15 Different Bra Styles

15 Different Bra Styles

When it comes to choosing a bra, it's easy to get overwhelmed by choices. But don't worry -- we're here to help! For your convenience, we've created a comprehensive style guide that will help you find the perfect bra.

Different bra styles and types

These include:

  • Underwire bras

  • Non-wire bras

  • Bralettes

  • Sports bras

  • T-shirt bras

  • Demi bras

  • Push-up bras

  • Balconette bras

  • Sheer bras

  • Strapless and bandeau bras

  • Convertible bras

  • Front-close bras

  • Extra-coverage bras

  • Breastfeeding bras

  • Nipple covers/pasties

We know it’s a lot. Keep scrolling and we’ll break it down.

1. Underwire bras

Looking for a little extra support? You might want to try an underwire bra. An underwire bra has metal or plastic boning that curves beneath each cup to add support and structure. This type of bra can be good for those with fuller cup sizes and anyone looking for something more supportive or shapely.

2. Non-wire bras

For those who prioritize comfort, non-wire bras are a great choice. Non-wire bras (also called wireless or wire-free bras) are constructed without any boning. This bra type can be a great choice for those who don't need as much support — but today's non-wire bras can be surprisingly supportive for everyday wear. And since you asked, our Sieve Non-Wire bras are lauded for being extremely supportive because of their mesh fabric.

3. Bralettes

Bralettes are a subcategory of wireless bras. They're usually pretty simple in design and may or may not have an adjustable band or shoulder straps. This type of bra doesn't provide as much support as other styles and may be best for women with smaller cup sizes.

Bralettes are also the perfect bra style for casual occasions. Having a bralette peek out underneath a tank top can also be a fun fashion statement.

4. Sports bras

Sports bras are designed for physical activity. Instead of having cups or back hooks, they're often shaped like the upper portion of a tank top. A sports bra tends to be made of stretchy, sweat-wicking, compressive fabrics that keep your breasts in place when you move for optimal comfort.

5. T-shirt bras

T-shirt bras are meant to be worn with — yes guessed it — t-shirts. They're traditionally wired (but can also be wireless) and feature medium coverage that rounds out your silhouette for a smoothing effect.

6. Demi bras

Demi means half in French. So demi bras feature cups that cover roughly half your breasts — usually a little less coverage than what you'd get with a t-shirt bra. This bra type can be good for wearing low-cut tops when you want to make sure your bra stays hidden.

7. Push-up bras

Even if you're not a bra connoisseur, chances are you're familiar with the push-up bra. Push-up bras feature thick padding and structured cups. The goal of a push-up bra is to create or enhance cleavage and sometimes create the illusion of a fuller bust.

8. Balconette bras

A balconette bra is kind of like a push-up bra in that it offers a bit of an extra  lift. However, these bras lift more upward than inward and generally have much thinner linings, so they still highlight your natural shape.

9. Sheer bras

Sheer bras are usually made of mesh or another semi-see-through fabric. They tend to be breathable while showcasing your natural shape. With nipples showing through the material, a sheer bra can act as lingerie or function as an everyday bra for those who prefer very minimal coverage.

10. Strapless and bandeau bras

Strapless bras have — you guessed it — no straps. This allows you to wear various strapless, off-the-shoulder, and sleeveless tops and dresses without any bra straps showing.

This type of bra can be more structured with cups, or it can come in the form of a bandeau, which slips over the head and lays straight across the bust. You can even get a backless strapless bra, typically with silicone edges or lining to help it stay in place.

11. Convertible bras

Convertible bras have straps that can be worn different ways: straight, halter-style, or criss-cross to stay hidden under a racerback top. Some have removable straps, so you can wear them in a strapless configuration.

12. Front-close bras

Front-close bras latch in the front, between the cups, instead of a hook-and-eye closure on the back of the band. They often have wider side and back bands, which can make for a smoother finish underneath form-fitting shirts and dresses.Many find front-close bras easier to get on and off, as you don't have to reach around your back to get them on.

Zip-front sports bras are often preferred by women with larger cup sizes because they can put them over their shoulders and zip them closed rather than having to stretch the compressive fabric over their heads.

13. Full-coverage bras

Full-coverage bras are another good choice for those with larger cup sizes, as the cups have more fabric on the top and sides to prevent your breasts from spilling out.

14. Nursing bras

Sometimes called maternity bras, nursing bras are meant to make breastfeeding and pumping easier. The cups of a nursing bra typically drop down for quick nipple access without you having to take your bra all the way off or lift it up, which might feel awkward or uncomfortable.

15. Nipple covers

More of a bra alternative than a bra, nipple covers are small-ish adhesive pads. These small-ish adhesive pads are placed over the nipples to soften the shape and conceal them underneath thin, semi-sheer, or form-fitting clothing that may not work with a regular bra.

Explore bras for every style and occasion

Here at Negative, we believe it’s wise to have a stock of high-quality bras, including everyday styles and specialty bras that accommodate different necklines, outfits, and occasions. Discover how many bras you should own to build a full collection. 

Explore women's bras from Negative underwear. Or check out how to measure bra size at home for more guidance on what type of bra to get based on your bust size, how much support you need, and your preferred coverage level.

If you need help figuring out the right bra size, we're here to assist.

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