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Types of bras – advantages and disadvantages

The bra is an essential part of a woman’s wardrobe. The right bra can not only enhance the overall look of your outfit, but also provide comfort throughout the day. In this article, we’ll look at the different types of bras and their pros and cons.

Types of bras:

Not all types of bras fit the same woman equally well. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most common bra types and highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of each model. Once you know which size and type of bra best suits your figure, it will be easier for you to find the right model that meets all your requirements. It is also important to know that the type of cup determines how comfortable the bra is. That’s why we have compiled an overview of the different types of cups.

Bras with multiple cups

In these models, the cups are made from two or more pieces of fabric. Cups with seams also offer the best support. A bra with multi-row cups is almost the only model that provides optimal support for the breasts. All lace bras must also have cup seams, otherwise the lace cannot lie beautifully and correctly. Another advantage of these bras is that they give the breasts a beautiful shape and lift them towards the center. The cups can consist of 2, 3, or even 4 pieces. Most 3-4 piece cups also have a vertical side insert. This helps to move the breast tissue from the armpit closer to the center of the chest, refining your silhouette. If you are a D cup or larger, you should look for bras with multi-piece cups. Not only do they provide good support for your bust, they also shape it beautifully.

Model suitable for:

– voluminous, heavy, and misshapen breasts;

– gives the breasts a more traditional shape, with the right and left breasts pointing in different directions.

The model is not suitable for:

– small breasts that no longer require the support of cups with seams.

Silicone bra (adhesive bra)

A silicone bra is not designed to support the breasts, but it can give them a beautiful shape. Some models add volume to the breasts with additional silicone. The silicone bra is ideal when other bras are unusable, for example with backless dresses.

Model suitable for:

– if you need a good bust size and no other type of bra fits you;

– Additional volume – Models with silicone can visually enlarge the size of your breasts;

– if you want to cover up overly prominent nipples.

The model is not suitable for:

– a bust that needs additional support.

Bralette bra

A bralette is a bra without underwire or fasteners, which means it has to be pulled over the head to put on. Bralettes are also unlined. This type of bra is suitable for people with small breasts.

Model suitable for:

– Rest or sleep;

– a bust that doesn’t need much support.

The model is not suitable for:

– Women who need good support and well-shaped breasts;

– Women who need good support and well-shaped breasts;

Cabrio-BH (Cabrio-BH)

With this bodice model, either both straps or just one strap can be removed. This allows the bra to be adapted to any outfit. For example, you can leave just one strap in place, cross the straps at the back, tie the straps around your neck, or simply leave the bodice without straps.

Model suitable for:

– to wear with unusual clothing, e.g., with asymmetrical shapes;

– The vehicle can be used for a variety of purposes.

The model is not suitable for:

– for women who prefer comfortable or wide straps, as this type of bra has narrow, removable straps;

– For women with large breasts who need good support and for whom narrow straps would be uncomfortable.

Corset/bustier bras (corset/bustier bras)

This type of bra is a strapless bra that fastens with a drawstring or several rows of hooks and loops. The cups of these models are usually demi, which is designed to emphasize the volume of the upper chest. Special corsets and bustiers have a unique structure and fit snugly to the body, with a special belt extending to the waist or even to the hips. These models are equipped with sewn-in underwires, garters, removable straps, and various decorative elements. Very often, a bustier or corset is used as a normal garment and not just as underwear. Most models are fastened at the back with laces or hooks and loops.

Model suitable for:

– for chubby women or women with large breasts;

– Creation of a beautiful décolleté (soft décolleté, lifted breasts);

– Women who need support for their back.

The model is not suitable for:

– for busts where the right and left breasts are far apart and cannot form a beautiful cleavage;

– For women with a narrow waist, the corset may be too large for their upper body;

– Women with a larger waist circumference than the circumference of the bra, as the bra will not fit properly and will be uncomfortable, even if you choose a larger size;

– Women with a pronounced curvature of the spine.

Demi bra

The special feature of these bras is a shorter underwire and less coverage in the upper part of the breasts, as well as wider straps.

