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How Do Minimizer Bras Work

Have you ever come across a minimizer bra, and wondered what it does, or how it functions? More and more of this particular style have been popping up in recent years, and large-breasted women are taking notice — with good reason. Just as the name implies, a minimizer bra can offer some reduction (sometimes up to a cup size), aiding in both your comfort and the appearance of your breasts under clothes.

Intrigued? Read on to find out everything you need to know about minimizer bras.

How do minimizer bras work?

Put simply, minimizer bras work differently than traditional bras because rather than gathering breast tissue in the front, they distribute it more evenly across the chest, reducing projection. Depending on their functional features (and your breast size), some of them can take up to 1.5 or 2 inches off your bustline.

Benefits of minimizer bras

Ever noticed some gaping (or worse, a button popping open) when you wear a button-down shirt? Minimizer bras to the rescue — and that’s just one issue they can help solve.

If you tend to struggle with bulges in the side or back when you wear a bra, a minimizer style can assist in smoothing those out. They can also help lessen bounce, a common concern for large breasted women.

Minimizer bras are a phenomenal option if shaping and support are two of your top priorities, as they have much to offer in both areas. You may find that clothing hangs better on your body when wearing a minimizer bra underneath.


Related: Top 5 Best Bra Styles for Big Boobs


Tips for choosing a minimizer bra

A common misconception when buying a minimizer bra is that you’re supposed to go down a size. In reality, that will cause too much compression on your breasts (which will give an unflattering appearance, and moreover, likely be uncomfortable). In general, you’ll wear the same size for a minimizer as you wear in the rest of your bras. Keep in mind that your breasts should fit snugly in the cups without feeling squashed down. The right minimizer bra will allow you to feel supported, secure and comfy — in fact, while you’ll definitely see a difference, ideally, you won’t really feel that it’s there.

Look for an underwire minimizer bra that has adjustable shoulder straps and a bit of spandex in the construction, as well as elastic at the top of the cup and at the underband for an optimal fit. Keep in mind that three-part cups are ideal because they lend a balanced, perky shape that makes form-fitting tops and button-downs look even better. Additionally, a center gore that’s both wide and tall with an arched underside is more likely to lay flat against your body.

Lastly, it’s important to note that the amount of reduction a minimizer bra offers will depend on your cup size. For example, if you wear a C size cup, you might only see your breasts go down about ¾ inch, whereas DD size cups and larger may observe a reduction of 1 to 1 ½ inches or more.

what is a minimizer bra

Parfait Enora Minimizer Bra P5272 | Parfait Enora Bikini P5273 in Nude

Related: Why All Women Should Get A Professional Bra Fitting


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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!


Featured image lingerie:
Parfait Enora Minimizer Bra P5272 | Parfait Enora Bikini P5273 in Whisper Blue
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Published by

Rebecca Strong

Rebecca is a Boston-based freelance writer who focuses on style, fitness, food, and travel. She has contributed to such publications as HuffPost, Elite Daily and U.S. News & World Report. When she's not writing, she can be found at home or in the studio working on the songs for her upcoming album. Her favorite bra is a black demi-cup style with all-over-lace — timeless and feminine.

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