Types of Bras for Women
Style + Beauty

Types of Bras for Women

Types of Bras for Women

As women, we have a ton to deal with when it comes to caring for our bodies. I mean, we have to take care of our menstrual cycles and health and that includes our breast health. Did you know having the proper bra and bra sizing is extremely important for the health of your breasts? If you have a bra that is too tight it is putting unnecessary strain and pressure on your breasts and if your bra is too big, it is not giving you the proper support needed. There are so many different types of bras for women that we made this post to break it all down. We even had questions of our own to answer while writing and we are thrilled with how this post turned out. We hope that this Types of Bras for Women post inspires you. 

Types of Bras for Women

Types of Bras for Women

There are so many Types of Bras for Women that we had to decode some of the bras to figure out exactly what they were or should be classified as. This list is not inclusive. However, this is a curated list of the best of the best from around the Internet. We searched for the highest and most beloved bras to bring you this post. So here are a lot of the Types of Bras for Women. 

Underwire Bra

An underwire bra is a type of bra that has a thin, curved band of wire sewn into the underside of each cup. The wire is typically made of metal, plastic, or resin. It helps to lift, separate, shape, and support the breasts.

Bandeau Bra

A bandeau bra is a strapless bra that typically has a tube-shaped design. It often doesn't have any cups or wires and relies on a snug band to provide support. Bandeau bras are available in a variety of styles, including padded, seamless, and lace.

  • Skims Fits Everybody Bandeau Bralette is a popular choice for its comfortable, stretchy fabric and its ability to fit a wide range of bust sizes. It's wireless and seamless, making it a good option for everyday wear.
  • Aerie SMOOTHEZ Bandeau Bralette is another comfortable and affordable option. It has removable padding, so you can customize the level of support you need.
  • Soma Enbliss Bandeau Bra is a great option for those who are looking for a soft and comfortable bandeau. It's wireless and has a wide band that provides support without digging in.

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Sports Bra

A sports bra is a specialized type of bra designed to provide support to the breasts during exercise. They are typically sturdier than regular bras and compress the breasts more firmly to minimize movement. This can help to reduce pain and discomfort caused by bouncing breasts during physical activity.

Types of Bras for Women

Types of Bras for Women

Stick On Bra

A stick-on bra, also called an adhesive bra, backless bra, or sticky bra, is a type of bra that adheres directly to your skin without straps or back closure. They are typically made of silicone or similar material and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and thicknesses to provide different levels of lift, cleavage, and support. Stick-on bras are ideal for wearing under strapless or backless garments, but they can also be used with low-cut tops or dresses for added lift or cleavage.

  • Nood Game Changer Lift & Shape Bra is a patch bra that is customizable and available in four different size options for support up to an I cup size. It has a variety of shade options to match different skin tones and is made from a smooth material to stay hidden under clothes. Users consider it ultra-strong, almost invisible, and long-lasting. On the downside, it's a single-use product and requires additional nipple covers. Application takes some practice and it can be difficult to remove. 
  • Niidor Adhesive Bra with Front Closure is a hybrid between nipple covers and padded bras, providing lift and coverage. It has an average rating of 4.58 out of 5 based on 277 user ratings and is priced at $25.99.
  • Cleavage Couture Backless Wing Style Bra is a highly rated sticky bra that costs around $34.00 and is designed to support and enhance cleavage. It adds lift and has a front drawstring closure for a personalized fit
  • NuBra Seamless Push Up Adhesive Bra is a super lightweight seamless adhesive bra with built-in push-up pads and a center clasp for adjustable cleavage enhancement. It's typically priced between $47.00 and $49.00

Full-Cup Bra

A full-cup bra is a type of bra that provides maximum coverage for the breasts. The cups completely enclose the breasts, unlike balconette or demi bras which reveal more cleavage. Full cup bras typically have a higher neckline that sits closer to the shoulders, and wider straps for additional support. Full-cup bras are ideal for larger busts, as they provide the most lift and support. They can also be a good option for women who want a smooth, streamlined look under clothing.

