39 Different Types of Bra with Pros & Cons
Every woman who is conscious about fashion and wants to look good, should be able to choose the right bras amongst different types of bras for each different types of outfits. But now the question is whether the bra which they are opting is the right one to go with? A research says that more than 60% of women don’t understand which type of bra is best for them and how to choose the right one.
The bra is the basic need for every woman. It not only makes the outfit look good but it also holds the breasts in its place and gives comfort to the one who is wearing it. Nowadays there are different types of bras available in the market for the different purposes. All the types of bras are not made for all the types’ of breasts. Every individual needs a different type of bra according to their figure, breast structure, occasion and need. For example, if a heavy bust woman chooses to wear a padded bra, her breast will look much bigger. The main aim of this post is to provide the basic guidelines for choosing which type of bra is the best for which breasts type, size and need. So let us check out the different types’ of bras according to their designs, patterns, cup sizes, types, and occasions. it is advisable to see the products reviews, pros & cons before buying.
Here are the 39 Different Types of Bra with Pros & Cons
1. Full Support Bra:
This is one of the most used bras. This falls under the category of regular bras. It gives full coverage and support to the breasts and also very comfortable to wear for daily use. It is also advisable by many people that this type of bra is best for the beginners. Tender breasts need full support to grow with the right shape and to stick on the chest properly and firmly. A full support bra makes the breasts look firm, hold it properly and makes it look better.
When to wear: This can be worn under formals and also under casuals.
Who can wear: As it is very comfortable, anyone can wear this but specially recommended for those who are having heavy bust.
Pros:
- This type of bras are best for the daily use.
- It gives comfort to the breasts.
- It gives the breast a firm look.
Cons:
- This type of bra is best to be worn under formal wear and not with backless or low back tops.
2. T-Shirt Bra:
Most of the women have faced a problem of transparency of the nipples outside their outfit if they wear any skinny or thin outfit. This type of bra is basically made for the purpose of avoiding those situations in public. This bra is seamless and has a soft layer of pad inside the cups which covers the nipple and as it is seamless it never gets reflected over the outfit and the breasts look smooth. Though sometimes this type of bra comes without padding. The name itself refers that it is the best one to go under the tees or any outfits which has a skinny fittings or it’s made by using a thin fabric.
When to wear: This can be worn under casual t-shirts, and skinny outfits.
Who can wear: This is available in all the bust sizes but it is advisable not to wear for those who are having heavy bust.
Pros:
- This seamless t-shirt bra is best to wear under t- shirt confidently like never before.
- It gives a good shape to the breast.
Cons:
- Those who are having huge bust are advisable to avoid this type of bra.
- This type of bra does not give full coverage to the breast.
3. Padded Bra:
Many women face the problem of having small breasts. It is no more a problem because the padded bra is here for making the breasts look bigger and better. It has thick layers of pad inside the cups and if worn the breasts look bigger. It is available in different types of fabric so that one can choose it according to their need and choice. It also helps to cover the transparency of the nipples upon the outfit. It also gives a very tighten look to the breasts.
When to wear: This can be worn under any casual, semi casual cloths.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes but it is advisable not to wear for those who are having big breasts.
Pros:
- This thick padded bras are advisable to wear for those who are having small breasts to increase the size of it.
- It covers the transparency of the nipples.
Cons:
- It should be avoided by those who has proper shape and huge bust.
4. Push-up Bra:
This type of bra is basically used by those who want to give their breasts a lift up look. Thick pad is used inside the cups to give a voluminous and firm look to the breasts. It helps to keep the breasts in the right place. This type of bra usually has a wire in the bottom line which holds the breasts upward to give it a lift up look. It is available in different fabrics such as cotton, polyester, satin. It can be worn regularly.
When to wear: This can be worn under any low-cut outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- A push up bra gives a lift up and voluminous look to the breasts.
- It is advisable for the new users to wear it for making a firm and good shaped breasts.
- It covers the nipples.
Cons:
- It creates cleavage between the breasts.
5. Sports Bra:
Most of the sports women choose this type of bra as it is designed to give comfort and full coverage to the breasts. It is also chosen for the purpose of workout in gymnasium. Apart from giving comfort it also holds the breasts firm in its place and does not allow it to move much, therefore the downward tendency of breasts gets lesser by wearing this type of bra and the sports persons gets a firm look.
