A new bra can be an expensive purchase, particularly a good one. Which is why I was excited to find out more about the M&S Jasmine bra collection - a range of lace bras in a variety of styles, all with a very affordable £10 price tag. They're proving very popular with customers - in fact, M&S sell 11 Jasmine bras every minute!

With sizes spanning A–H and a line-up covering everything from non-wired to plunge, balcony to bralette, minimiser to maternity, there's something for everyone within the Jasmine collection. I'm a personal stylist and trained bra fitter, and I specialise in finding the best bras for large busts, so I was particularly interested in the styles that were available in larger cup sizes.

I would usually expect to spend around £40 on a supportive bra, so I was keen to see how the affordable £10 styles compared. I tried the Jasmine Lace Wired Balcony bra, which fitted perfectly, felt comfortable and gave me a great shape. Could this £10 bra be as supportive as my more expensive styles? I've been wearing it for a couple of days now - and so far so good!

Shop the M&S Jasmine Bra

Shop other colours

Shop other M&S Jasmine bra styles

This size-inclusive range includes a variety of styles, all at £10 each. Here are three additional designs that are worth checking out if you're looking for a bargain bra.

After wearing this bra for a couple of days, I'm surprised by the level of comfort and support it gives me. Customers seem to agree, writing: "I have several of these bras now. True to size 32G. Very comfortable and supportive. And £10!!! No idea how you do it for that price M&S but please keep doing it. Us busty girls don't usually get a bargain bra."

Another added: "These are really well made with balcony style cup so they don't flatten your shape. They look really pretty and not too industrial like some larger cup sizes. They offer good support too."

My verdict? I'm impressed. It doesn't offer as much support as my favourite full-cup bra, and only time will tell if it will last as long, but it's a fraction of the price, and that is worth celebrating.

I have been testing out the very best bras for woman&home for a while now, and after covering everything from classic plunge and push-up pieces to soft triangle and strapless designs, I thought that my boobs and I had covered all bases when it comes to lingerie. That was until I discovered the Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank, which really is unlike anything else in my underwear drawer.

I have long been a fan of the Evelyn & Bobbie brand, and the Defy Bra is up there as one of my favourite and most comfortable bras ever, so I was instantly intrigued when I spotted this newer scoop neck design from the American label. Designed to be one of the best bras for back fat, this longline style looks like a basic vest, but it offers far more than that. In a similar way to my favourite M&S Hidden Support Vest, this piece has a built-in bra that sits like a discreet crop top inside the longer camisole, and the lingerie-meets-shapewear hybrid provides lift and hold for my bust while smoothing and contouring my back, sides and tummy to create a sleek and neat silhouette. After a few days of wear, it has really impressed me and does everything I hoped it would.

I get very frustrated with overspill around my bra, and have sometimes avoided wearing clingier tops due to worries about lumps and bumps at the back. This well-designed piece cancels out any concern without the need for layering up a bra and a smoothing slip – it does two jobs in one, and as it falls on my hips, it also cancels out any pesky overhang on the waistband of my jeans and skirts too. Win, win!

Shop the Bra

I wore the Evelyn & Bobbie piece over a couple of days before washing it and wearing it again. While testing the bra, I considered the design, the fit, the fabric and the support, as well as how smoothing it was around my bust, sides and back.

Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank: Comfort & Fit

The bra is a pull-on style, which means you won't need to faff about with fiddly clasps and fastenings at the back, and although it is a little bit of a squeeze to get on at first, once it's pulled into position, it feels wonderfully comfy and very easy to move around in. I found that it managed to stay where it was supposed to be without riding up around my tummy or back. It does feel a little snug after you pop it on, but the firm and stretchy material is designed to mould to your natural shape and curves over time, and the brand suggests wearing it for a couple of days to let it adapt to your body and fit nicely. It really does work, and it was much easier to pull on after a couple of wears, and I found that the stretch fabric moved with me rather than against me for a comfy feel.

This bra is wire-free, which means it isn’t rigid or stiff, and as with the rest of the collection from the brand, the clever shaping of the cups and technical fabric will provide hold for even very big boobs, and will evenly distribute the weight of your bust to minimise the risk of any pressure points or back strain. On top of that, the straps are wide to offer extra support, which makes this one of the best bras for large busts too.

Of course, as well as the bust support, this longer line style promises to keep any lumpy areas around your back, waist and tummy to a minimum too, and it really does. I was impressed by how sleek it made my top half look, but without the overly tight feeling I often get from a standard shaping top or a slip, and I can easily wear it under a tight tshirt or slim-fit dress knowing that it will flatter from all angles. It adds a gentle firmness to my frame and means I can get dressed in a hurry without any worries about my outfit clinging to certain areas.

I expected the longer style to feel a little hot and sweaty to wear on a warm day, and I wasn’t so sure about an extra layer under my shirt, but the thin polyamide and elastane blend fabric is surprisingly cool against skin and promises to be moisture-wicking and anti-odour, so I think it’ll be a winner for the summer months too.

The sizes go from S-XXL, but because of the adaptable fabrics, each one covers a dozen or so bra sizes, so busts ranging from 30C-54H can find their match, and it takes a lot of hassle out of trying to guess the best size for you when buying online. I'm a size 12 and a 36B, and found that the Medium fitted brilliantly.

Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank: Style

This bra is wonderfully comfy and smoothing, but in all honesty, when it comes to design, it's not the most wow-worthy. The overall look is quite simple and fuss-free, which isn’t the end of the world, but it does feel a little dull compared to some of my other bras, and it's not necessarily the sexiest piece of underwear in my drawer right now. The lack of lace, embellishment and trims does mean it sits invisibly under all clothing, though, and for everyday wear, the comfort and support definitely outweigh the understated design.

Another thing to consider is that the bra features much wider, adjustable straps than a lot of my other lingerie staples, which are great for support, but they might peek out a little from the sides of a sleeveless top, and the higher cut front of the bra vest may be tricky to layer under a lower neckline. Overall, though, I have found that it sits well under most styles or tops and frocks without any problems.

I opted for the soft sand colour as I think it will be the most versatile, but there is also a classic black option, as well as five other wearable designs, including pink and dark brown.

Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank: Care

Despite the fact that the fabric is very technical, this bra is very easy to care for, and it can be thrown in the wash on a cool cycle. This was a massive bonus as I'm not usually a fan of hand-washing, and I found that it dried speedily and felt like new the next time I wore it.

Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank: Verdict

I really do love Evelyn & Bobbie, and I have recommended this particular lingerie brand to lots of friends and family over the last few months, and I will be doing the same again after wearing this longer line style too.

The bra top provides plenty of shape, lift and hold for my boobs and kept my bust in check during a busy weekend, which involved shopping, a big spring clean and a trip to the playground with my little ones. I’m impressed by how much hold it offers without any harsh underwires or overly firm fabric, and I imagine it will be a great alternative to your best minimiser bra for anybody with much larger boobs.

The longer line is such a great idea, as it cancels out the need for my best shapewear on top of my bra and creates the most sleek and neat silhouette, which means I can wear a multitude of tops and dresses without any worries about lumpy areas or unsightly overspill around the back strap. It tucks into my jeans and skirts snugly too, and works very well to prevent overhang at my waistband, and all without riding up or needing to be readjusted throughout the day.

This bra is great for a little firm-up if you’re wearing something clingier than usual, or simply as a comfy base layer for everyday outfits. Rather than just focusing on back fat, this bra smooths and firms up my whole top half brilliantly and acts as the ultimate confidence boost with minimal effort.

Shop More Evelyn & Bobbie

When was the last time you treated yourself to a new bra? I'm a trained bra fitter, and I believe that wearing the best bras in the right size is incredibly important, whatever your shape. In my experience, a well-fitting bra will not only feel comfortable but also significantly improve the way you look in your clothes. Fluctuating weight is an obvious reason to be re-fitted, but it's not the only factor. Maybe your favourite bra has simply worn out?

"Many women keep wearing the same bras for far longer than they should, often without realising that the support, fit and structure may have already broken down", says Janine Dutton, owner of Belle Lingerie. "Over time, everyday wear, washing habits and even how bras are stored can impact how well they support the body."

"The main sign will be that it no longer offers the support it once did", advises Janine. "Over time, with regular wear, the back band and straps naturally lose elasticity, even if there are no visible signs of wear and tear. Although a bra may appear fine, it does not mean it continues to offer the same level of support it did when it was newly purchased."

Whether you prefer the best bras for large busts or the most comfortable bras, here are the 4 tell-tale signs that yours likely needs replacing.

1. The band feels loose

If your bra lacks support and no longer feels secure, it's likely caused by the elastic in the back band stretching over time. Ideally, 80% of the support in a bra is provided by the back band, with only 20% coming from the straps. Try tightening your bra onto the innermost hooks - if it's still loose, then it's time to replace it.

"It is important that the band is in good condition and fitting correctly to offer the correct support", says Janine. "The band should lie straight across your back and should not ride up. If a bra is new, then it should fit properly on the outermost hook, and you should be able to slide two fingers underneath it comfortably."

2. The straps are slipping

"If your bra straps are constantly slipping off your shoulders, and you find yourself tightening them more often, it's a key indicator that your bra structure has weakened", comments Janine. If you are wearing a band size that is too big, you will be relying on your straps to do more work; over time, this will increase the pressure on them.

"Bras that have been stored in warm or humid conditions for long periods of time can experience fabric and elastic damage, without visible signs", notes Janine.

3. The cups are wrinkling or they pinch

"Cups that wrinkle, gape, or no longer sit flush with the skin indicate that the fabric or padding has broken down and is no longer providing proper shape", says Janine. "The cups will fit differently depending upon the style of the bra, but if you notice changes to the cups over time, this is a sign that your bra size has changed or the style needs replacing."

If your cups gape at the top, or they wrinkle, this indicates that the bra has stretched and is now too large. If you have overspilling cups or your band is extremely tight and not sitting flush against your breast bone, this may be a sign that your bra has shrunk.

4. The underwires are irritating or exposed

"If the underwire is poking through the fabric, it feels uncomfortable, or it no longer sits flat against the chest, then it is time to invest in a new bra to avoid skin irritation and further discomfort", comments Janine.

"An everyday bra worn several times per week will naturally wear out more quickly than one that is rotated with others. Higher-quality or premium bras tend to last significantly longer due to superior fabrics and manufacturing techniques. When rotated with other bras and washed according to care instructions, premium bras can often last several years before needing replacement."

6 of the best bras

Want to replace your worn-out bra with a new style that's more comfortable and supportive? Here are six of our favourite bras, as tested by the woman&home team.

How to make you bra last longer

• Wear the correct size - Choosing the wrong size bra will have an impact on its lifespan. "If your bra is too small, the elastics and fabrics will be stretched and pulled more over time, leading to faster breakdown and loss of support," says Janine.
• Wash gently - Follow the washing instructions carefully, and if your bra is machine-washable, make sure you choose a gentle, cool cycle. The majority of bras will need to be hand-washed. "A no-rinse formula, such as Soak Wash, is particularly well-suited to lingerie, as it cleans effectively at a low temperature without the need to agitate the fabric", advises Janine. "Soaking a bra allows for dirt, oil and bacteria to be removed while protecting the shape and support of the cups." Never tumble-dry your bra.
• Store carefully - Store in a cool, dry environment, ideally laid flat. Moulded bras are best stacked together, rather than folded in half to retain the shape of the cups.

I have tried and tested over 50 bras in order to find the best bras for big busts. I'm a trained bra fitter, and I know how to spot a great design that will feel comfortable to wear, while giving you the support you need. I've also got a big bust and understand how difficult it can be to find a style that's available in larger cup sizes.

Many of the best bras are designed to lift and project the breasts forward. A padded plunge bra, for example, will create a cleavage and make your bust look bigger. Some bras have the opposite effect. The best minimiser bras use clever construction and compression techniques to give the appearance of a smaller bust and, much like the best shapewear, will create a smoother silhouette.

Most minimiser bras on the market are underwired. I wanted to find an alternative design that would be equally as supportive without the need for wiring. The Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra promised to deliver a great fit using advanced support technology specifically engineered for fuller cup sizes.

Triumph is a family-owned business that has been designing lingerie since 1886, and their bras are sold across the globe. I have worn their bras since I was a teenager, but have always opted for underwired styles. When I am exercising, my go-to sports bra is the Triumph Triaction Control bra, which is perfect for high-impact sports.

I was keen to find a non-wired style that used modern technology and construction techniques in place of the traditional underwiring. I wore the True Shape Sensation Minimiser bra over the course of a month and considered the level of support and comfort it provided, along with the shape it gave me under my clothes, in particular, if it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Shape & Design

At first glance, this bra looks so soft and flexible that you would be forgiven for thinking it lacked any substance, as the fabric is so incredibly light. But once you put it on, you can immediately feel the effect of the firmer double-laminated panels that surround the softer cups. With bonded seams and stitch-free upper and lower edges, the bra fits like a second skin. The cups are trimmed with a cross-over mesh edging that gives a sporty finish.

Unlike many other seam-free bralets, this style has a traditional clasp fastening at the back, with 3 rows of hooks and eyes to ensure a perfect fit as time passes. The elastic straps are 2cm wide and are adjustable at the back. It also has generous back panels, making it a great option if you're looking for bras to banish back fat.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Support & Fit

In the past, I have struggled to find a non-wired bra that could give me a great shape. Most bralets work by squishing your bust into a flat mono-boob (I call it the sausage effect!) and the lower band inevitably rides up under your boobs, which is uncomfortable if you have heavy breasts. This design was different, and the firmer bonded fabric surrounding the cups worked in the same way as an underwire to lift and separate the breasts. This bra provided me with a good level of support throughout the day, with no bouncing when walking around. My average bra size is a 32FF, which wasn't available in this style, so I opted for a 34E, which gave me the same fit. I would recommend sizing up for more coverage.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Comfort

This is one of the most comfortable bras I have worn. Unlike the majority of minimiser bras that tightly compress the bust into a flatter shape, this design uses fabric that offers 360° flexible stretch. I was able to adjust the band to make it tighter, which stopped it from riding up under my bust. Seam-free and without any labels, this bra would be a good choice if you have delicate skin or are recovering from surgery.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Function

I tested this bra over the course of a month under a variety of tops. The smooth cups were invisible, even under a thin white cotton shirt. I wore the bra while working at my desk, going on a vigorous walk and while relaxing on my sofa. The bra provided firm support when moving about and was comfortable for lounging. The breathable fabric felt cool to wear. My bust appeared slightly smaller and actually measured 1cm less than when I was wearing the Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra.

Unlike a moulded T-shirt bra made from a lightly padded fabric, this bra has no padding, which resulted in my nipples showing through at certain times. This wasn't a problem for me, but you may find this a negative factor.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Care

The washing instructions on this bra state that it can be machine-washed up to 30 degrees. For the purpose of this test, I machine-washed the bra twice, and I didn't see any change in the size or quality.

However, from experience, I have learned it is best to hand-wash all bras to ensure they stay looking their best. I will continue to wash and wear this bra and report my findings over the coming months.

Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra: Verdict

This bra felt incredibly comfortable to wear and was able to keep my bust in place without feeling restrictive. It provided a smooth line under tight-fitting tops and made my bust appear a little smaller. It didn't offer the maximum support of a full-cup underwired bra, but it was more supportive than any non-wired style that I have previously tested.

Shop more colours

I'm a wardrobe stylist and trained bra fitter with over 20 years of experience in dressing women to look great and feel confident. I've also got a big bust and understand how difficult it can be to find a supportive style that's comfortable and available in larger cup sizes.

I have researched the best bras for big busts, and I find that a full-cup bra gives me the level of support I need. Many of the best bras are designed to lift and project the breasts forward, a padded plunge bra, for example, will create a cleavage and make your bust look bigger. Some bras have the opposite effect. The best minimiser bras use clever construction and compression techniques to give the appearance of a smaller bust and, much like the best shapewear, will create a smoother silhouette.

The M&S Cool Comfort Cotton Rich Minimiser Bra initially caught my eye because of the price; I would normally expect to spend double the amount for a full-cup supportive bra. But after testing it over a period of five days, I have found that it has more to offer than just its affordability.

M&S is one of the best bra brands in the UK, and their bras rank highly in all of our lingerie features, so it was a great place to continue my research into minimiser bras. Having previously tried the M&S Flexifit Wired Minimiser Bra, I was keen to find a style that offered the same support and minimising effect at a more reasonable price.

I was intrigued to try out the Cool Comfort™ technology and see if wearing a cotton-rich bra would feel cooler to wear. I wore the bra for a week and considered the level of support and comfort it provided, along with the shape it gave me under my clothes, in particular, if it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

M&S Cool Comfort Cotton Rich Minimiser Bra

M&S Cool Comfort Cotton Rich Minimiser Bra Review

Shape & Design

This non-padded T-shirt bra has smooth, seam-free cups that are generously cut to completely contain the entire breast, providing full coverage and revealing just a tiny amount of cleavage. The tops of the cups are trimmed with ric-rac edging, a pretty finish that wasn't visible under my clothes.

The metal underwires are encased within the lining and feel rigid and firm. The elastic straps are 1.5cm wide and are adjustable at the back. The bra has generous stretch-lace back panels, making it a great option if you are looking for bras to banish back fat. It fastens with hooks and eyes, and there are 3 rows to ensure a perfect fit as time passes.

The bra is made from 65% Supima® cotton, and the cups feel lighter but less stretchy than other T-shirt bras I own.

Support & Fit

I felt very secure and supported in this bra; it firmly held my boobs in place, squashing them slightly to redistribute the weight, which made them appear smaller. This bra provided me with a good level of support throughout the day, with no bouncing when walking around. I would suggest getting a professional fitting, as I found the sizing slightly bigger than average, and you may want to size down on the cups if you are between sizes. The band fitted firmly and didn't ride up during wear.

Comfort

Unlike the most comfortable bras you can buy, minimiser bras use compression to firmly hold your bust in place, resulting in a tighter fit. This didn't feel uncomfortable to wear, but I was certainly aware of the support it was giving me. The underwires lay flat and didn't cause any discomfort. However, after approximately 4-5 hours of wear, I did notice the straps start to dig in a little.

The straps are the one area that could be improved on this bra, as the elastic feels thinner than you find on more expensive designs. I loved the feel of the fabric, the high cotton content increased the breathability, and it felt cool to wear.

Function

I tested this bra over the course of five days under a variety of tops. The smooth cups were invisible, even under thin jersey fabrics. I wore the bra while working at my desk, going on a vigorous walk and while relaxing on my sofa. The bra provided firm support when moving about, but was a little too uncomfortable for lounging.

Unlike a moulded T-shirt bra made from a lightly padded fabric, this bra has no padding, which resulted in my nipples showing through at certain times. This wasn't a problem for me, but you may find this a negative factor. My bust appeared smaller and actually measured one inch less than when I was wearing the Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra.

Care

The washing instructions on this bra state that it can be machine-washed at a gentle 40 degrees. For the purpose of this test, I machine-washed the bra once, and I didn't see any change in the size or quality.

However, from experience, I have learned it is best to hand-wash all wired bras to ensure they stay looking their best. I will continue to wash and wear this bra and report my findings over the coming months.

Shop another colour

Verdict

This bra gave me a great shape under a tight T-shirt. The cups fully supported my bust without any over spill or bulging. My bust appeared smaller and actually measured one inch less than when I was wearing a lightly padded plunge bra. For less than £20, it's great value for money.

Calling all blondes! If your strands require some brightening TLC, but your next hair appointment is still a while away, Amanda Holden's affordable go-to purple shampoo might just be the answer.

When it comes to equipping your hair-washing arsenal with a formula designed for your hair type, there's more choice now than ever. From the best shampoos for fine and thinning hair to the best conditioners for curly hair, there are shampoos and conditioners aplenty on the market - many of which boast affordable price tags, too.

Blonde hair can be high-maintenance if you want to avoid the likes of colour fading and dryness, but thankfully, some of the best purple shampoos allow you to maintain salon-worthy golden locks from the comfort of your own home. In Amanda Holden's case, she's given a rare insight into her haircare collection, including her go-to formula for beating brassy tones and brightening her blonde tresses - plus, it helps to thoroughly cleanse and repair damaged strands, too.

