If you're looking to revamp your lingerie wardrobe, then you've come to the right place. So before we begin, take a minute to toss at least one worn-out bra or an ill-fitting bra that has been languishing in the back of your drawer for ages. Good. Now it's time to start fresh and focus on fit, form, and function.
Because bra sizes often differ among styles and certainly vary between brands, previously we've asked women about the best bras, but we also think it's smart to have a professional help steer us in the right direction. Jenna Cohen, Nordstrom's director of merchandising, dpecialized, has been overseeing the lingerie department for over six years, so it's safe to say she has seen it all. While there are dozens of styles from which to choose, Cohen advises sticking to the basics: the underwire bra, the bralette, and the sports bra. And keep in mind that a super-expensive bra doesn't guarantee a better fit—affordable bra options can work just as well.
But before you start browsing, it's important to know your bra size. Since breast size and shape can evolve over time due to weight, age, menstrual cycle, and events like pregnancy, Cohen recommends getting measured every time you purchase a new bra in order to ensure the best fit—or once a year, at least.
Ahead, browse the three types of bras that everyone should own—it may require trying on a few to find your perfect fit—then, when you're ready to level up, keep scrolling for more bra styles to consider, including push-up, bandeau, wireless, strapless, and adhesive. Your lingerie drawer is about to get some much better support.
Underwire
"We’ve seen a strong shift this year in more people purchasing underwire bras as they return to work and other occasions," says Cohen. She specifically notes that the Natori Bliss Perfection Underwire Contour Bra and Chantelle Lingerie Norah Comfort Underwire Bra are both comfortable while offering a supportive, seamless fit for all sizes.
Underwire bras also work well under most clothing and can be worn every day.
This bra is also a Who What Wear editor favorite.
Supportive bras can still be chic.
A strapless bra that won't slide down? Yes, please.
Bralette
Bralettes have become popular in recent years, with comfort continuing to be a priority for consumers. "We’ve seen a strong response to bralettes across brands. Skims continues to be a customer favorite, as does Etam, which offers delicate, embroidered styles. Spanx has a strong assortment of comfortable and functional bralettes that offer great support," advises Cohen.
While styles and materials can vary from sporty to sexy, ultimately bralettes are a reliable fit for those with small to medium-size breasts.
It's understandable if you want to wear a bralette every day, but if your cup size is bigger and you need a bit more support, there are better options ahead.
Skims pieces come in several fantastic shades, so you can find the bralette that's a perfect fit and matches your skin tone.
See, bralettes can be both comfortable and sexy.
Most bralettes do not have padding, but we love this lightly lined version, which provides a bit more structure.
Sports Bras
To be clear, bralettes and sports bras may look similar, but they have completely different functions. A must-have for any type of exercise and all cup sizes, sports bras help to support the breasts while minimizing bounce.
"Customers are consistently looking for newness across categories, and we’re excited to have introduced Vuori in both men’s and women’s this year—their sports bras are great," shares Cohen. Zella, one of our favorite Nordstrom Made brands, also has a strong selection of sports bras that fit nicely and are accessibly priced.
Depending on the type of workouts you enjoy, you may want to opt for a low-, medium-, or high-impact sports bra. ALO offers a great selection across fit, color, and fabrication. Traditional athletic brands make great styles, too.
New styles from Vuori look both supportive and comfortable, which is essential in a good sports bra.
All of Zella's basics are made of quality materials and tend to be among the most affordably priced. Pair this sports bra with the brand's best-selling leggings for a coordinated head-to-toe look.
If you're looking for a colorful new set, ALO is a great place to start. Another supportive yet comfortable choice—cute, too—ALO offers different styles of sports bras for a variety of exercises.
More Types of Bras to Consider
In case you already have underwire, bralettes, and sports bras in your arsenal, or if you're just looking for a different type of bra to try, then you've scrolled to the right place.
Ahead, discover a few more of our favorite styles including strapless, push-up, adhesive, wireless, and bandeau.
Strapless
If you're going to invest in just one style, we vote for the strapless bra. It's worth it to spend a bit more on this type of bra so you're confident it won't slip down halfway through the evening.
Mesh styles are sturdy but lightweight enough that they won't show under slinkier fabrics.
If you love Natori's underwire bras, then definitely try its strapless version.
Push-Up
Another Natori favorite, this push-up bra is convertible, so you can wear it with a variety of tops without sacrificing style or support.
Lacy push-up styles are begging to peep out of a low-cut tanktop.
Push-up styles don't have to be heavily padded to achieve the desired look. Again, it's all about finding that perfect fit.
Wireless Bra
If you like bralettes but need a bit more support, then it's time to try on a wireless bra. Skims makes a great version that hugs curves without squishing the body.
Similar to the bralette, wireless styles come in dainty versions, too.
If you like Commando's underwear, then you'll love its wireless bras made from the same great fabric.
Bandeau Bra
Bandeaus are an excellent option if you're looking for a little support but minimal padding. Think of this style as the strapless bra's��younger sister.
Bandeaus are ideal for wearing under strapless tops.
Somewhere between a strapless underwire and a stretchy bandeau, this affordable style has excellent reviews on Amazon.
Adhesive Bra
We were skeptical of adhesive bras at first, but now we're all in. This reusable stick-on style works on most breasts and provides an unexpected but delightful lift. For larger breasts, look for fuller styles to maximize support.
Similar to the strapless but with adhesive properties so, again, you know it won't slip down midway through the event.
Stick-on bras are newer to the market, so you may have to try a few different brands in order to find the best shape, adhesive strength, and fit for you. At just $13 a set, this three-pack is worth a try.
Next, The Most Comfortable Bras, According to Reviews and Recommendations
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