National No Bra Day – October 13, 2026

National No Bra Day
Categories:
Tags:
Awareness
Where:
United States
Date change rule:
Every October 13
Holiday emoji:
🎗️

National No Bra Day on October 13 serves as a crucial reminder for breast health awareness, falling within Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This day encourages both comfort and education, urging individuals to learn about early detection and the importance of regular self-exams. Join the movement by spreading awareness, supporting research, and prioritizing your breast health.

Want to sponsor National No Bra Day? Learn how

Expected National No Bra Day Deals

For National No Bra Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to impactful fundraising and awareness campaigns. Organizations like the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), Susan G. Komen, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) will be central, often partnering with corporate sponsors for donation matching programs, special merchandise sales, and educational initiatives. Brands like Estée Lauder, a pioneer in the breast cancer campaign, and retailers such as Aerie, known for body positivity, frequently launch campaigns that support breast cancer charities through product sales or direct donations. Look for opportunities to donate at checkout, participate in virtual walks, or purchase limited-edition pink ribbon products, with proceeds benefiting research and patient support services. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns as October 13 approaches.

Platform Guide for National No Bra Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalNoBraDay. Share personal stories, educational infographics on breast health, or photos promoting comfort and self-care.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalNoBraDay. Create a community discussion around breast health tips, share resources, or organize a virtual awareness event.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalNoBraDay. Share quick facts about breast cancer, retweet messages from advocacy groups, or participate in real-time discussions about breast health.

Social Media Tips for National No Bra Day

Individuals

Take a moment for self-care and perform a breast self-exam. Share your experience or a reminder for others to prioritize their breast health on social media.

Creators

Produce a short video or infographic debunking myths about breast health or demonstrating proper self-exam techniques. Partner with a local clinic for expert tips.

Brands

Launch a donation-matching campaign for a breast cancer charity. Offer a special product where a portion of sales goes to support research and awareness initiatives.

Organizations & Brands for National No Bra Day

  1. Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)

    Founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder, BCRF is a leading nonprofit organization committed to advancing the world's most promising breast cancer research. It has invested hundreds of millions in groundbreaking research globally.

  2. Susan G. Komen

    Established in 1982 by Nancy Brinker, Susan G. Komen is one of the largest and most well-known breast cancer organizations, funding research, community health, and advocacy programs across the globe.

  3. National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF)

    Founded in 1991 by Janelle Hail, NBCF provides help and inspires hope to those affected by breast cancer through early detection, education, and support services. It focuses on helping women in need.

  4. Estée Lauder Companies

    Founded in 1946 by Estée Lauder, this global beauty company is a pioneer in breast cancer awareness, having launched The Breast Cancer Campaign and co-created the iconic Pink Ribbon in 1992.

  5. Victoria's Secret

    Founded in 1977, this prominent lingerie retailer has historically supported various women's health initiatives, including partnerships with breast cancer organizations, emphasizing comfort and well-being.

  6. Aerie

    Launched in 2006 as a sub-brand of American Eagle Outfitters, Aerie is known for its body positivity campaigns and has supported various women's health and empowerment causes, including breast cancer awareness.

  7. Revlon

    Founded in 1932 by Charles Revson, Joseph Revson, and Charles Lachman, Revlon is a global beauty company with a long history of supporting women's health and cancer research through numerous philanthropic initiatives.

National No Bra Day Hero

Nancy Brinker

Nancy Brinker is the founder of Susan G. Komen, one of the world's largest breast cancer organizations. She established the foundation in 1982 in memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer at age 36. Brinker's tireless advocacy has transformed breast cancer awareness and fundraising, making significant strides in research, education, and patient support.

History of National No Bra Day

National No Bra Day’s origins can be traced back to two days in history: July 9, 2011 and October 19, 2011. The latter was founded in Toronto, Canada where it was originally titled BRA Day by Dr. Mitchell Brown. BRA (Breast Reconstruction — An Event of Learning and Sharing) Day was celebrated to raise awareness for women who undergo a mastectomy and encourage self examinations. In July that same year, a person using the pseudonym Anastasia Doughnuts conceived National No Bra Day to raise breast cancer awareness, along with a website to help promote the event’s occurrence. Three years later, the two days were combined and pushed to October 13 to be celebrated during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
 

National No Bra Day timeline

1600 BC
First Recorded Instance of Cancer

The first case of any cancer was mentioned in Egypt on The Edwin Smith Papyrus. It described eight different cases of growths and ulcers found within the breast.

1882
First Radical Mastectomy

The Halsted Mastectomy (which is considered the first radical mastectomy) was performed by American surgeon William Halsted. 

1985
Breast Cancer Awareness Week Launches

A weeklong organized event occurred in the United States in order to spread breast cancer awareness.

1991
Pink Ribbons Become Symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation began handing out pink ribbons to breast cancer survivors running in its Race For The Cure event. 

National No Bra Day FAQs

When is National No Bra Day?

National No Bra Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, October 13. It’s a day dedicated to comfort and raising vital awareness for breast health during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

How many women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year?

Globally, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with approximately 2.3 million new cases diagnosed each year. These figures underscore the critical importance of early detection and ongoing research.

What is the significance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October, is a global campaign to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer. It provides a dedicated period for education and fundraising.

Are there health benefits to going braless?

While going braless is primarily a personal comfort choice, some studies suggest it may improve circulation and muscle tone in the chest area over time. It can also alleviate discomfort caused by ill-fitting bras.

How to Observe National No Bra Day

  1. Learn how to perform a breast self-examination

    According to Johns Hopkins Medical Center, “40 percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump,” and the key to beating cancer is to catch it early.  There are helpful infographics on the internet about self examination, and you can also consult a physician for further details. If you feel a lump or notice any irregularities (such as discharge, dimpling, or puckering), consult your doctor immediately. 

  2. Participate on social media

    Share your support for your lawless, bra-less comrades by documenting your experience on social media. Connecting with others who are also observing this holiday can lead to helpful conversations, tips on great cancer charities, or even new friendships!

  3. Buy a new bra

    Maybe it's counterintuitive, but National No Bra Day is a great excuse to treat yourself to a more comfortable bra. A bra that doesn't fit can be a real pain, so use the spirit of the day to treat yourself to comfort!

Why National No Bra Day is Important

  1. It raises breast cancer awareness

    Since it is customary for people with breasts to wear bras every day, setting aside a day for purposely not wearing a bra helps make people more aware of breasts in general. Cancer, as a disease, relies on people not paying attention to it until it’s too late. But by paying attention and being aware of your breasts, you minimize the risk that you will be severely affected by breast cancer.

  2. It raises breast awareness

    We're just going to say it—breasts are a taboo subject. But, if no one talks about them, how are we ever going to lower the risk of breast cancer? National No Bra Day is a day where it's okay, and even encouraged, to talk about breasts. This normalizes them, and de-stigmatizes getting checked for cancer.

  3. It’s the most comfortable day of the year

    Non-bra-wearers may not realize this, but bras have a tendency to be hideously uncomfortable. National No Bra Day is a great excuse to throw convention to the wind and go without a bra! (Only if you want to, of course.)

National No Bra Day dates

Year Date Day
2026 October 13 Tuesday
2027 October 13 Wednesday
2028 October 13 Friday
2029 October 13 Saturday
2030 October 13 Sunday