Amanda Holden's go-to £10 shampoo for blonde strands

While you may expect celebrities' beauty bags to make home to an array of luxury, high-end brands, with hefty price tags to match, Amanda Holden revealed the surprising shampoo that has earned a place in her hair washing regime - and it's all thanks to its blonde-brightening formula.

In a recent interview, Amanda gave a rare insight into her beauty routine, detailing her go-to products from the best lightweight foundation to her signature scent (Revolution's Superdewy Tinted Moisturiser and Byredo's La Tulipe, in case you were intrigued). But it was a peek into her haircare routine that caught our attention.

When quizzed on the shampoo that she keeps stashed away in her bathroom cabinet, Amanda revealed: "To keep my hair nice and blonde and prevent brassiness, I love Charles Worthington ColourPlex Ultra Violet Shampoo." As it turns out, Holden isn't the only fan of this formula, as it has amassed over 200 reviews from shoppers on the brand's site, earning an impressive average star rating of 4.6 out of 5.

To add to all the hair talk, the media personality also divulged in the must-have product she relies on for defining her naturally curly hair. "Because I have naturally curly hair, I sometimes like to use a texturising spray, such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, to create definition – if I’m going to have it curly, I like it not to be fuzzy," she noted.

Big or small? Full or flat? Whatever size and shape your boobs are, it's a wise idea to wear a bra. The types of bra that you choose will depend on a combination of factors, from the outfit you are wearing to the level of support you require.

If you are looking for the most comfortable bras, or maybe even the best bras for sleeping in, I'd recommend choosing a style that is non-wired. A well-designed non-wired bra will also provide adequate support. Look out for styles that are made from super stretchy fabrics or have cups that are constructed from 3 or 4 parts that are engineered to take the weight of the breast tissue.

Bravissimo have been designing bras for women with big boobs for 30 years and I'm a huge fan of their Millie Balcony Bra which is highly supportive. They provide a fitting service, both in-store and virtually, and I popped into their London store to confirm my bra size as a 32FF.

For the purpose of this review I was looking for the best minimiser bras that would support my boobs while also make them look smaller. Most minimiser bras are wired styles, so I was surprised to see that their Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra was listed as a minimising style and decided to give it a try. While testing the bra, over the course of a week, I considered how well it fitted, the level of support, how comfortable it felt and whether it had any minimising effect.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra Review

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Shape & Design

The pinstripe pattern gives this bra a sleek and modern feel. It's a clean and simple design without any additional embellishments. The cups fully encompass the breasts and are constructed from 4 parts, including a side sling panel that pushes the breast slightly forwards to create cleavage. The cups are edged with stretchy elastic to ensure a snug fit against the skin. The centre gore measures 10 cm and the elastic straps are 2cm wide. The bra fastens with a 2 hook fastening on sizes D-G cup and a 3 hook fastening on sizes GG-J.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Support & Fit

This bra fitted me well, the cups provided full coverage and the band felt firm but not too tight. The straps were easy to adjust. However, although the bra was a good fit it didn't feel supportive enough to wear for a long period of time or to do anything too active in it. To compensate for the fact that it is non-wired I felt that I needed to tighten the straps to take some of the weight of my boobs.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Comfort

Here's where this bra excels! The cotton lining was cool and allowed my skin to breathe and the lack of wires made the bra incredibly light and flexible. It's super comfortable and easy to wear.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Function

I loved how comfortable this bra felt to wear and it provided enough support to keep my boobs in place while relaxing or going for a stroll. It gave my boobs a natural shape, with minimal uplift. I don't think it has a minimising effect on the size, but it did keep my boobs in place.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Care

This bra is hand wash only and I washed it twice without any change in the appearance or quality. It's soft and flexible making it easy to store.

Bravissimo Cici Non Wired Bra: Verdict

I liked this bra and will wear it when I'm relaxing or working from home. I didn't feel it gave me enough support to wear on a busy day when I have lots of running around to do, but it was extremely comfortable.

After massive success in the US, lingerie label Evelyn & Bobbie has recently launched into John Lewis, and is quickly gaining a loyal fanbase of UK shoppers. I have heard endless good things about the underwear collection, and as I am on a quest to find a seriously comfy new bra, I couldn't wait to try it.

The label was launched back in 2019 by businesswoman Bree McKeen, who struggled to find the most comfortable bras for her own 34G bust. Frustrated with the lack of options, she designed her own, and went on to make a completely original and patented bra design that lifts, holds and shapes boobs of all sizes without the need for a harsh wire or lots of padding. I had heard lots of rave reviews, and as somebody who prefers the latter in the bras vs bralettes debate, favouring softer styles over anything too rigid, I had high hopes that it would be a great new everyday bra that I might actually enjoy wearing. Spoiler alert – it's everything I hoped it would be!

There are a few styles to choose from, but I opted for the Defy bra, which has a fuller coverage style that looks a little like a sports bra, but minus all the firmness and details of the best minimiser bras. It’s a pull-on style that has a high cut back, with a V-neck front, and it's completely wire-free. The sleek and simple piece is designed to lift and support while being as comfortable as possible, and it evenly distributes the weight of boobs to avoid any pressure points or upper back issues.

Shop the bra

The modern firm-yet-stretchy material is designed to mould to your shape and the brand recommends wearing it for three days for it to become the perfect fit for you and your boobs. I did just that, and I can confirm that by the third da,y this bra was a total dream to wear and I could pop it on in the morning and forget all about it. I wore it for a busy commute and full day at work, a relaxed sofa day and even a frantic session at a soft play centre with my son, and the bra held up brilliantly for it all. I am a huge fan and I found myself reaching for it again and again.

I tried it out in the Himalayan Salt colourway in a size medium. While testing, I considered the fabric, the hold, lift and support as well as how comfortable it was.

Evelyn & Bobbie Defy Bra: Comfort & Fit

As mentioned above, the brand advises wearing the bra for three days to let the bra mould and adjust to your shape, and they even recommend pulling and stretching out any areas that might feel a little snug. The material then works with your body heat to adapt and move with your silhouette. When I first put it on, it felt a little tight under the arms and at the back, but after an hour or so, it softened well and fast became very comfortable.

You can pull this one up over hips or over your head, so there aren’t any tricky clasps to deal with at the back, and there are removable cups that add extra smoothness, but you take them out for an even softer take, too. The shoulder straps are much wider than standard bra straps for plenty of support, and the underband has a longer line to it that sits snugly on the ribs.

The fabric is super light and stretchy but manages to have enough bounce that it stays put all day without feeling loose or saggy. I’m a big fan of non-wired bras in general, but rather than just removing them, this bra has replaced the rigid metal piece with a clever cut and fit, as well as technical fabrics that will lift even the largest of busts for a flattering shape that I really love.

It’s smoothing from all angles, and the wider back and side panels are great for anybody worried about unsightly bumps and on the hunt for the best bras for back fat.

The sizes go from S-XXXL, but because of the adaptable fabrics, each size covers a dozen or so bra sizes, so busts ranging from 30C-54H can find their match.

Evelyn & Bobbie Defy Bra: Style

While I love how comfy and supportive this bra is, I would say for me, the design lacks a little in the style stakes. The very simple and straightforward design feels great and is perfect if you want a very fuss-free finish but it doesn’t look particularly sexy on, and looks more like shapewear. A plus side to the simplicity of it, though is that it’s very sleek and form-fitting so it sits invisibly under even very fitted clothing. I opted for the blush pink shade, and it’s also available in 12 other colourways, including classic black and bold leopard print.

Evelyn & Bobbie Defy Bra: Care

I expected the futuristic fabric to be a little tricky to care for, but this bra can be thrown in the washing machine - hurrah! The blend of polyamide and elastane can be added to a cool cycle with similar colours. I washed mine and found it dried speedily and fitted well the next time I wore it.

Evelyn & Bobbie Defy Bra: Verdict

I have been raving about this new-to-me brand to anybody who will listen over the last couple of weeks! The bra is comfortable while creating an amazing amount of lift and hold that makes it perfect for a busy working week or a lazy sofa day. The impressive size range and technical design means it a winner for a wide range of boobs, but especially for anyone with larger busts, who might struggle with neck and back pain due to their ample bosom. The support and control is incredible, and all without feeling restrictive to wear.

It does all the things I’d want my bra to do, and my boobs look and feel their best while I’m wearing it.

Shop the Evelyn & Bobbie Range

Experts agree that wearing a supportive bra is a good idea, whatever your size. If you have F+ cups it's even more important to find a style that will combine maximum support with comfort to ensure you feel good and look great in whatever you wear. This 2-pack of bras from Next is great value for money and they have the added bonus of underarm smoothing panels.

If you are currently on the hunt for the best bras for big busts you will likely have considered a full-cup style. I wear a size 32FF and the majority of my bras fit this description. However, occasionally I like to wear a bra that will make my boobs look smaller and this is when I reach for one of the best minimiser bras that work by compressing the breast tissue into a softer more rounded shape.

There are many reasons why you may opt for a minimiser style, much like the best shapewear they will give you a smoother line under tightly-fitting tops.

Next is one of the giants on the UK high street and as a fashion stylist I often feature clothes and accessories from the brand. While they are a great place to shop for all the latest trends, I had not considered buying my bras from there (usually opting for a lingerie brand at John Lewis instead). However the majority of the bras designed for bigger boobs have a high price tag and I wanted to investigate a cheaper brand to see if I could find the same level of support and comfort at a more affordable price.

The Under Arm Smoothing Minimising Ultimate Comfort Bra caught my eye. It's a two pack, and since £40 is approximately the amount I spend on a single bra, this meant I would be getting two for the price I normally pay for one. I then noticed the smoothing under arm panels - a feature I hadn't come across before, which piqued my interest.

I wore the bras for a two week period and considered the level of support and comfort they provided, along with the shape they gave me under my clothes, in particular if they made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

Next Under Arm Smoothing Minimising Ultimate Comfort Bra

Next Under Arm Smoothing Minimising Ultimate Comfort Bra Review

Shape & Design

Much like the best T-shirt bras this style is made from a double layer of soft microfibre fabric and the cups are smooth and seam free. An additional piece of fabric is attached to the side of the cups to form an extension that will cover any additional overspill.

The cups are underwired and have a thin elasticated edging ensuring the fabric stays in place. The centre gore of the bra is 10cm wide and the lower band is cut slightly higher at the front. The elastic straps are 2cm wide and have clasps at the back to adjust the length. The back panels are made from slightly firmer fabric than the cups and are also smooth and seam free. The bra fastens with 3 hook and eyes, and there are 3 rows to increase or decrease the band size.

Support & Fit

With the smallest size available in this bra being a 32F and the biggest a 44K, this is a bra that will appeal to women with bigger boobs of varying shapes and sizes. I opted for my normal size of 32FF and it fitted perfectly. The bra felt comfortable, although the underband fitted firmly and I was aware of it throughout the day.

I felt that the bra offered me more support than other T-shirt bras with the additional underarm panels to increase coverage. I was able to easily adjust the straps to make them the correct length, but I felt they were slightly flimsy and made from thinner elastic than I'm used to on more expensive bras.

Comfort

On the majority of days I was testing this bra I wore it for about 14 hours a day and it felt comfortable for most of that time. By the end of the day it was starting to rub on the shoulders and left slight red marks on my skin, but not enough to cause any pain, only very slight discomfort.

Function

Not only did I feel supported in this bra but I think it made my boobs look smaller too, so it definitely serves its purpose.

Care

This bra is machine washable, and for the purpose of this review, I washed each one twice, without any change in the quality or appearance of the bra.

However, in my expert opinion, I would recommend hand washing as I predict the delicate fabric will lose its supportive qualities with repeated machine washing.

Verdict

These bras offer great value for money and are comfortable and supportive, they have become an essential part of my wardrobe. I think they make my boobs look slightly smaller, and give them a natural shape. The smoothing underarm panels increased my confidence, although they showed under sleeveless tops with low-cut armholes.

When it comes to most comfortable bras, some days I like lots of lift and support, and other days I prefer something a little softer to keep my bust in check.

While the choice between a bra vs bralette isn’t hugely hard to make each morning, if I opt for something too structured while at home in my loungewear, I can sometimes feel uncomfortable and I will be constantly yanking my wired bra back into position, and if I go for a very soft bralette and end up popping to the shops later, I can feel under supported.

It's hard to find a bra that can do both jobs, but the Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra is very close to being up there with the best in the do-it-all stakes! It’s a non-wired bra with a very flattering crossover V-neck front and a sporty vest back. The peachy-nude fabric has a subtle jacquard effect running through it that gives it a modern feel while feeling super soft to wear, and there’s a sheer trim along the edge for extra style points.

Shop the bra

As well as looking great, the bra has clever design details that make it very different to other bras I’ve worn before. It has two sets of a hook and eye front fastenings (one under each boob) on the elasticated underband, and it pulls on like a waistcoat and sits with a crossover style, that can be adjusted on each fastening to tighten or loosen to find a comfy fit. The non-padded cups feels smoothing and lightly supportive without being restricting, and the wider straps have hidden firmer straps inside that can easily be added or removed for additional support and lift.

I love the extra details in this one that help to make it feel a little more customisable – it means I can wear it a looser on the band and minus straps while snuggled on the sofa, or I can tighten things up and add the shoulder straps for when I need to head out for the school run. While I don't think it would be one of the best bras for large busts or offer enough support for a full day at work, I found it provided a good level of hold while doing some quick errands or for just keeping my boobs in check when i'm busy at home.

While testing the bra, I wore it for two full days and considered the fit, the style, support and how comfortable it was.

Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra: Comfort & Fit

The super soft and fine fabric is made up of polyamide, elastane and modal, so it has plenty of stretch but the wrap-front style helps to keep it feeling taught and firm enough to smooth and shape my bust. It feels very lightweight and breathable on skin, and I wore it for a couple of days without any complaints.

I like the front fastening – it makes it super easy to pop on, and the double set of hook and eyes mean I can adjust to find the perfect fit each time. The sleek and wide back panel is comfortable while being very smoothing so it’s a winning choice for anybody on the hunt for the best bras for back fat, and the removable shoulder straps are great for adding extra support if needed, or for taking out when I'd like softness on a snuggly sofa day.

It’s available in sizes XS-XL, which covers UK sizes 30D-38G, and there is a handy chart on the Fantasie website to find the right fit for you.

Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra: Style

I like the sportier vibe this bra has, and the crossover front is flattering without being too revealing. The soft peachy pink colour is very pretty, and the lack of fussy lace helps to give it a contemporary feel while making it really smooth to sit under even the tightest T-shirts without any lumps or bumps.

The back is very plain compared to the jacquard material at the front but overall it has a very understated yet chic feel to it that flatters my bust nicely. I'd love to see it in black colourway, but right now it's currently available in a rich navy colour and a soft sapphire tone too.

Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra : Care

Because of the fine and delicate fabric, this one needs to be hand-washed to avoid any damage while in a machine. Once cleaned, it dried impressively fast and it looked and felt like new the next time I wore it.

Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra: Verdict

I love a comfy bra and this one is most definitely comfortable. As well as being soft and stretchy, it added gentle lift and support with a smooth and natural looking finish. The handy front fastening and removable straps help to find the perfect fit, and I love the crossover front as it's very flattering without being too much.

While it won't provide a huge amount of support for a busy day out and about, it's perfect for some extra hold while at home or a quick pop to the shops. It's unlike any bra I've worn before, and I really love it.

Shop the Fantasie Fusion Leisure range

Wearing the best sports bra is key to a good workout, as there's nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable when exercising. Finding a style that will suit you can be a daunting task, especially if you have boobs that are bigger than a D cup! They aren't cheap either, so finding a style that is worth the investment is crucial.

I've always been a keen dancer and enjoy all types of fitness classes, I'm 58 and over the years I've worn countless sports bras and know how annoying it is when one feels uncomfortable or doesn't provide enough support. I wear a size 34F and I'm always on the hunt for both the best minimiser bras and the best bras for big busts, and this is even more important when it comes to finding a sports bra. Wearing the right bra will help to keep me motivated. Having big boobs can make me feel a bit self-conscience when exercising, so having a bra that offered minimising properties was a bonus factor when considering this style.

Triumph is a well-respected company that has been making lingerie for over 135 years and experts agree that they make some of the best bras for mature women. I own their Essential Minimiser Bra and find it's great for everyday wear. So when I discovered the Triumph Triaction Control Lite Minimising Sports Bra I decided to put it to the test. I wore the bra for a variety of exercise and dance classes, including a high impact Tap class, but also wore it throughout the day to test how comfortable it felt over a longer period of time. I considered the level of support and and the shape it gave me under my clothes, in particular if it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

Triumph Triaction Control Lite Minimiser Sports Bra

Triumph Triaction Control Lite Minimiser Sports Bra Review

Shape & Design

From the outside this bra looks like a non-wired bralette, but hidden inside is a traditional underwired bra that's attached to the lower band and side panels. Together they completely encompass the breast tissue offering compressed coverage and support. The inside cups are moulded from a firm fabric that keeps its shape. The straps are lightly padded at the top of the shoulder and adjustable at both the front and back making it really easy to get a perfect fit.

Straps can be worn traditionally or crossed over. The bra fastens with 3 hook and eyes, and there are 3 rows to ensure a perfect fit. Care information is printed directly onto the inside of the bra - no itchy and annoying labels. The lining of the cups and elasticated back straps are in a contrasting lilac colour and the side panels are decorated with "go-faster' graphics.

Support & Fit

It's important to know how to wear a sports bra in order to get the best fit. The 34F fitted me perfectly, it felt firm but not uncomfortable around the ribcage with zero overspill from the cups. My boobs were held very firmly in place and I felt confident jumping and leaping around the dance studio. I'm not a runner, so I can't comment on how this bra would cope with a marathon but customer reviews highlight it's suitability for tennis and other high impact sports.

Comfort

All minimising bras, especially sports bras, work by compressing the breast tissue to keep it firmly in place, and unlike the best sleep bras, you aren't going to forget that you are wearing this bra. It feels firm but not uncomfortable, even when I wore it all day.

Function

This bra stopped my boobs from bouncing about and held them securely in place throughout my work-out. The way it positioned my boobs made them look smaller by a cup size. This bra ticks all the function boxes.

Care

I was pleased to see that this bra is machine washable. The label states that it can be washed at 40º but I opted for a 30º cycle and popped it in with all my workout clothes. I washed it a total of 3 times for the purpose of this review and couldn't see any change in appearance or feel any reduction in support.

Verdict

I found this an extremely comfortable and supportive sports bra that stopped my boobs from bouncing around when exercising. I felt that it reduced the appearance of my bust by one cup size.

Finding the perfect bra is a tricky task. I have tried dozens over the years, and even as a fashion editor, it can still be a struggle to find lingerie that really does tick all the boxes.

Bras need to support, lift, create a smooth and defined silhouette, and most importantly, be one of the most comfortable bras to wear.

Of course, your bra is quite a personal thing, and while some women may prefer one of the best minimiser bras, or lots of extra structure in their bras for larger busts, for me, it's all about feeling good while I wear it. I like some lift and hold, but I try and avoid stiff padding or hard wires as much as I can – I much prefer a softer take on lingerie.

While I love wearing my bralettes at home, the traditional softness of the non-padded styles don’t often offer much in the support stakes. I have been searching for a bra that I can wear at home while lounging about, as well as when I’m dashing for a bus or chasing my children round a hectic soft-play centre!

Thankfully my search for the holy grail of bras is over as the M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra offers absolutely everything that I'm looking for, and all while looking gorgeous too.

Shop the bra

While testing out, I wore the black colourway for a full day before washing and wearing again, and while testing it out, I thought about the fabric, shape, support and overall comfort.

M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra : Comfort & Fit

The smooth and non-padded cups provide plenty of coverage without feeling too restricting, and they added lift and hold while giving my cleavage a gentle boost. The fabric is made up of 69% polyamide, 18%polyester, and 13% elastane but means it feels beautifully soft against my skin and has plenty of stretch to keep it supple while I’m moving around.

It's very lightweight and breathable – I honestly forgot I was wearing it. The bra is available in an impressive size range too – covering 30B – 42E.

