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Dressing a small chest can have its challenges — bras that never fit quite right and straps that seem to always fall down, to name a few — but it also has perks. For instance, you don’t even think twice about going braless. And you get to experiment with many silhouettes and shapes without worrying about nip slips. In fact, having too many options at your disposal might be the root of the problem: how are you supposed to narrow it down, anyway?
One place to start is with texture. Look for pieces that feature ruffles, bows, or a voluminous element around the chest area. Or opt for sleeveless styles — like a high-neck halter top, one-shoulder blouse, or cropped bustier — that highlight your arms. Take a cue from Florence Pugh, who recently styled a lightweight smocked bralette with an A-line midi skirt. Other stylish items for small-chested folks to consider: a strapless top with a feather-trimmed neckline; a thin camisole with rhinestone fringe embellishing the hem; or a graphic pattern with interesting construction details.
For more small-chest fashion inspiration, incorporate these styling tricks the next time you’re getting ready and deciding what to wear.
How to Dress Up Your Small Chest
Slip into a silky bralette, high-neck top, or any intricately designed shirt that places the focus on the garment itself. The “dress over shirt” route is a simple fix to get the most out of your clothes — a spaghetti-strap dress layered over a short-sleeved turtleneck dress is a ’90s-inspired fashion hack that never fails.
How to Highlight Your Small Chest
If camouflaging your bust area with frills or loud prints isn’t quite your style, then go braless. All you need is some boob tape and nipple covers if you don’t feel comfortable exposing your nipples.
Keep reading to learn more about dressing for your boob shape and get a kick-start on shopping with our expertly curated picks from all your favorite brands.
— Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
![The 11 Best Dresses For a Small Bust](/wp-content/uploads/c624c4ed00c4e5bb10cc7d05a5f63050.jpg)
![The 11 Best Dresses For a Small Bust](/wp-content/uploads/84be6a800cba8803162bd5a88b799564.jpg)
The 11 Best Dresses For a Small Bust
01
Add Extra Flair to Your Bustline With Cutouts and Cinching
02
Experiment With Busy Neckline Details Like Pearl Straps and Bows
03
Go Bare Underneath Your Cardigan and a Leather Jacket
04
Experiment With Cap Sleeves and Asymmetrical Necklines
You’ll make quite the stylish entrance.
05
Slip Off Your Sleeves For an Off-the-Shoulder Look
It’s the ultimate come-hither look.
06
Get Playful With Your Lacy Lingerie
With chic trousers, you combine sexy and classy.
07
Tuck Away a Plunging Neckline Into High-Waisted Trousers
No bra needed. Just finish with a pendant necklace or statement choker.
![I'll Be Living in These Free People Denim Shorts 24/7 This Summer](/wp-content/uploads/8789c2058d31e43e24c456ba500af495.jpg)
![I'll Be Living in These Free People Denim Shorts 24/7 This Summer](/wp-content/uploads/34709231ae1f36b12ba5f8be154806b9.jpg)
I'll Be Living in These Free People Denim Shorts 24/7 This Summer
Denim shorts feel so synonymous with summer, which is precisely why I start bulk-buying the style whenever temperatures begin to heat up.
08
You Can Wear a Silk Bandana as a Top
No need for a strapless bra either.
09
A Printed Coord Set With a High Neckline Makes You Feel Sophisticated
For when you want to look put together without exerting too much effort.
10
Go Braless to Show Off a Flirty Open Back
There’s nothing like a back cutout to command everyone’s attention.
11
Turn Your Lounge-Around Bra Into a Crop Top
Useful for a quick run to the bodega or Sunday brunch.
12
Knot Up Your Long Tee Into a Crop Top For a Casual, Cool Vibe
Pro tip: Twist up the extra material and secure it underneath your bust with a hair tie.
13
A Satin Bralette Doubles as a Crop Top
Go ahead, wear your favorite intimates out in public.
14
Utilize the Dress-Over-Shirt Look Again and Again
Make your minidresses feel brand new with a few creative layers.
![The 15 Best Sunglasses For Every Budget and Vibe](/wp-content/uploads/aeee8e7156fb1d73c1984d5ddadac330.jpg)
![The 15 Best Sunglasses For Every Budget and Vibe](/wp-content/uploads/e977a30a140ff2a55ae849a539c484c1.jpg)
The 15 Best Sunglasses For Every Budget and Vibe
While we're suckers for cute hats and stylish bags, there's nothing like getting a pair of new sunglasses for summer.
15
Spaghetti Straps Aren't Too Thin or Delicate
Find a colorful pattern and layer on the metallic jewels.
16
A Lace-Up Bustier Doesn't Necessarily Call For a Bra
Wear it with white pants and a vibrant purse for a pop of color.
17
Feel Carefree in a Cutout Dress That Bares Your Chest
Tap into the ’00s-inspired cutout trend that’s been spotted on celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Dua Lipa.
18
Bring On the Extra Frills — Pouffy Sleeves, Peter Pan Collars, and Buttons
The more details, the merrier!
19
Slips With Adjustable Straps Are Your Best Friend
Bring back the ’90s, one midi dress at a time.
20
Loosen Up Your Button-Down Shirt
And if you feel like going braless, we fully support that.
21
You Can Play Around With Sheer Fabric Without Layering Too Much Underneath
The sheerer, the better.
![The 10 Best Pieces to Shop From Gap's 50% Off Sale](/wp-content/uploads/c551797bfb8574b9f56d3d8db455567b.jpg)
![The 10 Best Pieces to Shop From Gap's 50% Off Sale](/wp-content/uploads/9156ceb4475d8a426418d12fdc50f00a.jpg)
The 10 Best Pieces to Shop From Gap's 50% Off Sale
Few things get us as excited as a sale with an extra 50 percent off at checkout.
22
Don't Shy Away From Trimmings Like Bows and Extra Necklaces
How’s this for date night?
23
The Corset Trend Is a Fun Spin on Crop Tops
And it’s not going anywhere, thanks to the ongoing Y2K fashion revival.