FAQs

What Kinds of Bras Are Available and What are Their Uses?

BALCONETTE (CUP) BRA
The balconette is designed to increase the appearance of the top of the breasts, and the cleavage between them by its being low cut (about 1/2 to 3/4 coverage), and lifting. The breasts are not pushed together, as they are in a "push-up" bra. The cups are usually cut almost horizontal across the tops of the breasts.
The shoulder straps are set wide, to make this ideal for wear with a top or dress with a wide and deep neckline.

CONVERTIBLE BRA
A convertible bra is extremely versatile; the straps can be worn in the regular way, but can be re-arranged into "halter top" style, criss-cross, racer, backless, even strapless!
With this bra you get good support, and the versatility to wear it with almost anything from a tank-top to an evening gown! It is a "must have" for traveling, since it can take the place of several bras.

DEMI (CUP) BRA
The demi cup bra is cut so that the top edge runs just above the nipple (about 1/2 or less coverage), allowing maximum top exposure, moreso than most balconettes. The shoulder straps are set wide, towards the outsides of the cup, making this an excellent choice when wearing deep and/or wide necklines, while the bra keeps out of view.
Also, the top edge of the cups are usually angled, plunging deeply in the middle to display the cleavage.

FRONT CLOSURE BRA
The front closing bra is removed by opening a clasp that is located where the cups join each other, at the center gore; which makes it much easier to put on and take off. Many women prefer them for exactly this reason. Also, men find them far easier to handle, too!

FULL CUP BRA
A full cup bra completely covers most or all of the breast, offering both more coverage and more support than a demi or balconette cup bra.
This type of bra is best for when exposure is not an issue, (or when you actually want some of the bra to be seen) but comfort and support are, such as when wearing sweaters etc., and when physically active (but, see sports bra, below).

MASTECTOMY BRA
A mastectomy bra is worn by women who are overcoming cancer surgury, and have had a breast (or breasts) removed. Outwardly it looks identical to any other full cup bra, the magic is inside; the bra cup contains a pocket that securely holds a breast form (or, prosthesis), which provides a natural look and feel (and weight) to that side. It also provides proper support to the other breast.
The bra is not only functional and attractive, but designed to be very comfortable, since the skin is healing in the breast area.

MATERNITY BRA
Maternity bras are specially designed to give extra comfort and support during pregnancy, when the breasts are going through changes. The cups are usually molded, and more elastic to accommodate the changing shape and size of the breasts.

MINIMIZER BRA
A minimizer bra reduces the appearance of the bust by up to one cup size, and they do this while still giving a flattering appearance to your figure.
They are made with a full cup, which has a very oval profile. The straps are more closely spaced than on other types of bras.
Minimizer bras have nice features built in, to ensure comfort, such as: padded straps, softened bra material, and "soft seal" clasps. They are underwired, for support.

MOLDED CUP BRA
Molded bras have cups that are machine molded, meaning they keep their "cuppy shape", even when not being worn. When worn, this helps to enhance the natural shape of a woman, for appearance and comfort.
Molded bras are generally unlined and may be either soft cup or underwire. They can be of any cup type (full, demi, balconette, etc.)

NURSING BRA
Worn after child birth, the nursing bras feature cups that open to make it far easier to breastfeed. They also provide good support, and are designed to be very comfortable.
The nursing bra in the photo has unique cups; they open in the center, rather than at the top of the cup.
Nursing bras are always underwire-free, for increased comfort.

PLUNGE BRA
The plunge bra is designed to allow you to wear a very low cut neck line, and still remain out of view. They do this by using a very small center gore, and by cutting the cups away from the middle. Also, the shoulder straps are usually set wider apart.
This creates the effect of a sexy neckline by uplifting the bust, revealing the top part of the breasts, and displaying the cleavage.
The plunge bra is excellent for wearing with low cut styles, and with tops that have a wide cut neckline.

PADDED BRA
Ideal for smaller breasted women, the padded bra lifts, supports and shapes the bust, which creates a more noticeable look.
Padding (of various types) is added to the lower portion of the cups, which creates a fuller look, and also pushes the breasts upward, increasing cleavage.

