Simply put, a bandeau bra is a garment worn under sleeveless or strapless tops or dresses.

They've been worn since Roman times, when the style of the times was a boyish silhouette and women wanted their breasts to appear smaller. Shortly thereafter, French women picked up on the fashion trend in order to add a hint of sexiness to their wardrobes while still maintaining an acceptable level of modesty. Although the first bandeau bras were made to hold the breasts flat against the chest, they are now made in all kinds of different shapes and sizes to flatter any woman's figure.

The bandeau bra is not your everyday strapless bra. It fits more like a tube top, and because it very rarely comes with the typical hook and eye closure, is pulled on over the head. Some models offer snap closures either in the front or the back, and still others offer Velcro closures. Many bandeau bra makers now include hooks and straps to make more style options possible.

Several years ago, the bandeau bra was sold only in fine garment shops and online. Now, they have branched out to retailers such as Target, K-mart and Walmart and are available to just about everyone with just about any budget. Many online retailers also offer bandeau bras as a style option, and some clothing manufacturers recommend their use under specific styles or pieces of clothing.

American Apparel Cotton Spandex Ruched Front Tube Bra

A bandeau bra resembles a cross between a strapless bra and a tube top. Colors range from plain white to pastel, and from bright colors, stripes, and polka dots to animal prints and florals. The material may be plain cotton or as extravagant as silk and lace. Just like an everyday bra, bandeau bras offer lots of appearance choices.

Because they do not resemble a modern, every-day bra, they are a great option for introducing teenage girls to wearing a bra. These age groups are generally more receptive to a bandeau bra because they are less restricting and come in many more colors and styles than the traditional versions. They are also very flattering to current fashion trends worn by girls of this age. Because they range from actual bra styles to tube top styles, girls of all ages can choose from just about any level of modesty.

» Go to Part 2: How Do I Wear a Bandeau Bra?

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