HOW TO DETERMINE THE RIGHT STYLE OF BRA FOR YOUR BUST SHAPE

Wearing the correct bra isn’t as simple as wearing the right size, you also need to choose styles that suit your shape.  Just as our body shapes vary from one person to another, so too do our busts so it’s really important that we choose the right shape bra if we’re to achieve the best support and shape possible, not to mention look slimmer and showcase the best waist possible!

Last week I shared the top 5 signs that you’re wearing the wrong bra size and encouraged you to get fitted for the correct size (I’d love to know if any of you did and what the outcome was!).  This week I thought I’d follow on from that with some advice that will help you choose a bra that is not only the right size for you, but is also the right shape.  Scroll down to learn about the different bust shapes, the style of bras best suited to each one, and how to check to the fit when you’re in the fitting room.

THE MAIN BUST SHAPES:

WIDE SET –  these gravitate to the side of your chest and would benefit from a bra that pushes them in.

LONG AND SHALLOW – these are fuller on the bottom than the top and benefit from some lift to create cleavage and shape.

TOUCHING OR FULL AND ROUND – are large breasts that benefit from good support and separation for added definition.

SMALL – these can be both wide set or shallow and benefit from lift and padding to enhance shape.

THERE ARE 6 MAIN STYLES OF BRA:

Have you ever wondered why your bust doesn’t fill a cup properly despite being the correct size, or why you struggle to get a cleavage despite having large breasts?  Well my friends it is all down to the style of bra you’re wearing.  There are 6 main styles and each one offers something different.

1. PLUNGE –  This will lift your bust and push the breasts together.  If you have a small bust and want extra cleavage, a half gel inserted into the cup will help.
2. BALCONY –  These lift and gently separate the breasts.
3. PUSH-UP –  These enhance the bust and create cleavage.
4. DEMI – CUP (SOMETIMES REFEREED TO AS BALCONETTE)–  These are very similar to a Balcony bra but offer slightly less coverage.
5. PADDED PLUNGE –  These push the breasts together whilst lifting slightly.
6. FULL CUP –  These offer great support and coverage and can enhance the fullness of the bust.

 

IDENTIFYING WHICH BRA SHAPE SUITS YOUR BREAST SHAPE:

TOUCHING OR FULL, ROUND BREASTS

If you have a full bust that is touching then best option is to choose full cup, plunge or demi-cup styles that will offer support, definition and separation.

SMALL BUST

If you want more shape and definition then opt for push up, padded plunge and balcony styles which will lift and create a cleavage.

 LONG/SHALLOW BREASTS.

If you have shallow breasts you probably find some cup styles gape at the top, this is due to the lack of fullness at the top of the bust.  To create a fuller shape opt for a firm balcony, padded plunge or push-up.

WIDE SET BREASTS.

Choose styles that lift and push the breasts together slightly, such as plunge, padded plunge and push up styles.

The best way to find out what shape bra will fit you best and give you the best support, is to try on a variety of styles.  But so you’re no completely on your tod, here are 5 areas I recommend checking:

HOW TO CHECK A BRA FITS WELL:

1. Check the cups, the breast should fill them nicely with no gaping and no bulging.
2. Make sure the front of the bra is flat against your chest and against the breasts
3. The back panel should be no higher than the front of the bra.
4. The band should be tight around your body.  If you’ve been wearing the wrong band size for years it will feel too tight but if you identify with any of the tell-tail signs I shared in my last post then you will need to stick with the smaller band size.  You’ll feel much more comfortable after a couple of days.
5. The straps mustn’t be so tight that they dig in, or so loose that they slip off your shoulders.

A FEW EXTRA POINTERS:

• If you’re wearing white and do not want your bra to be seen, wear a nude shade instead of black or white as this will give a totally natural appearance.
• Put your clothes back on when you’re choosing a bra so you can see if you have the right shape for your clothes
• If you’re searching for a particular style of bra to wear under a dress or top, take the item into the fitting room with you to try bras on with.
• If you’re wearing a thin tee, a seamless bra is probably your best option.

I’ve written another post about getting the best fitting bra, so if you enjoyed reading this article you should definitely check out this one: 5 Signs That You’re Wearing The Wrong Sized Bra