PUSH-UP BRA
As the name suggests, the push-up bra pushes breasts up and together, in order to create more prominent cleavage. This can give a real boost to appearence to women of smaller cup sizes, causing the bust to appear much larger (think Wonder Bra, etc.).
Also repositions the bust (in the cup), a look achieved through built in foam padding, and removable inserts such as liquid and air bags or other "cookies".
The cups are cut at an angle, for visible cleavage, and are balconette or demi type.

RACERBACK BRA
In a racer back bra, the main feature is the way the shoulder straps meet the back wings; they create a lovely back silhouette, which curves in between the shoulder blades.
A picture really helps with this description, please see the photo to see what I am trying to describe!
Many convertible bras can also be worn as racerback.

SEAMLESS BRA
The seamless bra is very comfortable, and a good everyday bra. Seam-free cups make the bra discreet under a tight fitting shirt (there may be seams in other parts of the bra and still be considered seamless).
Seamless bras are a great choice for pairing with clingy knits, t-shirts and lightweight fabrics, because they are smooth and virtually invisible under clothing.

SHELF BRA
The shelf bra (also called a platform bra) has only under-bust cups, and is designed to support the breasts from below, but not cover them.
Obviously, this bra is worn for special occasions; but they are more useful than you might think, at first, especially for women with smaller breasts, and for more mature women who are sagging a bit, but still enjoy feeling very flirty.
Under a top, the nipple may or may not be visible, depending on the material and other factors!

SLEEP BRA
The sleep bra is designed to be extremely comfortable to sleep in. Any woman can wear them if they want, of course, but they are particularly meant for use after breast surgeries, or while pregnant, or for large breasted women who need the support while laying down.
They are made of soft, very stretchy material, and one bra can handle cup sizes from A to DD! Of course, they are not underwired.
Because of how comfortable they are, some women prefer to wear them all day, as they do provide support while standing, also. That is why they are sometimes called "Leisure bras".

SPORTS BRA
Sports bras are designed to give the needed support to the breasts, during physical activity that could cause them to bounce painfully.
They are easy to recognize, by the large size of the center gore, shoulder straps, and backwings. Many are designed with zippers, in front, but it is better to buy the ones that just go on like a t-shirt, with no snaps or zippers that could become uncomfortable during activity.
Good sports bras are made of special "wicking" fibers, to remove sweat from the skin, and aid cooling. You can even buy them with built in heart-rate monitors and other high-tech gear.
Needless to say, they can be worn as outer clothing, and they do not have underwires.

TRIANGLE BRA
A triangle bra has cups that are triangle shaped; the cups come to a point on top that rises to meet the shoulder strap, rather than the shoulder strap coming down to meet the cup. This gives great coverage and support for smaller to medium size busts.
Triangle bras can have padded cups, and/or lined cups, but they usually are not underwired.
Most triangle bras have thinner shoulder straps, smaller center gores, and narrower back wings.

T-SHIRT BRA
T-shirt bras are designed to be invisible under even the thinnest fabrics. They are seamless, and usually made of micro-fiber with contoured (or, molded) cups. In many ways, they are similar to seamless bras, since the intent is basically the same; to have the bra be virtually unnoticable under clothing.
T-shirt bras can be underwired, or soft cup.

How Do I Know When My Bra Does Not Fit The Way It Should?

There are ways to know that your bra sizing is incorrect. Some immediate signs are:

• Rising up in the back; when your bra rises up in the back, this means it is not supporting the weight of your bust.
• Shoulder Pulling; If you find yourself leaning or hunching forward regularly or if your shoulders are strained from pulling forward, chances are your bra is not the right size for your bust.
• Falling breasts; Your breasts are not being properly supported if they do not sit upright in a central position on your chest.
• Falling straps; If your straps slide down your shoulders or leave red marks in your flesh, your bra is probably too big around the bust and too small in the cup area.

How do I Find the Right Strapless Bra for My Shape?

