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A multiway bra allows you to wear halters, one-shoulder styles and strapless dresses with ease. A good multiway or convertible bra offers a one-stop solution to nearly all of your lingerie needs. The best multiway bra depends upon your size and build, whether you're not-so-busty and looking for a bit of enhancement or curvy and in need of serious support.
Construction
The bra portion of most multiway bras consists of a strapless underwire bra with tabs to secure bra straps in various ways. You'll find that most convertible styles have molded cups for improved shape, coverage and support, like the Undie Award-winning Bali Concealers Convertible Strapless Bra, in sizes up to DD. Silicone edging keeps your bra in place and prevents unwanted bra slippage. While most bras have a solid back strap, you'll find a few styles with an optional clear band in the back to avoid any bra peek-a-boo. Some convertible styles allow you to disconnect straps at the back to change the bra style, but cannot be worn as a strapless.
Straps
Multiway bras offer versatile strap arrangements. While you can wear your convertible bra with two over-the-shoulder straps, moving and reconfiguring the straps allows you to adjust your bra for any top in your wardrobe. Connect the straps behind your neck for a halter bra or fasten one strap over one shoulder, connecting it to the opposite side of the back for support under asymmetrical styles. Crisscross straps or connect them in the back for racer-back styling. The "Shop Etc." magazine-recommended Natori's Underneath Sheer Mesh Ultralight Convertible Contour has a deep plunging front and can be worn as a halter or racer-back style. It was chosen best Deep V bra. Remove the straps for a basic strapless style on many, but not all, multiway bras. Some bras offer additional straps, including clear styles to reduce visibility under tops with narrow straps, like the Le Mystere's Dos Nu Convertible Low Back Bra suggested by ABC's "Good Morning America."
Padding
If you're small-busted, pushup pads or cookies can enhance your bust and improve your cleavage. Try the Chantelle Sublime Push-Up Plunge Bra, winner of the 2011 Undie Award for Favorite Pushup Bra. You may also find pushup padding in larger sizes, particularly if you've chosen a daring, plunging, convertible style. Even if you're not looking for a cleavage boost, removable pushup pads can allow you to adjust your bra for different size breasts. A bit of extra padding also ensures that your convertible bra doesn't leave you looking flattened.
Fit
The best multiway bra is one that fits you well. Even if you know your bra size, you may find a more secure fit if you choose a bra one size smaller in the band and a size larger in the cup. The cup will be the same size as your usual bra, but the band will fit more snugly for the support you need. This is especially helpful if you're a curvy girl in a convertible bra.
