Built-in bra tops are summer's must-have – and our expert has tried high street buys from Uniqlo

When the sun’s out and the layers come off, the last thing anyone wants to deal with is an uncomfortable bra or exposed straps, which is exactly why built-in bra tops are having a major moment this summer.

Whether you're after easy everyday comfort or subtle support that doesn’t ruin the look of your outfit, these clever tops are the ultimate warm-weather staple. Uniqlo was one of the first high street brands to launch these handy tops all the way back in 2008, but it was a couple of years ago that they really started to go viral. And ever since, more and more brands are offering the practical design feature.

From Uniqlo’s cult-favourite Airism shelf bras to surprisingly supportive finds at Primark and Bravissimo, the high street is full of options.

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Since launching, Uniqlo's collection of bra tops has expanded so much, even into dresses. From camis to halternecks and of course, the viral AIRism tops, there are so many options to choose from. I tested out a few last week, and found my winners in the Open Back Halter Neck Bra Top, priced at £19.90 and the AIRism Sleeveless Bra Top, priced at £19.90. I especially love that the halter neck top has a lower back, which usually would restrict bra use, but instead supports the chest while allowing your back to be on show.Uniqlo also have built-in bra dresses to choose from, which is a real game-changer. From cute AIRism tennis dresses to flattering striped maxis, these picks are the perfect summer wardrobe addition.

SHOP BRA TOPS/DRESSES: AIRism Soft Mini Bra Dress, priced at £39.90; Ribbed Bra Dress, priced at £34.90; Ribbed Cropped Sleeveless Bra Top, priced at £19.90 and AIRism Cotton Low Back Bra T-Shirt, priced at £19.90.

Primark's built-in bra tops have been cropping up a lot on Instagram and TikTok, and are easily the most affordable option available. There aren't as many styles or colours available as there are with Uniqlo's ones, however, for the price they are a great basic to have in your summer wardrobe.

The Built-in Bra Cami Top is priced at £8 and comes in four different colourways, including a trendy powder blue and a ditsy floral print. Again, if you wanted to wear a bra with such a thinly strapped camisole like this one, you would just have to accept your bra straps showing through. However, with the built-in bra, you can get actual support while wearing the clothes that you want to.

Shop in your local Primark

If you've got a fuller chest, Bravissimo is the place to shop for supportive bras, bikini's and bra-tops. Designed specifically to help bigger busts, their bra tops have a built-in wired and padded bra, complete with a hidden hook-and-eye fastening for extra support.

And they've been specially designed to keep you feeling secure and comfortable, as well as being made from high quality and super-soft fabric that feels great against the skin

SHOP BRA TOPS: Bandeau Vest Top With Built-In Bra, priced at £49, and Non Padded Strappy Top With Built-In Bra, priced at £46.

Ok, so not necessarily a high street brand (although they have just announced a physical Skims store is coming to the UK), but talking about underwear and shapewear without including Skims is pretty hard. And their bra tops have shopper reviews to back them up.Some of their tops don't explicitly have 'built-in bra' in the name like some other brands, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. Many of their styles, including their tube tops, feature a built-in shelf bra, so you can still wear traditionally unsupportive styles such as camis and bandeaus without worrying about what to wear underneath.

SHOP BRA TOPS: Cotton Jersey Tube Top, priced at £48 and Fits Everybody Cami, priced at £48.