Breast cancer awareness month is with us yet again, and today – we’ll be delving into the different types of bras out there – and more so, what they’re there for…
Why Is The Right Bra So Important?
Realistically speaking, most of us pick our bras according to availability or aesthetics – but according to experts, regularly wearing an ill-fitted bra may lead to several problems: ranging from bad posture and shoulder pain to skin irritation and scarring. Plus, not only can proper-fitting bras help women feel more confident, but they reduce premature breast sagging; reduce the deep creases and bulges around the chest; and prevent future issues.
PSA: Research Also Shows That Most Women Wear The Wrong Bra Size.
However, given that the same size in one brand may vary from another – which, let’s face it, is quite common among women’s clothing – it may be hard to find a consistent size that provides optimal support. So, I highly recommend you get measured at every store before making any purchases!
Let’s Start With The Basics…
T-shirt Bras
This particular bra has thin, smoothly contoured cups to give optimal shape and comfort under t-shirts. In other words, this is a go-to bra for many – and rightfully so, since you’ll usually find a selection of them in white, black, and an array of flesh colours. Although most are underwired, some do spare you from the wiring for additional comfort!
Full Cup Bras
If you have bigger breasts, you might opt for a full cup bra instead – which is like a step-up from the t-shirt bra, except the cups cover the breasts entirely.
Strapless Bras
Strapless bras are designed to be worn with no shoulder straps, so they typically include design features – which you should definitely look out for – such as silicone or rubber lining to prevent slippage whilst providing additional support.
Nursing Bras
A nursing bra is every new mum’s best friend – literally, because this under garment is designed specifically for breastfeeding, with cups that fold down to expose the nipple.
Push-Up Bras
If you’d like to give the illusion of bigger breasts – or if you’d simply like to enhance your natural breasts – then you should invest in a push-up bra! These bras have additional padding at the bottoms of the cups in order to give you a fuller bust.
Beginner’s Bra
Everyone’s first bra, a beginner’s bra is a simple, lightweight, hook-free bra designed especially for developing teens who are starting to wear a bra for the first time. They’re usually pretty stretchy, and are crafted to accommodate and support developing busts!
Minimizer Bra
This full coverage bra is designed to reduce the appearance of a bust by roughly 1-2 inches in a healthy, safe manner. Its design compresses and spreads breast tissue evenly across the chest.
Mastectomy Bra
A mastectomy or post-surgery bra is a little bit different to your standard bra. Distinctively, mastectomy bras feature internal pockets that hold the prosthesis or breast form in place. They’re usual made out of cotton lining, making them super soft and comfortable!
Stick-On Bra
If you’re a fan of backless outfits like me – or even certain low-cut garments – then a stick-on bra might come in handy. Just as it sounds, a stick-on bra doesn’t have any bands or straps, it simply sticks to your breasts. It’s a step up from the typical nipple pasties, and most provide an uplift too!
Bandeau Bra
Last but not least in the basics, we have the bandeau bra, which is a strapless strip of stretchy fabric with a thick band on top and bottom for better hold. Although these don’t provide the best support, they do come in handy when wanting to show less cleavage or wearing a deep-cut muscle tank top.
As For The More Lingerie-Esque Bras…
Bralette
The itty-bitty-titty-committee will be thrilled to know that they’re lucky enough to flaunt their smaller breasts in a non-wired bra… no padding, no moulded cups – nothing! Just some lovely lace and elegant designs!
Demi Bras
Often confused with t-shirt bras, a classic demi bra covers between 50-75% of the breast in order to emphasise your natural cleavage. Unlike a plunge or t-shirt bra, a demi bra’s coverage remains the same all across the bra. You can spot a demi bra from its wide-set straps, half-shaped cups, and its horizontal bust line.
Plunge Bras
Moving on to the plunge bras – these have angled cups, less coverage, and a deeper v-neckline, which makes them a great option under plunging necklines. Although they cover less of the breasts, they’re still just as supportive… they just offer a rounded, uplift look. Put simply, this bra will give you some of the best cleavage game you can get!
Balconette Bras
Personally, I think these are some of the sexiest bras out there – or maybe it’s just the vintage vibes they give off. Similar to the plunge bra, a balconette bra is like a low-cut demi bra with a retro silhouette, offering a rounded look and great support with less coverage. The straps tend to be a little wider-set and join at the side of the cup, rather than the centre.
Now, Let’s Talk Sports Bras…
Sports bras are designed especially for physical activity and are built in a way to prevent discomfort. However, there are different kinds of sports bras too – and you need to find yours based on what kind of workout you normally do… And yes, according to healthcare experts, this is crucial.
Minimal Support/Low-Impact Sports Bras
If your workout routine looks a lot like yoga, pilates, or any other form of “lower-intensity” training – or if you’re looking for a bra you can lounge around or sleep in – then you should opt for what’s called a minimal or light support sport bra. These tend to have flattering, strappy backs with wider straps at the shoulders for more comfort. Some might have pads, but they’re normally removable, and a wide band for stability.
Medium-Impact/Mid-Support Sports Bras
If you’re more into circuit training, kickboxing, or SpinCycle, you’ll want to take it up a notch with your sports bra, for a medium/mid-support one. They tend to have lightweight padding, as well as moisture-absorbent fabrics.
High-Impact/Maximum Support Sports Bras
Finally, if you work out intensely (HIIT, running, cardio, etc.) – especially if you’re an athlete – you should invest in a maximum or high support sport bra. These practically strap your breasts into place, which is what you need to prevent breast pain and limit movement whilst exercising.
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Michela Muscat is a 20-year-old University student who strives on feminism, fashion, dancing, beauty, writing… and a good bottle of vino.
From waitressing to writing, she has been determinedly working ever since she was 15, started writing professionally at 18, and has never been afraid to speak her mind. In all aspects of her personal life and work, Michela has always aimed at keeping it real and prioritises female empowerment, independence, equality, and above all, unity.
