Bra Cup Types 101

Navigating the world of bras can be a daunting task, but understanding bra cup types is the key to unlocking comfort, support, and confidence. The right bra can transform your everyday experience, making you feel amazing from the inside out. Let's dive into the world of bra cup types and discover the perfect fit for you.

Why Bra Cup Type Matters?

Choosing the right bra cup isn't just about aesthetics; it's about ensuring proper support, preventing discomfort, and enhancing your natural breast shape. The ideal cup type will fully encapsulate your breasts, eliminating gaps, spillage, and those pesky underwire digs. From the gentle lift of a push-up to the full coverage of a full cup, there's a bra style tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Decoding Bra Cup Types

1. Push Up Bra:

A push up bra is designed to enhance cleavage by pushing breasts upwards with angled cups containing padding at the bottom or sides. This type of bra cup provides extra lift making it an excellent choice if you're looking to accentuate your curves in a low-cut top or dress. The advantage of push up bra lies in its ability to create a fuller look regardless of your natural breast size – there are even push up sports bras available for active women who want both style and functionality during workouts!

Premium Joy Non Wired Push Up Deep V Bra

 Fabric: 12%Elastane, 32%Polyamide, 56%Polyester

Fresh feel, fresh colours, experience the fresh Premium Joy collection. Feel light and free with Tri-Air Lite cups and light weight fabric in fashionable feminine colours.

• Inner sling for centralization
• Recycled multi-colour embroidery & materials
• Breathable mesh wing
• Soft seal 3 rows H&E for added comfort
• Delta ring giving a balanced strap position in wear
• This product was certified according to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® 22.0.22419 Hohenstein HTTI

2. Half Cup Bra:

Also known as a demi-bra or half cup bra, covers only half or three-quarters of the breasts leaving more skin exposed than traditional full-coverage styles. The underwire offers good support while creating an attractive uplifted look.
If you’re seeking something sensual without compromising on comfort then consider trying out a half cup push up bra. This bra cup style is ideal for low-cut tops where you want to show off some cleavage without revealing too much.

Natural Elegance Delicate Wired Padded Bra

Elegance was key in the design of this sensual, lacy bra that will shape your silhouette to perfection.

• Wire Half Cup Padded Bra
• Based on Natural Elegance bestselling fit
• Upgraded with recycled cut & sewn cup
• Wirelite, padded bra with flat soft stretch lace
• Single layer of recycle mesh wing for enhancing breathability
• Tailored for a perfect fit and comfort
• Support for fuller cup sizes
• This product was certified according to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® 22.0.22419 Hohenstein HTTI

3. Padded Bra:

A padded bra features cups lined with foam or other padding materials, providing shape and volume. It's an excellent choice of bras for small busts as it enhances the appearance of your breasts. There are various types of padded bras including wireless, wired, strapless and t-shirt styles. The advantage of a padded bra lies in its ability to provide a smooth silhouette under tight-fitting clothes while offering extra support and comfort.

Pure Invisible Wired Padded Bra

Fabric: 50%Polyamide, 45%Polyester, 5%Elastane

The everyday T-shirt bra everyone needs. We engineered the fabric to keep you cool in hot weather. And to stay out of sight under the tightest tops.

• Wired T-shirt bra
• Specialist cooling fabric
• Wincool liner
• Breathable cups
• ‘Invisible’ under clothing
• Double side bones and high armhole coverage to enhance centralisation
• Supportive double side bones
• Available in a variety of colours
• Team with the matching hipster panty

4. 3-in-1 Innovation: The Tri-Zone Bra:

Our revolutionary Tri-Zone Bra is designed to deliver an unparalleled level of comfort, support, and flexibility. It features three distinct zones, each with targeted functionality to create a truly personalised experience:

Lift Zone:

Crafted with innovative 3D Flex foam, the lift zone gently supports and shapes your breasts from the bottom, creating a natural, rounded look without the need for uncomfortable underwire.

Centralise Zone:

The central zone features strategically placed power mesh panels that gently nudge your breasts closer for a flattering silhouette and enhanced cleavage. This targeted shaping also helps reduce breast bounce, providing additional support during movement.