  • Wacoal Awareness Underwire Bra is a favorite for its full coverage, comfort, and wide straps. It's also available in multiple plus sizes. While on the pricier side, users find the quality and support to be worth the cost.
  • Freya Idol Balcony Bra is another great option for those looking for full coverage and support. It has a balcony style that lifts and shapes the breasts, and it comes in cup sizes up to L. However, some reviewers say it runs small and has thin shoulder straps.
  • Vanity Fair Beauty Back Full Figure Underwire Bra is a budget-friendly option that is known for its durability and comfort. It provides good lift and support, and it comes in a variety of colors. Some users find the cups to be a bit thick.
  • Playtex 18-Hour Wirefree Bra is a comfortable and affordable option that provides good lift and support. It has wide, adjustable straps that prevent digging, and it has a back-smoothing design that helps to minimize bulges. However, some reviewers find the material to be irritating.
  • Bali Women's Double Support Lace Wirefree Bra is a great option for those who are looking for a comfortable and supportive wire-free bra. It comes in a variety of sizes, and it has double-layered cups for added support. However, some reviewers find the straps to be difficult to adjust.

Longline Bra

A longline bra is a bra that extends lower down the torso than a standard bra. The additional band around the torso can help to provide more support for the breasts, which can be helpful for women with larger busts or for those who engage in high-impact activities. The longline design can help to smooth out the torso and create a more streamlined silhouette. Some longline bras are designed to provide core support, which can help to improve posture and stability. Longline bras are usually made from soft, stretchy fabrics that can be more comfortable to wear than traditional bras.

Types of Bras for Women

Types of Bras for Women

 

Molded Cup Bra

A molded cup bra is a type of bra that has cups that are pre-shaped to conform to the natural curves of the breasts. They are typically made from a smooth, seamless fabric and can provide a more rounded and uplifted appearance than other types of bras.

  • Playtex Women's 18 Hour Wirefree Bra is a popular choice for its comfort and affordability. It has a wireless design with soft jersey-lined cups and a wide, cushioned strap to prevent digging.
  • Jockey Women's EcoSeamfree Rib Molded Cup Plunge Bralette is a great option for those looking for a comfortable and stylish bralette. It's made from a recycled nylon blend and has a plunging neckline with lightly lined molded cups.
  • ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra is a favorite for its wide range of sizes and colors, including half-cup sizes. It has a smooth, invisible design that works well under clothes and offers a comfortable fit.
  • Freya Idol Balcony Bra is a good option for those who need more support. It's a full-coverage underwire bra with supportive underwires and wide wings.

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Built-In Bra

A built-in bra, also known as a shelf bra, is a bra that is integrated into another garment, such as a tank top, camisole, or athletic wear. It typically provides light to moderate support and is designed for comfort and convenience. Built-in bras come in various styles and levels of support.

  • 32 Degrees Women's Cool Flowy Bra Cami is a great budget-friendly option. It's available in a wide range of colors and sizes, and it's made from moisture-wicking, anti-static, and anti-odor fabric. It has a relaxed fit and adjustable straps, and it's machine washable. Customers love how comfortable and versatile it is – you can wear it for workouts or everyday wear. 
  • Duluth Trading Company Women's No-Yank Wireless Bra Tank is another comfortable option that many customers love. It has a built-in wireless bra that provides light to medium support, and the soft, stretchy fabric moves along with you. It's also machine washable and comes in a variety of colors and sizes. 
  • pact Organic Women's Everyday Shelf Bra Camisole is another affordable option that is made from super soft, breathable cotton. It has a built-in wireless shelf bra and adjustable straps. This is another good choice for everyday wear or light activity.
  • SheBird Fly-Free Ribbed Cami with Built-In Bra is a more fashion-forward option that features a built-in wire-free bra and sleek straps. This is a good choice for everyday wear or light activity.

Nursing Bra

A nursing bra is a type of bra designed specifically for breastfeeding mothers. It provides support and comfort while also allowing for easy access to the breast for feeding. Nursing bras typically have cups that can be unclipped or pulled down from the shoulder straps with one hand. This makes it much easier to breastfeed a baby without having to take off the entire bra. This is one of the most important different types of bras for women so it is important to choose wisely. Spend whatever you need to so it's comfortable. 

  • Auden Women's Seamless Nursing Bra is a great option for those looking for a comfortable and affordable bra. It's made from a soft, stretchy material that's gentle on your skin, and it has a simple design that's easy to use.
  • Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Nursing Pumping Bra is a good option for moms who want a bra that can do it all. This bra allows you to pump and nurse from the same bra, so you don't have to worry about changing in between. It's also very comfortable and supportive.
  • Bravado Designs Women's Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra is a luxurious option that's perfect for everyday wear. It's made from a super-soft fabric that's comfortable to wear all day long, and it comes in a variety of colors to suit your style. It typically costs around $29.40.

