A bra is a relatively small item in a woman's wardrobe, but it certainly makes a very big difference in how she looks and feels. Finding the right bra isn't always easy or pleasurable. While it's fun to look through a bra catalogue or browse the intimates' section of your local department store, sometimes the bra that looked so hot on the hanger looks and feels all wrong on your body. For most women, it's a matter of sizing; many discount or department stores carry a fairly limited inventory of bras, and what's there is often in a range of "conventional" sizes which don't cater to every body type. Unfortunately, this leads many frustrated women to just pick any old bra that's a close enough fit and within the budget.
Studies show 70% of women are wearing the wrong bra size. This might be hard to believe considering that most of us are incredibly size-conscious when it comes to other articles of clothing like jeans or shoes. The tricky part is that breasts go through major changes over a woman's lifetime. As we know all too well, childbirth, breastfeeding, and fluctuations in weight and fitness level can all change the breast shape and size significantly.
When a bra fits well, feels great, and looks appealing, you can go about your day with confidence knowing you've got the sexy support you need.
Plus Size/Full Figured
Full figured women have the advantage of being well-endowed and curvaceous, but when those curves aren't comfortably and flatteringly displayed, an ill-fitting bra is usually the culprit. Digging shoulder straps, back pain, and "pop-out" can all occur when the bra you're wearing isn't the best choice for you.
The Olga Signature Support Lace Bra ($25) is a comfortable, practical full figure bra from Olga's Everyday Indulgence Collection. It features extra side support and smooth contours so you can wear it with your favorite casual clothes.
While being large-busted definitely has it's perks, sometimes you might want to stick to a more subtle silhouette. Certain tops simply look better on a more modest bustline, and in these cases, a minimizer bra can give you the effect you want. Some minimizers are less than eye-catching, and the fit can be too much of a tight squeeze. That's why it's so important to find a minimizer that does the job well. The Slimline Seamless Underwire Minimizing Bra by Wacoal ($65) is a favorite of busty ladies across the country; it even earned the loyalty of plus-size super-entrepreneur Oprah Winfrey. This product can reduce about an inch from your bustline, and the gorgeous embroidery at the top makes it look as great as it feels.
It's an often-overlooked fact in the fashion industry that not every plus-size woman is large breasted. We all carry our weight in different places, and we all deserve a bra that fits correctly. Just My Size is a great source for plus-size intimate apparel, including bras in sizes 38A-58J, all at very reasonable prices. The JMS Comfort Lace Wirefree Bra With Hidden Shapers ($14.99) provides support and comfort for plus-size women, whatever their cup size. The hidden shapers help bring out the best in your form, while the flirty lace styling gives this practical bra a romantic side.
Small Breasted
Smaller-breasted women can have the same difficulty as large-busted ladies when it comes to finding the right size bra. If you can find your bra size at a local affordable retailer, you're in luck; if not, you'll probably have to do some browsing online and in lingerie stores to find bras that enhance and highlight your alluring petite bustline.
If you have small breasts, you may sometimes want a bra that gives you a little more shape and definition. Push-up bras are excellent for helping you fill out a top and add some curves to your silhouette. There are countless push-ups on the market today, and they're all touted as the best. There are gel bras, water bras, super-ultra-lift-and-push bras...you get the point. It takes some common sense and lots of turns in the fitting room to find a push-up that really does the job for you.
Designer Calvin Klein makes small-sized bras in cute and comfortable styles. The Envy Tailored Push-Up Demi Bra ($46) provides you with lift and curve, thanks to its specially designed structure and style. The eye-catching lace at the top of the cups gives you extra visual enhancement.
Also from Calvin Klein, the Perfectly Fit Satin Sculpt Push-Up Bra ($44)
is another flattering style for smaller breasts. Not only does it provide lift and separation, the design and clever use of lighter colored bands across the top of each cup helps give the illusion of larger fuller breasts.
Sports Bras
Sports bras are an important part of an active woman's wardrobe, whatever her size. Whether your workout of choice is jogging, yoga, aerobics or sports, you'll need a bra to keep the girls in place so you can focus on your routine. Sports bras are some of those clothing items you need to test-drive before buying. The one to choose depends greatly on your bust size and fitness activities of choice. For example, if you're a medium to curvy woman involved in medium to high impact activity, the Nike Dedication II Women's Sports Bra ($29.97) might be a good pick.
Flirty and Sexy
What woman doesn't want at least one bra that's seductive and irresistible? These bras are purely fun, frilly, and flirtatious, and make you feel like a princess. Of course, the princess can be a bit naughty, especially if she's wearing the Love Demi Push-Up Bra by Victoria's Secret ($45-$48). This Angels Collection beauty features a sculpting and lifting design, and comes in an array of colors, including leopard print/black lace.
Frederick's of Hollywood lingerie isn't known for its subtlety; if you're wearing Frederick's, you want to be noticed. The Rock Goddess Cutout Bra ($28) puts you in the spotlight with platinum satin and black mesh detailing. This bra screams for matching undies, black stockings, and garters.