Flex Zone:

Made with soft, breathable spacer fabric, the flex zone offers exceptional freedom of movement without compromising on fit. This innovative material moves with your body throughout the day, ensuring all-day comfort and ease of movement.

Tri-zone 3-In-1 Cup Padded Bra

 Fabric: 58%Polyamide, 22%Elastane, 18%Polyester, 2%Cotton

• An everyday bra with 3-in-1 cup innovation for lift and centralize the bust while allowing flexible movement. This product was certified according to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® 93.0.3130 Hohenstein HTTI.

5. Non-Padded Bra:

A non-padded bra, also known as an unlined bra, has no additional padding in the cups. These bra cups offer natural shaping making them perfect if you prefer less structure and more comfort from your lingerie. Non-padded bras come in many forms – from lacy designs that add a touch of glamour to simple cotton versions ideal for everyday wear.

Florale Mudan Wired Balcony Bra

Fabric: 64%Polyamide, 13%Viscose, 22%Elastane, 1Polyester

We designed this non-padded bra to visually minimise and lift your bust and create a flawless look under clothes

• Wired, non-padded minimising bra
• Made with Wire Lite technology for support with a wireless feel
• Lace and clean-cut fabric that visually slims
• Comfortable cushioned wire casing with massage dot design
• Smooth underarm finish for side support
• Invisible slide and supportive coverage wings for smooth look under clothes
• Special nipple-discretion pads
• In sizes up to 85E
• Delta ring for a balanced wear position
• Rose gold hardware
• This product was tested for harmful substances and certified according to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® 93.0.3130 Hohenstein HTTI

6. Full Cup Bra:

The full cup bra, also known as a full coverage bra, covers most if not all breast tissue providing maximum support while reducing spillage over the top or sides. A full-cup t-shirt or strapless version can be worn under any outfit ensuring total comfort throughout the day.

Simply Sculpt Blossom Wired Padded Bra

Meet our specialist sculpting wired bra for larger bust sizes. It supports and lifts while smoothing and flattering your body.

• Full cup bra
• Lace design
• Built-in crescent-shaped padding
• Smoothing high underarm panels
• Gives support, stability and uplift
• Wide shoulder straps
• Team with the matching hipster

Tips for Choosing the Right Bra Cup

• Know your size: Accurate measurements are essential. Consider a professional fitting for the best results.
• Consider your breast shape: Different cup types cater to different breast shapes.
• Try different styles: Experiment to find the most comfortable and supportive fit.
• Look for adjustable straps and bands: Customise the fit for maximum comfort.
• Regularly check for wear and tear: Replace bras when necessary.

Solving Common Bra Cup Issues

• Gaping:

If you find empty space between your breasts and the bra cups, it's like a frustrating game of hide-and-seek. Addressing this can be a breeze!  Double-check your measurements to ensure you're in the perfect cup size. Tightening the straps might also bring the cups closer for a more secure fit. Explore different styles – a push-up or plunge bra might offer better coverage to fill those gaps. And if you still need a little extra to smooth things out, consider adding inserts or pads for a seamless look.

• Spillage:

Spillage happens when your breasts overflow the bra cup. It can be uncomfortable and unflattering.  To prevent this, prioritise getting sized correctly – a well-fitting cup will ensure everything stays comfortably contained. Full coverage styles like full-cup or balcony bras are designed for maximum support and can be your knights in shining armor. Look for bras with wider side panels – these act like trusty walls, preventing spillage and creating a smoother silhouette.

• Underwire Issues:

Underwire that digs or pokes can turn your day from sunshine and rainbows to storm clouds and frowns. Luckily, there are solutions to find comfort! First things first, ensure the underwire sits flat against your ribcage, like a gentle hug, not a tight squeeze. Choosing bras with soft, flexible underwires can also make a big difference. If underwire discomfort persists, consider a wireless bra – a haven of comfort that still provides support.

Finding the perfect bra cup is a journey, not a destination. Experiment, embrace your unique shape, and enjoy the confidence that comes with wearing the right bra. Remember, a well-fitted bra can transform how you feel.

By understanding bra cup types and following these tips, you're well on your way to discovering the bra that makes you feel amazing.

Consider seeking our professional fitting services here.