M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra : Style

The simple and plain cups are given a fancier spin, thanks to the soft lace on the underband and at the back. The classic floral fabric looks pretty but is very fine so it doesn't show through or feel bumpy through tighter clothing - making it perfect for anybody that is on the hunt for the best bras for back fat.

It has a very classic and minimal feel to it while also being a little luxurious, and as with all of the best M&S lingerie, it manages to find the perfect balance between practical and pretty. It's also available in four other colour options, including fresh white and baby pink.

M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra : Care

As well as looking and feeling good to wear, this one is also easy to look after as it can be thrown in the washing machine. The instructions say to use a gentle wash, so I popped it in a ‘delicate’ cycle on my machine – it came out looking new and still fitted really well.

M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra: Verdict

I have tried and worn a countless number of bras over the years and the M&S Body Soft Non Wired Full Cup Bra is really up there with my favourites. The chic design looks great without being too fussy, and it adds plenty of hold and support while feeling as soft as some of my bralettes. The size range is impressive and it's available in a few different colours to suit different styles and capsule wardrobes. It is a winner all round, and has fast become my go-to for every day wear.

Shop more colours

When you think of full-coverage bras, you probably imagine something plain and boring, especially if you are shopping for DD+ cup sizes. However, here's a bra that's both attractive and supportive. It claims to make your boobs look smaller, too.

I am always on the lookout for the best bras for big busts. There are plenty of styles that do the job, but when it comes to looks, the majority of them are more practical than glamorous. When I came across the Berlei Beauty Minimiser bra I was impressed by the design and colours available, so I decided to put it to the test.

I wear a size 32FF or 34F bra, depending on the brand. This particular style isn't available in a 32" back, so I opted for a 34F and found that it fitted perfectly. It's important to know the signs of a well-fitting bra to ensure you get good support without any discomfort.

Although I'm not unhappy with the size of my boobs, there are times that I wish they looked a little smaller (under certain tightly-fitting tops or button-front blouses that gape at the bust), so I set about finding the best minimiser bras for the answer to this problem.

The majority of the styles that I found were either plain and practical t-shirt bras or bralette-style sports bras. I wanted to find a more glamorous option that was both attractive and made my boobs appear smaller - the Berlei bra promised to deliver.

Berlei is a well-respected bra brand that has been at the forefront of women's lingerie since 1917, so their designs are considered to be innovative and of high quality. With an RRP of £45, this bra is at the top end of my budget, so the results had to prove it was worth the extra spend.

I wore the bra for a week, under a variety of tops and while doing various activities. I considered how it looked, the level of support and comfort it provided and whether it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

Berlei Beauty Minimiser Bra

Berlei Beauty Lace Underwired Smoothing Bra Review

Shape & Design

The cups are constructed in two parts - the main section is made from a single-layer lace fabric with a bonded smooth lining, and the upper part of the cups is made from a sheer stretchy fabric with a lace edge.

The centre gore of the bra is 9.5cm wide and sits comfortably flat against my ribcage. The underwiring sits in a smooth casing. The front of the straps are wide, trimmed and lightly padded; the back straps are elastic and have clasps to adjust the length.

Tiny ribbon bows adorn the front of each strap and centre. The back panels are plain and made from a double layer of firmer stretch fabric. The bra fastens with 3 hooks and eyes, and there are 3 rows to ensure a perfect fit.

Support & Fit

This bra fitted well, completely covering my boobs without any overspill. The extra stretchy sheer panel at the top of the cups will work well if you have uneven breasts. The firm back panels held me securely in place. The moulded cups provided a medium amount of support, which was ok for general wear, but I felt the need to hold onto my boobs when I ran down the stairs!

Comfort

This bra was comfortable to wear for approximately 5 hours. After that time, I could feel the underwiring start to dig in and the lace trim on the straps began to irritate the skin on my shoulders.

Function

When it comes to looks, this bra ticks all my boxes. The combination of lace and sheer cups looks pretty and feminine, and the added bow details are a nice finishing touch. I also love the deep burgundy colour, I think it's a classier alternative to a vivid red. The cups were supportive and compressed my boobs into place, which made them appear smaller when compared to wearing a plunge or balconette bra.

Care

This bra is hand wash only, and I don't think it would last as long if you were tempted to pop it into the machine. I’ve washed it by hand more than six times and haven’t seen any changes in appearance or function.

Verdict

This is a great-looking bra, made from pretty lace and semi-sheer fabrics, that provides full-cup coverage and has a minimising effect, making your boobs look slightly smaller. I wouldn't choose to wear this bra every day as it wasn't as comfortable as other styles, but I would definitely wear it for a special occasion or night out.

Shop More Colours

When it comes to non-wired bras, they are most often very soft and thin, and are designed to be to be comfortable rather than lifting or particularly supportive.

As a lover of all things comfy, I have a few wire-free bras and will opt for them when I’m having a cosy day in my loungewear at home or just don’t feel like wearing anything to rigid. I wouldn’t usually go for one if I wanted some extra lift or a boost to my cleavage, but that has totally changed now that I’ve discovered the Boux Avenue Comfort Microfibre Plunge Bra.

I wore this bra for a couple of days while testing out the most comfortable bras and it really impressed me. The silky microfibre fabric and wire-free cups felt gorgeous to touch so I knew that I was going to enjoy wearing it, but what I hadn’t expected was the added lift that the plunge front bra gave to my chest.

I was impressed with the support it gave my 36B boobs, and the low-cut front and light padding actually gave my cleavage a subtle boost too. It’s the perfect blend of everyday support and comfort and I’ve worn it again and again. It's up there with the best bras I've worn and feels like a nice balance between a bra and bralette.

Shop the bra

While it doesn’t give me as much sturdy support as my wired and fully padded bras for a busy day at work or running errands, I was surprised by how well it looked after my bust while I popped to the shops or did the school run. It adds hold and lift while being soft and velvety smooth against skin, and sat very sleekly under clothing.

I wore the soft Boux Blush colour way for a full day before washing and wearing again, and while testing it out, I considered the fabric, shape, support and overall comfort.

Boux Avenue Comfort Microfibre Plunge Bra : Comfort & Fit

The plunge front of this non-wired bra is flattering on boobs without being too revealing, and it will sit neatly under a V-neck top without any fabric peeking out. The lightly padded, microfibre cups feel soft while still adding shape and smoothness to my bust, and there’s a decent amount of lift to give my chest a subtle boost while being super comfortable to wear all day long.

It's made from 88% polyamide and 12% elastane, with a polyester lining which feels fresh and cool against skin, and I imagine it’ll be a good choice even during the very hot months of high summer.

It adds hold for my chest, but i'm not sure it would offer the same level of support for anybody with very large boobs. The sizing only goes up to a 38DD, so it might not be the one for you if you're on the hunt for the best bras for larger busts.

Boux Avenue Comfort Microfibre Plunge Bra: Style

I love the glossy fabric and the sugary pink colour of this bra. The lace and embroidery-free finish keeps it smooth and sleek too, so you can wear under tight fitting tops without any worries about it looking lumpy and it’s a great choice for anybody on the hunt for smoothing bras for back fat.

The straps at the back can be crossed over too, making it a winner for wearing under fancy wedding guest dresses or racer back vests. It's also available in a chic black and a fresh white colour so you can find a shade that suits you.

Boux Avenue Comfort Microfibre Plunge Bra: Care

This one is machine washable which is a nice change from my traditional structured and delicate bras that often need to be hand washed. I washed it on a cool rinse, and it dried quickly. When I wore it again, it felt like new and had held its shape and hold really well.

Shop more colours

As a fashion stylist I have helped hundreds of women to look great in their clothes, and whatever their shape or size, I always start by ensuring they are wearing a correctly fitting bra.

Amazon isn't the first place I'd think of when shopping for a new bra, but after extensive research into the best minimiser bras, I was impressed by the selection available on the site. The Delimira minimiser bra is a soft and comfortable T-shirt bra which will give you a good level of support. The cups are designed to mould around your breasts in a natural shape and, as an added bonus, it compresses the breast tissue, which slightly reduces your size.

I'm also a trained bra fitter and wear a size 32FF, so I understand how difficult it is to find the best bras for big busts. The most supportive styles are often made from lace fabrics with seamed cups, which create lumps and bumps under certain tight or clingy fabrics. A practical solution to this problem is opting for a seam-free T-shirt bra. However, if you have big boobs these styles are often lightly padded and can add extra bulk. This bra is unpadded and like the best shapewear, it uses compression to minimise the bust.

When buying bras online, it is important to know how to find your correct bra size because a badly fitting bra will feel uncomfortable and create an unflattering shape. It is advisable to order a selection of different sizes and try them on to establish the best fit. There's no standard sizing and brands will vary. I usually wear a 32FF but as this size wasn't available, I ordered the sister size 34F, along with a 34E and 34G in order to compare.

The 34F was a perfect fit, and I returned the other two without any complications. I wore the bra for a week, under a variety of tops, to ensure the bra gave me a smooth line. I considered the level of support and comfort it provided and whether it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

Delimira Minimiser Bra

Delimira Minimiser Bra Review

Shape & Design

Unlike some T-shirt bras that have moulded foam cups, this bra is made from two layers of fabric. The outer layer is a thin fabric that's silky to touch and the lining is slightly thicker and less stretchy, which will hold you in place. The cups extend upwards and join the straps with one (almost invisible) seam.

The centre gore of the bra is 7.5cm wide, which is average and revealed a little cleavage. The cups are cut a little lower and provide medium coverage. The underwiring is encased within the lining and invisible from the outside. The front of the straps are made from the same fabric as the cups and are soft and flat. The back of the straps are stretchy elastic, with clasps to adjust the length. The bra fastens with 3 hook and eyes, and there are 3 rows to ensure a perfect fit.

Support & Fit

While I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing this bra to run or exercise in, I did feel that it provided medium control and supported my boobs for everyday wear. It fitted well, without any overspill or digging in around the band.

Comfort

I gave this bra 9/10 for comfort, it felt great all day and I only noticed the underwiring after a full day of wearing it. My boobs felt slightly squashed into shape, but this is typical with minimiser styles and didn't cause me any discomfort. The fabric felt cool to wear and the bra is much lighter than the average full-cup bra.

Function

We've established that this bra is both supportive and comfortable - but did it actually minimise the size of my bust? I'd be lying if I said I felt noticeably smaller or slimmer in this bra - but I did feel contained and more streamlined when i wore it under a tight T-shirt.

Unlike other minimiser styles I have tried, which are cut higher, this one is lower at the front so would work under V-neck tops. I didn't feel that this bra lifted my boobs up any higher, instead it slightly flattened them and re-distributed the weight out towards my armpits.

Care

Although this bra appears very light and delicate, the fabric is quite robust and it has kept its shape after 8 hand washes. I would not recommend putting it into the washing machine. This bra is easy to store as the cups are flexible so it can easily fold into your lingerie drawer.

Verdict

This is a comfortable bra that's great for women who want to create a smooth line under tight tops. It won't drastically reduce the appearance of your bust, but it does streamline your natural shape, providing sleek, seam-free support.

Shop More Colours

When you think of Spanx, you’re most likely to think about best shapewear. The iconic brand has been loved all around the world for years, and the collection is packed full of shaping slips, bodysuits and leggings, that are all beautifully designed to define and smooth curves in all the right places.

I have long been a fan of the brand’s body-shaping shorts for wearing underneath dresses, and I know that woman&home's Digital Fashion Editor loves the confidence-boosting Spanx seamless leggings. But I had never considered their bras before. The lingerie range is impressive and covers plenty of the best bra shapes and styles including the best minimiser bras and sports bras.

As somebody who loves to be comfy in what I'm wearing at all times, I decided to give the Spanx Comfort Bra a go, and I can confirm that it most definitely lives up to its name. This wire-free underwear is such a treat to wear and I have been going back to it on repeat.

This soft and stretchy bra has a little more coverage than a traditional bralette, and is the perfect blend of comfort and support. There is no underwire or heavy padding and it’s a pull-on piece so you don’t need to worry about the clasp at the back. It sits smoothly under clothes which makes it a winning choice for anybody worried about back fat around their bra too.

Spanx Breast of Both Worlds Comfort Bra

As it’s from Spanx, the hold and support is impressive. I usually find non-wired bras to be a little too soft for keeping my chest under control while chasing round my toddler, but this one has a firmer feel to it that looks after my boobs without being too tight or rigid.

Although I wouldn’t wear it for a full day of work and errands as I’d need a little more structure to my everyday lingerie, I found it a great choice for wearing at home or for the school run and it ticked both my comfort and subtle support boxes nicely. There's some light and removable pads that add a smooth shape, but they can be taken out for an even softer feel too.

I wore the soft Café Au Lait & Chestnut Brown reversible colour-way in a size Medium for a full day before washing and wearing again, and while testing it out, I considered the fabric, shape, support and overall comfort.

Spanx Comfort Bra: Comfort & Fit

This bra is firmer than most non-wired bras I've tried, but is still wonderfully comfortable. For me, it’s the perfect balance between chest support and loungewear and I wore it all day without any complaints. The wider straps can’t be adjusted but have enough give in them to fit nicely, without nipping shoulders and the wide back panel is flattering and smoothing.

It's quite high cut at the front, so not ideal if you are wearing a low-neckline top or dress, but I didn’t have any issues with it while under a jumper or t-shirt. The fabric has a good amount of give to it and it's made up of 91% polyamide and 9% elastane. It feels a little thicker than some other bras, which may be a bit heavy for high summer months but overall I found it breathable and easy to move around in.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes covering XS-3XL, which covers a band size of 31-54.

Spanx Comfort Bra: Style

The very simple design of this one is a little more shapewear rather than high fashion. While it's not particularly pretty, if you’re looking for a fuss-free bralette to pop on for the weekend, this one is a winner.

The lace and embroidery-free finish keeps it smooth and sleek too, so you can wear under tight fitting tops without any worries about it looking lumpy. The very clever point about this one is that it's reversible, so you can get two colourways from just one bra!

I opted for the soft brown tone, which had a darker chocolate shade on the reverse. It's also available in a three other options which includes black/nude, pink/grey and a white/pale lilac too.

Spanx Comfort Bra: Care

Unlike a lot of my structured bras, the soft and padding-free shape of this one means it can be thrown in the washing machine and rinsed on a low temperature. I found that it washed well and after drying, it retained its shape and hold really well.

Spanx Comfort Bra: Verdict

As I mentioned earlier, I am all about comfort when it comes to everyday basics and this hero bra really impressed me. It offers much more support than I was expecting while being super easy to wear and sat invisibly underneath my clothes. As with the rest of the Spanx range, it feels like it's been designed to smooth and accentuate my shape rather than restrict it.

It’s a great all-rounder and I’ve worn it again and again.

Spanx Comfort Bra: Shop More Colours

This minimiser bra is a great all-round lingerie staple that will provide you with a good level of support and a smooth line under your clothes. It's the perfect choice if you are looking for a bra that will reduce the size of your bust and hold your breasts firmly in place by using clever construction and compression techniques.

I am a fashion stylist and trained bra fitter, with over 20 years experience in dressing women to look great and feel confident. I also wear a size 32FF bra and understand how difficult it is to find a style that's both supportive and comfortable. I have done a lot of research into the best bras for big busts and I find that a full-cup bra will give me the level of support I need. However, these full-cup styles are designed to lift and project the breasts forward, which can often make my bust appear bigger and create a cleavage. Under certain tops I prefer to wear one of the best minimiser bras to give the appearance of a smaller bust and much like the best shapewear, a minimiser bra will create a smoother silhouette.

M&S is one of the best bra brands in the UK and their bras rank highly in all of our lingerie features, so it was a great place to start my research into minimiser bras. Having previously tried the M&S Non-Padded Bralette I was keen to find a style that offered more support. I opted for the M&S Flexifit Wired Minimiser Bra as I was intrigued to try out the four way stretch fabric that many customers recommended as being comfortable without being too restrictive. After being fitted I was advised to try a size 32G (M&S do not sell size 32FF, which is my usual size in other brands). I wore the bra for a fortnight and considered the level of support and comfort it provided, along with the shape it gave me under my clothes, in particular if it made my bust look smaller - here's what I thought.

M&S Flexifit Wired Minimiser Bra

M&S Flexifit Wired Minimiser Bra Review

Shape & Design

From the outside this bra looks like a cross between a bralette and a T-shirt bra. The centre gore of the bra is 11cm wide (on my size 32G) which is wider than the average full-cup style, and the cups completely encompass the entire breast providing full coverage and revealing just a tiny amount of cleavage.

The cups are moulded, seam-free and made from two layers of fabric. The outer layer is incredibly thin and silky whereas the inner lining is a thicker and firmer fabric which holds the breasts in place. The underwiring is encased within the lining and invisible from the outside. The front of the straps are made from the same fabric as the cups and are soft, flat and get wider at the top of the shoulder. The back of the straps are stretchy elastic, with clasps to adjust the length. The back of the straps are removable to give you the option to wear as a cross back style. The bra fastens with 2 hook and eyes, and there are 3 rows to ensure a perfect fit as time passes.

Support & Fit

Along with the wide straps and underwiring the majority of support comes from the preformed moulded cups that contain and compress the breast tissue into place. The bra feels firm to wear, and this is necessary if you want the appearance of smaller boobs.

When I was wearing this bra my boobs felt slightly squashed and flattened into place, rather than the uplifting effect that you get with a full-cup or balcony bra. I was wearing the correct size which meant that there was no over-spill at the top of the cups or under my arms. This bra provided me with a good level of support throughout the day, with no bouncing when generally walking around. I also configured the straps into a cross back and wore the bra to a yoga class and it felt comfortable when stretching and lifting my arms above my head.

Comfort

In order for a minimiser bra to work it has to fit correctly and firmly - you will not get a reduced appearance if the bra is too big. I would not recommend this bra as one of the most comfortable bras you can buy, however it certainly felt comfortable enough to wear for long periods without rubbing or digging in. After approx 6 hours of wear I started to feel slight discomfort around the band. Also the label started to itch after a couple of hours, but I simply cut it out which solved the problem.

Function

Much like a sports bra this style supports the breasts by lightly compressing them into a flatter shape and redistributing the breast tissue towards the sides rather than lifting them upwards and inwards. When wearing this bra I felt that my breasts looked less conspicuous and slightly smaller.

Unlike a T-shirt bra that is made from a lightly padded fabric, this bra has no padding which meant my nipples showed through at certain times. This wasn't a problem for me, but you may find this a negative factor.

Care

The washing instructions on this bra states that it can be machine washed on a gentle 40 degrees.

For the purpose of this test, I have machine-washed the bra several times, and there has been no change in the size or quality. However, from experience, I have learned it is best to hand-wash all bras to ensure they stay looking their best.

Verdict

After wearing this bra every other day for two weeks I found it comfortable and supportive. The straps were easy to convert and the stretchy seam-free cups supported my boobs and made them appear smaller. I believe it made me look slimmer compared to my regular full-cup bra.

Shop More Colours

As a fashion editor and avid shopper, I've been on the lookout for the very best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals all weekend long, and I must say this Spanx bra really stopped me in my tracks.

It's the Spanx Breast of Both Worlds Reversible Comfort Bra, which is one of the very best bras for back fat. Think for a minute what it is you hate about the bras you wear now. This one has no seams, hooks or wires, and offers a smooth fit under any fitted clothing. It's super comfortable, and since it's available up to size 3XL, it's one of the best bras for large busts as well.

Shop Spanx Reversible Comfort Bra

But don't just take my word for it. A quick read through the reviews on Amazon tell you everything you need to know. One customer called it "easily the most comfortable top of this type I have ever owned", whilst another said it offers "the perfect amount of support".

One person commented that it "fits like a second skin", while another said "as someone who has struggled to find the perfect bra that offers both functionality and comfort, this bra has truly been a game-changer for me."

It's currently available on the Spanx website for £32 (reduced from £45) but Amazon has an even more amazing offer. For just £15, it's a third of the price of the RRP, and it's reversible so you're getting two for the price of one. That's girl maths right there!

It's machine washable, available in different colourways including classic black and nude, and it boasts removable pads for added lift. Finally - and this is a bugbear of mine - it's no roll. The ribbed underbust construction prevents the band from rolling up. Hurrah!

Spanx has long been one of the best brands in the business when it comes to shapewear, but their leggings, jeans and underwear are well worth checking out too - stock up with my tops picks below.