Model suitable for:

– small breasts that need to be lifted;

– Women with a delicate figure but large breasts—they want shorter bones and better coverage for their breasts.

– Women with symmastia (enlarged breasts) who require short bones that do not extend to the middle of the sternum.

The model is not suitable for:

– Breasts that are too saggy – the bust will look unattractive;

– for omega-shaped breasts with too much breast tissue for this type of corset;

– Incomplete and conical breasts – cannot fill the cups completely;

– Women who expect the support that only a full-length bra can provide;

– Women who wear large blouses that may extend beyond the cups;

– The straps may slip on women with sloping shoulders.

Front closure bras

This type of bra differs in that it fastens at the front rather than the back. Bras with front fastenings are popular with women because they are easy to put on and take off. However, if you buy a bra like this, you will find that it is not very functional. Firstly, these models usually cannot be adjusted as there is only one clasp at the front. So choose a model that fits you perfectly (the photo shows the Leading Lady 5048 with an adjustable waistband, which is rare for these bodysuits). The center closure is not as supportive as bridge bras, so the bra cups are not as supportive either. In addition, the simple closure prevents the bra from fitting more snugly. It should be added that most complaints received by manufacturers concern bras with front closures. Furthermore, these models have the highest return rate and consumer dissatisfaction. For this reason, some brands have abandoned these models altogether. Even if you like bras with front closures, it will be difficult to find them.

Model suitable for:

– Women who find it difficult or impossible to put their hands behind their backs to fasten their bras;

– in cases where the reverse side must be smooth. Hooks and eyelets must not show through;

– For bust sizes where the right and left breasts are far apart – Bras with front closures have cups that are slightly further apart than normal models.

The model is not suitable for:

– Women who find it important to adjust the length of the bra band—this is not possible with these models;

– For women with symmastia, i.e., overlapping breasts, the bridge in these bras may be too narrow.

– Women who need good support and a reliable springboard;

– Long-lasting comfort – since the waistband is not adjustable, the bra must be replaced when it stretches or becomes too short.

Long bra

The special feature of the longline bra is that its band extends to the waist or even lower. The longline bra is unjustly overlooked by women, even though it is the perfect addition to any fashion designer’s wardrobe.

Such a corset will provide you with:

  • Smooth silhouette – the wide waistband visually conceals unsightly folds and protrusions;
  • Better support – thanks to the wide waistband, the bust is supported by almost the entire upper body, reducing pressure on the shoulders and back;
  • the fact that the clothing fits perfectly—long-line can fit your upper body so perfectly that you can wear a blouse one size smaller.
  • targeted support—the wide waistband also supports problem areas such as the stomach, lower back, and shoulder blades.
  • Comfort – a wide bra band ensures that your clothes fit better and you feel more comfortable.

Women who wear longline bras all the time claim that they significantly reduce shoulder tension and back pain. However, this benefit needs to be examined in detail.

Model suitable for:

– to reduce strain on the shoulders and back;

– To relieve back pain and other discomfort when worn for extended periods of time;

– Women who prefer sets or all-in-one bras;

– for the column-shaped body type;

– Removal of unsightly wrinkles.

The model is not suitable for:

– For women with a small build, the bodice may be too long;

– Apple shapes – the hips will be too narrow and the stomach will be larger than the waist – this can be remedied by enlarging the waist and reducing the cup size;

– Women with a pronounced curvature of the spine – the defects may be too visible.

Minimize bra

This bodice is designed to visually reduce the size of your breasts. Women with large bust sizes appreciate this type of bra because it makes them look much slimmer. The minimizer does not reduce the size of the breast. It merely reduces its projection. Instead of a constricted breast shape, you get a rounder bust and excellent support. The cup has a larger diameter, so that the elastic breast tissue spreads from the center of the breast under the shoulders or slightly lower towards the waist. In some models, one of these two directions predominates. The minimizer usually reduces the bust size in the following order: size B by 1.27 cm, C by 1.9 cm, D by 2.54 cm, and E by 3.2 cm or more. This means that the circumference of the bust is reduced by exactly these numbers. When buying a bra, choose your normal size. Do not think that the smaller the size, the more effective a minimizer bra will be.

