Finding Your Bra Style

A good foundation will change how our clothes look - and different bra styles also make a noticeable difference. Different styles of bras can change how "the girls" look by realigning the mass of breast tissue, to create more cleavage, minimize your silhouette, balance different sizes, or add a little extra, but not every style will suit every body.

from "how to look good naked" February 23rd, 2010

Some of the most popular styles are explained below, keep in mind that your needs will change depending on your clothing style or activity, and your comfort is vital to having a fabulous day.

balconette or demi cups - both styles have less top coverage while providing support from the bottom and sides. Usually the fabric ends 1" above the nipple, but there are adjusted styles available in DD+ cup sizes. Flattering under low scoop or square necklines, this style is available in lace, lined or padded push up versions, with wide set shoulder straps. The shallow underwire can be designed to push breast tissue from under the arms toward your cleavage, and is also a great fit for petite women.

full cups - completely encasing the breast, whether with lace or a combination of lace and fabric, this bra has excellent support and control. Flat seams are arranged in 2-part or 3-part styles to accommodate a variety of breast shapes. Shoulder straps are usually centered, and is available in underwire or soft band styles.

minimizer - while it is impossible for a bra to reduce the mass of your breast tissue, this style is designed to move it away from the front. By compressing the breast towards the underarm, while still providing overall support, it can ease the problem of gaping buttons for many women.

molded cup - single or multiple layers of fabric are shaped with heat to provide the breast with seamless coverage. Full coverage is provided in a softly rounded shape, with or without underwire, giving a natural silhouette. When combined with thicker straps, this makes a butter-soft everyday bra.

t-shirt or contour cup - molded with heat, this seamless bra has an additional fill layer for a smooth shaped finish. Invisible under light fabrics and knits, the name refers more to the finish than a specific fit, the fill layer can be light, rigid, or padded. T-shirt bras provide excellent nipple coverage and are available in a variety of necklines and shapes, shoulder straps can be centered, on the outside, or adjustable. Beneficial in disguising uneven breast sizes, be sure to try on several styles to find your perfect fit.

tulip cup - 3-part bra centers the bust for an uplifted younger looking silhouette. Three quarter coverage works well for fuller sizes that do not want the full cup coverage.

strapless style - removable straps provide a variety of wear options, but the bra is designed to support and stay in place without straps. The support comes from the band (and seams) and is therefor usually a tighter fit than your everyday bra. Styles with underwire are better at creating definition, a soft band or bandeau style will tend to flatten your cleavage. Additional support comes from a higher gore (the fabric that connects the underwire at the center of your bra).