Shop more Spanx Cyber Monday offers

If you are looking for a bra to wear under a strapless party top, or a skimpy summer camisole with spaghetti straps, it can be hard to find one that stays in place and feels comfortable. If you are a size DD+ the quest is even more challenging. This bra will give you the lift you need and improve how you look in your clothes, whatever your size.

The majority of the bras in my lingerie drawer are great for everyday wear, I'm a size 32FF and have discovered the best bras for large busts. However, when it comes to dressing for a special occasion I like to wear halternecks or tops with thin straps, and my full-cup bras have wide straps that will look unsightly. I decided to invest in a multiway bra that could work under a variety of necklines.

Some strapless bras look like stretchy tubes and work by compressing the breasts to stop them from moving around. These work well if you have smaller boobs but I don't like the mono-boob effect they have on a bigger bust, so I wanted to find a style that supported my boobs individually and gave them a rounded natural shape. The Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra caught my eye because it looked as smooth as a T-shirt bra, without fussy trims that might show under tight tops. I opted for the colourway that was closest to my skin shade and tried it under a selection of tops. I wore the bra for a full day and also for a night out and considered the design, how comfortable it felt and how confident it made me feel.

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Shape & Cut

This bra has moulded, underwired cups that are big enough to encapsulate most of the breast, but much like the best balcony bra, the uppermost part of the breast is not covered. It's made from smooth microfibre fabric with minimal seams and the back panels are wide and lined with a firm mesh. The clasp has 3 rows of hook and eye fastenings. The detachable straps are smooth and measure 1.5cm wide. You can use one strap to create a halterneck or one-shoulder bra, or remove them both for a completely strapless design. When both straps are attached it transforms into a balcony bra.

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Comfort

Strapless bras have to fit tightly around the band in order for them to provide the support you need and this one is no exception, I could feel the band firmly against my ribcage at all times. My average size is a 32FF, but with this bra I opted for a size 34F as it felt more comfortable, but was still supportive. The underwiring on this bra felt more rigid than usual, again playing a more important role than on a normal bra. I felt comfortable in this bra for about 4 hours, after that the tightness of the band began to irritate me.

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Support & Fit

I wore this bra strapless under a camisole top with very thin straps and I felt incredibly supported. My boobs felt contained and stayed in place. The uppermost part of the breast felt a bit exposed, but this was ideal under the style of top I was wearing as it didn't show at all. The bra didn't slip down or ride up with wear, even when dancing. It fitted well and created a rounded natural effect while also lifting my boobs into the position they used to be in when I was in my twenties!

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Style

Sleek and smooth - this bra is designed to disappear under your clothes and provide invisible support, much like the best shapewear. It is a functional bra that has minimal seams and trimmed with a little bow of the same colour (which you could easily snip off if you wanted a completely clean line).

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Care

This bra is hand wash only and I recommend using a gentle liquid detergent to prolong the life of the bra. After washing this bra once I didn't notice any changes to it's size or shape. Like all moulded bras this bra needs to be stored unfolded - avoid inverting one cup into the other as this will cause the fabric to wrinkle and distort the shape. I suggest stacking your moulded bras together so that they support each other while being stored.

Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review: Verdict

This is a versatile and functional bra that will provide lift and support while you are wearing strapless or tricky necklines. It's designed to create a smooth line and be invisible under your clothes. Not an everyday bra, but one that will play an important role in your bra collection.

Shop The Bra

It can be hard to find a bra that offers great support while being sleek and flattering from all angles. In my experience, it's always best to avoid overly fussy designs and lingerie with lots of texture and seams, and instead opt for something a little simpler that will keep your bust in check without any unwanted lumps and bumps.

The Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra proves my point perfectly, as the completely fuss-free, smooth cups and straps made for an amazingly comfortable bra that sat invisibly under my clothes. The sleek design meant that there was zero overhang under my arms and at the back too, making this bra a particularly great buy if you are on the hunt for the best bras for back fat, and it's available in an impressive range of sizes covering 34B-44F, which also means it a wardrobe winner if you are browsing for the best bras for large busts.

It's available at Amazon and is the perfect mix of balconette and full coverage bra – it contours boobs beautifully with a subtle amount of lift and support that doesn’t feel too restricting or stiff to wear, and the seamless design means it works well under even very clingy clothing.

I wore this bra for a full day and didn’t have any complaints – it's far more comfortable than most other t-shirt bras that I have worn over the years. The super soft fabric was gentle on skin, and the wider back straps and well-covered underwires meant that it didn’t dig in or pinch at any point. As well as feeling good to wear, this bra looked great too. It added subtle lift and shaping to my bust, which gave my cleavage a boost without being too much, and as with a lot of the best Amazon shapewear, this bra is available to buy in a wide range of colours covering everything from white and grey to bright red.

While testing this bra, I considered the fabrics, the fit and the support as well as how discreetly it sat under clothing.

Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra Review

Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra Review: Comfort & Fit

There's lots of well-thought out details on this bra that makes it wearable and comfortable all day long - particularly if you have larger boobs that need plenty of hold. The light padding and fuller-cups supported my chest nicely and added lift without any discomfort thanks to the very well covered underwires, and the wider straps and back band stopped it from digging in or feeling too tight. The seamless design sat really well under clothes and flattered from all angles.

Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra Review: Style

I like how simple this bra is – there’s no lace or bows, and the silky black fabric has a gentle sheen to it without looking cheap. The completely seam-free design makes it great for every day wear and it sits well under clothing without any visible edges. The only very minor issue is that the wider straps might peek out from sleeveless tops, but overall the cut is very neat, and will work with a wide range of t-shirts and dresses. I tried the black and there’s 14 other colours to choose from including neutrals and very bright tones.

Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra Review: Care

The polyamide and elastane mix of the fabric washed very well and looked just as glossy and fresh after I’d cleaned it. As with most bras, it's hand-wash only, but it dried quickly and kept its shape well.

Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra Review: Verdict

Delimira was a new-to-me brand and I’d never bought lingerie from Amazon before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this t-shirt bra, but it has really impressed me. The simple yet chic design is easy for every day, and I’ve worn it from morning til night with zero complaints or the need to readjust it. The soft fabric, and seam-free design has a modern feel to it, and it supported my boobs brilliantly. I will most definitely be buying it in some other colours too!

Shop The Bra

It's a struggle to find a plunge bra that isn't too padded. The majority of lower cut bras are also push-up designs that squeeze the breasts together - a style that I don't personally feel comfortable in. This bra promises to create a cleavage, without adding additional volume.

I have been wearing Fantasie Fusion full-cup bras for many years. Fantasie specialise in lingerie and swimwear for women with a fuller bust and I find their bras to be both supportive and attractive, however the full-cup designs have a wide centre front gore that will often show under low necklines. When they recently introduced a plunge version of the bra I decided to give this new style a try.

I don't often wear a top with a plunging neckline, but I do own a few wrap dresses and deep V neck evening tops that are low cut. I find V necklines are a flattering choice for my curvy figure. I wear a size 32FF so I'm always on the lookout for the best bras for large busts and Fantasie are a brand that have an excellent reputation in this specialist market. I wasn't looking for an everyday bra, but needed one that worked under low necklines. I wasn't prepared to compromise on comfort or support, so the bra needed to tick a lot of boxes. I wore the Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra for a night out, and also everyday for 4 days to ensure I tested for a combination of fit and function.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Shape & Cut

This is a classically shaped plunge bra that has a lower centre gore, compared to most full cup designs. It is made from delicate lace fabric with lower cut inner cups, so the upper part of the cup exposes the breast beneath. The inner cups are slightly padded and made from the same foam fabric as the best T-shirt bras. The back panels are constructed from a smooth stretch fabric and the clasp has 2 rows of hook and eye fastenings. The straps are 2cm wide and fully adjustable.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Fit

I would normally wear a size 32FF but decided to try this bra in the sister size 34F as I find Fantasie bras fit tighter around the band than other lingerie brands. This size fitted well, with no overspill on the cups or gaping at the centre front. The stretch lace fabric ensured the cups were smooth without any wrinkles or puckering. The padded inner cups made my boobs look rounder and covered the nipples, without making them look any bigger. The bra didn't show under a tight jersey top.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Support

This bra does not provide the same level of coverage as a full cup bra but I still felt contained and well supported. The underwiring, along with the firm back panels and substantial straps, provide anchorage so the bra feels sturdy and not too flimsy. I put this bra to the test on the dance floor and can confirm it stayed in place and provided support, although the lower-cut cups did mean there was a certain amount of jiggling when I waved my arms above my head!

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Comfort

This bra was incredibly comfortable to wear. The underwires are set wide to ensure they encircle the breast without touching the actual breast tissue and are encased in the soft lining. The lace fabric was soft and stretchy and the padded inner cups were smooth and light, so didn't increase my body temperature. When I removed the bra after wearing it all day it left very light marks on the skin but not enough to cause any discomfort.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Style

If this bra was in a beauty contest it would win first prize. The floral lace is attractive and the edge detail on the cups and straps adds a pretty finish. The straps are attached to the cups with a gold metallic apex detail. There is a small golden charm at the centre front to finish off the overall glamorous look of the bra.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Care

This bra is made from a mix of Polyamide and Elastane and is hand wash only. I have washed the bra once in warm water using a gentle lingerie liquid soap. After one wash the bra remained in perfect condition, I will update this review accordingly after washing it multiple times.

Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review - Verdict

A glamorous bra that will give you a great shape and provide support while feeling comfortable to wear. A great choice for women with fuller busts that want a hint of cleavage under low-cut necklines.

Shop The Bra

I am a sucker for leopard print. My wardrobe is absolutely packed full of the wild cat spots, and in all honesty, it was because of my leopard-obsession, that I chose to test out this particular bra.

I was drawn to the design but after wearing it for a day, it turned out to be one of the comfiest and most supportive bras I’ve worn!

The lingerie that has ticked both my fashion and function boxes is the Freya Undetected Bra, which as the name suggest, is designed to sit neatly and discreetly under clothing without any lumps or bumps. It’s available for £40 at Bravissimo, and it’s a great choice for anybody hunting for the best bras for back fat, but also if you’re browsing for the best bras for large busts, as it's available in in an impressive size range for bigger boobs – 28D-38HH.

The animal print pattern is a bit of a statement, but the muted pastel colours give the classic spots a softer spin, and the straps can very handily be crossed at the back to suit different styles of tops and dresses. The bra is underwired (but without feeling too rigid or uncomfortable) and the seamless cups have some light padding that create a smooth and flattering shape. It has a plunge front without being too revealing and the wider back straps dip a little near the fastening to prevent it peeking out from certain outfits.

I wore the bra over a couple of days and while testing it, I considered the design, the fit, the fabrics and the support.

Freya Undetected Bra Review

Freya Undetected Bra Review: Comfort & Fit

I was impressed with how comfortable this bra was – I popped it on first thing and forgot all about it while I got on with my day. The underwired and seam-free cups added subtle lift and support to my boobs without too much push-up, and created a natural and flattering shape to my bust.

It’s designed to sit smoothly, and it really did the job. I liked that there was no overspill or lumps under arms or at the back. It was very flattering from all angles, even under clingy t-shirts. It has two hook and eye fasteners, but for the bigger sizes there's an option for three for added support and comfort too.

Freya Undetected Bra Review: Style

The leopard print and pretty pastel tones have a modern feel that adds some fun to my underwear drawer – and there’s matching knickers available too. Although the print could be seen through thinner white tops, overall it sat invisibly under most of my clothes, so it worked well for everyday wear. The plunge front, the multiway back straps, and the slightly lowered panel at the back means it will sit well under vest tops and lower necklines too.

Freya Undetected Bra Review: Care

I hand washed this bra, and it looked and felt just as good post-wash. The polyamide and elastane fabric dried super fast and the cup shape stayed as it should. I've worn the bra again a few days later and it felt just as comfortable.

Freya Undetected Bra Review: Verdict

I was drawn in for the design, and I’m sticking with this bra for the foreseeable as it feels just as good to wear, as it looks! The wild cat spots and plunge front design give it a modern and casual vibe, but it also has plenty of body-flattering details to make it a seriously comfortable and easy to wear. If you have bigger boobs and you like your lingerie to make a subtle statement, this smoothing and supportive bra is a must-buy.

Shop Freya Undetected Bra

If you have big boobs you will appreciate how hard it is to find a bra that feels secure and gives you confidence. This bra is a full cup design, which is considered by experts as the most supportive style for women with large breasts, and provides maximum coverage.

I normally wear a 32FF and I am always on the look out for the best bras for large busts. My go-to bra is usually a full cup style as I find these offer the most support, but they aren't always the most comfortable to wear. I decided to try Curvy Kate's WonderFully bra to see how it compares to my other full cup styles.

Curvy Kate are a lingerie company that cater for women with large cup size boobs and the average bra they sell is a 34G. They have many stockist throughout the UK and across the world, but I chose to order my bra online directly from their own website, which I found easy to navigate with lots of helpful fitting tips. They design a varied range of bra styles, from comfy bralettes to seductive basques, but I was looking for an everyday bra with a high level of support so opted for their WonderFully design because it looked both practical and attractive in this rich purple colour. I wore the bra for four days, with a variety of tops, and considered the design, how comfortable it felt and how confident it made me feel.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review - Shape & Cut

This is a traditional full cup bra design. Unlike a t-shirt bra, which has moulded cups, these cups are made from 3 panels that completely encapsulate, lift and centre the breasts. The lower and side panels are lined with a firm mesh and the upper panel is made from a sheer, more stretchy fabric. The under band is curved at the centre which makes it more flexible than other similar designs. The straps are 2.5cm wide and are firm, smooth and easy to adjust. The straps are set closer together and are more central than the best balcony bra, making it a good choice for women with narrow or sloping shoulders.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Fit

My average bra size is a 32FF but for this review I wore a size 32G, which is the smallest size that this design is available in. The bra fitted well on the cups, with no overspill or gaping but the band felt tighter than usual. I predict that this bra will 'give' slightly over time and the band will stretch and become more comfortable, however you may want to go up a band size if you are between sizes.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Support

This is one of the most supportive bras I have worn. My boobs felt completely contained, lifted and supported. The majority of the support came from the band which felt firm and slightly tight, but didn't move around or gape at the front. Once adjusted to the perfect length the straps stayed in place and didn't slip down. The back panels are firm and wide enough to smooth any lumps and bumps. I wore this bra on a long walk at a fast pace and my boobs felt as supported as when I am wearing my sports bra.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Comfort

This bra is supportive because it fits firmly around the band, and you can feel the band around your ribcage at all times. The first time I wore the bra it began to feel uncomfortable after approx 5 hours and when I took it off my skin was slightly marked and red. The second day of wearing felt more comfortable as the bra stretched and moulded to my shape. The underwires are encased in a soft fabric and they didn't poke or dig in. Overall this bra felt comfortable to wear for a full day, but I looked forward to switching to one of my best sleep bras when relaxing on the sofa in the evening.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Style

With smooth clean lines and no fussy details this bra looks modern and sporty. The rich purple colour is a great option under bright or dark coloured tops.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Care

This bra is made from a mix of Polyester, Elastane and Polyamide. The label stipulates 'hand wash only' and I washed it with a gentle lingerie liquid soap. After one wash the bra remained in perfect condition, I will update this review accordingly after washing it multiple times.

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review: Verdict

This bra provides maximum support and a great foundation for all types of clothing. You will feel confident and contained. After wearing for several hours this bra can feel restrictive and you may want to go for a bigger band size if you are between sizes.

Shop The Bra

When looking for workout outfits, we often look to Smooth Radio presenter and This Morning regular Jenni Falconer's wardrobe, complete with Sweaty Betty leggings and sports bras, and running shoes from Brooks.

If you're looking for a pair of the best workout leggings now autumn is on the horizon, then Jenni Falconer's running outfit is bound to inspire.

Stepping out for a run in London, Jenni paired a pair of Sweaty Betty's Power leggings in leopard print with the Zero Gravity sports bra by the same brand, a mesh top, and white running shoes to complete the look. In the sea of dark black and blue outfits we often see when the weather starts to change, this is a stylish and practical combination that's perfect for the current climate.

Shop Jenni's look

"Not a bad start to the new week," she wrote in the caption. With blue skies and sunshine behind her in the selfie, we agree!

The Sweaty Betty Power leggings, worn in leopard print by Jenni, feature two pockets - one in the leg to securely hold your phone and another in the waistband with a discreet zip for keeping your keys and cards safe. We rate them so highly here at woman&home as they are lightweight and compressive, offering a comfortable, second-skin-like feeling the more you move so you don't overheat. They also come in a great variety of colours.

While Jenni shows just how practical the leggings can be for running, we've found them to be a winner for strength training, yoga, Pilates, and walking workouts too. The drawstring in the waistband offers an adjustable fit for your comfort and they come in different lengths to suit your style and preference.

The Zero Gravity sports bra features on our tried-and-tested list of best sports bras for a reason. A relatively new release from the brand, the adjustable racerback design provides a secure fit while the encapsulation holds you in through higher-impact workouts.

Winter workouts are all about layering and Jenni's mesh top and light hoodie slung around her waist is the perfect example of how to do this. While the mesh top won't be for everyone, laying a light t-shirt with a hoodie is a good way to prevent overheating - or feeling too cold - in the changeable weather.

While a multiway bra doesn’t usually get as much use as the rest of your lingerie collection, it’s a most definitely a wardrobe staple, and finding one that sits and fits well is important.

I’ve had the same old multiway bra for years and I’ve never found it hugely comfortable or particularly flattering – it’s just there as a basic piece of underwear for when I wear a bandeau dress at a special occasion or opt for a strappy frock during the summer months. I thought all strapless bras would feel the same, so I was pleasantly surprised when testing out this bra from TU at Sainsbury's – it was way more comfy than I expected and surprisingly smoothing which makes it a great choice for anybody shopping for the best bras for back fat, or that struggles to find strapless support that you can wear all day without discomfort.

The bra I tested is the TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra, which you can buy for just £12, and it comes in a wide range of sizes covering 32A- 42E. It's underwired and has some light padding, and the clever removable straps can be worn in five different ways, making it brilliantly versatile.

I put the bra to the test by wearing it without straps for a full day, and I considered the fabrics, the design and overall fit as well as how smoothing and flattering it was.

TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra Review

TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra Review : Comfort & Fit

Multiway bras aren’t known for being particularly comfortable as the rubber strips on the inside that are needed for holding it up all day, can sometimes rub on skin or feel a little sweaty. This bra had good quality hold and stayed put, but without any ouch moments and it was far comfier than I expected.

It’s underwired for lift and support and the moulded cups kept my boobs in check during a busy day without any need to yank it up or adjust it. It was wonderfully smoothing at the front, sides and back, and even under a tight vest or t-shirt, it sat neatly against skin without any overhang. The multiway straps can be worn in five ways, including asymmetric and cross-back, and they are very easy to attach and remove without any faff.

TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra: Style

The smooth, moulded cups on this bra are simple and sit very neatly under clothing without any lumps. The fuss-free and simplistic front is balanced out nicely with a soft lace side and back, and the band is wider than most everyday bras which is flattering and smoothing.

The balconette cups create a great shape on boobs, and will sit well under strapless tops and dresses without peeking out over the top.

TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra Review: Care

Most bras should be hand washed to avoid damage or the cups becoming misshapen, but this one is very handily machine washable. I put it on a gentle rinse, and I was impressed with how well it kept its shape and hold the next time that I wore it.

TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra: Verdict

After wearing a very basic and uncomfortable strapless bra to special occasions in the past, I had really low expectations for this multiway piece but the TU at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra really surprised me! It looks chic, flatters my boobs well and is amazingly smoothing at the front and back, thanks to a slightly wider band. The removable and multiway straps mean I can wear it with a wide range of dresses and tops, and the hard-working yet comfortable rubber inner strips kept it up, so I didn’t need to worry about a lack of support. I cant believe it’s only £12, and although the cup sizes only go up to an E, i'm impressed with the range of sizes it covers. Not bad for a bra that you can pick up with your weekly shop!

Shop The Bra

This balcony style is a great choice if you are looking for a bra to wear under low-cut scooped or square necklines as the straps join at the side of the cup rather than the centre. This creates an uplifting 'lift and separate' effect.

