The bandeau top has received a fashion kick in the last decade and is now one of the most versatile fashion items a woman can own. In its basic form, the bandeau top is just an elastic band of fabric that wraps around a woman’s chest and provides support for the breasts, but there is nothing basic about today’s interpretation of this French classic. No matter the occasion or season, there is a stylish bandeau top waiting to energize the wardrobe and provide some drama and sexiness to any outfit.
Bandeau Top Styles
The simplest style is just a narrow elastic band without closures or wires. These can look great, but many women love decorative touches, need support or something dressier. There are so many ways to wear them and great styles that it is little wonder they are so popular.The bandeau strapless bra is one of the most common uses. True bandeau bras may contain some minor decorative embellishments, but these are often on the plain side as they are meant to provide support when a strapless bra look is needed. They come in many colors, but black, white, and skin-tone are the most common. There are bandeau bras that have shoulder straps or a halter style strap, but many women opt for a multiway or convertible bra if they want straps.
A bandeau bikini top is where the fun starts to happen. Cute and playful, these tops run the entire rainbow of colors and patterns. The embellishments can range from a fun ruffle, center ruching, decorative metal center detailing, criss-cross cup designs, and sexy materials and cuts. They may be structured with underwiring or padding for a cleavage boost. They are, of course, not just for show, but can be worn in the water as well. The transition from the beach to the club makes them very popular. A simple shirt tied at the waist or left open will provide a simple layered look and is undeniably sexy.
The bandeau tube top is generally elastic and unstructured, but extends down the midriff. This is great for women wishing to stay a little more covered and it can also provide better support than a narrow band top. These are commonly seen on younger girls and may also be seen with a halter strap.
A true bandeau top is the ultimate in versatile fashion, though. It may have some of the same decorative elements as a bikini top, but since it doesn’t have to function as a bathing suit it can do so much more. Higher end fabrics can be used and this means the hottest looks! Metallics and shiny lamé in platinum, gold, or copper are just the beginning. They can be semi-sheer and lightweight because there are no worries about water making them transparent. Again, it is common to see these layered under a blouse or even a cute bolero jacket. They can be found with removable halter straps or shoulder straps, too.
Every famous bra manufacturer has entered into the bandeau top market and there are some truly stunning tops available. Sizing is easy and shopping for them is as convenient as shopping for a boring white bra. Victoria’s Secret has some of the sexiest looks in bandeau swimwear, but a woman shouldn’t dismiss general retailers like Target, Express and even Amazon for shopping for a hot look without breaking the budget. It is hard to go wrong with a bandeau top – the hardest part will be limiting it to just one or two!