Help for the model:

– You can wear blouses or shirts without worrying that they will unbutton at the fastening;

– to visually reduce the breast size of full-figured women;

– Find cups that fit your breasts perfectly—it’s important to choose the right size.

– to achieve a beautiful décolleté with voluminous, wide breasts;

– to give breasts that have lost their shape, or mammary glands with irregular folds underneath, a beautiful shape.

The model is not suitable:

– Women who do not want cleavage between their breasts;

– to enlarge protruding breasts;

– for women with cup sizes larger than G;

– Those who perspire heavily, because part of the breast tissue minimizer moves into the armpit;

– Women with small upper bodies – the breasts may be too close to the neck.

Padded bra (Padded bra)

The padding in the cups not only helps to shape the breasts better, but also to enlarge them slightly and cover protruding nipples. The thickness of the padding can vary, as can its position. For example, it can be placed at the bottom of the cup, on the sides, or evenly across the cup. This category includes bras with any type of padding. Note that bras with removable padding are an excellent solution for women who have one breast larger than the other.

Model suitable for:

– For women with small breasts, such a bodice only makes them appear larger;

– Asymmetrical breast shape – especially with removable inserts.

The model is not suitable for:

– to maintain the natural volume of the breasts;

– for people who sweat a lot – if the filling is not breathable. Foam fillings or special breathable materials are exceptions.

Tiny bra (Tiny bra)

Bras designed specifically for women with petite figures. The cups are closer together, the straps are shorter, and the underwire is not very long.

Model suitable for:

– Women with a fragile figure and small stature;

– Teenage girls with a size B or larger.

The model is not suitable for:

– Women of average height;

– Women with widely spaced breasts who would feel uncomfortable in short cups, and tight-fitting cups would feel uncomfortable in the armpits.

Low-cut bra

Bra with a low neckline for a beautiful décolletage.

Model suitable for:

– Women who want to have a beautiful décolleté;

– For anyone looking for a bra that is invisible under clothing;

– Women who need cleavage without additional bra padding.

The model is not suitable for:

– Calyxes smaller than C;

– Women who need padded cups to create cleavage;

– People who have to bend over constantly – this can cause their breasts to fall out of their cups;

– Sagging, drooping breasts, as well as breasts with an incomplete upper part or sagging mammary glands.

Push-up bra (push-up bra)

The cups of this bra have various inserts at the bottom that lift the breasts, create a beautiful cleavage, and visually enlarge the breasts. The shoulder straps on this model are usually wide apart. Push-up bras often have removable inserts. Most push-up bras are available in size C or smaller with wide-open straps. However, they are also available in size E. The new push-up bras have push-up inserts not only at the bottom, but also at the sides of the cups and at the outer edge. This type of bra not only lifts the breasts, but also brings them together and creates a beautiful cleavage. However, if your breasts are far apart and you have a B cup or smaller, it is unlikely that you will achieve a beautiful cleavage as there is not enough breast tissue.

Model suitable for:

– small, self-supporting breasts and reasonably self-supporting bust;

– To emphasize a graceful and/or sexy bust in a dress with a low neckline or a low-cut top;

– Small bust size that needs a little volume.

The model is not suitable for:

– Sagging and drooping breasts – these breasts do not lift sufficiently;

– asymmetrical breast shape, which requires additional inserts to conceal the difference;

– Women with cup sizes AA and A – the bra will not have the desired effect;

– widely spaced mammary glands that cannot form a beautiful cleavage;

– Women with slumped shoulders whose shoulders constantly shift.