I wear a size 32FF, so I am always on the look-out for the best bras for large busts and I usually wear a full-cup bra to give me the level of support I need. However when I am wearing certain tops or dresses with more revealing necklines I find these bras have a tendency to show. This is why I decided to try a balcony (sometimes called balconette) bra.

I don't own a balcony bra and haven't worn one for a few years, so I began my search for the perfect style by having a professional fitting at a Bravissimo store which confirmed my size to be 32FF. I was looking for a bra that gave me more uplift and forward projection than a T-shirt bra, but with the support that I need. It had to be comfortable too. The Millie bra was recommended to me by my fitter as being one of their most popular and bestselling styles.

Lingerie expert and body confidence champion Chantelle Garrood (who wears a size 32H) is also a fan of the style and has shared her thoughts with her Instagram followers on her account @thebraexpert. "I love that the Millie bra comes in multiple colours so there is something for everyone," she says. "The all-over stretch lace makes the bra not only look beautiful but it also works with a wide variety of sizes and even moves with your body making it a very flexible option."

After hearing these two expert opinions I opted for the Millie and have been wearing the bra every day for four days. I have considered the level of support and comfort it provides, along with the coverage and practicality of wearing it with a variety of necklines – here's what I thought.

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Comfort

When I put on this bra for the first time I was expecting it to be a little uncomfortable as it is an all-over lace design, however although it wasn't as soft as the best T-shirt bra that I own, the lace was flexible, stretchy and soft to touch which allowed for movement and felt comfortable to wear throughout a long and busy day. The underwiring is encased in soft, slightly padded fabric and I didn't feel it digging in or irritating my skin. The only thing that made this bra slightly uncomfortable was the label that was sewn into the back, but I simply cut this out to remedy the problem. Bra expert Chantelle comments "It’s so comfortable, I’ve worn mine so much since I got it, in fact I’d go as far as to say it’s my new favourite everyday bra."

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Style

This is an incredibly pretty bra, made from an attractive floral lace fabric with pretty scalloped edges along both the cups and around the lower band. I opted for the neon coral shade, which is a vibrant orange and looks very striking. The Millie bra has a choice of three matching brief styles, making a great lingerie set. This is a bra to be seen in!

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Shape & Cut

This bra is a typical balcony shape, with wider set straps and lower cut cups. The cups provide less coverage than a full-cup style. The centre of the bra is wider than a plunge bra and would show under a deep V neckline. The straps are 2cm wide and fully adjustable. The bra fastens at the back with two rows of hooks in sizes D-G, 28-36GG, 28-34H, 28-32HH and three rows of hooks on 38-40GG, 36-40H, 34-40HH, J-K.

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Support

The Millie bra provided me with a good level of support and I was able to go about my daily routine (which included jogging between appointments as I was running late). However, because the balcony style has lower cut cups that offer less coverage over the top of the breast I felt more exposed than when wearing my regular bra. The straps were comfortable and stayed in place.

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Fit

This bra fitted perfectly and was true to size. I recommend getting professionally fitted for a balcony bra as it is not a style that would suit all body types. This bra is very good for wearing under square necklines, especially if you want to show off your boobs and want them to look fuller and more rounded.

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Care

The Millie Balcony bra is made from 88% Polyamide and 12% Elastane and is hand-wash only. I wore the Millie bra for four days and then washed it by hand and didn't see any change in appearance or comfort. I will continue to wash and wear and report back here if this changes.

Bravissimo Millie Balcony Bra Review: Verdict

This is a fantastic looking bra that feels supportive and comfortable to wear. I personally wouldn't wear this style as an everyday bra as I didn't feel as supported as when wearing a full-cup design, however I would chose to wear this bra under certain tops that require a balcony neckline.

Shop The Bra

In all honesty, I don’t really buy fancy underwear. When it comes to lingerie, I like to keep things simple by opting for function over fashion, and for everyday support I most often go for a simple t-shirt bra rather than anything overly complicated.

That was until now though, as this gorgeous bra from John Lewis is seriously pretty while being super comfortable, so I’ve been wearing it on repeat. The lacy and underwired design is the perfect balance between style and chest support, and if you're browsing for the best bras for back fat or are on the hunt for the best bras for larger busts, this gorgeous underwear should be on your shopping list.

The bra I tested was the Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra from the And/Or range at John Lewis, which has been one of the British clothing brand’s bestselling bras for the past three years. It has lightly padded cups, that are covered with a thin layer of gorgeous black lace with a delicate scalloped edge that flatters boobs nicely without feeling too much. It's designed to be smoothing and comfortable while looking good.

While testing it, I wore it for a full day under a t-shirt, and I considered the fabrics, the fit, and how neatly it sat under clothes without any lumps and bumps.

John Lewis And/Or Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra Review

John Lewis And/Or Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra Review: Comfort & Fit

The light padding and underwired design means that this bra is structured and supportive without feeling too stiff or uncomfortable. I wore it on a busy day, and it kept my chest in check the whole time – even when running frantically for my train during the early morning commute. It's made from a mix of polyamide and elastane which makes it very lightweight and breathable too.

I found the band and cup size were true to size, and it felt comfortable all over. The semi-sheer fabric at the back looked great while being surprisingly smoothing. It sat neatly against skin without any unsightly lumps at the sides or across the back, so It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a bra that’s particularly good for disguising back fat.

It sat where it was supposed to all day without any riding up or discomfort and created just the right amount of lift and shape across my bust.

John Lewis And/Or Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra Review: Style

I love the matte black fabric, combined with the seriously pretty lace – it creates a subtle sexiness to the otherwise simple bra that has added lots of glamour to my everyday underwear collection. The triangular shape of the lace at the front is very feminine and super flattering on my boobs without being too flashy and it worked well with the semi sheer fabric on the band and back straps. I tried the black one, but its also available in five other colours including white, mauve, and dark brown.

John Lewis And/Or Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra Review: Care

I handwashed this bra and then wore it again for another full day, and it felt just as good to wear second time around. It kept its shape well and the lightweight fabric dried very quickly without any bobbling or damage.

John Lewis And/Or Wren Lace Underwired Plunge Bra Review: Verdict

I'd never really been bothered about my everyday bras looking sexy, but this gorgeous piece of lingerie has completely changed my mind. It looks super pretty on, and lifts and supports my boobs while creating a natural-looking shape. It's wonderfully comfy, and the smooth and well-designed fit means it sits invisibly under fitted clothing without any overhang under arms or at the back. It looks designer but comes it at just £34. I love it and will definitely be purchasing other colours so I can wear it on repeat with any outfit.

Shop the Bra

The T-Shirt bra is a great all-round wardrobe staple that will provide you with a good level of support and disappear under your clothes. It's the perfect choice if you are looking for a practical solution to tight, close-fitting clothes.

I wear a size 32FF, so I am always on the look-out for the best bras for big busts and I usually wear a full-cup bra to give me the level of support I need. However these bras are often lacy with added details to make them look attractive and consequently they don't provide a smooth line under my clothes. Certain tops, like tightly fitting t-shirts or silky blouses require a more practical option and much like the best shapewear, a moulded T-shirt bra provides the solution.

When I began my hunt for a good T-Shirt bra the first criteria had to be the overall look of the bra, I needed a design that was completely smooth both at the front and back so that it would disappear under my new clingy cream top. Many of the bras I looked at had smooth cups but were trimmed with lace which didn't provide the invisible line I wanted. I also wanted the bra to be as seam free as possible, so that it was comfortable. John Lewis had a great selection of lingerie brands to choose from but I decided to try Sofia, one of their own brand designs, as it looked like the perfect bra on the hanger. I have been wearing it for 3 days and have considered the design, fit and comfort. I also tested it under a variety of tops. Overall I have been impressed with this bra, but there are certain elements that made it less comfortable than my usual full-cup bra of choice.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Comfort

This bra is light and made from incredibly soft fabric that has an almost peachy brushed finish. There are 2 seams on either side joining the front to the back of the bra, but they lay completely flat and are bonded which makes them almost invisible, and not detected under clothes. All of the edges are bonded rather than stitched which contributes to the smooth finish. The straps were adjustable and also very smooth. The under wiring is flexible and moves with your body. There are no fabric labels inside the bra, the washing instructions are printed directly onto the underside of the clasp. My only discomfort with this bra came from the padding, which made me feel overly warm on a hot sunny day, but in general it proved to be very comfortable.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Style

This is not the type of bra that you would choose for its good looks! It's a practical bra that has no added fancy embellishments, just a clean and simple design that serves a purpose. What it lacks in style it makes up for in function: it's plain and unadorned, making it invisible under my light-coloured, clingy jersey top.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Shape & Cut

T-shirt bras work by containing and compressing your boobs into preformed moulded cups which give you a soft and natural shape. When I was wearing this bra my boobs felt slightly squashed into place, rather than the uplifting effect that you get with a full-cup bra and although the bra was lightly padded I felt it made my boobs look smaller in the same way that the best minimiser bras would do.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Support

This bra provided me with an adequate level of support throughout the day and I felt comfortable when walking, stretching and lifting my arms above my head. However when I had to jog for the bus I felt less supported than when wearing a full-cup design.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Fit

This bra fitted true to size and I felt comfortable and supported in my regular 32FF size. There was no overspill from the cups. However, due to the moulded nature of the bra, I did get a little gaping at the base of the straps where my boobs have lost some fullness. The back fitted really smoothly making it one of the best bras for back fat.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Care

This bra is hand wash only and I would suggest using a gentle liquid detergent to prolong the life of the bra. After hand washing once I didn't see any changes to the shape or size of the bra, but I will continue to wash and wear and report back here if this changes. Due to the bonded seams and edges of the bra it feels more delicate than the average design. T-shirt bras need to be stored unfolded. Avoid inverting one cup and folding it into the other cup as this will cause the fabric to wrinkle and distort the shape over time.

John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review: Verdict

If you fit a FF cup or smaller this is a great bra for wearing under tight or clingy clothes as it is incredibly smooth and provides invisible support.

Shop The Bra

I have always worn underwired bras. The only time in my life that I switched to non-wired styles was when I was pregnant and then breastfeeding my two daughters. Being a 32FF, I have found underwired styles were necessary to give me the support I needed.

But having gone through the menopause, I find my shape has changed and my skin has become more sensitive to badly fitting bras with uncomfortable wires. So my quest began to find a non-wired bra that gave me a great shape but didn't feel restrictive or painful to wear.

When I was researching the best sleep bras for support and comfort throughout the night, I tested over 20 non-wired crop tops that were incredibly comfortable and ideal for sleeping in. But none of them had the support I needed to wear all day. I wanted a bra that looked like a bra - not a sporty crop top. It had to have straps that I could adjust and a proper clasp at the back that I could tighten over time. The M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H met all of my criteria.

When it comes to bras, Marks & Spencer are the high street lingerie leaders with hundreds of different styles to suit all shapes and style requirements. But I have always found their sizing to be slightly different to other bra brands, especially when looking for best bras for large busts.

To ensure I got the correct fit, I booked an appointment with one of their professional fitters and discovered that my usual 32FF was the equivalent to a 32G in M&S. My fitter, who also wears a G cup, recommended I try the Lace Non-Padded Bralette, her go-to bra for wearing all day at work.

Debbie Harper, Head of Styling at Good Morning Britain is also a fan of the style. "I love this bra, it's comfortable enough to wear all day long while I'm at work in the studio" she said. "It feels supportive and gives me a great shape."

Following these two expert recommendations, I took the bra home and have been wearing it every day for three days and have considered the level of support and comfort it provides, along with the shape it gives me under my clothes – here's what I thought.

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review: Comfort

After wearing this bra for a full day, when the weather was hot and I had lots of errands to run, I was impressed by the level of comfort it provided. Being non-padded was a great advantage on a warm day, a padded or moulded design would have definitely increased my body temperature.

I couldn't feel the hidden support structure, which was constructed from a smooth and stretchy fabric, and the lower sections of the lace cups were lined with a lightweight mesh. The seams were flat and smooth against my skin. The adjustable straps felt smooth and didn't slip down.

In order for this bra to provide support, the underband needs to fit snuggly against the ribcage, and this was the only part of the bra that felt slightly uncomfortable at the end of a very long day. After removing the bra I had very slight red marks under the bust, but nothing like the deep red marks that I usually get with my wired bras.

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review: Style

Unlike many bralette styles which look sporty and plain, this bralette has a dainty and pretty vibe. The daisy design lace is stretchy, but looks delicate, with lace trimmed edges to finish off the look. The plain mesh back panels are smoothing and wide enough to conceal any lumps and bumps, great if you are looking for best bras for back fat. The double hook fastening isn't bulky and blends in with the rest of the bra.

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review - Shape & Cut

This bralette design has two-part cups that offer ample support for larger busts. The centre front of the bra is 11cm (on my size 32G) – it would definitely show if you were wearing it with a plunging neckline. But the bra has a pretty lace edging and gives the appearance of a camisole top, making it ideal as it is pretty enough to be seen!

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review: Support

If you are used to wearing an underwired full cup bra you may find that this bralette offers you less support that you are used to. However, I have been wearing it for three days and during that time I've run for a bus and climbed stairs and jumped on and off the tube, all without too much bounce! I wouldn't suggest this bra replaces your best sports bra, but it will support your boobs for everyday activities.

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review - Fit

After being professionally fitted in store and finding the exact size to suit my shape, this bra fitted perfectly, with no overspill, bulges or gaping. I did find that throughout the day my boobs started to move closer together after a couple of hours wear, I find this tends to happen with non-wired styles. I did have to scoop my boobs back into position to ensure all-day comfort.

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review: Care

The huge advantage with this bra is that it can be machine washed on a gentle cycle at a low temperature. After three days wear, I did exactly that and can confirm there was no change to the look, shape or support of the fabric or construction. Debbie Harper, Head of Styling at Good Morning Britain confirms this "I've machine washed my bra a few times and it still looks and feels great."

M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review: Verdict

If you have big boobs and you are looking for a non-wired bra that's easy to wear and will look great under your clothes, this style provides the perfect combination of support and comfort. After 44 years of wearing a wired bra I'm going to add this non-wired style into my bra collection and look forward to more comfortable days ahead.

Shop The Bra

I have a real love-hate relationship with bras. I like the support and lift they create for my boobs, but I often find them uncomfortable, and I will count down the minutes until I can get home and whip it off again.

This has all changed though, especially when shopping for the best bras for back fat and overall support - as I think I’ve found the ultimate comfy-meets-chic bra, with this gorgeous ContourWear Smoothing bra from M&S.

Marks and Spencer has been loved and well-trusted for its lingerie range for decades, and whether you’re on the hunt for the best bra for large busts or the best minimiser bras, you will find what you’re looking for in their extensive collection that covers an amazing range of sizes and styles.

The bra I tried is from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s collection for the popular British clothing brand, and it promises to create a smooth and sleek silhouette while being flattering at the front and back. It's wire-free and uses smooth padding in the cups to create support and shape while being soft to touch. I wore it for a full day, and considered the fabric, shape, support, and overall comfort as well as how neatly it sat under clothes and at the back.

M&S ContourWear Non-Wired Plunge Bra Review

M&S ContourWear Non-Wired Plunge review: Comfort & Fit

I was unsure about the non-wired design, as although my 38B chest isn’t the largest, I definitely prefer to have some proper hold when I’m out and about all day. I needn’t have worried though, as this brilliant bra lifted my bust well and kept my boobs under control (even when chasing around after my toddler at the park!), and the lightly padded cups created a smooth and natural looking shape. its made from a polyester and elastane mix which meant it wasn't too rigid and felt very soft against skin. I found the non-wired designed amazingly comfy, and I genuinely forgot I was wearing it! I actually kept it on until bedtime without a single complaint or the need to yank it down or readjust it throughout the day.

As well as ticking the support boxes, this bra was also brilliantly smoothing, thanks to the wider back straps and seamless design. The bigger lace panels at the back sat really well without digging in, and it was super flattering if you worry about back fat or unwanted lumps when wearing tighter fitting clothing. It had a sleek feel all round that was completely invisible under my tops and dresses.

M&S ContourWear Non-Wired Plunge review: Style

One of the things I liked the most about this bra, is the very simple yet stylish design, and the delicate, lacy back panels and plunge front added a subtle sexy spin to it without being too much for every day wear. The glossy black fabric was complimented nicely by the rose gold clasps at the back. It's fuss-free yet very chic and will sit well on various bust sizes nicely.

M&S ContourWear Non-Wired Plunge review: Care

I wore this bra for a full day and I have gone back and worn again, and i've been impressed with how well its held it shape and support. I hand washed it and it held up well - very quick drying fabric and still looks like new.

M&S ContourWear Non-Wired Plunge review: Verdict

I’ve tried a lot for bras over the years, and this is genuinely up there as one of the best – it’s the perfect balance of support and style, and created zero lumps and bumps under my arms or at the back. It's a great everyday bra, that is brilliantly comfortable to wear and wont break the bank. My love-hate relationship with the lingerie staple is definitely leaning a little more to the love side of things after this find.

Shop The Bra

Searching for the best bras can feel like hunting for the holy grail, however old you are. But as we age, it becomes particularly important to find the best bras for mature women, which are both comfortable and supportive.

Wearing the right bra isn't just a matter of looks - choosing the wrong style and size can lead to discomfort. As we age, our bodies change, and personally I'm no longer willing to endure pain and discomfort for the sake of good looks. That said, I still want to look great in my underwear and feel confident in my clothes. The search for the most comfortable bras will depend on your bra size, so it's important to get fitted regularly and know how to spot an ill-fitting bra, especially if you are looking for best bras for large busts.

Your lifestyle will dictate the types of bra you need in your lingerie collection and the level of support required. Alongside bras for everyday, you may require styles for special occasions that will provide solutions to tricky necklines, and it's important to have a great sports bra too, if you plan to continue exercising. If you have particular mobility issues, it's essential to consider how easy the bra is to put on and take off. Finding the right bra will ensure you feel great, increase your confidence and help you to look fabulous in whatever you are wearing.

Shop the best bras for mature women

How to find your bra size

The most sensible way to find your bra size is to be fitted by a professional bra fitter at a department store or lingerie specialist. Many companies offer virtual fittings too, via their websites. If you prefer to work out your own size follow our 3-step guide below.

Step 1 - Start by wearing a bra that you feel most comfortable in and measure in inches directly under your bust, keeping the tape tight and level around your body. If this number is odd you will have to add or subtract an inch to find your size.

Step 2 - Measure around the fullest part of your bust (usually the nipple line) keeping the tape level all the way around your back.

Step 3 - Subtract your band size (from step 1) from your bust size (from step 2) and use the difference to calculate your cup size. For example if you have zero difference in inches you will be a AA cup size, one inch = A cup, two inches = B cup, 3 inches a C cup, and so on.

But beware! Bra sizes are not standardised, each brand will fit differently and it's impossible to find the right fit based on size alone. You need to pay close attention to the look and feel of the bra. Here are the signs to look out for...

1. Your bra rides up at the back - This is a sign that the band size is too big. The band should fit firmly and provide 80% of the support.

2. Underwires digging in - The underwire should not rest on the actual breast tissue or cut in under the arms. Go up a cup size.

3. Bulging cups - The top of the breast should fit smoothly into the cups without overspill. If in doubt go up a cup size.

4. Gaping at the front - The centre front of the bra must lay flat against the breast bone without sitting on any breast tissue. This is a sign your cup size is too small.

5. Uncomfortable straps - You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the straps, if they dig in consider going up a cup size and down a band size.

Tip: When trying on a bra for the first time fasten on the loosest hook, over time your bra will stretch as you wash and wear it, this will allow you to fasten it tighter as this happens.

FAQs

Does your bra size change as you get older?

There are many reasons why your bra size will change as you get older. Significant weight gain or loss will be the obvious factor, and it's essential to invest in new bras if your dress size drops or rises.

Menopause will also be a key factor. As our estrogen levels decrease, the breast's connective tissue changes, becoming dehydrated and less elastic. This causes the tissue to shrink, giving the appearance of 'saggy' breasts.

Suzanne Pentland, Bra Fitting Expert and Retail Support Manager at Wacoal explains. “As we age, our bodies can naturally change in shape and size. It is recommended that every six months we should have a professional bra fitting.

