Discover the Perfect Bra Shape for Your Fabulous Form
(This post was originally published on July 27th 2018 and updated on 4th June 2025)
Welcome to Part 2 of our series, The A to Z of Lingerie Shapes! In our previous article we explored the world of briefs and their various styles. Now we're turning our attention to something just as important: bras — their shapes, styles, and the transformative magic they offer when chosen wisely.
But before you dive into silhouettes, remember this: a fabulous bra begins with a fabulous fit. Knowing your correct size is essential, and our guide How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home is the perfect place to start. Once you've done that, the real fun begins — exploring a world of styles designed to suit your unique shape, wardrobe, and mood.
To help you get started, we've compiled a list of popular bra styles below. Don't be discouraged by the process — with the right size, brand, and style, shopping for bras can be a breeze, and a lot of fun.
1. The Non-Wire Soft Bra
Wire-free and made to feel comfortable and lightweight. These bras can be worn at night or during the day when you need light support.
2. The Balconette Bra
A low cup bra designed to support and lift your breast fully. This bra gives the same support as a fully rounded bra but it's a little sexier, and is one of the most popular bra types on the market. Balconette bras work well with outfits with low or scooped necklines to show off your décolletage.
3. T-Shirt Bras
T-shirt bras are designed with seamless, smooth cups, made to look invisible under clothing. There's a saying: if you don't notice a T-shirt bra, then you know it's doing its job. Designed to be worn under clothes which are generally clingy, to give you a seamless look.
4. The Push-Up Bra
The push-up bra is designed to push your breasts up to create an enhanced cleavage — a fuller and uplifted shape which is stylish and comfortable. These bras are designed to wear with low-cut tops and dresses.
5. The Minimiser Bra
The minimiser bra is designed to reduce the appearance of your breasts by lifting and redistributing breast tissue, making them flattering without compromising the natural shape of your bust and body. This bra works well under both tight and loose clothing.
6. Padded Bras
Padded bras are designed to add fullness to the bust line and enhance the appearance of your bust. They come with removable inserts or are padded to give your breasts a more natural, rounded look. These are designed to wear under tight, form-fitted clothing and t-shirts, and to prevent show-through.
7. The Strapless Bra
The strapless bra tends to include a silicone or rubber lining to provide support, and is designed for garments with no shoulder straps. You can find different types — longline, plunge, push-up, full figure, low cut and bridal styles — and it's best worn with off-the-shoulder tops and dresses.
8. Maternity Bras
Expectant mothers will notice their breasts become fuller and more tender, starting to change around 12 weeks into pregnancy. It's within this period that it's advised to get fitted for a maternity bra. The average mum will go up two underbands and four cup sizes, so it's important that your bra is adjustable — with at least four hook positions so you can adjust your underband throughout the day. Maternity bras have a fuller cup shape, deeper centre front, and wider straps, and are made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. They also have brushed-back elastics which feel soft against your skin.
9. Convertible Bras
Convertible bras are unique in that they're designed to be several bras in one. They come with detachable straps that can be arranged in multiple ways by hooking them onto different slots at the front or the back. Some convert to halter bras, some to strapless — the list goes on, and they can be worn according to whatever you're wearing.
10. Adhesive Backless Bras
The adhesive backless bra has no back and is held in place by adhesive cups, making it ideal for backless dresses.
11. Plunge Bras
The plunge bra is designed with a low cut at the centre and works really well with clothes that have plunging and deep V necklines.
12. Mastectomy Bras
Mastectomy bras are designed to meet the needs of women who have undergone full or partial mastectomy or reconstructive surgery. These bras typically feature cup linings or pockets to hold a breast prosthesis, and are chosen for their exceptional fit, comfort, and support. Their goal is to help women who have undergone surgery feel like themselves again.
13. Front Closure Bras
These bras have a clasp or closure at the front instead of the back, making them easy to put on and take off. They are a great option for those with limited mobility or dexterity in their hands.
14. Sports Bras
Designed to provide maximum support and comfort during physical activity, sports bras come in a variety of styles, from compression bras to encapsulation bras.
15. Bralettes
Bralettes are wire-free and often unlined, making them a comfortable and lightweight option for everyday wear. They are typically made of soft, stretchy materials like lace, cotton, or mesh, and come in a variety of styles — from simple triangle bralettes to more elaborate, strappy designs.
16. Adhesive Nipple Covers
These are not technically bras, but they are a handy accessory to have in your lingerie drawer. Adhesive nipple covers are small, circular pieces of silicone or fabric that stick to the skin, providing coverage under thin or sheer tops. They are reusable and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
17. Nursing Bras
Nursing bras are specially designed for breastfeeding mothers. They provide easy access for nursing or pumping milk without having to remove the entire bra. Most have flaps that can be easily unhooked or unsnapped; some styles may also have drop-down cups or adjustable straps to facilitate nursing.
Find Your Fabulous Fit with Olyinka Lingerie
We hope this bra-style guide helps you shop with ease, confidence, and a clearer understanding of what your body needs. Remember: the secret to a great fit isn't just size — it's style. So go ahead and try something new. Your perfect match might just be a shape you haven't worn yet.
Want to start your custom fit experience? Take our Perfect Fit Questionnaire and explore our bespoke service — where fabulous starts with the perfect foundation.
