Moments
Celebrities have eagerly embraced the underwire bra trend. Rihanna, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kaia Gerber, and Tyla have all rocked the look, each adding their own flair. On the runways, Prada showcased red and black satin underwire bras, while Tom Ford featured black and silver designs. These high-profile moments have solidified the underwire bra as a must-have for fashion enthusiasts. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Ties Are Back in Fashion Thanks to Gen Z Style Revival. The same theme surfaces in Moustache Trend 2025: Carlos Alcaraz Leads Stylish Top Lip, which takes a different angle.
FAQ
Are underwire bras comfortable for all-day wear?
Comfort depends on fit. A well-fitted underwire bra should provide support without digging in. Look for bras with soft fabrics and proper sizing.
Can I wear an underwire bra if I have a large bust?
Absolutely. Underwire bras offer excellent support for larger busts. Choose styles with wider bands and full coverage for best results.
How do I style an underwire bra for a casual look?
Pair a simple underwire bra with high-waisted jeans and an oversized blazer for a relaxed yet trendy outfit.
Underwire bras are back in fashion, and they're here to stay. Whether you're drawn to the bold runway looks or prefer a subtle nod to the trend, there's an underwire bra style for everyone. Embrace the trend and make it your own.