"This becomes more important as we get older, as the skin elasticity in our breasts can stretch, causing our breasts to droop and lose their firmness. Making sure that our bra is the correct fit will ensure the breasts are supported and uplifted.”

Why do bras get more uncomfortable as you get older?

According to research carried out by lingerie retailer Boux Avenue, over 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra, and if you continue to wear the incorrect size as you get older, the risks associated will increase accordingly.

If your breasts are heavy, wearing a non-supportive bra can affect your posture and over time, lead to hunching. Suzanne explains, "Larger breasts require greater support, and wearing a badly fitted bra can lead to back, neck & shoulder pain."

As we age, our skin will get more sensitive, becoming thinner and more fragile as we lose some of the protective fat layer. Wearing a poorly-fitting bra will increase this sensitivity and lead to chafing, inflammation, bruising, benign skin growths and itching. "A badly-fitted bra can cause pain in our breasts," says Suzanne. "Wires digging into our skin will definitely lead to discomfort."

What bra styles are best suited to older women?

This totally depends on the size and shape of your breasts. If you measure a D+ cup and are looking for the ultimate support, go for a full-cup bra that has side panels that will help to centre the bust and wider straps for a comfortable fit. Balcony bras are great for creating a more youthful appearance as they lift and separate the breasts, while plunge styles will create more cleavage.

"If mobility is an issue, front fastening bras may be required," says Suzanne. "Some woman experience fluctuating loss of firmness and fullness in their breasts, so we recommend styles with stretch lace to accommodate this." You may be wondering if older women can wear underwired bras. Suzanne is firm in her opinion. "Yes", she says. "Underwired bras will always offer greater support & shape than non-wired." If you are looking for a bra that will look good under fitted clothes, consider some of the best shapewear for a smooth line.

Are front-clasp bras better?

"Front-clasp bras do not offer the same level of support as back-fastening bras", says Suzanne. "There is also not a great variety of front clasp bras & a limited size range too. However, if mobility is an issue, a front fastening adaptive style may be required as they are easier to put on if you have shoulder pain or find it tricky to fasten a bra due to limited mobility in your fingers."

What is a menopause bra?

A quick Google search on bras suitable for wearing during the menopause will offer up a wide variety of styles that offer more comfort and less support than a regular bra. Unwired crop tops and bralettes made from natural fabrics such as cotton or bamboo will be a good option if you suffer from hot flushes, as the natural fibres are breathable and quick drying. The best bra to wear while going through menopause is a personal choice based on the most comfortable fit and size for your individual body shape.

Our experts:

Despite being some of our most worn items, knowing how to clean bras properly may not be as straightforward as you think. There are several rules when it comes to washing all types of delicates to extend their lifespan and keep them fresh.

The best bra for you can be hard to nail down, but once you've found it, you'll want to take good care of it to ensure you can wear it for as long as possible. But no matter the types of bra you have, keeping them clean and fresh is essential.

From how often you should be washing each type of bra to exactly how to clean different bra materials, here's what cleaning expert and CEO at Laundryheap, Deyan Dimitrov, wants you to know - including one slightly unconventional washing method.

How to clean bras and lingerie, according to a cleaning expert

1. Check the care label

"It’s always a good idea to check the care label on your underwear and any other delicate items before you wash it," says Dimitrov. Much like mastering how to wash a puffer jacket, if you ignore the washing instructions in your bra, you could end up completely ruining it.

"Familiarise yourself with what different symbols mean and make sure you care for your garments accordingly. This will extend the lifespan of your underwear, ensure colours don’t fade, and stop elastic from stretching out or buckling," explains Dimitrov.

2. How to machine wash delicates

"If your care label says you’re good to go with washing your underwear or other delicates in the machine, it’s still a good idea to use a lingerie bag," says Dimitrov. Bra wash bags like these from Amazon (£9.99) work to "help bras and delicates keep their shape and stop straps from getting caught and tangled during the cycle." 

As with other types of washing, you should wash your bras and underwear with like colours. However, "try to avoid washing delicates in large loads with larger, coarse items like towels and jeans," says Dimitrov. Learn more about how to wash jeans to see exactly how to clean them and what you can wash them with.

Finally, "use a mild detergent and select a gentle, cool cycle," for best results.

3. How to handwash bras and lingerie

"For very delicate pieces, even gentle cycles might be too harsh, so handwashing is your best bet," says Dimitrov. Comfortable bras like bralettes are more likely to be made from more delicate materials, so this is especially important if you favour non-padded and non-wired styles.

"To hand-wash your underwear, use a non-bio detergent and cool water and soak it for around 5-10 minutes, before rinsing well under cool water." This cleaning method will work for all styles from the best bras for large busts to the best bras for back fat, so if in doubt, hand washing is your best bet. 

If you're looking to save water and make the cleaning process even easier, Dimitrov's next unusual tip could work wonders. "You can even take your underwear into the shower with you and give it a gentle wash with shampoo or a body wash. Just be sure to rinse all the soap out and then give them a gentle squeeze to remove excess water," he says.

4. How to dry bras properly

"Ideally, you should avoid putting your underwear in the dryer," says Dimitrov. "The combination of heat and motion is too harsh on anything delicate. Underwear tends to dry pretty quickly anyway, so it’s best to pop it on a clotheshorse or flat surface if it's a lacy item that could kink or stretch." 

If you're tight on time and want to speed up the drying process, we love using one of the best heated clothes airers for all manner of garments. Dimitrov agrees, noting that "if you have a heated towel rack, hanging underwear there can speed up the drying process. In a pinch, you can even use your best hair dryer or an iron, just be sure you check care instructions first so you get the temperature right."

How often should you wash bras?

"Bras should be washed after roughly two or three wears, but you may want to get a few more wears out of delicate or lacy items between washes to prevent wear and tear," explains Dimitrov. 

"For sports bras, it's a good idea to wash them after every sweaty workout to keep them smelling fresh. Not washing bras often enough can cause bacteria to fester in their material, which can lead to unwanted odours and even acne," he says.

A bra might not always be the most expensive item in your wardrobe, but we understand the importance of getting it just right. The humble bra underpins every outfit, and if the fit is wrong, you just won't feel as confident and supported as you could.

Of course, we all come in different shapes and sizes, meaning that the best bras is an incredibly broad category. Which is why we've also broken it down into areas like the best bras for large busts and the best bras for back fat.

Our testers have put lots of different styles through their paces, in order to authoritatively weigh up the pros and cons of each, as well as offer personal experience and advice.

To ensure each bra piece we publish is as reliable as it can be, we have compiled a rundown of how we test bras – think of it as a more nuanced version of our wider policy on how we test products at woman&home. Creating a guideline for how we test bras helps us to ensure that we are always adhering to certain criteria and giving the best advice possible. With a selection of checkpoints, we take our time testing bras, so that we can be sure we fully support a bra choice, as much as it returns the favour.

How we test bras

We take a lot of time and care in ensuring we recommend styles we truly believe in. To do this, we make sure we have a selection of pillars to refer to when testing bras, and use these as a reference point for anyone testing lingerie on our behalf, so we know the advice we give is well thought through and analysed to the best of our abilities.

Brand selection

The first point of any round of testing is understanding the right products to call in. When it comes to how we test bras, one of the most important things for us at woman&home is establishing the right labels for the task.

We ask specialist brands and lingerie experts in the field, calling in designs from those companies that we know put the time into developing fit, innovating new styles and shapes, and constantly striving to ensure women get the most comfortable bras.

This doesn't mean that all the bras we choose to test are expensive: we are conscious of having a wide range of price points available throughout, but we won't compromise on fit.

Comfort & Fit

Undoubtedly the most important part of any bra is the comfort and fit. No one wants to be fiddling with their lingerie all day, trying to get it to sit just so. Of course, particularly when it comes to the fit of any clothing or undergarment item there is a certain amount of subjectivity, but when we look at how we test bras, we hone in on specific function of that bra and how it fits first and foremost.

For example, if we're looking at the best bras for back fat, while we want to know that the bra is comfortable, we are inevitably also looking at whether the bra meets the brief and helps to smooth out your back under clothing.

Fit also covers the uplift a bra delivers and whether it gives a nice rounded shape. We use various testers throughout our bra content online and endeavour to always find someone that fits each particular bra brief best. This means that our best bras for large busts feature is road tested by someone with a FF cup. So even though there is a level of subjectivity, we know that we've got a tester who understands what is needed.

We really get under the skin of each bra and look for the finer details that make our choices stand out from the crowd. This could be extra padding on the sides, or a placket at the back to stop hooks digging in - anything and everything a bra offers.

Style

We all want lingerie that looks as well as feels good, so style is considered in all our bra ratings and selections. We try to have a range within each piece that covers the basic neutrals to racier and bolder colours, as well as lacy and plain designs so that there is something that appeals to everyone. What we don't do is champion a bra purely for its aesthetics, because at the end of the day, having a good and comfortable uplift is still the most important function of a bra.

The quality of the materials plays a big role in how the bra looks and feels too. From the fastenings and straps to any additional decoration, we consider how these impact both fit and style.

We've also really thought about how exactly you might wear yours. For example, the writer who put the best bras for back fat to the test made sure to wear all 32 of the styles she tried underneath a fitted outfit to see if it was visibly bumpy from any angle.

Similarly, our best bras for large busts expert tried hers under a variety of necklines, and checked how they would perform during everyday activities like walking, jogging for the bus and dancing at parties.

When it comes to the best minimiser bras, the same expert carefully considered which styles offered the smoothest silhouette and gave her a confidence boost.

Care

Each bra feature is started weeks, sometimes months in advance. This means that we take our time with each bra, wear them on repeat, wash them and see how each bra performs over time. This helps us to give an accurate and honest analysis of how each bra truly performs in the 'real' world. It does mean that sometimes it takes us a bit longer, but that we know the woman&home bra advice is worth reading.

Let's face it, washing it a huge part of the longevity of a bra. If you don't have the time to be hand washing a bra then is it really going to work for you? And how does it look after a wash in the machine? It's all worth considering if you ask us.

Verdict

The beauty of trying so many bras is that it enables our testers to compare and contrast, coming to conclusions about which is the bra that might be right for you in each category.

For example, within the best bras for large busts feature, our tester came to a decision on winners for full cup, non-wired, t-shirt bra, balcony, plunge and strapless bras. In the best bras for back fat article we found winners for subsections like best size range and best loungewear.

Between our testers, we've tried hundreds of bras, and worn them for hours, which will not only save you time and money doing the same, it means we can confidently advise you on which ones are well worth your money. You're welcome!

I love my natural shape, but I admit there are times when I wish my bust were smaller. One of the biggest fashion trends this summer is for fitted tops made from shirred elastic fabric, which can be tricky to wear if you have a large bust, as they generally make your boobs look even bigger. This is when I reach for a good minimiser bra.

The best minimiser bras are designed to gently flatten the chest by redistributing the weight, resulting in a less prominent appearance. Many even claim to reduce your bust by a cup size or two. Wearing a minimising style can boost your confidence by creating a smooth silhouette underneath clothes, but what are the best brands for minimiser bras? I'm a size 32FF, and alongside my work as a fashion stylist, I'm also a trained bra fitter. I've been testing the best bras for large busts and took the opportunity to delve further into minimiser styles to see how they differ from regular bras and determine how well they work to reduce the size of my bust.

A correctly fitting minimiser bra will feel comfortable, provide the support you need and, much like the best shapewear, help you look slimmer too. After investigating what's on offer both on the high street and online, I tried and tested 25 different styles to find the very best ones for you.

Today's best deals

The quick list: my top 6

Here's a quick synopsis of the 6 best minimiser bras for large breasts. If you want to find out more about each style, I go into more detail below, plus you'll find links to each review in full.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best minimiser bras: Tried and tested

I've been a fashion stylist for over 30 years and have dressed hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes. One of the most important things that I consider when I'm choosing clothes is the underwear that will go underneath. Selecting the right bra can make or break a great outfit. If you have big boobs and want to embrace them, there are plunge and balconette bras that will enhance your natural shape. If, however, you want to reduce the appearance of your boobs or want a more streamlined look under your clothes, a minimiser bra will provide the solution.

Whether you're in your twenties or looking for bras for more mature women, these minimiser styles will give you great support. I tested 25 different styles from a range of stockists and wore each for at least 4 days, noting how it fitted, how supportive and comfortable it felt, what it looked like under a variety of clothes, and finally how it looked after washing. Here's everything you need to know about the bras I felt offered the best minimising effect.

Best Minimiser bra for Smoothest Silhouette

When shopping for bras, I usually like to go into a store and try before I buy. However, Amazon stocks a wide range of affordable bras that I felt should be included in this review, as it's so convenient to shop online. Delimira is one of Amazon's own brand labels, and I chose 2 minimiser bras to review.

I usually wear a 32FF, but as this size wasn't available, I ordered a 34F, which was a perfect fit. The first thing that impressed me was the luxurious feel of the bra; it's made from a silky and stretchy fabric that felt cool and smooth. The outer layer is thin, and the lining is slightly thicker and less stretchy. The cups extend upwards and join the straps with one (almost invisible) seam. If you’re happier with more cleavage, you might prefer the Delimira, especially because it offers easy, medium support for everyday wear. The biggest bonus was how well this fitted: without any overspill or digging in around the band.

Although this bra appears very light and delicate, the fabric is quite robust, and it has kept its shape after 3 hand washes. When I wore this bra under a clingy lightweight top, it was completely invisible and created a smooth line.

This is a comfortable bra that's great for women who want to create a smooth line under tight tops. It won't drastically reduce the appearance of your bust, but it does streamline your natural shape, providing sleek, seam-free support.

You can find out more in my full Delimira Minimiser Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Budget Minimiser Bra

On average, I would normally expect to pay approximately £30 on a D+ full-cup bra, but I was keen to see if I could find a minimising bra that worked for less than £20. This bra gave me a great shape under a tight T-shirt. The cups fully supported my bust without any overspill or bulging. My bust appeared smaller and actually measured one inch less than when I was wearing a lightly padded plunge bra. At only £18, it's great value for money.

This non-padded bra has smooth, seam-free cups that are generously cut to completely contain the entire breast, providing full coverage and revealing just a tiny amount of cleavage. The metal underwires are encased within the lining and feel rigid and firm. The elastic straps are 1.5cm wide and are adjustable at the back. The bra has generous stretch-lace back panels, making it a great option if you are looking for bras to banish back fat.

The bra is made from 65% Supima® cotton, and the cups feel lighter but less stretchy than other T-shirt bras I own; however, I loved the feel of the fabric. The high cotton content increased the breathability, and it felt cool to wear. I felt very secure and supported in this bra; it firmly held my boobs in place, squashing them slightly to redistribute the weight, which made them appear smaller.

The underwires lay flat and didn't cause any discomfort. However, after approximately 4-5 hours of wear, I did notice the straps started to dig in a little. The straps are the one area that could be improved on this bra, as the elastic feels thinner than you find on more expensive designs.

Find out more in my full M&S Cool Comfort™ Cotton Rich Minimiser Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Minimiser bra for Plus Sizes

The majority of the bras designed for plus sizes have a high price tag, and I wanted to investigate a cheaper alternative to see if I could find the same level of support and comfort at a more affordable price. Next has a reputation for affordable clothes and accessories, so I ordered 3 different minimiser bras to see if their lingerie was up to my expectations. I was surprised to find the bras were not only great value-for-money, but their size offering was one of the largest on the high street. I chose this 2-pack of bras as they are available up to a size 44K, which fits approximately a UK dress size 20/22. The added feature of an underarm smoothing panel made these bras stand out from the others I tested.

The bra felt comfortable to wear for long periods, although the underband fitted firmly, and I was aware of it throughout the day. I felt that the bra offered me more support than other T-shirt bras with the additional underarm panels to increase coverage. I was able to easily adjust the straps to make them the correct length, but I felt they were slightly flimsy and made from thinner elastic than I'm used to on more expensive bras.

The smoothing underarm panels were an added bonus and increased my confidence when wearing tight tops. These bras are a great everyday option, and I felt supported, and my boobs looked slightly less prominent. Having a black/white 2-pack gave me the option of light and dark alternatives. The bras can be machine-washed, and I gave each one a couple of washes without any significant changes; however, I would recommend hand washing to retain the shape.

Find out more in my full Next Underarm Smoothing Minimiser Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Non-Wired Minimiser Bra

Most minimiser bras that I tested for this feature are underwired. I wanted to find an alternative design that would be equally as supportive and minimising without the need for wiring. This bra promised to deliver by using advanced support technology specifically engineered for fuller cup sizes.

At first glance, this bra looks so soft and flexible that you would be forgiven for thinking it lacked any substance, as the fabric is so incredibly light. But once you put it on, you can immediately feel the effect of the firmer double-laminated panels that surround the softer cups, which work in the same way as an underwire to lift and separate the breasts. This bra provided me with a good level of support throughout the day, with no bouncing when walking around. My average bra size is a 32FF, which wasn't available in this style, so I opted for a 34E, which gave me the same fit.

This design uses fabric that offers 360° flexible stretch, making it more comfortable to wear than some of the other styles I tested; however, it didn't minimise the size of my bust as significantly.

Find out more in my full Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser bra review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Minimiser Bra For Style

When researching the best minimiser bras, the majority of options available were practical, problem-solving bras that looked very plain and functional. I wanted to find some more glamorous (dare I say even sexy!) options.

Berlei is a well-respected bra brand, and its designs are considered to be innovative and of high quality. They sell a selection of minimiser styles, including non-wired versions, and I chose the Beauty Lace Minimiser bra because I was attracted by the great choice of colours and pretty lace fabric. With an RRP of £45, this bra is at the top end of my budget, so the results had to prove it was worth the extra spend.

The cups are constructed in two parts - the main section is made from a single-layer lace fabric with a bonded smooth lining, and the upper part of the cups is made from a sheer, stretchy fabric with a lace edge. The straps are wide, trimmed and lightly padded with tiny ribbon bows adorning the front of each strap and centre. Although made from a lace fabric, this bra is smooth and doesn't show under a tight top. This bra fitted well, completely covering my boobs without any overspill. The extra-stretchy sheer panel at the top of the cups will work well if you have uneven breasts.

The cups were supportive and compressed my boobs into place, which made them appear smaller when compared to wearing a plunge or balconette bra. It was comfortable to wear for approx 5 hours, after that time I could feel the underwiring start to dig in, and the lace trim on the straps began to irritate slightly on my shoulders. I would definitely choose this bra to wear on a night out or for a special occasion.

Find out more in my full Berlei Beauty Minimiser Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Minimiser Bra for Sports

The majority of the best sports bras work by tightly compressing the breast tissue in order to keep your boobs very firmly in one place, thereby making them appear flatter and smaller. Including one in my minimiser round-up felt like the right thing to do, even though many women would find a sports bra uncomfortable for everyday wear.

I have previously worn Triumph's Essential Minimiser Bra and find it comfortable and supportive, so when I discovered their minimising sports bra, I decided to put it to the test. I wore the bra for a variety of exercise and dance classes, including a high-impact Tap class, but also wore it throughout the day to test how comfortable it felt over a longer period of time.

From the outside, this bra looks like a non-wired bralette, but hidden inside is a traditional underwired bra that's attached to the lower band and side panels. Together, they completely encompass the breast tissue, offering compressed coverage and support. The straps are lightly padded at the top of the shoulder and adjustable at both the front and back, making it really easy to get a perfect fit. When it comes to support, this bra is excellent. And you don’t just have to take my word for it. There are lots of happy customers online praising the “fit and control [which is] brilliant for all my activities, including horse riding, yoga and reformer pilates”

Although I wouldn't say this bra is uncomfortable to wear, I was aware of how tightly it fitted throughout the day and was relieved to take it off at bedtime. I machine-washed it a total of 3 times for the purpose of this review and couldn't see any change in appearance or feel any reduction in support.

Out of the six bras in this review, this bra made the greatest reduction in the appearance of size, but with an RRP of £58, it is much more expensive.

Find out more in my full Triumph Triaction Control Lite Minimiser Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

One that just missed the list

How we tested the best minimiser bras

After extensively researching minimiser bras, both online and on the high street, I selected 25 styles to try. I ensured that I had the correct size, and each style was then subjected to the following tests:

Duration Test - I wore each bra for a minimum of 5 hours over a period of 4 days.

