Before the holidays began, I wrote a handy little guide to learning more about your bra size and fit. (For part 1 of the blog click here!) Since we have establish what is a good bra fit and learnt some useful lingerie lingo, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of bras that you will encounter at any lingerie store.
The Balconette Bra
The sexist and most revealing type of bra, the balconette looks exactly how it sounds. The cups are cut straight across the chest and give a feminine sweet-heart neckline effect, almost as if you are resting your breasts on a balcony. Balconette bras are perfect for a sexy revealing dress, or a jaw-dropping lingerie ensemble. The push-up also delivers a subtle cleavage for any collegiette.
The Demi Bra
This bra has more coverage than the balconette, and the half-cup cut provides ample support (demi literally means half-cup in French). This is my daily go-to bra to wear under low-cut shirts, V-necks, and low-cut dresses. Personal comfort with coverage level is the main difference that separates the demi and balconette bra. The demi bra is characterize by its thick gore, (check out my previous article on bra anatomy) and its ability to separate and lift the breasts. For the collegiette who doesn’t feel comfortable displaying as much cleavage as the balconette offers, the demi is a great alternative!
The Full Coverage Bra
Although this bra may seem a little bit boring compared to the other two, this good ol’ reliable full coverage bra performs exceptionally well in the areas of comfort and full coverage. Some collegiettes with smaller chest sizes (eg. 32A-32C) may find the coverage a little bit excessive, in which case we recommend the demi which is identical in almost every other aspect. Other collegiettes with larger chest sizes will love how safe and secure this bra makes you feel on a day-to-day basis running errands, getting coffee or just sitting in lecture.
The Wireless Bra
Speaking of comfort in a bra, the wireless bra’s special feature is exactly that – no underwire. This bra is perfect for collegiettes who find under wire bras to be too constricting, or those who just don’t like wearing bras period. The only downside to this bra would be the lack of support it will provide for larger sized collegiettes, as well as for those looking for a little bit of cleavage.
The Push-up Bra
Your ever trusty push-up bra. Although this bra might go by different names, the concept is all the same – a great everyday bra that makes you look and feel amazing. Different models of push-up bras exists all with different padding materials (remember water bras? Gotta love the ’90s), but there exists one for every collegiette. Whether you are looking for a bombshell effect with the VS 2-Cup push up or a more natural oopmpf, this bra is great for everyone and is probably one of the most commonly purchased bra type on this list.
The Strapless/ Convertible Bra
The most handy bra around, a strapless and convertible bra is definitely a staple in any collegiette’s underwear rawer. Aside from being able to wear this bra under that cute strapless dress on date night, having the straps transform into various forms are also useful for halters and one-sided tops. Some strapless/convertible bras even have difference padding options, form push-up to a lightly-lined bra.
The Bralette
As the most casual bra on this list, if it can even count as a bra, most bralettes offer minimal support. This is a good option for colleiettes with smaller chest sizes who dislike wearing bras but still want some form of support. The bralette is the the bare skeleton of a normal bra, made up of fabric and elastic. Bralettes are very casual and definitely something great to wear at home for collegiettes who are winding down from the day, or under a low cut top for a risque peak of lace.
The Unlined Bra
A personal favorite, the unlined bra is basically a cross between a normal demi (most of the time) bra and a bralette. Why do I love it? This bra may look intimidating at first but it in unbelievably comfortable. The unlined bra is a must try for collegiates in the bigger sizes and don’t want any more push-up, or those who feel constricted even in their least padded bra. This is a great lazy-day bra for collegiettes and provide an equal amount of support as a demi coverage bra. They is a sexy addition for collegiettes who like light fabrics and lace.
The Front Closure + Racer back Bra
This is the best bra for those cute backless sweaters, tops and dresses, and a racer-back bra with a touch of lace is one of the best ways to play up an otherwise understated outfit. The front closure also takes away the daily struggle of opening and closing your bra strap.
The Adhesive Bra
More function than fun, the adhesive bra is staple for collegiettes who love spaghetti strap or strapless dresses. Adhesive bras, commonly known as sticky bras or petals, offer good support for special events. When dresses are strappy, complicated or low in the back, a sticky bra is perfect to have around in order to have fun and feel secure without needing to pull your strapless bra up every five minutes.
The Sports Bra
I am sure all collegiettes are familiar with sports bras, they are a girl’s best friend from kicking butt at the gym to looking good and feeling secure while jogging. Though these bras are purely functional, there are several variations that include pushup, use breathable fabric, or have interesting strap designs. Working out has never looked cuter than it does today (that you, Lululemon!) and depending on the activity, there is a specialized bra for you. Hint, that minimally padded strappy bra is perfect for yoga class!
The Bustier
A bra is a fun flair to add to every collegiette’s lingerie collection, as a cross between a corset and a demi bra. Bustiers even almost double as a crop top (you see girls rocking this look at summer festivals like Veld or Digital Dreams), especially with a loose blouse or maxi skirt in the summer. Though these may less practical as a daily bra, bustiers are a fun and sexy piece for every collegiate who wants to start building her lingerie wardrobe.
So collegiettes, which type is your personal favorite? My holy grail is the unlined bra because it is super comfortable, sexy and slick. Let me know your favorite bra type and why!
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