Bras, love them or loathe them at some point most women will have to purchase a new bra for a different occasion or purpose. The humble underwired, back-fastening bra is a go-to for many women, yet it does not always provide the comfort or support they need.
Nevertheless, with so many bra options on the market today, it can be difficult to decipher which is the right bra style for your needs. We hope to demystify the bra styles for you and help you select the correct bra, with our guide to bras.
Balconette
Balconette bras make an impact, especially when they are designed in silk and lace. With an added bit of fabric between the cups, balconette bras offer sublime support as well as sex appeal, especially if you’re buying red lingerie. They also make a good option for bigger cup sizes and help balance the weight of larger breasts. They also look great and can give their wearer an added boost of confidence when they are wearing them.
Bralette
Typically, a triangular-shaped style of bra, the bralette is usually free of uncomfortable underwire and has a simpler approach to support. The bralette is the perfect choice if you want comfort and lighter support. Bralettes are less weighty too, making them perfect for days and nights when you want to feel free. A bralette makes for the perfect relaxed option for daytime summer dressing and hanging out at home.
Strapless
Worn with strapless, halter or camisole style clothing, the strapless bra is the right choice for when you need support without it showing. They are usually underwired and come in push-up styles too, offering great support and style when dressing up for an event. They are also great for summertime, when you want to wear summer dresses and not be left with strap marks. It is important that you purchase a strapless bra that fits well, as they do not have the traditional straps to hold them up.
Front-fastening bra
Easier than fiddling around with a clasp at the back, the front-fastening bra is ideal for women who find traditional bras tiresome, especially if they have mobility issues. Front-fastening bras are much easier to remove and put on than traditional bras. They also offer a shapelier cut on the cup, making them ideal for outfits with plunging necklines, although not for super low-cut options as the front of the bra and clasp will show.
Stick-on bra
Ideal for backless dresses and tops, a stick-on bra is best reserved for more daring outfit choices. Ideal for summer parties, wedding outfits and any time you would be showing more skin than usual. They are usually undetectable and stick on and peel off with ease. They don’t offer much support as the are not usually underwired, so they are best used occasionally.