Garment Test - Over the testing period, I wore each bra under a variety of tops that included a tightly fitting T-shirt, a silky clingy blouse and a lightweight knitted jumper.

Movement Test - I tested each style while performing everyday activities that included walking, running, reaching and stretching. The final 6 bras were more rigorously tested. I wore each one for 5 additional days, going about my busy life as well as exercising in the sports bra.

Durability test - I washed each bra according to its care instructions.

At each step of the testing process, I eliminated any that fell short of my expectations, based on the criteria below. These are the main factors I considered for this trial:

• Minimising effect: This was my main priority for this particular feature, as I felt it would be the primary reason a woman would choose to buy a minimiser bra. I tested each bra under tops made of various fabrics and noted the difference in comparison to wearing a plunge bra. The actual bra I wore for comparison was the Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra. I noted how well the bras compressed and altered the shape of my boobs and measured the difference in actual size.
• Quality of materials: I considered the fabric and how it felt against my skin. I looked at the construction of the bra and how well it was made, paying particular attention to the seams and how the underwires were concealed. I looked at the clasp and compared the number of hook and eye fastenings used and whether they were sturdy enough to keep the bra in place. I then washed each bra at least once, following the manufacturer's instructions, and checked for any changes in the quality, fit or comfort. I will continue to wear the final 6 styles and ensure this feature is updated if I feel that further wear and washing diminish the quality.
• Comfort and support: Once I had noted the minimising effect, I then considered exactly how each bra fitted. I made note of how supported I felt by the cups - was there any overspill or bulging? Did the underwiring feel comfortable, or did it start to dig in after a few hours? Did the straps stay in place, and were they easy to adjust? Was the clasp easy to use, and in general, how comfortable did it feel throughout the day?
• RRP: I wanted to test a range of prices and see if it was necessary to spend more money for a minimiser bra, compared to a regular bra.
• Style: I tried to find different types of minimiser bras, from practical and functional to more glamorous options.

You can also learn more about how we test bras in this detailed guide.

How to choose minimiser bras

Wearing the correct size is a must for a minimiser bra to work. Wacoal Lingerie Design Director Jo West agrees. "When purchasing any bra, it is essential to have a professional fitting to ensure you are wearing the right size. Our breasts change size throughout our lives, and it is recommended to check your bra size ideally every six months. The right size is imperative to providing support, lift and comfort." West also suggests that "making sure you are wearing the right size could even eliminate the need for a minimising bra", so it's a really important first step.

Here is a quick checklist to remind you of the key criteria to look out for when shopping.

• Fit: Getting the perfect fit is the key to lasting comfort. It's best to get professionally measured if you can, and always opt for bra styles that are measured by cup and band size rather than S, M, L. If you're unsure of the fit or size you're after, we always recommend ordering a few sizes to find the one that works best for you.
• Style: What do you need your bra to do? Are you looking for an everyday style that will work under the majority of your outfits? Do you need extra support, or is comfort your priority? Has the bra got to work with a tricky neckline?
• Price: What's your budget? Larger-sized bras do not have to be expensive, and once you know your size and preferred style, you can get some great bargains in the sales or on Amazon. You can spend a fortune on expensive designer lingerie if you desire, but I don't believe the bras will be any more supportive or effective than the minimising styles that topped our list.

How to get the right fit

The most sensible way to find your bra size is to be fitted by a professional bra fitter at a department store or lingerie specialist. Many companies offer virtual fittings too, via their websites. If you prefer to work out your own size, follow our 3-step guide below.

Step 1 - Start by wearing a bra that you feel most comfortable in and measure in inches directly under your bust, keeping the tape tight and level around your body. If this number is odd, you will have to add or subtract an inch to find your size.

Step 2 - Measure around the fullest part of your bust (usually the nipple line), keeping the tape level all the way around your back.

Step 3 - Subtract your band size (from step 1) from your bust size (from step 2) and use the difference to calculate your cup size. For example, zero difference in inches = AA, one inch = A, two inches = B, 3 inches = C, and so on.

But beware! Bra sizes are not standardised; each brand will fit differently, and it's impossible to find the right fit based on size alone. You need to pay close attention to the look and feel of the bra. Here are the signs to look out for...

1. Your bra rides up at the back - This is a sign that the band size is too big. The band should fit firmly and provide 80% of the support.

2. Underwires digging in - The underwire should not rest on the actual breast tissue or cut in under the arms. Go up a cup size.

3. Bulging cups - The top of the breast should fit smoothly into the cups without overspill. If in doubt, go up a cup size.

4. Gaping at the front - The centre front of the bra must lie flat against the breastbone without sitting on any breast tissue. This is a sign that your cup size is too small.

5. Uncomfortable straps - You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the straps. If they dig in, consider going up a cup size and down a band size.

Tip: When trying on a bra for the first time, fasten it on the loosest hook. Over time, your bra will stretch as you wash and wear it; this will allow you to fasten it tighter as this happens.

• Back to the top ⤴

FAQs

How do minimiser bras work?

They use compression to redistribute the breast tissue to create a slightly flatter shape, while providing lots of support. The level of compression will vary from style to style.

A minimiser bra will reduce the size of your bust and give the appearance of a flatter chest by reducing forward projection and redistributing the volume of the breast tissue. The effectiveness will depend on your personal shape and size, and how you like to look in your clothes. The best minimiser bras are incredibly supportive, which is vitally important if you've got big boobs.

In order to have a minimising effect and reduce the size of your bust, a minimiser bra has to fit tightly. You may feel more constricted than when wearing a regular bra, and the bra may feel more uncomfortable when worn over a long period of time.

What are the benefits of a minimiser bra?

A well-fitting minimiser bra will support your chest, giving you a streamlined look and making your bust look less prominent. This may improve the way you look when wearing certain types of clothes. "Minimising bras can be useful to women with fuller busts", says West. "They can help to smooth, flatten and spread the breast, offering extra coverage. Minimising bras can be useful under button-up shirts and figure-hugging clothing," she adds, eliminating any gaping or bulges.

Finding the best sports bra will transform your workouts. Not only will it provide support and comfort, but the right fit can also seriously improve performance and your self-confidence.

The best sports bra for you will vary based on the support level you need, the types of workouts you do and your preferred style and colour, so it's also important to bear these factors in mind when deciding where to buy a sports bra, as some brands cater to some styles better than others.

We break down the main types of sports bras on the market, along with an edit of our tried and tested favourites in each category, from top names like Sweaty Betty, Pour Moi, Panache, and Shock Absorber. We also chatted to bra fitters and lingerie experts who shared their top tips on choosing the right sports bra for you.

The different types of sports bras: at a glance

The best sports bras, tried and tested:

Compression

A compression sports bra is often the type we think of when we think of a sports bra. "It tends to come in a crop top style that you pull over your head and compresses breast tissue close to the body to minimise unwanted movement," says Jess Grace, expert bra fitter at Boobydoo, a specialist sports bra website.

Most suitable for those with A to C cup size, a compression sports bra is designed to support those with smaller chests.

You can buy compression sports bras in many different styles, making it a suitable design for all kinds of exercise, from low-impact yoga and Pilates to gym workouts. While many people do higher impact exercise in compression bras, given that it's the most popular type sold, it may not be the best choice for workouts like running where you have a little more bounce to deal with. Instead, encapsulation or hybrid styles may be a better option.

Encapsulation

Encapsulation bras tend to offer more support than compression bras, Grace says. "They have a more defined cup structure to separate the breasts and give more shape for maximum support," she says.

For this reason, they tend to be among the best sports bras for larger breasts. “If your breasts are large, you may hate that undefined, squashed-together look you get from typical compression crop top style sports bras that flatten your breasts against the chest wall," says Pour Moi garment technologist Lois Siciliano. "Choosing a sports bra with underwire [like an encapsulation bra] can avoid this, as it keeps breasts both separated and fully supported."

While encapsulation bras do tend to come with an underwire, you can get some in non-wired styles that still provide great support.

Combination

A combination style, or hybrid as it's known, offers the best of both worlds with an encapsulating design and compressive fit. "The cups tend to provide separation of the breasts but there's usually a layer of fabric over the top to create a compressed feeling," says Grace. It's a great option for comfort and support, so often ends up being one of the best high-impact sports bras as well.

Most combination sports bras are made without underwire too, since the additional fabric over the top of the breasts provides the added support.

They are the best choice for high-impact activities like running and HIIT workouts and those with larger chests.

How to choose a sports bra

• Find the right support: "A good level of support is a crucial part when exercising," says Tash Curry, fitness coach, and former professional dancer-turned-boxer. "It's important to wear a well-fitted sports bra that minimises the amount of breast movement for good support and comfort during exercise." How you wear a sports bra is very important, so if you're in doubt, book a consultation online with your chosen brand or head to a specialist sportswear store.
• Choose a bra for your cup size: "Bra sizing is the most important element in finding the perfect sports bra," says Curry, who works with Another Round as a senior coach. "More than 85% of women are not wearing the right bra. A bra is meant to support you as you work out and give full support. Therefore, I would suggest always looking for a brand that offers cup sizes to ensure there isn't spillage and you get proper support."
• Is it moisture-wicking? No matter the activity - whether you're doing yoga as a workout or intense hiking - you'll probably sweat in your sports bra, so choosing the right material to cope with this is important. "If you don’t look for a sports bra with a proper breathable, wicking fabric, then be ready for some chafing. Sports bras should also be made from wicking fabrics that direct moisture away from your skin. This will keep you dry and comfortable during your workout," she says.
• Focus on the band support: "A correctly fitted bottom band will offer more support when working out. The wider the bottom band, the more support, and it should be supporting most of the weight on your chest."
• Focus on the bra straps: "While we are on the subject of support," she notes, "Having secure straps is a must and you should ensure they aren’t falling off your shoulders." If you have larger boobs or want to do higher-intensity exercise like HIIT or running 30 minutes a day, you might find slightly wider straps can help take off additional pressure.
• Read the reviews: "Remember just because a sports bra says it’s suitable for high-intensity exercise doesn’t mean it is," expert bra fitter Jess Grace reminds us. "Always read reviews (ideally from someone with a similar cup size to you) and look for something officially bounce-tested if possible."
• Consider your workouts: "Make sure you’re choosing your bra based on when you’re going to wear it, not just how it looks," advises Claire Mills, Physiotherapist, Pilates Expert and Founder of Core LDN. "So, if you're doing higher impact, such as Hyrox, running, cardio and weights, I would recommend a more supportive bra, definitely medium to high support."

How should a sports bra fit?

Some sports bras run a little small, so always check the brand's website before buying, but generally, you should choose your normal size, as sports bras are supposed to fit snugly, to offer maximum support. "A sports bra should always be back and cup sizes to fit perfectly and ensure minimum bounce. 80% of the support comes from your backband, so this needs to be firm to lift and hold your boobs," explains lingerie expert and bra fitter, Katie Weir.

"The cup of the sports bra should always reach around the breast tissue to encapsulate and not necessarily compress to reduce bounce and enhance comfort," continues Weir, who we also consulted for our round-up of the best bras for everyday wear.

What are the different types of support in a sports bra?

There are three types of support a sports bra can offer, named after the different types of exercise you can do in them: low impact, medium impact, and high impact. Here, PT Tash Curry reveals the key differences between all three:

1. Low impact

"These provide minimal, gentle compression and support," Curry says. "They're suitable for lower intensity workouts with less bounce such as yoga, Pilates, and strength training." You won't want to wear a low-impact sports bra for anything more vigorous as you won't feel supported.

You'll often find compression sports bras in this category. These are sports bras that work by compressing the breasts to prevent bouncing. They tend not to have a front or back closure and you normally can't adjust the support - you pull it over your head like a crop top.

2. Medium impact

One step up, medium-impact sports bras are a great middle ground between low- and high-impact bras. "These offer moderate support and can be worn for activities like cycling workouts, in the gym, and walking," Curry says.

A medium-impact sports bra will often be a compression or combination design, so you have a wide variety of choices when it comes to finding the best sports bras for you in this category.

3. High impact

High-impact sports bras tend to offer more compression, have a more supportive band at the back, and may be a better choice for those with larger breasts. "High-impact sports bras offer bounce-free support during running, HIIT training, and any other high-intensity workout," she says.

Encapsulation and combination sports bras fit into this category. These both work much like a regular bra with a front or back closure and a strong band, and the breasts are supported separately. Some do come with underwire as well but most don't.

Can you wear a sports bra every day?

It depends on the design, the experts say. "A high-impact sports bra is designed to be worn during fast and excessive movement and because of this, it's not intended to be worn all day," says Grace. However, a soft, comfortable, and looser-fitting compression bra may be designed for and suitable for daily wear and physical activity.

"We understand that some people’s daily lives involve a lot of movement and wearing a normal bra isn’t practical. In this case, opting for a low/medium impact level bra would still give you extra support but be more comfortable for longer durations and everyday wear," she says.

How often should you replace a sports bra?

It's best to replace a sports bra every 6 to 12 months, says Curry. "This depends on how much you wear it but generally, the bra elasticity decreases with use, which means the bra loses its stretch and becomes less supportive," she explains.

It'll last even longer if you know how to wash gym clothes properly, as sports bras often degrade in the washing machine over time as well. Never put your sports bra in the tumble dryer.

If your bra is still comfortable and working for the activity you're doing, there's no need to replace it. "The most important part of finding a sports bra you like is that it should feel good, it should fit right for you, and have you feeling your best when working out."

We all have tops and dresses in our summer wardrobe that don't quite work with our usual bras underneath. Perhaps the straps are too thin, or you want to wear a shape like a halterneck - and that's where the best strapless bras come into their own.

As a lingerie expert, I’ve spent months testing the latest designs, and I’ve narrowed them down to six standout styles that truly deliver, even under elegant, skin-baring necklines. I tried multiway and strapless bras from every major label to discover which brands create options that genuinely stay up, offer reliable support for all cup sizes, and look as good at the end of the day as they do when you first put them on - regardless of the temperature outside.

A great strapless bra is one of the most transformative underwear buys you can make. While many styles feel comfortable in the fitting room, real confidence comes from knowing your bra will perform just as well once you’re out and about. The best designs stay securely in place without digging in or needing constant adjustment.

Fit is everything – especially if (like me) you need the best bras for large busts. The best strapless bras don’t just look smooth under clothes; they stay firmly in place for hours and remain practically invisible beneath even the lightest fabrics. Larger busts benefit from clever engineering and strong structure, while smaller chests gain shape and a beautifully clean line. Get it right, and a strapless bra can feel every bit as supportive, comfortable, and confidence-boosting as your everyday favourite.

Today's best deals

The quick list: my top 6

• Back to the top ⤴

Best strapless bras: Tried and tested

I've been a fashion stylist for over 30 years and have dressed hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes for many different occasions. I'm also a trained bra fitter, which is useful because it's so important to get the foundations right. Not only will you feel more comfortable, but selecting the right bra can make or break a great outfit.

Some of the best wedding guest dresses have halter necklines or are completely off-the-shoulder, and here's where a great strapless bra will come in handy. If you have big boobs, you'll appreciate the support and comfort one will give you, and women with a smaller bust often appreciate the extra boost to their natural size.

Lingerie stylist and bra expert Katie Weir has this advice: "Look out for technical details such as underwired cups, boning in the side seam and silicone grip to ensure the bra stays in place, especially if you have bigger boobs. A wide back band is really important too, as this provides the majority of the support."

I wear a size 34F, and I tested various styles from a range of stockists. I enlisted the help of testers with smaller boobs who tried a selection more suitable for smaller cup sizes. We made note of how they fitted, how supportive and comfortable they felt, what they looked like under a variety of tops, and finally, how they looked after washing. Here's everything you need to know about the six bras we feel offer the best shape and support.

Best strapless bra overall

This bra has moulded, underwired cups and is designed to create a smooth line and be invisible under your clothes. It's made from smooth microfibre fabric with minimal seams, and the back panels are wide with a firm mesh lining. My boobs felt contained; the uppermost part of the breast felt a bit exposed, but this was ideal under the style of dress I was wearing, as it didn't peep out from underneath.

Strapless bras should fit tightly around the band to provide the support you need, and this one is no exception. I could feel the band firmly against my ribcage at all times. The underwiring on this bra felt more rigid than usual, again playing a more important role than on a normal bra. I wore the bra for brunch with friends on a hot, sunny day, and it felt comfortable for 4-5 hours, without any digging or slipping out of place.

This is a versatile and functional bra that provides lift and support while wearing strapless or tricky necklines. At under £30 and available in a wide range of cup sizes, this bra ticks all the right boxes and is my overall favourite.

You can find out more in my full Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review

Best strapless bra for large busts

If you're looking for strapless bras for big busts (size D+), you're going to find the Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless bra a joy to wear.

The cups are made from a foam-lined fabric and constructed from 3 parts with vertical seams to ensure the bra retains its shape. In addition to the underwiring, the cups feature an inner sling of firmer mesh fabric that lifts your boobs and projects them forward. The elastic has a strip of silicone that helps to grip the bra in place and flexible strips of boning, which are encased in the side seams to give extra structure.

I asked bra expert Katie Weir, who styles the campaign images for Curvy Kate, for her views. "I love Luxe; it’s a solid strapless choice to go under the majority of summer outfits", she commented.

"One of its unique selling points is that it's cartwheel-proof. I can confirm that I have seen many women of all different shapes and sizes successfully cartwheel without a single nip slip!" High praise indeed.

You can find out more in my full Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Multiway Bra Review

Best strapless bra for small busts

This bra has moulded, underwired cups that are made from thin microfibre fabric with minimal seams, and the back panels are smooth and stretchy.

Our tester tried the bra in her regular size 34C, and it fitted well, without any gaping along the top edge of the cups. "I fastened the back on the tightest hooks to make it tighter," she reports. "This made it feel more secure, and I felt it was less likely to fall down. I wore the bra for a whole day, and it gave me a great shape under my top - I think it made me look a little bigger and more curvy.

"Unlike other strapless bras I've tried, this one doesn't have boning in the side seams or sticky silicone grips, so it felt more comfortable to wear."

You can find out more in my full M&S Collection Flexifit Wired Multiway Bra

Best strapless bra on Amazon

From the outside, this bra has the appearance of a non-wired bandeau as the outer layer of silky fabric is totally seam-free. However, hidden inside are underwired cups that are edged with strips of silicone to help the bra stay in place. Flexible strips of boning are encased in the side seams to give extra structure.

When wearing this bra, it felt like my boobs were being compressed and slightly squashed into place, which had a minimising effect on the size of my bust. It felt firm but comfortable to wear for about 4 hours, after which it started to slightly dig in under my arms, which cost it a star.

This is a great bra for wearing under tight tops if you want your boobs to appear smaller - and it can arrive at your door tomorrow!

You can find out more in my full Meleneca Strapless Minimiser Bra Review

Best strapless push-up plunge bra

This bra creates an impressive cleavage and is great for wearing with low-cut necklines. Similar to a T-shirt bra, this style has moulded cups made from a lightweight polyamide fibre chosen for its strength, flexibility, and moisture-wicking properties. The outside is smooth and seam-free. Inside the cups, bonded within the layers of fabric, are areas of denser padding on the outer and upper edges. The underwires are also bonded within the structure of the bra and are soft and flexible.

The elastic along the bottom edge of the cups and the top edge of the back has tiny silicone dots to help grip the bra in place. Flexible strips of boning are encased in the side seams and back panels to add extra structure.

I tested this bra in a size 32F, and it struggled to contain and support my bust. However, our testers with smaller boobs were seriously impressed with the uplift and extra volume it created - if you are a D cup or smaller, you will find it supportive and more comfortable. One customer review stated, "It gives me a really nice shape, especially at 45 when my breasts are no longer where I'd like them to be!"

You can find out more in my full John Lewis Cassie Super Push Up Strapless Bra Review

Best value for money strapless bra

Reviewed by: Matilda Stanley

"This simple yet chic multiway bra is brilliantly versatile and offers plenty of support while being comfortable to wear all day. The wider band makes it smoothing under even very tight tops, and it has a very flattering look and feel – it was way more comfy than I expected and surprisingly smoothing, which makes it a great choice for anybody shopping for the best bras for back fat. This bra stayed put, without any ouch moments.