When to wear: This can be worn at the time of sports or workout in gymnasium.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- This gives full coverage to the breasts.
- Very comfortable as a regular wear.
Cons:
- It can be used only for the purpose of sports and Workout.
6. Strapless Bra:
This bra can be used under low neck outfits. It does not have straps on its sides. The lower band gives the full support to the breasts. This type of bra is not very comfortable and does not give full coverage to the breasts. It is advisable not to wear it as a daily wear as it does not give the breasts full support and the breasts loose its firmness. It is available in different fabrics such as cotton, satin, polyester etc.
When to wear: This can be worn under any low-cut and off-shoulder outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- It can be worn under any halter and strapless cloths.
- As it contains pad inside the bra it gives full coverage to the nipples.
Cons:
- It is very uncomfortable and does not gives proper coverage.
7. Built-in Bra:
As the name indicates itself, this bra is built inside the garments such as halter neck party dresses, tank tops, blouses, off-shoulder dresses etc. The thick padded cups sometimes along with an underwire is fixed inside the dress. There is no need to wear another bra inside the outfit which already has a built-in bra. It is available in all the cup sizes and nowadays an outfit with built-in bra is very popular.
When to wear: It is already built inside the outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- No need to wear another bra inside the outfit.
- Any bust size can get fit into it as it is available in all the cup sizes.
Cons:
A dress or top with built-in bra should be bought very carefully because if it’s over sized then it cannot fit well on the breasts.
8. Racerback Bra:
Racerback is best for those who do not want the bra straps falling from the shoulder. There are different designs of racerback bras are available in the market. Though it is mostly opted by the sports persons but it is also liked by many women as they get many designs and variety. It holds the breasts strong and does not allow any unwanted movement of the breasts.
When to wear: Mostly used by the sports persons and also can be worn under tank tops.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- There is no chance of slipping straps.
- Best for the sports persons.
- Available in different cup sizes
Cons:
- It can’t be worn under any backless dress or top.
9. Underwire Bra:
The underwire bra gives the full support to the breasts from the bottom. It is made to keep the breasts in its place. It gives the breast a perfect round shape. Those who are having sagging breasts should choose this for lifting it from the bottom. A regular use of this type of bra can really help to get rid of this sagginess. But at the same it may not be a very comfortable one as the wire in the bottom may pinch the skin and make the use of this bra a little uncomfortable.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a proper round shape.
- It helps to lift the breasts
- It should be worn by those who are having sagging breast.
Cons:
- It is sometimes very uncomfortable as the bra holds the breasts against the gravity and can cause discomfort.
- The underwire may pinch the skin.
- Should be avoided by heavy bust women as itgives more voluminous look to the breasts.
10. Wireless Bra:
A wireless bra is the most comfortable wear for the regular use. It holds the breasts in its place and gives a round shape look. It is recommended for the heavy bust women as it gives good coverage to the breasts. The moulded, soft padding inside the cups makes the breasts look smooth from the top of the outfit. It is available in all the cup sizes and in fabrics such as cotton, satin, polyester.
When to wear: It can be worn under formal and casual outfits.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a proper round shape.
- Very comfortable to use.
- It can be considered as a daily wear.
- Can be worn by the heavy bust women.
Cons:
- The conventional designs of this category of bras does not go under the low-cut dresses or halter dresses.
11. Shelf Bra:
This type of bras falls under the category of appealing bra. It only contains the basic structure of the bra but does not give coverage as it is open from the front. The main purpose of this bra is flaunting the visibility of the erected nipples outside the outfit. It is not recommended as a daily wear. Mostly it is found in the fabrics of satin, lace etc.
When to wear: When you want to flaunt your nipples outside the bra.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- This is one of the most appealing bra.
Cons:
- It cannot be used as a regular wear.
12. Front Closure Bra:
The name indicates the structure of this type of bras. It has hooks or eyes in the front and for that it is very easy to use. One can choose to wear it under any outfit. As the hooks are in the front, it gives a smooth back finish. It is available in the market in different designs and in different fabrics such as cotton, satin etc. It can be used as a regular wear. It is available in all the cup sizes and sometimes it gives coverage to the breasts depends on the designs.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is very easy to use as the hooks are in the front.
