How To Find The Right Bra For Your Breast Shape
Have you ever suspected that certain bras simply flatter your breasts better than others? You’re not imagining things. Breasts come in a multitude of different shapes, and particular bra styles are well-suited to each due to their unique construction and features.
Read on for some guidance regarding the bra styles that bring out the best in your bust.
Round
Because you have evenly distributed breast tissue from top to bottom, you’re fortunate in that you can wear literally any bra style you desire. In fact, you may find you prefer unlined styles, which simply show off your naturally rounded shape — try a lace bralette with wire-free cups for some moderate support. The only challenge with this shape can be finding adequate room at the top of the cups (to avoid the dreaded “quad boob” effect).
Asymmetric
If your breasts differ in size (by nearly a cup size or more), seek out molded bras or contour bras — with extra lining or padding, these styles can easily conceal an otherwise noticeable difference in the size of your breasts while also offering shaping benefits.
Athletic
As your chest contains more muscle than breast tissue and your boobs are wide set, the idea is to look for styles that have a low center gore, such as a demi-cup bra or plunge bra, as you don’t require as much coverage there. If you’re eager to enhance your curves, try a push-up bra, which lifts your breast tissue and concentrate it toward the center of your chest. Feel free to sport bralettes as well — whether they’re wire-free or not, they’ll work nicely for your frame.
Slender
Since your breasts are shallow all around (and may be drooping somewhat), your best bet is to seek out styles with lots of support. Therefore, push-up bras, balconette bras, and demi-cup bras are all excellent choices.
Related: The Complete Guide To Breast Shapes
Tear Drop
Just like with round breasts, almost any bra style can work for this shape. Still, as the tear drop shape is fuller on the bottom of the breasts, it’s a good idea to make sure the bra offers plenty of support and lift. If you have a larger bust, longline bras are a stellar choice in this regard (plus, as an extra perk, they can take some of the strain off your back and shoulders!).
Close Set
If there’s little space between your breasts, look for bra styles with a center gore that’s narrow — one that’s too wide will be uncomfortable for your close set boobs, and may even dig into them. For example, a plunge bra can be an excellent option. Styles with cups that offer enhanced separation are a good bet as well.
Wide Set
Since your breasts are set farther out on your chest, you have a larger gap in your cleavage. A balconette style boasts additional fabric above the cups that can help to conceal this extra space. Most importantly, though, you’ll want to find a bra that has ample coverage and sturdy construction on the sides (such as side boning or an inner sling) to keep your breasts secure and prevent them from becoming splayed too far outward by bringing the tissue toward the center of the cups.
Outward Facing
Since the nipples on your breasts point outwards, we advise focusing on bras that can gather the breast tissue toward the middle of your chest. For example, a push-up bra or even a molded bra with side panels can make your breasts appear more centered (while potentially enhancing your cleavage — bonus!).
Hopefully, you’ve now got a handle on what shape you are (if not, be sure to read our guide), as well as which underthings are going to accommodate your given shape. Indeed, your breasts deserve bras that are designed with your individual comfort and aesthetic desires in mind. And if you follow this guide, you’re bound to find a few bras that meet your unique needs.
Related: Which Breast Shape Do You Have?
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.
Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.
If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.
Happy bra shopping!