Shopping for bras can be stressful, and it’s not always easy to figure out the best types for your figure. Luckily, there’s a style for every breast shape, body type and aesthetic preference. Read on to learn about the different bra types and how to find the right ones for you.

Bra Types & Styles

First things first: when determining the types of bras that work best for you, you should know your bra size.

Bralette

Both pretty (think sheer fabrics and lots of lace) and comfortable (no underwire or padding), bralettes work especially well for those with small or medium-sized breasts who don’t need a lot of support. And there’s no need to hide a bralette under your clothes; this lovely style looks sweet peeking out from under a blouse or dress. You can even wear it as a crop top! 

Strapless Bra

Anyone who’s ever worn a strapless dress, tube top or off-the-shoulder frock knows how difficult it can be to find a strapless bra that stays in place. If you plan to wear a shoulder-baring outfit, look for strapless bras with underwire cups for support and a silicone lining to prevent slippage. If you want even more security, look for styles with side boning. While it’s often easier for small-chested women to find strapless bras that work well, there are a lot of great options out there for full-busted women as well.

Front-Clasp Bra

For women who struggle to take a bra on and off, a front-clasp bra saves the day. No more grasping for a clasp you can’t see. Some people even find that a front clasp provides more support, making it ideal for those with larger breasts.

Demi Bra

Demi means half, and that’s exactly what a demi bra is: a bra with cups that are half the usual size. This style is perfect to wear under low-cut tops and dresses, as it doesn’t provide as much coverage as a full-cup bra. While demi bras work wonderfully for women with small or medium-sized breasts, they likely won’t provide adequate support or coverage for those with larger busts.

Balconette Bra

Like a demi bra, a balconette bra features smaller cups that expose the top of the breasts, creating a sultry look with a subtle lift (thanks to underwire). The wide-set straps on balconette bras offer security and support for those with full busts and broad necklines.

T-Shirt Bra

When you want to create a sleek silhouette, a T-shirt bra is the style to choose. This bra’s smooth, round cups create a seamless look under thin T-shirts and body-hugging tops and dresses. Plus, they work for every shape and size, so anyone looking to avoid lumps and bumps under their clothing can find one that works.

Racerback Bra

If you have larger breasts, a racerback bra is essential. Featuring straps that sit between your shoulder blades, racerback bras evenly distribute the weight of your breasts across your shoulders and back. Commonly designed with a front closure, this comfortable style is ideal for athletes because the straps don’t slip off the shoulders.

Wireless Bra

If you’re looking for an incredibly comfortable style, we recommend a wireless bra, which, as the name implies, has no underwire. This easy-to-wear bra works for any bust type and is ideal for days when you want to lounge around at home.

Sports Bra

Any athlete will tell you that a sports bra is essential, as it provides support and minimizes bounce. Many athletic bras also feature moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool during your workout. There’s a type of sports bra for every kind of exercise, from low impact (like yoga or walking) to medium impact (think dancing or cycling) to high impact (like HIIT or running).

Stick-On Bra

Backless dresses and tops can be stunning, but it’s sometimes tricky to find the right bra to wear underneath. Enter the stick-on bra, featuring cups lined with an adhesive that sticks to your breasts, keeping them in place without straps. Some stick-on bras might even offer a bit of a lift, although this style likely won’t work as well for heavy-breasted women as it does for those with smaller breasts.

Push-Up Bra

Perhaps the most legendary bra type, the push-up bra enhances your cleavage by pushing your breasts together and up. Underwire, padding and angled cups all play a part in creating this voluptuous shape that looks great with a low-cut top. Whatever your breast size, a push-up bra adds a bit of oomph to your look.

Unlined Bra

If you prefer a more natural silhouette, an unlined bra is the style to shop. Made without extra fabric and padding, unlined bras showcase your breast and nipple shape. They are great everyday bras for breasts of any size.

Bandeau Bra

Want to wear a strapless outfit, but don’t want to deal with a strapless underwire bra? We recommend a bandeau bra (also known as a tube bra), which works especially well for small-busted women.

Longline Bra

If you’re full breasted, try a longline bra, which provides extra support by extending farther down the torso. Some styles can also help to define your waist. Like a bralette, a longline bra can be worn as a top for a fun, flirty look.

Halter Bra

The trick to making a halter dress look great is to pick the right undergarment. A halter bra features a single strap that wraps around the neck and slips discreetly under your halter dress or tank top. Because there are a variety of options with different levels of support, anyone can wear a halter bra, no matter their breast size.

Plunge Bra

Plunge bras are great for anyone who wants to wear a low-cut top and doesn’t want their bra to peek out. Demi-coverage cups cover the bottom of your breasts and nipples while a deep V-neckline leaves the rest of your cleavage bare, creating a sultry look.

Full-Coverage Bra

Many women—especially those with large, full breasts—prioritize coverage and support when shopping for a new bra, which is why full-coverage bras are so popular. But their practicality doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish. These bras often feature underwire and come in a range of colors, fabrics and styles, so there’s an option for everyone.

Padded Bra

If you’re looking to add a little—or a lot—of volume, a padded bra is the answer. You can choose light or heavy padding depending upon your desired look. Whatever level of padding you pick, the result will be a fuller, rounder breast shape.

Underwire Bra

Underwire bras, whether lined or unlined, provide lift and support. This is ideal for many women, especially those with large, heavy breasts. Those with perkier breasts might prefer a wireless bra.

Convertible Bra

Looking for an all-in-one style? Meet the convertible bra. This multifunctional workhorse can transform from a standard two-strap style to a crisscross design, halter type, strapless fit and beyond. With a convertible bra in your wardrobe, you’ll never wonder if you have the right bra to wear with an outfit.

Maternity or Nursing Bra

New mothers need as much simplicity in their lives as possible, and that’s what nursing bras provide. Designed for comfort (no underwire or padding here!), maternity bras feature detachable cups that conveniently unhook and fold down, allowing a nursing mother to easily feed her baby.