Racerback bra (bra with racerback)

A bra with adjustable straps is very popular because it allows maximum freedom of movement for the straps and back while ensuring that the straps do not slip. Bras with adjustable straps are also known as T-back bras and sports back bras. They are designed to maximize shoulder and back freedom. Another advantage is that the straps are completely hidden behind the sleeveless garment at the back. This type of bra creates a beautiful décolleté. The belt is attached to the shoulder straps in different ways: on the one hand, as a T-shaped strap that is attached to the center back of the bodice, and on the other hand, the shoulder straps are positioned close together by a special partition. Some models have cutouts around the blades. Due to the design of the back of the bra, most models have a closure at the front. Therefore, this model has the same disadvantages as other front-fastening styles. For example, the intersection of the shoulder straps may be too close to the neck, putting pressure on the nerve that runs from the neck to the shoulders. This can lead to headaches, neck pain, numbness, and shoulder pain.

Model suitable for:

– Women with sloping or narrow shoulders;

– create a beautiful décolleté if this bodice has boning;

– to relieve back pain that can be caused by conventional belts;

– With sleeveless dresses, the straps remain invisible;

– Women who want to get rid of fat folds on their backs.

The model is not suitable for:

– Women with sensitive throats;

– Models of certain tops where the straps may be visible.

Seamless or molded bra (seamless/molded bra)

The cups of this type of bra are made from a single piece of fabric without seams and provide the desired shape thanks to their design features. Seamless bras give the breasts a natural round shape without seams. If you prefer to wear tight or form-fitting clothing, a seamless bra is an excellent choice as it is almost invisible under your clothes. If your breasts are a D cup or larger, a seamless bra may not be right for you. The shape of the cups in these bras is predetermined by the manufacturer. However, under the weight of your breasts, they can become misshapen and your breasts can sag. For larger sizes, you can also choose bras with two layers of fabric, which provide better support.

Model suitable for:

– Breasts that do not require additional volume;

– a bust that does not require strong support;

– Soften the contours of the bust under tight-fitting tops and emphasize them naturally.

The model is not suitable for:

– The breasts are unevenly shaped (if the cups are not elastic), with uneven fullness;

– With a bust size larger than F – problems may arise during care;

– Small or sagging breasts – without good support, they look unattractive.

Shelf bra

A low-cut or open bra has underwires, but the cups are very small and do not cover the nipples. This bra is very attractive to men, and women with small breasts can wear this bra instead of classic models and try to achieve a “natural” look for their breasts, but without sagging. If your breasts need support but your clothing does not allow underwires, an open bra is a good choice.

Model suitable for:

– firm breasts and half bust;

– Breasts smaller than a D cup;

– To create the illusion that you are not wearing a bra, but still have good support.

The model is not suitable for:

– Sagging and drooping breasts;

– Large breasts that need support.

Underwire bra (soft/wireless bra)

This bodice does not have underwires in the cups.

Model suitable for:

– Sagging breasts and breasts with widely spaced, widely spread mammary glands;

– A bust, which must be completely covered;

– Women who prioritize comfort above all else – a bust that must be completely covered;

The model is not suitable for:

– For better identification of the bust;

– To achieve a push-up effect with a beautiful décolleté;

– Women who prefer a bodice that fits snugly against the sternum;

– Low-cut blouses.

Sports bra

Another bra model without underwire. Sports bras are specially designed to reduce breast movement during exercise. The special features of the design are the wide straps and the large coverage of the breasts by the cups. The breasts are supported by the inflexible Cooper’s ligaments, and due to constant strain, these ligaments become damaged, leading to sagging breasts. Sports bras therefore prevent damage to the mammary gland tissue. Manufacturers often classify sports bras according to the level of physical activity. If you exercise at different intensities, you will need several different models of sports bras. There are 3 types of sports bras:

  1. A compression bra that looks like a bandage, pressing the breasts against the chest so that they practically merge into one unit—it is suitable for women with an A or B cup size. Thanks to the T-shaped straps, you can comfortably wear a T-shirt or top.
  2. Another type of bra has a separate cup for each breast, so that this type of bra resembles a classic bra with full coverage of the breasts. Wide straps, in some cases clasps and underwires to support the bust;
  3. Bras that combine these two features to provide maximum stability for the breasts—a combination that is becoming increasingly popular.

