I know this might seem so of the topic because the best thing that could have happened to women has happened already. The pandemic has allowed us to live free, free of the pain and prodding from our bras. Pre-pandemic, the best part of our day would be getting home and taking off our bras, no? But the truth is we need bras in our lives, they are like our best friends that offer our body support.
Some of the biggest mistakes we make are choosing the wrong size and that can cause a lot of issues. Sometimes we don’t even know what bras to pair with what outfit. So if you wanted a list of all the different styles and what they’re best for then scroll on.
Here’s a list of bras you should own:
1) Balconette Bra
This style partially covers the breasts but offers a natural lift and enhances one’s cleavage. However, this bra offers much less coverage so it is better suited to women with small to medium-sized breasts.
When to wear it:
These bras are feminine and sexy, so best to wear them on a date under dresses with low necklines. But it is a style that can be worn regularly too.
2) Plunge Bra
This bra is perfect for outfits with really deep, plunging necklines hence the name. These do come available with padding and some amount of contouring. These too enhance the cleavage in a natural-looking way.
When to wear it:
Wear with formal tops and dresses with low cut necklines.
3) Underwire
This bra has a thin, semicircular wire that is sewn into the cups of the bra. This bra offers, lift, shape and support to create a crisp silhouette. Even though these are the best kinds of bras to get in terms of support, wearing the wrong bra can cause horrible discomfort.
When to wear it:
These bras come in all types of bra styles and can be worn every day with everything in case you prefer the added support. All you have to do is find the right size and the underwire will not dig into your skin.
4) Non-wired
This bra doesn’t have the metal underwire in the cups, thus relying on its straps to provide support to the breasts. These bras are mostly elastic and are easy to move in. Again, all bra styles can be wireless in nature.
When to wear it:
This bra can be worn anywhere and with anything. I would however avoid wearing them to formal occasions because they won’t have the lift you need for the outfit to sit like a glove on your body.
5) Bralette
This style is mostly worn for special occasions because they are lacy in nature or with some kind of unique design. They can be worn with blazers and trousers and easily work as outerwear. These bras are without cups or wires so it doesn’t offer enough support.
When to wear it:
This can be worn visibly under a sheer top, under tops with deep necklines or under blazers. Basically, it can be styled with just about anything if you can think of using it creatively.
6) Demi-cup
The demi-cup style is similar to a balconette bra but offers a lil more coverage. It has the comfort of a T-shirt bra and gives a natural look to the breasts. These bras have a light lining that follows the natural shape of the breasts.
When to wear it:
These bras are best worn with any fitted top/tee.
7) Longline
A longline bra is sort of like a corset because it can extend from the waist to the hips for added support. Some are designed to help shape the waist.
When to wear it:
These bras are designed for a range of occasions, especially for bridal wear.
8) Non-padded
Pretty self-explanatory as the name suggests these bras don’t have any padding. These bras will show the natural shape of your breast and nipple and are less bulky under your clothes.
When to wear it:
These bras can be worn anytime and anywhere, just has to be the right fit for you.
9) Push up
A push-up bra is used to give your breasts a lift. Honestly, this is the most commonly used bra world over because it makes your breasts appear to be larger than they are. They are available in wired and non-wired options, full and demi coverage too.
When to wear it:
Women with heavy breasts often tend to avoid these bras for obvious reasons but they also use them when they are looking for better support because the bras push the breasts up from the lower part. This bra will give you major cleavage so you might wear them every day or only on special occasions.
10) Stick-on
This is a strapless and backless bra with adhesive to stick on the breasts. All you have to do is take out the protective film and lift your breasts and stick from the bottom pulling upward so you get the desired lift you need.
When to wear it:
You can wear this when you have a backless, strapless kind of outfit. However, it doesn’t offer enough support to those with bigger breasts. Mostly worn to formal occasions or parties.
11) Sports Bra
Mostly used for an intense activity to support your breasts and back. It ensures a tight fit and reduces the amount the breasts bounce.
When to wear it:
Worn when working out, whether on a run, at a gym, yoga studio etc.
12) T-shirt Bra
A T-shirt bra is a must-have item for all women because of its seamless cups that give one a smooth look under their fitted tees. These bras are also incredibly comfortable.
When to wear it:
With a t-shirt of course or any form-fitting top.
13) Strapless
As the name suggests this bra doesn’t have any straps but still provides the same support of a regular bra. These bras often have underwire to support the weight of one’s breasts and come with a silicone or rubber lining that prevents the bra from slipping or rolling over.
When to wear it:
A strapless bra is another wardrobe must-have because it is perfect for those dressy occasions when the dress style is a bit more complicated. It would require you to wear a bra that does justice to the outfit, so make sure it has a seamless look under your clothes, the band doesn’t slip and rollover your breasts, it supports the weight of your breasts and the underwire doesn’t dig into your sides.
14) Convertible Bra
If you’re looking for a versatile bra then this one is perfect for you. The straps of this bra can detach from both ends and can be re-attached in many ways to suit the kind of outfit one is wearing.
When to wear it:
The best part about this bra that it can transform to look like many styles to match your outfit or mood. All you have to do is change the straps around and you have yourself a multipurpose bra.
15) Maternity Bra
A maternity bra is different from a nursing bra. This bra is designed to accommodate a pregnant woman’s fluctuating breast size during her pregnancy. So these bras a made from stretchy fabric and come with extra support and adjustable straps and back clasps.
When to wear it:
This bra is best for when you enter your first trimester and start producing milk and when you continue lactating post giving birth.
16) Racerback Bra
This particular bra forms an X shape in between the shoulder blades on the back. It offers support and helps distribute the weight of one’s breasts.
When to wear it:
This bra is great for when you wear gunjees or clothes with a halter cut because of its discreet style it works better than the regular styles.
What are some of the bras you use? Let me know in the comments below.
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