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Types of Bras for Women

Racerback Bra

A racerback bra is a type of bra that has a Y-shaped back, where the straps meet at the center of the shoulder blades. The racerback design helps to distribute weight more evenly across the back, which can provide more support for the breasts, especially during physical activity. The wider straps of a racerback bra can help to reduce digging and discomfort on the shoulders. Racerback bras can be worn under a variety of clothing styles, including tank tops and low-cut shirts. For all types of bras for women, this style tends to be one of my faves. 

  • Soma Women's Enbliss Racerback Bralette, a wireless bralette, is very popular for its softness and comfort. It has a V-neck design and adjustable racerback straps, and it comes with removable cups for customization. It is a great option for everyday wear and low-impact activities.
  • TomboyX Racerback Bra Cotton Comfort Wireless is made from a soft, breathable cotton blend and is perfect for daily wear and gentle activities. It is available in a wide range of sizes, from XS to 6X, and it is OEKO-TEX Certified to ensure that it is made with non-toxic materials. 
  • Wacoal Women's Body by Wacoal Racerback Underwire Bra is a good option for women who want both support and comfort. It has a front closure and racerback straps, and the cups are made from a lightweight knit fabric that is comfortable against the skin.

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Plunge Bra

A plunge bra is a type of bra that has a low neckline that dips down in the center. This style of bra is designed to be worn with low-cut clothing, such as plunging necklines, deep V-necks, and backless dresses. Plunge bras typically have deeper cups than other types of bras, and they may also have features like push-up padding or a balconette cut to create cleavage.

  • Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra is a favorite among many users, especially those with larger cup sizes. It has a very flattering plunge neckline and offers great support and uplift.
  • Freya Deco Underwire Plunge Bra is another well-liked option, particularly because it comes in a wide range of sizes. It's designed to be sleek and flattering and offers good support.
  • Panache Ana Plunge Bra is known for its beautiful design and comfortable fit. It also provides good support for larger busts.

Convertible Bra

A convertible bra is a versatile bra that offers multiple ways to wear the straps. This allows you to wear the bra with different necklines and clothing styles. Traditional straps are the most common way to wear a bra. The straps go over your shoulders and connect in the back. Some convertible bras have straps that can be completely removed, so you can wear the bra strapless under strapless tops or dresses. Convertible bras may have straps that can be connected at the back of the neck for a halter style. This is a good option for backless tops or dresses. Some convertible bras allow you to crisscross the straps in the back. This can be a more comfortable option for some people, and it can also help to give you a more lifted look. For different types of bras for women, this style is definitely the most versatile. 

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Different Types of Bras for Women

Push-Up Bra

A push-up bra is a type of bra designed to create cleavage and lift the breasts. They typically achieve this effect through the use of padding or inserts placed in the cups of the bra. Push-up bras can come with or without an underwire. Push-up bras use padding to add volume to the breasts and push them together. Padding can be light or heavy, depending on the desired amount of lift. Underwire bras have a metal band that goes underneath the breasts. This band can provide additional support and lift. Push-up bras are designed to create cleavage by pushing the breasts together and lifting them. The amount of cleavage will vary depending on the size and shape of the breasts, as well as the design of the bra.

  • Skims Fits Everybody Push-up Bra is designed to be comfortable and flattering for all body types. It has a wireless design and light padding for a subtle lift.
  • Smart & Sexy Women's Signature Lace Push-Up Bra is a wired push-up bra that is a popular choice for women who want a significant amount of lift. It has a lace overlay and comes in a variety of colors. This bra is currently priced at $14.94 on Amazon: amazon.com.
  • Maidenform Women's Love the Lift Push-Up Bra is a wired push-up bra that is designed to be comfortable and supportive. It has a full-coverage cup design and comes in a variety of colors and sizes. 
  • Aerie Sunnie Wireless Push-Up Bra is another wireless option that is popular for its comfort and affordability. It has a deeper plunge neckline than the Skims bra, and it comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

Balconette Bra

A balconette bra is a lingerie style known for its supportive lift and flattering cleavage. Balconette bras have shallower cups compared to full-coverage bras. This offers less overall coverage but creates a rounded, uplifted shape. Most balconette bras come with an underwire for added support and structure. The straps tend to be wider-set than regular bras, sitting further apart on your shoulders. They often connect to the cups at the sides rather than the center top. The wider straps can provide additional comfort and lift. Balconette bras are generally considered a sexy and flattering style. They can be a good option for lower-cut necklines as they tend to stay hidden, and their design is said to accentuate cleavage.

