23 Chic Outfits to Try If You Have a Small Chest

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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

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.

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.

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.

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.