- It gives a smooth back look.
Cons:
- It is a very stereotype bra.
13. Halter-Neck Bra:
The straps are convertible in nature so one can try this type of bras in different way. Halter-neck bras are mostly used inside halter dresses, tank tops etc. It can be worn to show off the halter straps outside the top to make different style statement. It is available in many different fabrics such as lace, cotton etc. It also holds the breasts upward and one can show off her cleavage.
When to wear: It can be worn under halter dresses, tank tops.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- It is good to go under halter neck dresses, tank
- It holds the breast up.
Cons:
- It may give pain to the neck as the strap is tied up from the backside of the neck.
14. Peephole Bra:
It is a form of erotic designed bras. There is a hole in front of the bra cup from which the nipples can be shown. There is no similarity in between shelf bra and peephole bra as the shelf bra does not have proper cups but the peephole bra has cups but it is open in front of the nipples.
When to wear: It can be worn to flaunt the nipples.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- To make appeal is the only purpose for using it.
Cons:
- It cannot be worn as a regular wear.
15. Sheer Bra:
This bra type is basically made for showing off the women asset. It is mostly made in materials like lace, satin, net etc. Available in the market in different designs option and also in different cup sizes. It is a see through bra though it covers the full breast depending upon the designs. Not recommended for daily use purpose.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of showing off the asset.
Cons:
- It is not recommended as a daily wear.
16. Molded Cup Bra:
A molded cup bra can mold its shape and can give a very smooth and feathery feeling to the breasts. It sits on the breasts and mold itself according to the breasts structure. It is recommended to be worn by the pregnant women as it can stretch and fit on to the larger breasts.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It gives a smooth breasts
- It can be worn under any garments.
Cons:
- Cleavage can be shown outside the garments.
17. Soft Cup Bra:
A soft cup bra is another regular use bra. It is very comfortable and gives full support to the breasts. It is mostly available in seamless though there are many designs and types of soft cup bras are there in the market. It comes in cotton, satin, lace etc. It has no wire in the bottom. The lower band holds the breasts in its place. A perfect lingerie as an office wear.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- Very Comfortable.
- Can be used as a regular wear.
- Gives perfect shape to the breasts.
Cons:
- Not recommended for sagging breast.
18. Demi Bra:
This bra is recommended for the smaller but not sagging breasts. This bras are not be very comfortable as a daily wear as it gives very little coverage and the cup size is also very small. Though it helps the smaller breast to look little voluminous because it has underwire which holds the breasts little upward.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit specially with low cut tops and dresses.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a round shape.
- It helps the smaller breasts to look little voluminous.
Cons:
- It is very uncomfortable because it gives very less coverage.
- Not recommended for the heavy bust women.
19. Transparent Bra:
The basic structure of this category of bra is just the same what its name reflects. The full bra is of transparent in nature. And the breast gets fully revealed after wearing this transparent bra. This falls under the category of erotic bra. Though there is a difference in opinion as some people calls a bra with transparent side strap or back strap as a transparent bra. But one can get a full transparent bra in the market. So if one wants to be naughty buy yourself a transparent bra.
When to wear: Only to show off.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- A bra with transparent strap can go under any halter dress or tank tops.
Cons:
- Not recommended as a regular wear.
20. Cage Bra:
This is the example of hotty go naughty bra. The structure of this type of bra is basically strappy. The straps are used in such a way that it gives the bra a non-stereo type look. Though it does not provide much coverage but available in all the cup size. So whoever wants to experience something naughty it is the right pick for them.
When to wear: It can be worn under low cut dresses.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- One can try it for experiment.
Cons:
- It is not at all comfortable.
- Not recommended as a daily wear.
21. Plunge Bra:
If anyone is trying a deep neck outfit or deep v-neck outfit and wanders to find a right bra for it, this is the solution for everything. This plunge bra is of two type, normal plunge and U- plunge bra. Both are designed to keep the breasts away from each other. It covers the breast from bottom and holds it in place. It comes with all the bust sizes. So next time don’t think much before choosing it for a low-front cut dress.
When to wear: It can be worn under any low neck outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- One stop solution for the low neck outfit.
