We’re just starting to feel the first bit of winter chill in New York and it already has me dreaming of spring’s warm return. Until then, I’m just going to stare longingly at all the beautiful spring collections and dream of what I want to make for myself once the temps start climbing again. For our Southern Hemisphere dwellers, you can get started on spring 2012 trends now – and the first one I’m bringing to you is (whether you love it or hate it) the bra top.
Bohemian, sleek, flirty – designers offered up bra tops in an array of different styles and while you’re probably thinking to yourself, “Who actually wears this?” – the truthful answer is not a whole lot of people. However, there are ways that you can incorporate the look into your wardrobe without looking like you forgot to put a shirt on before you left the house. I particularly love the way Chris Benz layered his bra top over a plain tee shirt – it’s a great way to add layer and dimension to an outfit without also adding a lot of bulk. I also really like the cute playsuits from Jason Wu and Dolce and Gabbana, even though they aren’t the most practical for everyday wear – they would definitely glam up any beach day or pool party.




Get inspired to try your own bra top. Go super-sexy like Style Stalker, or keep it sweet like the knitted version from Wool and the Gang.

Or take a cue from BurdaStyle members (and BurdaStyle!) who have whipped up their own versions of the bra top and grab one of our great lingerie inspired patterns to get started!

Projects clockwise from top left: Velvet Bustier Top by uepsillon, Tropicolor Bustier & Circle Skirt by Sara Moskovitz and BurdaStyle’s Gingham Bustier + Skirt.
Patterns from top: Bustier Top, Margarete Top and Bustier Top with Cap Sleeves.
Alright so now the final verdict – would you make/wear a bra top or bustier? If so, how would you style it?






Nov 10, 2011, 04.33 AMby anafelix
I am in absolute LOVE with the Donna Karan top. But I’m definitely not brave enough to rock it as a top, I just really want a bra that style.
Nov 9, 2011, 08.38 PMby uglybeat
I love the top by Pucci. I think if I wore one of these, people would be blinded by my incredibly white stomach. I think I’ll spare them.
Nov 8, 2011, 01.07 PMby seasidelaundry
I was here for one of the waves of this style & think it can work for any age in some manner. Regardless, can not wait to see the variations. Thanks for sending a hint of spring!
Nov 7, 2011, 04.48 PMby NahlaMari
I love the style and I could wear them at any beach partty, but for a daily use I think I have to be more innoviavite ..love the Lucci one I think of a blazer to cover my flesh (modona style in 80s) …
Nov 6, 2011, 04.33 AMby rochelle49
Well, I was not born for the first time this was fashionable in the early 40’s. Now I’m too old to enjoy it now. So I hope others get to enjoy.
Nov 6, 2011, 03.57 AMby nikkishell
I’ve had too many babies for this fashion!
Nov 5, 2011, 05.39 PMby Eloadir Rosa
gostaria de comprar as revistas não entendo como faço? quero fazer pagamento avista.
Nov 4, 2011, 09.49 PMby wzrdreams
I’ve been scheming about a flannel bra top for a few weeks now. I might use that burdastyle pattern, but McCalls has a multi-cup bustier pattern.
Nov 4, 2011, 05.52 PMby xrosyposyx
This means sit-ups :s
3 Replies
Nov 4, 2011, 05.57 PMby themisslinds
ha! sit-ups and maybe some arm exercises too…
Nov 5, 2011, 04.15 AMby ladykatza
You know, two babies and a major back surgery says NO to bra tops. Maybe those of us who aren’t so lithe can do bustier tops instead. Very 50’s.
Nov 8, 2011, 06.10 AMby turquoisecarnation
IKR
clothes like these are exactly why I torture my self with 500 crunches every night : /
Nov 4, 2011, 05.50 PMby GabrielleDanielle
I love the Lucci one!! Gorgeous!
Nov 4, 2011, 04.12 PMby fashionfreek
I would wear something similar to Chris benz design which looks like a blouse with bra. Interesting subject..