The Best Bra Styles For Projected Breasts
When it comes to finding our perfect bra fit, many of us don’t consider anything beyond the band and cup sizes. However, important as those two are, they’re not the entire picture. Breasts come in different shapes as well as different sizes, and you’ll get the best fit in a bra that’s shaped like your own body.
For example, wide-set breasts need a bra with wide-set cups, and close-set breasts need cups that are close together. How shallow or deep your breasts are matters too. This article focuses on ‘projected’ breasts, and explains how to find a bra that will fit them well.
What are projected breasts?
Projected breasts are the opposite of shallow breasts – deep breasts, essentially, although the term ‘projected’ is more common. They are projected in the sense that when you bend over forwards or wear a supportive bra, they stick out quite far from your ribcage. Note that when you are braless, it’s possible that gravity will mean your breasts hang down more than they jut out forwards. The important thing is how they look when supported.
Projected breasts are often described as being very full or rounded. They are more common among larger sizes, although smaller-busted people can have them too. They’re also very likely to be your breast shape if you have implants.
Fit problems of projected breasts
People with projected breasts are pretty lucky, in that many bras are made to fit this kind of shape. You’re certainly less likely in general to have fit issues than someone with shallow breasts.
If you do have a fit problem, however, it’s probably going to be cup overspill. If you wear a bra that’s too shallow a shape for you, it will cut in and your breast tissue will end up bulging over the top. Also, because your bust sticks out quite far, a common complaint is shirt buttons that look strained or are constantly popping open.
Related: Why Does My Bra Look Lumpy Under Clothing?
Vanna Unlined Wire Bra | Vanna Hipster in Bare/Ivory
Ideal bra styles for projected breasts
Horizontal seams
Bra seams have different functions depending on the direction they’re going in. A vertical seam is there to add lift. A horizontal seam, on the other hand, adds depth to the cup, so this is exactly what you need! It’s fine if the bra has both vertical and horizontal seams, by the way.
Narrow underwires
I am not referring to the thickness of the wire itself, but the curve it follows. Some underwires have a wider U shape than others – think of it as a cross-section of a cup versus a bowl. The part of your breasts that joins your chest is called the root, and projected breasts tend to have a smaller one. That’s why they stick out, because the breast tissue is not being spread out over a larger surface area.
A 36F with a narrow wire will typically have a deeper cup than a 36F with a wider one, so that they can both hold the same volume. Different brands use different wire styles as standard, so head to a store to compare a few or ask a bra fitter for recommendations.
Minimizer bras
If your problem isn’t finding bras that fit so much as it is finding shirts that won’t pop open, you might want to consider a minimizer bra. These compress your breasts down, making them flatter and wider. In other words, they reduce breast projection!
If you have projected breasts, what’s your biggest fit hang-up? And what are your preferred bra styles?
Related: What’s The Difference Between Projected Breasts and Shallow Breasts?
Enora Minimizer Bra | Enora Bikini in Raspberry
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!