  • b.tempt'd by Wacoal Ciao Bella Balconette Bra is a beautiful floral lace overlay on the cups and sides is complemented with a sheer organza bow at the center front. It is lightweight and offers a light lift and cleavage. 
  • Soma Women's Stunning Support Balconette Bra is a full-coverage bra with a sweetheart neckline. It has a 4.46 out of 5-star rating with nearly 800 reviews. Users say it's very supportive and comfortable. 
  • Natori Women's Plush Romance Balconette Bra is made from soft and stretchy lace fabric that conforms to your body for a comfortable and flexible fit. It's designed to provide full support and coverage, and the cups of this balconette are non-padded, offering a natural shape and feel without adding extra bulk. 

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Triangle Bra

A triangle bra is a type of bra that features two triangle-shaped cups that cover the breasts. Unlike some other bras, triangle bras typically don't have an underwire for support. They may have padding or be unlined. Triangle bras come in a variety of materials, including lace, cotton, and microfiber. Triangle bras are designed to provide light to moderate support. They're a good option for women with smaller busts or for those who prefer a more comfortable fit. They can also be worn as a bralette under sheer clothing or for light activity.

  • True & Co. Women's True Everybody Adjustable Strap Triangle Bra is a wireless bra that offers soft support and features removable pads for additional shaping and coverage. It has an average rating of 4.48 out of 5 based on over 550 user ratings and is priced between $18.00 and $22.99.
  • Parade Vintage Soft Triangle Bralette is made with certified recycled materials from a best-selling sustainable cotton alternative. Soft just got softer in the comfy triangle bralette of your dreams. Wear it to bed, brunch, and beyond—you might forget you have it on. Triangle neckline. Adjustable, convertible straps. Contrast stitching details (only some styles). A-F cup sizes.
  • WAMA Women's Triangle Bralette is designed for everyday wear and is made with a hemp fabric blend. The triangle shape makes it a perfect match for low-cut looks, or any looks you prefer. Traditional fit with adjustable, convertible straps and no underwire! Supportive design, double-layered fabric made with our signature hemp fabric blend so you know you're fully protected, naturally.

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Types of Bras for Women

Corset Bra

A corset bra is a type of bra that is designed to give the wearer an hourglass figure. It typically has a wider band than a regular bra, and it may also have boning or shaping seams. Corset bras can be made from a variety of materials, including lace, mesh, and satin.

Strapless Bra

A strapless bra is a type of bra that does not have straps that go over the shoulders. They are designed to be worn with clothing that exposes the shoulders, such as strapless dresses, halter tops, and backless gowns. Strapless bras typically have a band that goes around the body and a cup that covers the breast. They may also have features to help them stay in place, such as silicone lining, wide bands, or boning.

  • Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra is a favorite for larger busts as it provides excellent lift and support without slipping. It also comes in a wider range of cup sizes than many other strapless bras.
  • ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra is another good option for everyday wear. It has a convertible design that can be worn strapless, halter, or crisscross, and it comes in a wide range of sizes and half sizes to ensure a good fit. However, some reviewers say the underwire can dig in and cups may gape on those with smaller busts.
  • Spanx Up for Anything Strapless Bra is a comfortable option that has memory foam cups and a seamless band. It also has removable straps that can be worn in a variety of ways. However, some reviewers say it may not support larger busts.
  • Natori Feathers Strapless Plunge Bra is a great option for a low-cut dress. It has a plunging neckline and convertible straps that can be worn strapless, halter, or crisscross. However, it is on the more expensive side and has a limited size range.
  • Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Lightly Lined Bra is a great all-around option that is comfortable, supportive and comes in a wide range of nude colors. It features a snug fit with lightweight material and is designed for everyday wear.

T-Shirt Bra

A T-shirt bra is a type of bra designed to be worn under close-fitting clothing, particularly t-shirts. They are typically made from smooth, seamless fabrics that won't show through your clothes and provide a smooth, rounded silhouette.

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Types of Bras for Women

Bralette

A bralette is a type of bra designed for comfort, typically made with soft fabrics and lacking an underwire or heavy padding. This makes them much softer and more flexible than traditional bras. They may have thin or thick straps, and come in various designs, sometimes with lace or other decorative elements.

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Padded Bras

These bras have padding in the cups to add lift and cleavage or to create a smoother silhouette.

Unlined Bras

These bras do not have any padding in the cups. They are a good choice for women who want a more natural look or who prefer a cooler feel.