Cons:
- It is preferred to be worn by those who are having firm breast.
22. Bralette Bra:
It is another erotic bra. It comes in lace, satin etc. The purpose of choosing this bra is not to give coverage but to flaunt the breasts to make appeal. It can be used as a revealing top as well. It has many designs and it is available in all the sizes.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit or can be worn as a crop top.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is multipurpose bra and can be worn as a top.
Cons:
- Very little coverage.
- Not recommended for daily use.
23. Bandeau Bra:
It is just a type of band surrounded to the breasts. There is a major difference in strapless bra and bandeau bra. A strapless bra has hooks or eyes at the back but a bandeau bra has no hooks at the back and it is more comfortable than a strapless bra. It gives full coverage to the breasts and the breasts movement also get reduced by wearing this bra. It can be worn under tank tops and strapless outfits.
When to wear: It can be worn under tank tops and strapless dresses.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts afirm look.
Cons:
- Cannot be used as a daily wear.
24. Strappy Bra:
This strappy bra is basically the designed strap bra. It is recommended for them who are courageous enough to flaunt the back with the designed straps and wants to go out from the conventional designs of bras. This crossed and differently designed strappy bras are made to create a different style statement. It is available in all the bust sizes.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the bust sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts aproper round shape and also to lift it up.
Cons:
- It is sometimes very uncomfortable as the underwire is very hard.
25. Triangle Bra:
This is one kind of Bikini Bra. A triangle shape covers the breasts in the front. It is available in satin, polyester. Best to be picked up by small breast’s women. It does not provide much coverage or supports breasts. It is available in all the breast size.
When to wear: It can be worn as a bikini.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It can give a good style statement.
Cons:
- It does not give coverage or supportsthe breasts.
26. Teen-age/ Trainer Bra:
Teen age means the time when the breasts start to swell up. The tender age when breasts start to form needs special care to give it proper support and to be built up in good shape and in good size. A right bra is important for the teenagers as it helps to grow the breasts and does not allow it to get sag. It is also known as trainer bra as it trains the breasts to grow in shape. Also it can be opt by anyone as it gives full support and coverage to the breasts.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It turns the breasts in good shape.
- Best for the teen agers.
- Very Comfortable.
- Gives full coverage to the breasts.
- It can be used as a daily wear.
Cons:
- Very conventional in design.
- Cannot go with the low cut dresses.
27. Sleep / Leisure Bra:
It is designed to give comfort to the breasts in the leisure time. It is not padded or it does not have any underwire which may pinch the skin. It is the best bra to relax yourself.
When to wear: It can be worn to get relax.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is good for breasts
- Using this bra during night reduces the chance to have breast cancer.
Cons:
- It is only used as a leisure wear.
28. Longline Bra:
It is mostly used under corset. It gives good coverage though makes the breasts look voluminous. It goes over the belly and helps to correct the figure and gives a toned body look with voluminous and firm breasts.
When to wear: It can be worn under corsets, off shoulder maxi dresses.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for giving the breasts a smooth round shape.
- It gives a toned breasts
Cons:
- It is not recommended for small bust sizes.
- Cannot be wear as a daily wear.
- It can be worn in the occasions of marriage or for any party not under a casual wear.
29. Silicone/Adhesive Bra:
It is also known as stick on bra. A gel is stick inside the cups for which it stick to the breasts. It does not contain any strap. Best to wear under off-shoulder dresses and tank tops.
When to wear: It can be worn under off shoulder outfits.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It sticks to the breasts and gives a smooth shape.
Cons:
- Not made to use as a regular wear.
30. Bridal Bra:
Marriage is a special occasion in every woman’s life. She wants to look her best on that day. As most of the wedding dresses are heavy in nature, it is best to choose a comfortable yet a sexy bra for that special day. A bridal bra is made to provide strong support to the breasts to hold it tightly and to make the bride feel comfortable with her asset in her new journey of life. This bras are available in different designs and different cup sizes. This bra is made not only for the occasion of wedding but she can wear it even after as it is very comfortable.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit, especially designs for bridal trousseau.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a proper round shape.
- Very comfortable in nature.
Cons:
- It is very stereo type one.
