How to Find the Right Bra

I grew up in the 80s when there was only one type of bra available for larger-chested young women. If you wore a size DD and above, your only option was the same thick, constricting, multi-clasp minimizers that our grandmothers wore. While my friends had their pick of sexy, lacy, single-hook styles at Victoria’s Secret, I had to buy my matronly contraption at a specialty bra shop. Years later, the market is flooded with bras that come in styles, colors, and sizes that flatter all kinds of breasts. And, as I’ve learned over the years thanks to one breast reduction, three pregnancies, and many ups and downs on the scale — your bra needs to change as your body does. Here, we’ve compiled some of the best bras for different shapes and sizes.

_{Prices are accurate as of March 12, 2025. Subject to change.}

For Large Breasts

HSIA Full Coverage Minimizer Bra

​​According to Jené Luciani Sena, bestselling author of The Bra Book, minimizer bras are a great choice for those who prefer less projection, as they redistribute breast tissue evenly — and they’ve come a long way since the 80s! In fact, this one contains my larger breasts as well as the bras I wore in my teens, but its lacy construction and colorful options make it more like the ones my friends got to choose from. The multi-panel cups ensure a snug fit and improved shape, while side support panels help center the breasts for a lifted appearance. 

Olga Butterfly Effect Minimizer Bra

Olga made the OG minimizers that I wore in the 80s — of course, after I had my breast reduction I trashed them all and loaded up on Victoria’s Secret bras. But it wasn’t long before babies, gravity, weight gain, and weight loss had me searching for something that would give me a lot more lift, support, and containment and I found myself back to the tried-and-true. As it turns out, they updated the design, fit, and fabric (it’s softer, smoother, and less constricting) but the one thing that remains the same is that the construction is sturdy; it supports, lifts, shapes, and minimizes and has become my daily go-to.

Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Convertible Bra

Especially challenging for large busts? Strapless bras. The lack of straps means the weight of your large breasts will just pull the bra down defeating the purpose. This one is Wacoal’s best-selling strapless bra for a reason! Boning at the sides and the back along with non-slip rubber binding at the edges help keep breasts propped up, light padding helps them appear fuller and higher up even if they are drooping down slightly, and removable adjustable straps turn it into a regular bra for days when you don’t need strapless.

For Small Breasts

Vanity Fair Ego Boost Push-Up Bra

For smaller busted women, finding the right bra is about comfort, creating shape, and boosting confidence. Bras with full-on padding can leave your breasts looking as fake as the bra. But if you want to add the illusion of volume, push-up bras like this one are your best bet. It has strategically placed, less bulbous padding that comfortably pushes breasts up and out so they magically appear a full cup size bigger.

Knix Mesh Deep V Bra

Perfect for those seeking a more natural look, bralettes offer a relaxed feel with just enough support for a smaller bust while still being stylish — unlike the undershirt-style bralettes your mom bought when you first sprouted. Sena’s choice is a triangle bralette like this one; the vertical seams on the cup help to add structure, the minimalist design complements smaller proportions beautifully, and the soft single-layer mesh feels like wearing nothing under your tops, making it perfect for layering. Knix is also a favorite of some Better Report editors.

For Sagging Breasts

Truekind Daily Comfort Wireless Shaper Bra

According to Sena, most women with sagging breasts think they need a push-up bra to fight that gravitational pull. These types of bras are often made using heavy padding and uncomfortable underwires. “A full-coverage bra is an excellent alternative, as they provide ample support and prevent spillage while helping to shape the breasts,” she explains. Sena pointed me toward this Truekind Daily Comfort Wireless Shaper Bra. I was hesitant to try it since I couldn’t imagine a wire-free bra offering any kind of support, but it actually gave me a much-needed boost — something I’ve never experienced without an underwire. The straps held the weight of my breasts without putting strain on or digging into my shoulders, and the wide band seamlessly smoothed out the sides that tend to bulge.

Soma Balconette Bra

If you’re an underwire stan and want a little bit of a sexier look, a balconette bra works wonders. “They’re like the unsung heroes of the bra world since they offer a gentle lift, creating a perkier look without pushing the breasts too high,” explains Sena. This super sexy balconette bra from Soma is perfectly designed for that purpose. “The combination of stretch lace and mesh with structured cups, underwire, and a longline style has great fit and support.” I love the grippy wide-set straps — they won’t slip or show, they’re perfect under square necklines, and they give your bust a natural boost without any padding. For a more affordable option with similar benefits try the Flirt Demi Lace bra from Montelle. 

For Asymmetrical Breasts

Wacoal Uneven Shape Revelation Underwire Bra

Many of us have uneven breasts, and for some, the discrepancy can be more extreme than others. When it comes to evening them out, Sena advises opting for bras with removable cup inserts or adjustable padding to achieve balance and symmetry. This Wacoal bra was specifically designed for that purpose. It has flexible cups that conform to the larger breast, snap-back stretchy fabric that hugs the smaller one without gaping, and straps that adjust in front to help ensure breasts are level. Pro tip: Opt for the size that aligns with the larger breast.

Featured Image Credit: Nataliia Tymofieieva/ iStock