Model suitable for:

– The gym was specially designed to minimize breast movement during exercise;

– Women whose breasts need support during physical activity;

– For those who need good circulation and support;

– So that your breasts don’t pop out during exercise.

The model is not suitable for:

– Frequent daily use;

– Women who want to enlarge their breasts;

Strapless bra

Any bra with removable straps can be included in this category. Of all bra types, the strapless bra is the most difficult to design. Since there are no straps, the bra’s function depends entirely on the strength of the fabric, the construction of the band, and the shape of the underwire. Strapless bras are called bandeau bras and provide less support for the breasts. Strapless bras offer better support thanks to a wide waistband with special inserts on the sides and front, as well as deep underwires. Silicone strips on the inside of the underwire prevent the breasts from slipping out. Some strapless models also have special inserts in the cups themselves to provide better support for the breasts. The underwire of a strapless bra differs from that of a normal bra. They are slightly higher and more curved to better enclose the breasts. They are also cut at a slight angle, which guarantees better support for the bust and prevents slipping. Even with the most reliable technology, a strapless bra may not always be comfortable and may need to be adjusted throughout the evening, especially for active women with large breasts. Strapless half bras can help with this.

Model suitable for:

– Strapless dresses or tops;

– Elastic or moderately supportive breast shape;

– With a cup size no larger than G;

– Creates a cleavage that other bras cannot achieve.

The model is not suitable for:

– If your breasts are larger than a G cup and require additional support, a bra or half-cup bra is the best choice.

– Women who frequently have to raise or lower their arms.

T-shirt/bra with contour

The special feature of this type of bra is the molded, seamless cups with a small layer of foam that gives the breasts a beautiful shape and covers protruding nipples. Contour bras are ideal for wearing under T-shirts or tight-fitting clothing. With this type of bra, the size range for larger sizes is limited because if the breasts are too full and heavy, the cup will deform, which in turn distorts the shape of the entire bust.

Model suitable for:

– Hidden protruding nipples;

– Uneven, small, insufficiently full, or conical breasts.

The model is not suitable for:

– Women with large and full breasts – problems with support may occur;

– Heavy breasts – they can distort the shape of the cup;

– Small, incomplete, or conical breasts – if they require a thicker layer of foam to achieve a clear and beautiful shape;

– Uneven breasts, which may require additional padding for smaller breasts.

Underwired bra

These bras not only provide good support for the breasts, but also shape them. Until the end of World War II, all bras were strapless. Their invention was a real revolution in the world of clothing, as bras provided good support even with minimal breast coverage. With the advent of underwire bras, there were demi, push-up, strapless, and low-cut styles. However, underwire bras are not suitable for every woman, as they are designed for women with a column-shaped figure without curves, such as a small belly. The underwires should be flush with the rib cage and not sag. Therefore, people with large breasts, petite or pear-shaped figures may not be suitable for underwired underwear, as the underwires can bend and touch or even dig into the body. The solution to this situation may be a bone with a bridge in the shape of an arch. This shape allows the bra to fit the stomach and enables the underwires to be positioned correctly on the sternum. Underwires can also be uncomfortable for women with larger than average breasts. For example, breast implants can make the bust appear slightly wider than usual. Bras with soft cups (without underwires) are the ideal solution for women who find underwire models uncomfortable.

Model suitable for:

– The knee pads are designed to fit almost any bust size, as they offer a good shape and a firm hold.

The model is not suitable for:

– Bust shapes with widely spaced mammary glands – even with a broad upper chest area, the bones may rest on the bust;

– Breast with irregularly shaped fold;

– Omega-shaped breasts – the bones lie much deeper than the mammary glands, which causes discomfort.

– Bust forms with mammary glands pointing in different directions – a special super threshold is required to align them;

– People with a large belly or protruding sternum – the bones may not be positioned correctly on the body;

– Women who are sensitive to metal products;

– Those with protruding ribs – bones can be painful.

Conclusion

Choosing a bra is a very personal process. It is important to choose a style that not only suits your look and outfit, but also provides you with comfort throughout the day. We hope that the information in this article will help you make the right choice.

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