31. Cupless Bra:
It is another sexy lingerie. The cupless bra comes with no cups and can be used to flaunt the breasts and the nipples outside the outfit.
When to wear: It can be worn to show off the women’s asset.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for showing off the breasts.
Cons:
- It cannot go as regular wear.
32. Belly Dancers Bra:
Belly Dancers usually opt this type of bras. It is designed to give the dancers full coverage, support and comfort. One should be very careful in choosing this type of bras as it is used as a bra as well as a top for the dancers. So the fitting is very important. It is designed with sequins, beads and zaris.
When to wear: It is for the belly Dancers.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It gives the breasts
- It holds the breasts
Cons:
- It is used mostly by the belly dancers at the time of performance.
33. High Neck Bra:
A high neck bra is one-stop solution for those who does not want to flaunt their assets or cleavage. As it name suggests that it goes high till the neck and therefore gives full coverage and holds the breasts firm. It is recommended for beginners. It is also very good as regular wear. Those who are not that conservative can try it as a crop top. It is available in different cup sizes.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the cup sizes.
Pros:
- It can be used as a daily wear.
- Can be worn by any bust type.
- It gives full coverage.
- Recommended for the teen agers.
Cons:
- It cannot be worn under any low cut dress.
34. Bullet Bra:
Another very popular bra. It comes in cotton, satin. Polyester. It gives a very pointy look to the breasts. It gives full coverage to the breasts and also available for all the bust sizes. Very comfortable to wear. To get a pointy breast look one should grab their piece of the bullet bra.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a proper round shape and also to lift it up.
Cons:
- Not a daily wear.
35. Low Back Bra:
Wearing a back open dress is not a problem now because of this low back bra. The main purpose of this bra is to reveal the back without the straps. It is designed in such a smart way that it holds the breasts tight by the under band and the strap is just there in the shoulder but does not obstruct to wear a low back dress with a no strap bra look.
When to wear: It can be worn under low back or any casual outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- Useful for wearing under low back dresses.
- It holds the breasts
Cons:
- Best for heavy bust size.
36. Bustier Bra:
Bustier bra is the best pick to show one’s asset with toned figure. It goes downwards and gives a closet look. Apart from lifting the breasts upward it gives the breasts an upward flaunty look. It is available in satin, polyester nylon. It keeps the breasts strong from the bottom line.
When to wear: It can be worn under low cut outfits.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It is used for the purpose of giving the breasts a lift up look.
- It gives toned shape to the breast
Cons:
- It is recommended for the small bust.
37. Maternity / Nursing Bra:
Motherhood is a blessing of almighty. Every woman who enters in this phase of life should take good care of her health as well as her body. A woman’s Breasts plays a pivotal role at the time of pregnancy. During this time breasts expand and it needs a bra which may hold it properly. This maternity or nursing bras are designed to provide the breasts the best comfort. It does not contains any underwire to lift the breasts upward which may be uncomfortable to the new mother. It also has detachable straps so that it becomes convenient to breast feed the new born.
When to wear: It is used by the pregnant women and by new mothers to feed the new born.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It helps the new mother to feed the new born. It holds the breasts
Cons:
- It is designed for the new mothers.
38. Convertible Bra:
This convertible bra is the example of multipurpose bra. The straps are detachable and can be used in different way. It can be worn from the back like regular bras, can be used as a halter bra even it can go as a strapless bra. So it is all in one solution. It is available in padded and in different cup sizes.
When to wear: It can be worn under any outfit.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- It can be used as a multipurpose bra.
Cons:
- It may not be comfortable for all.
39. Minimizer Bra:
The basic idea behind the design of this bra is to minimize the size of the bust. It should be opted by the women with 34c or above size. It is worn to reduce the size of the breasts.
When to wear: To decrease the size of the bust.
Who can wear: This is available in all the sizes.
Pros:
- Good for those who are having big bust size.
Cons:
- It is not recommended for those who are having small breasts.
So I am sure after reading this full post, now you get a clear idea about how many types of bras are there in the market, and how to choose the right bra amongst the different variety and types of bras. So now ladies it is your time to check out your wardrobe and decide which one of the above designs of bras suits you or are not there in your collection and pick the right bra for yourself to flaunt the beautiful god gifted assets as beautifully as they are.
Posts You May Like to Read:
