Bra Shopping Tips: The Best Bras To Wear Under Plunging and Low-Cut Necklines
Sometimes choosing the right bra can be just as challenging as putting the whole outfit together. We all have those days where we feel like we don’t have the right lingerie to wear.
This year, we’re focused on building lingerie wardrobes that work with our outfits – not against them. With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to clean out your lingerie drawer and get rid of bras that don’t fit or flatter your bust and stock up on bras that make you feel amazing, supported, and confident every day (believe it or not – lingerie can be a powerful mood booster!)
For many of us, bra shopping is a challenging, stressful, and frustrating experience. You’re not alone if you hate bra shopping and wait until your last bra breaks before buying a new one. But there is a lot more to bra shopping than trying on bras. As a bra fitter, I’ve helped thousands of people find bras that fit, so I’ve created a few guides to help you along the way and make bra shopping easier than ever for you. Feel free to ask any questions below or visit your local lingerie store for extra help. They’re also happy to answer any lingerie-related questions you might have.
Now onto the good stuff. In these guides, we’ll be covering some of your most popular lingerie questions, like: “What bra should I wear under a t-shirt?”, “What’s the best bra for a low-cut neckline?”, and “What bra works best under a backless dress?” No matter your bra size, breast shape, or budget, I’ll be sharing the styles that suit each outfit – and a few important fit tips to keep in mind, too.
Next up: the best bras to wear under tops and dresses with plunging or low-cut necklines. Read on for everything you need to know!
Plunging or Low-Cut Necklines
Plunge bras
Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra | Sandrine Hipster in Wild Pink
Need a bra that won’t show under a low-cut neckline? Look no further than a plunge bra. This daring style will enhance your cleavage and give you the sexy look that you’re looking for. Design-wise, plunge bras are typically molded bras with a low center panel. Their design brings breast tissue front and center – making them a stellar choice for v-necklines. Because you’re going against gravity to lift breast up, you’ll need a snug band to keep everything in place.
Emma Plunge Molded Bra | Emma Hipster in Black
Plunge bras, like any other bra style, will fit best with a snug band that fits comfortably but feels firm and secure. So even if the band feels snug (but not tight) at first, opt for that size because it will stretch in time depending on how often you wear it (and how well you take care of it).
Casey Plunge Molded Bra | Casey Boyshort in Ruby Wine
Demi bras
Marion Unlined Wire Bra | Marion Hipster in Pink Parfait
For some breast shapes, plunge bras are a tricky fit. With cups that are cut straight across (as opposed to angled toward the center like a plunge bra) and wide set straps, a demi bra might be a better solution if you struggle with finding plunge bras that flatter your bust.
Charlotte Padded Bra | Charlotte Bikini in Bronze
Demi bras are designed to cover half of the breasts while providing a lifted look. No need to worry about your breast tissue spilling out of the center or having to readjust your breast tissue throughout the day. Demi bras are a universally-flattering style that works for almost every breast shape, so there’s a good chance it will work for you too.
Related: Demi Bra vs Push Up Bra: What’s The Difference Between A Demi Bra and A Push Up Bra?
Cora Longline Bra | Cora Bikini in Navy Blue
Fit tips
Emma Plunge Molded Bra | Emma Hipster in Nude
Real talk: It can challenging to find a bra that works with a plunging neckline. No matter which style you choose, opt for a snug band that feels secure and stays in place. For a new bra, you’ll want to start the bra on the loosest hook to get the most wear out of the bra. Keep in mind that the placement of the band is crucial to the fit – you don’t want the bra band to ride up your back.
If you choose a plunge bra or push-up bra with padding, the band may move up your back if the band is loose-fitting. For the best fit, your band should be parallel to the floor. You should also be able to fit two fingers between your skin and the band. Any less and the band is too tight; any more and the band is too loose.
Another fit tip: Don’t over tighten the straps. Tightening the straps will not give you the lift you want – that comes from the band and cups working together. Instead, be sure you can fit two fingers between your skin and the strap without the band moving up (adjust the straps accordingly if you need to).
Romina Unlined Wire Bra | Romina Hipster in Mediterranean Blue
Plunge bras have a tendency to push breast tissue toward the center. If your breast tissue is full at the bottom, you want feel like it’s trying to escape through the center of the bra. In some cases, a plunge bra may not work for you – and that’s totally ok. If you can make it work or only need to wear the bra for a few hours, consider using double sided fashion tape to avoid a possible wardrobe malfunction.
Demi bras are a great option for a number of breast shapes. Keep in mind the same principles for fit – snug band, breast tissue contained within the wires of the cups, and adjusted straps – and you’ll be good to go!
If you’re having trouble finding a bra that fits well, set aside some time to visit your local lingerie store for a bra fitting and get help from lingerie experts. A supportive and comfortable bra is worth the extra time and effort. Good luck!
Related: 8 Empowering Reasons To Wear Beautiful Lingerie
Charlotte Padded Bra | Charlotte Bikini in Blossom Print
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!