Every woman should own a strapless bra.

With off the shoulder dresses and tops, they are an absolute must. If your straps might show with what you are wearing, wearing a strapless will ensure that unsightly straps don’t detract and distract from your overall look. When the fit is right, strapless bras can be comfortable enough to transition from day to night, and provide great support. When purchasing a strapless bra, remember that support is the most important factor.
You want to make sure the strapless bra holds you in completely, lifts your breasts, stays in place and does not leave indentations in your skin. It should also be comfortable and wear well throughout an entire day or evening out. You can also pair your strapless bra with your favorite pair of panties for a night of lounging in your sexiest lingerie.

Why Should I Purchase a Bra Extender?

Bra Extenders Help Bras to Last Just A Little Longer

Sometimes, you find that you have bras that are a perfect fit in the cups, but feel snug around the band area. A bra accessory that can alleviate some of that discomfort is a bra extender. Purchasing a bra extender is a great idea if you have bras to replace or if your size changes, but have not yet had the time or the means to do so.

 

What is a Bra Concealor Strap?

Keeping Bra Straps Out of Sight

Simple bra accessories can make a big difference in how much your bra straps slip or show up under clothing. To pull straps together in the back, attach a small “happy strap” clasp to the straps in back. This helps you wear tanks or other sleeveless tops without your straps peeking out. Also, you can choose bras with a clear strap option, to make straps less visible under sheer or bare clothing.

 

How Can I Add Lift to My Breasts

Silicone Filled Pads Offer Something Extra

Looking for lift? Then, silicone filled pads may be just the thing to give you that extra “oomph!” Worn with underwire bras, silicone filled pads shape to the contour of your breasts, making them look naturally full and uplifted. Silicone pads can be sold separately and inserted into a bra, or may come as part of your bra. A silicone pad bra accessory adds that extra bit of sexiness and excitement to any outfit.

 

What’s the Best Way to Wash My Bra in the Washing Machine?

Invest in a delicate care wash bag for your intimate apparel. A delicate care wash bag allows you to wash your intimate apparel in a washing machine without damaging sensitive fabrics. If hand-washing is not an option, this wash bag is the best way to ensure that your intimate apparel won't be damaged in the washing machine.

Can I Dry my Bra in the Dryer?

Never machine dry your bra. All-around bra care is important. Whether your bra is underwire or softcup, putting it in the dryer will severely shorten its life and distort its shape. Instead, hang your bra over your shower rod or on an outside clothesline to dry naturally. This will help to keep the shape of your bra and extend its life longer.

How Often Can I Wear My Bra Before Washing?

Avoid wearing your bra for two consecutive days. Your body exudes heat and heat makes the Lycra in the bra stretch when it is warm. Wearing your bra for more than one day in a row will cause it to deteriorate faster. Lycra needs at least 24 hours to cool off --- so alternating bras each day will go a long way towards good bra care.

What is the Best Sports Bra for Running?

A common complaint among full-figured women is finding a sports bra to fit right. The trick is to find a sports bra specifically made for full-figured active women. Ideal for runners, these sports bras features a double layer of fabric, which causes less friction around the breast area. They usually include hooks in the front and back of the bra for optimal support and come in sizes as high as DDD.

 

What Sports Bra Prevents Excessive Bouncing?

Pure Lime has the Test Winner Style 0091 and this sports bra keeps bounce in check

Bouncing breasts can be a painful nuisance during a workout. Pure Lime style 0091 is a Test Winner and best selling style.  This bra features seamless cups, no side seams and vent inserts. Straps feature extra padding at the shoulders. It is also moisture-wicking and breathable. This style appeals to the most hardcore female athletes and active women everywhere.

Are there Sexy Minimizer Bras Available?

Minimizer bras can be sexy and functional. The best minimizer bra can help you look an entire cup size smaller. However, it can still be found in a bold color or pattern and make you feel sexy when you are wearing it.

Underwire minimizer bras should have ample support and fit exactly to your measurements. Look for a minimizer bra that still follows the shape of your breast, while reducing the overall size appearance.