The Best Types Of Bras For Different Types Of Clothing

When you find the right bra, it can make a huge difference in both how your clothes fit and how you feel in them. Certain types of bras, however, work better with certain tops. Here are the best bras for different types of clothing.

Picture: zionfiction/Flickr

Based on some expert interviews by Refinery29 (and a good amount of further research we did on each), here is your bra checklist:

• T-shirt: As the name says, this type of bra is ideal for t-shirts. It doesn’t have any frills that would be visible under a t-shirt.
• Push-up: If you’re wearing an outfit with a lower cut in the front and you want to show cleavage, try a push-up bra. The combination of the padding and the cut of the bra gives you lift without showing the bra underneath your top.
• Sports: Consider a racerback design since it offers more support. Make sure to match the level of support to your activity — walking needs lighter support than running.
• Balconette: Suited for tops with a lower cut neckline because you’ll get some lift from the bra, but the cut of it won’t show.
• Bandeau: Great for tops that have small or no straps or that have large armholes. They tend to be more decorative than a normal bra, so it doesn’t look as much like an undergarment. You should note that this type of bra tends to offer little support.
• Strapless: Made especially for tops or dresses that don’t have standard straps.
• Bralette: Perfect for when you want to a bra with less structure, like with a loose fitting top. Like a bandeau, this bra offers less support than other types.
• Plunge: Best for tops or dresses that have a deep neckline.
• Contour: Ideal for tops that are more fitted and for when you don’t necessarily want to add lift to your cleavage. The cups of this bra type are more structured, which adds an even, rounded look to your chest. This type of bra can help to make your breasts look like they’re more similar in size.

You don’t need to own every single one of these, of course — but depending on the tops in your closet, you may want to have a few of these around.

For most of your bras, you’ll want to buy a version in a colour close to your skin tone because those are least visible under shirts that are lighter coloured, made of a more transparent fabric, or that have an unusual cut. For more tips on when to wear what type of bra (along with quite a few examples of each), check out Refinery29’s full post linked below (warning: it is a slideshow).

Every Types of Bra You Should Own & Why [Refinery29]