  • Soma Women's Embraceable Full Coverage Wireless Bra is a popular choice for those who prioritize comfort. It's an unlined, wireless bra that offers maximum coverage and support. It has a soft, stretchy fabric and a wide band that helps to prevent digging. Customers love how comfortable and supportive it is, and that it works well under even close-fitting clothing.
  • Wacoal Women's Basic Beauty Full Figure Underwire Bra is a good option for those who need a bit more support. It's an unlined, underwire bra that's designed for full-figured women. It has close-set straps to help prevent slipping, and full-coverage cups to help smooth out bulges. Reviewers appreciate the fit and support that this bra provides.
  • Delimira Women's Racerback Front Closure Plus Size Seamless Comfort Underwire Bra is another great option for plus-size women. It has a racerback design that helps to prevent straps from slipping and a front-closure design that makes it easy to put on and take off. The bra is also made from a soft, seamless fabric that is comfortable to wear.
  • Pepper Signature Unlined Demi Bra is a great option for those who are looking for a sexy and stylish unlined bra. It has a low-cut neckline and scalloped lace detailing. The bra is also made from a sheer mesh fabric that is both comfortable and breathable. However, keep in mind that with only 21 reviews, it may be a good idea to check other sources for a wider range of user opinions.

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Different Types of Bras for Women

Halter Bra

These bras have a single strap that goes around the neck and behind the back. They are typically not very supportive and are best for smaller busts.

Front-Clasp Bra

These bras clasp in the front instead of the back. They can be a good choice for people who have difficulty reaching behind their backs.

Bra Size Finder  |  Find Bra Size Calculator

Demi Bras

These bras offer less coverage than full-coverage bras. They typically cut low in the front and may reveal some cleavage. The cups typically cover half of the breast. Demi bras are a good choice for creating cleavage.

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Types of Bras for Women

Minimizer Bra

A minimizer bra is a type of bra designed to reduce the appearance of breast size. Minimizer bras may use thicker fabrics or special cup designs to compress the breast tissue, creating a smoother silhouette. The cups of a minimizer bra may be designed to spread breast tissue out towards the sides and back, rather than focusing it forward. This can create a more balanced appearance. Minimizer bras are available in a variety of styles, including underwire, wireless, full-coverage, and demi-cup. They can also be made from different materials, such as lace, mesh, and microfiber.

  • Chantelle C Magnifique Seamless Minimizer Bra is a good option for women who are looking for an unlined bra that can help minimize the appearance of their breasts. It has interior support panels and full-coverage cups to help center the breasts and create a minimized effect. The bra is also made from a soft, seamless fabric that is comfortable to wear all day long. While it has a very positive rating, this bra is on the more expensive side.
  • Vanity Fair Beauty Back Full Figure Minimizer Bra is popular for its affordability and user comfort. It features a full-coverage design with underwire support and a leotard back to prevent slipping
  • Wacoal Visual Effects Minimizer Bra is another popular option, especially for those with larger cup sizes (C-G). It is designed to minimize the bustline by up to one inch and is made with breathable materials for all-day comfort.
  • Glamorise MagicLift Minimizer Bra is a wireless minimizer bra that is popular for its comfortable design and supportive features. It features foam-lined bands for comfort, thick straps for support, and cotton blend bottom cups for moisture-wicking.
  • Spanx Low Profile Minimizer Bra is a higher-end option that uses innovative sling technology to minimize breast size by up to one inch. It is a full-coverage bra with a sleek design.
  • Bali Women's Passion for Comfort Minimizer Underwire Bra is a great value option that is comfortable and minimizes the bust profile by up to 1.5 inches. It features seamless cups and a hidden underwire for a smooth look.

Pasties

No list of types of bras for women would be complete without the addition of pasties. I have never been able to wear them, being a 36D but I always recommend them because I see how much they help others and I am all about the nipple cover when I go out. Pasties are small, adhesive covers that typically only cover the nipples. They are often worn with backless or strapless dresses to provide nipple coverage without the structure of a traditional bra. Pasties can be made from silicone, fabric, or other materials.

Tips for Choosing Pasties

  • Coverage: How much coverage do you need? Some pasties are a type of bras that are small and round, while others are larger and petal-shaped.
  • Adhesive: How strongly does the adhesive need to be? Will you be sweating or dancing?
  • Comfort: How long will you be wearing the pasties bra?
  • Support: How much support do you need? If you have a larger chest, you may want a pasties bra with a built-in lifting effect.
  • Skin sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a pasties bra made from hypoallergenic materials.

Types of Bras for Women

I know, there are a ton of types of bras for women out there and you're probably thinking, why do I need all of those? Different type of bras fit people differently so a tryon is always important. Trust me, having at least one of each on hand is helpful when it comes to living your life as a woman. We hope that this Types of Bras for Women post inspires you. Happy shopping!

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