Bra guide: Different bra styles explained

Bra shopping can often be the bane of many trips to the stores. Finding a style you like that is comfortable and in your size can feel like a Herculean task.

People who are successful at bra shopping are those who know the difference between styles and can, therefore, focus on the aisles that suit their needs.

If you need a refresher, then read on for five of the most popular bra types so you can find exactly what you need.

T-shirt bra

If you are looking for an everyday bra, then a t-shirt bra could be the one for you. Whether you opt for a luxury, high-end bra or a simple, budget item, comfort is key.

The aim of this bra is to create a smooth silhouette under fitted clothing. Typically, this form of lingerie features seamless, moulded cups which prevent any visible lines. T-shirt bras are ideal for everyday wear as they offer comfort as well as a natural shape.

As t-shirt bras are designed for more fitted clothing, getting the right size is imperative. You don’t want to ruin your shape by having tight shoulder straps or back straps. You can book a measuring appointment in most lingerie shops, but there are ways to measure yourself at home.

Balconette bra

Balconette or balcony bras have a different shaped cup to t-shirt bras. Where t-shirt bras are full coverage, balconette bras have lower-cut cups. This makes them perfect for lower-cut tops as you won’t see the bras themselves.

Balconette cups are designed to help lift the breasts, enhancing their overall shape and appearance. Whilst this isn’t a must-have for all wardrobes, some women find that with specific outfits, they look incredible.

Plunge bra

For millennials especially, the Victoria’s Secret plunge bra is engrained in their memories forever. But plunge bras are still a solid contender in the lingerie market.

Designed with a deep V-neckline between the two cups, plunge bras are perfect for low-cut tops and dresses. Not only do they allow more cleavage to be shown, but they also push the breasts together to create more without the need for excessive padding which can get uncomfortable.

Sports bra

For active women, sports bras are a must. Sports bras aren’t about looking fashionable (although most collections are), but they are engineered to provide firm support and minimise breast movement during exercise.

A well-fitting sports bra helps to reduce breast pain, which can occur when moving around. It is thought that strenuous exercise such as running or jumping puts a strain on the breast support structures, causing discomfort. Sports bras prevent your breasts from moving around as much, reducing the stress on your tissues.

Bralette

Bralettes are often seen as a fashion choice, but they work just as well as a normal bra. Their lightweight, unstructured design without underwires affords wearers comfort as well as style. Some think that bralettes are for smaller-chested women but that simply isn’t true. If they feel comfortable for you, bralettes can be worn by women of any size!

If you do like wearing bras as part of your visible outfit, bralettes are great for layering with other clothing, creating a delicate yet interesting look.