Most bras should be hand-washed to avoid damage or the cups becoming misshapen, but this one is very handily machine-washable. I put it on a gentle rinse, and I was impressed with how well it kept its shape and hold the next time that I wore it. I can't believe it’s only £12, and I'm impressed with the range of sizes it covers. Not bad for a bra that you can pick up with your weekly shop!"

You can find out more in our full Tu at Sainsbury's Multiway Soft Cup Balcony Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Ones that just missed the list

How we tested to find the best strapless bras

We spent weeks wearing bras without straps to find the most flattering, supportive and comfortable styles. To find out which brand has the best strapless bras worthy of adding to your underwear drawer, we tested over twenty different bras and judged them against the following criteria:

• Fit - The most important part of any bra purchase is how comfortable it feels whilst wearing it. We all know how good it feels to take off your bra at the end of the day, but no underwear is worth buying if it feels uncomfortable from the moment you put it on. With strapless bras, how well the bra stays in place is also key, as there's nothing more annoying than constantly pulling the bra up and manoeuvring it back into place all the time.
• Support - It's one thing for a strapless bra to stay up and in place all day and another for it to feel supportive enough that you're not worrying about how you move throughout the day.
• Look under clothes - How flattering was the bra on? Did the bra look smooth and seamless under our outfits and have a natural appearance, or did the style of the bra enhance or minimise our natural silhouette? We considered these points and tried the bras on under multiple different outfits to test how they looked under everything from T-shirts to party dresses.
• Quality of materials - Better quality fabrics will keep their shape for longer, and will have less chance of riding down. Plus, as with any piece of underwear or lingerie, we want to ensure the materials used don't irritate our skin and only add to the comfort of the bra.
• Design elements - The best strapless bras are designed to support, lift and stay up all day. We judged not only the design elements and technical details that help the bra achieve these three important factors, but all aspects of the bra's design that make it look good, both on its own and under clothes.

Learn more about how we test bras at woman&home in this detailed guide.

How to choose the right strapless bra for you

• Choose a high-quality product - With bras, you often get what you pay for. Strapless bras are more of an occasional (rather than everyday) item, so you can afford to buy fewer products but spend a little more getting the best quality. This includes choosing a strapless bra with foam or moulded cups with good coverage to fully encase the bust and a firm, supportive underband, as all the support is coming from there.
• Pick the right size - It's always helpful to be fitted by a professional when buying a strapless bra, as anything too big will be more likely to ride down, but too small and you'll never feel comfortable in the bra when wearing it for any length of time.
• Look for rubber or silicone support - Good strapless bras will usually feature a layer of rubber or silicone around the band to help keep it secure against the skin while wearing. The wider the elastic on the underband with a silicone trim, the better the support will be, so fewer adjustments will be needed when wearing it.
• Pick the right style for your bust size - Don't select a bandeau if you have bigger boobs, or opt for heavy underwiring if you have a smaller bra size. For bigger busts, look for a firm wire and strong, supportive fabrics for maximum support.
• Think about the clothes it will go under - Most strapless bras are lower at the centre front to avoid showing under plunging necklines, but bandeau designs go straight across and are more likely to show under certain outfits, such as strapless occasionwear. Be sure to try the bra on under your actual outfit to ensure it won't show at the front or the back.

FAQs

Should you go down a back size when buying a strapless bra?

You may want to experiment with a different size, as we hear from some bra fitters that women like to go for a size smaller in the back and up one cup to keep it feeling super secure, but the most important thing is that the bra feels comfortable. When wearing a strapless bra, you want to make sure the backband fits tightly (but not too tightly!). As there aren’t any straps to keep you in place, the backband needs to be firm enough to keep you lifted, so you feel confident and look amazing.

Summer is here, so it’s time to say goodbye to layers. While the fashion choices are fun, suddenly wearing lighter outfits can sometimes be a little daunting, especially if you often feel self-conscious about lumps and bumps around your back and sides. While it’s totally normal and not something to be embarrassed about, overhang can be a real nuisance when you are wearing tighter-fitting clothing, but thankfully, there is an easy way to cancel out the problem. By switching your usual underwear for the best bras for back fat, you’ll have a sleek base that will transform how your outfits look in the coming months.

As well as taking care of your boobs, these best bras are usually designed with a wider back panel to gently firm up and contour your natural shape without feeling too tight or rigid. The result? They will act like your best shapewear to smooth and firm up any problem areas, to help fabrics drape better and sit neatly without any bulges, so you can get dressed worry-free.

As a stylist, I understand that it can be tricky to know what to look for when adding to your lingerie drawer, so I put 36 bras to the test to find the most flattering styles. To keep things fair, I made sure that all the bras I tried were designed and sold to be smoothing and promised to keep back fat at bay, and I tested many different shapes and styles from a wide range of brands. While vetting the back fat bras, I considered a number of key things, including how smoothing, flattering and comfortable they are, as well as how much support they offer. Every bra in this guide was tested for at least a full day, and worn under fitted tops to test if any pesky lumps could be seen around the back band. It was hard to narrow it down, but the top 6 bras for back fat looked after my bust brilliantly while looking smooth from all angles.

The quick list

You'll find a handy summary of the best bras for back fat below, and there's plenty of extra detail about my rigorous testing and the reasoning behind the best buys further down in this article.

Best Bras for Back Fat: Tried & Tested

After the brief introduction, you can read more on why each of these bras has made it into my top picks. While wearing each one, I considered everything from fit and comfort to style and care, but above all else, I looked into how smoothly and discreetly each bra sat under clothing. You can find more information on how we test bras, and you can trust that each one has been picked because it will give you the support, shape, and smoothness you'd hope for if lumps around your back and under arms are a concern.

Best Bra for Under Dresses

I have long been a fan of Evelyn & Bobbie, and I have recommended the Defy Bra to lots of friends and family as it's easily one of the most comfortable bras I’ve ever worn. So I was very intrigued to try out this vest-style tank top from the same brand. Rather than focusing on just the upper back, this longline piece is more like a vest and provides coverage for my boobs, tummy and back to take care of my whole upper half.

It's a much larger piece of lingerie than I'm used to, but it's designed to act like a shaping vest and bra combined, and once it's on, it doesn’t feel cumbersome at all. In a very similar way to my M&S Hidden Support Vest, this one has a discreet built-in bra, and the stretchy fabric then continues down over my tummy and back to create a sleek and gently firmed-up silhouette, without having to layer up a bra and smoothing slip before getting dressed. I was instantly impressed by how neat and defined it made my top half look, and it gave me a confidence boost to wear some tighter sundresses that I’d pushed to the back of my wardrobe because of worries about clinging fabrics. The top sits on my hips and manages to stay in position brilliantly, so it’s ideal for slipping under fancy frocks as well as tighter tops, and it cancels out any pesky overhang on the waistband of my jeans and skirts, too.

The fuller piece feels a little tricky to pull on at first as the fabric is quite firm, but once I’d wriggled into position, it felt very comfy and was easy to move around in. As with the rest of the collection from the American label, the stretchy material is designed to mould to your shape and curves over time, and the brand suggests wearing it for a couple of days to let it adapt to your shape. It really does work, and after a full day of wear, it fitted like a glove.

The bra is wire-free and only has some very light and removable padding in the cups, but the clever technical fabric and well-designed shape lifts and holds my boobs brilliantly. It offers plenty of support for a busy day, and it’s good for bigger busts, as it evenly distributes the weight of your breasts to minimise pressure points or back strain. The wider straps add extra comfort too.

I wore this bra during some very warm weather, and I expected it to be too hot to wear, but the fabric is surprisingly breathable. It's actually designed to be moisture-wicking and odour-fighting, so I can’t see it being a problem during high summer. It also washed really well – I popped it on a cool cycle in the machine, and once dried, it felt like new.

While it’s not the sexiest piece in my underwear collection, the smoothing capabilities totally outweigh the simple style, and it’s a winner for everyday wear - and if I'm looking for something a little chicer, I'd go for the Leonisa Back Smoothing Bra. I tried it out in a warm neutral ‘Sand’ shade, but there are six other colours to choose from, including black and pink, as well as matching briefs.

As you can probably tell, this one gets a bit thumbs up from me. As well as providing lift and definition to my boobs, it easily banishes bumps and overhang, creating an ideal base for my favourite sunny day dresses and tops.

Find out more from my full Evelyn & Bobbie Structured Scoop Bra Tank review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for Smoothing Under Arms

This bra really surprised me, and it genuinely ticked all of my lingerie boxes. I love the subtle amount of lift it gives to my chest, while providing plenty of support and hold. It doesn't matter how busy I am, my boobs always feel under control and comfortable in this bra. It offers full coverage cups without covering my breasts up completely, and I've found that it sits well under most vest tops without any fabric peeking out.

The main thing I like about this bra is how well the wider straps at the sides and back work to banish any unsightly bulges or lumps, so it looks very sleek and neat under my outfit. The side and back bands contain a very fine layer of power mesh that acts like light shapewear, but without feeling very tough or restricting, allowing me to move around freely. They pull in and smooth over my back and underarms so I don't need to worry about bulges, even when I'm wearing a very clingy T-shirt. The side panels are much deeper than any of the other bras I've tested, and although I expected them to feel quite stiff, the fabric is impressively flexible, and the stretch material works brilliantly to add a neat and sleek finish to my sides, even when I'm sitting or bending over.

I tried out the glossy black colour, and this bra is also available in a classic white or soft beige colourway. The bra is very simple and understated, but the shiny and smooth fabric adds a modern feel that also looks a little bit sexier than some other full coverage bras that I've worn before. I like how the lack of lace or frills means that I can pop it under a tighter top and it won't show through. The little gold tag at the front adds a hint of glam, too. Although the back band is wide, it doesn’t look dowdy or old-fashioned - it's a perfect balance of chic and practical.

I loved this bra for my medium-sized bust, but unfortunately, the cup size only goes up to a D, so if you have larger boobs, you're probably best to go for the M&S ContourWear Smoothing Non-Wired Plunge Bra, which offers a lot of the same smoothing support and a similar design but with more options for sizing.

The only other minor downside to this bra is that it's hand-wash only, which is to be expected for a bra that contains an underwire. The polyamide and elastane fabric washes and dries well, though, and a few months later, the shape and hold still feel like new.

Find out more in my full Leonisa Back Smoothing Bra review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bra for back coverage

This bra is one of the most popular styles from Kim Kardashian's shapewear and lingerie label. It has a very different design from all the other bras I tested, as it has a full back panel that looks more like a crop top, with a very minimal and classic plunge front. I expected it to feel a little bit annoying to wear as it covers a lot more skin than traditional bras, but I genuinely forgot I was wearing it after I got dressed - it was way comfier than I thought it would be.

It is a pull-on style that was a bit of a squeeze to get on (rather like a sturdy sports bra), but once on, it felt dreamy to wear and stayed exactly where it should all day without readjusting. The fabric is firm yet stretchy and offers just the right amount of compression to my back. It creates a wonderfully sleek and neat feel without any rigidness or digging in. The one-piece design means there isn’t any fiddly clasp to deal with, and the full panel covers from just below my neck to my lower ribs, so there is zero chance of overhang.

The very deep sides meant that my underarms were also covered and smoothed over, plus the wired and lightly padded cups lift and support my boobs brilliantly. I wore this bra over a busy weekend, which included a soft play party with my kids and a big decluttering spring clean of the house, and I found that my bust was supported and held in place the whole time. Although it wasn't as soft as the Spanx Breast of Both Worlds Comfort Bra, it still felt really comfy when I finally got to lie on the sofa later.

I like the modern and fuss-free design of this one. While the fuller back means I won't be able to wear this bra with strappy tops or low-cut dresses (a thinner back strap on the M&S Contourwear Smoothing Non Wired Bra will work better with skimpier pieces), I have found it sits discreetly under most outfits, and the plunge front works with pretty much every neckline without peeking through. I tried the black colourway, but there are a few options available, and as with the rest of the SKIMS collection, you can find it in a range of wearable nude tones as well as black and white. There is also a thong and matching briefs to complete the look, too.

It covers an impressive size range of 32A-44H, and the clever fabric is designed to stretch and mould to your shape for a good fit, even if you are between sizes. I went for the 36B and found it was perfectly true to size.

The instructions say to wash it by hand with cold water, and that’s exactly what I did. It rinsed well and dried impressively fast. The next time I wore it, it felt like new without any change in shape or loss in hold.

This bra is unlike anything I've worn before and has really surprised me. It offers plenty of smoothing coverage but manages to still look chic and feel light to wear. It's a great one to suit a wide range of body types and bust sizes, and I have been wearing it on repeat since testing it.

Find out more in my full SKIMS Back Smoothing Full Coverage Bra

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bra for back fat overall

I’d never bought lingerie from Amazon before, but I was genuinely impressed with the fit and quality of this Delmira Padded T-shirt Bra. It has a nice mix of balconette and full coverage cups, and it lifts and supports boobs without feeling too rigid to wear. The underwire was really well covered, too, so there was no digging in throughout the day.

I loved how simple the design was, and the sleek polyamide and elastane fabric felt soft and comfortable against the skin while being breathable. It’s fuss-free but does everything you want your bra to do, all while being smoothing. I will definitely be buying it in another colour!

This bra is lightly padded, and the fuller cups lifted and supported my chest well without any 'ouch' moments, thanks to the well-covered underwires and wider shoulder straps. The back band sat well against the skin without feeling too tight, and the seamless design was invisible under clothes to flatter from all angles.

I love the simplicity of this everyday bra. There aren’t any bows or lace fabrics, and the plain black fabric is clean and chic, with a gentle sheen to it that keeps it feeling modern. It's seam-free so it looks neat at the front, side and back without any lumps too. The only small issue is that the wider shoulder straps might peek out and be seen when worn under a sleeveless shirt or dress, but overall, it sits well under most of my wardrobe. It's available in 15 colours too -from pale grey to bright red.

It's machine washable, which is a big bonus, and it looked just as new and glossy after I’d cleaned it. I originally tested this piece last year, and it continues to be one of my favourite bras ever.

Find out more in my full Delimira Padded T-shirt Bra review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best loungewear bra for back fat

I live in loungewear when I'm at home, and this gorgeous bra has quickly become a favourite addition to a snuggly sofa day. When I think of Spanx, the classic shaping shorts, slip skirts and the much-loved seamless leggings spring to mind, but not necessarily bras. I have worn lots of Spanx shapewear in the past and loved it all, so I was intrigued by the chest support options and decided to give the bralette-style piece a go.

I went for this straightforward design, which promises to add support and hold to boobs while still being very flexible. Although it doesn't cover as much skin as the SKIMS Back Smoothing Full Coverage Bra, this fuller-shaped piece offers more coverage than a traditional bralette and actually looks and feels like a chic and modern version of my best sports bra. I really like the clever reversible design too, as it means you get two bras for the price of one.

While it doesn’t offer fuller support for a day at work or hitting the shops, it’s a great option for wearing at home for some extra support without feeling too rigid or uncomfortable. It's wire-free and doesn't contain padding, but the fabric is firm and thicker than my usual bras and manages to support my chest while chasing my toddler round the garden or tidying the house, with no harsh tightness or ruching. It moved with me rather than against me, so I found it very easy to wear all day without any complaints. As with the rest of the Spanx range, it feels like it's been designed to smooth and accentuate my shape rather than restrict it.

Unlike a lot of my structured and more delicate bras, the padding-free shape of this one means it can be rinsed in the washing machine and washed at a lower temperature. The thicker fabric took a little longer to dry compared to some of the lighter material bras like M&S ContourWear Smoothing bra, but once it had dried, the shape and hold were the same, and it felt exactly the same to wear post-cleaning.

Overall, I found it a comfortable and very flattering bra that smoothed and lifted my boobs, and it covers a wide range of sizes, so I think this one would be a winner for anybody with a large bust, too.

Find out more in my full Spanx Comfort Bra review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bra for size range

Marks and Spencer has been much-loved and well-trusted for lingerie for decades, and generations of women have opted to buy their smalls from the high street hero. Because of this, I had high hopes for the ContourWear Smoothing bra - and I wasn't disappointed!

The bra I tried is from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s collection, which promises to lift and support while being flattering all over to leave your silhouette looking its best. It's wire-free and uses smooth padding in the cups to create support and shape while being wonderfully soft to the touch. I was unsure about how well a non-wired bra would hold my chest while I was out and about all day, but it kept my bust under control (even when I was racing around after my toddler in the park!) and created a naturally smooth shape. It was so comfy that I didn’t feel the need to whip it off as soon as I got home, and it sat neatly under my tops without any telltale overhang. It will lift and hold boobs big and small well, and it's available in an impressive range of sizes covering 30A-42E.

I found the non-wired cups amazingly comfy, and I genuinely forgot I was wearing the bra, as I didn’t feel the urge to yank it down or readjust throughout the day. The lightly padded cups added definition and lift without being too much, and I liked how soft the fabric was. The wider back straps and seamless design kept things smooth and sleek from behind, and it didn’t dig in, so there was no sign of overhang.

This one is simple to look at from the front, but from the back, it’s a different story. The back straps are made from pretty lace fabric, and the clasps are a chic rose gold that adds glamour. It's pared-back yet very chic and will sit well on various bust sizes nicely.

I've been impressed with how well it holds its shape and support despite being wire-free. I hand-washed it, but it is machine washable. I found that the polyester fabric was very quick-drying, and it still looked like new.

Find out more in my full M&S Rosie Contourwear bra review

• Back to the top ⤴

How we tested the best bras for back fat

When finding the very best bras for back fat, I tested 36 bras and wore each one for a full day. I considered comfort and fit, the design, and the quality of the fabrics. Of course, the back-smoothing abilities were the top priority, but I made an effort to think about every aspect of the lingerie to make sure it was a good all-rounder that would work for everyday.

I tested a wide range of styles, shapes and designs from a whole host of brands that covered a mix of budgets and bust sizes. To ensure each bra was genuinely one of the best for avoiding overhang at the back, I looked for design details like firming fabrics, wider bands and seamless cups, as well as bras that catered to a wide range of sizes. I wore all of them under a fitted T-shirt or dress and checked to see if it was visibly bumpy from any angle throughout the day.

How to choose the best bras for back fat

When selecting the best bras for back fat, there are a few standout features you should look for to make sure your clothes sit better, like the picture above:

• Extra support: A bra with extra support should offer gentle compression, offering a similar fit and feel to shapewear.
• Wide straps & underband: The underband is actually where most of the support and lift comes from. Wide straps make them less likely to dig into your shoulders, giving greater comfort overall. The wide underband covers more skin and distributes pressure more evenly, which helps to contour your back and stop overspilling on top or under the band.
• Seam-free: As well as cancelling out any risk of harsh stitching lines showing through fabrics, the lack of seams means that the tension of the fabric is uninterrupted and will sit smoothly and neatly against the skin to prevent bulges.
• Bralettes: When it comes to bras vs bralettes, a bralette can give a smoother look as it tends to be made from thinner fabric, providing more subtle support. But if you have a larger bust, a wired version might be the best bralette style for you, as you'll get a better lift and shape. Bralettes tend to have a more crop top style silhouette, which can also offer extra back coverage.
• Higher back: This will mean the band at the back is thicker or wider and offers more back coverage, to smooth and hold a bigger surface area and smooth away lumps, much like the best plus-size shapewear items.
• Front-fastening bra: As a general rule, if a bra fastens at the front, it tends to have wider back panels to help support the construction. Be careful of cut-out details or racer-back styles, as these won't give as much support as a fully covered back bra and can create the perfect environment for overspilling.

Bras That Just Missed The List

I tested 36 bras, from a wide range of brands for this feature, and it was a tough task to edit the best down to just 6 back smoothing styles. Here is one that just missed the list:

FAQs

How do I stop my bra from showing back fat?

The most important thing to do when it comes to keeping lumps and bumps at bay is to make sure you find the right size for you. If it's too small, it can cause your skin to overhang at the edges. Too big, and it can lack support and cause similar issues. It's always a good idea to get measured up professionally or try our how to measure your bra size at home guide.

Secondly, opt for a bra with wider side and back bands to cover more surface area and create a sleeker silhouette. Seamless designs will sit better than anything too structured or shaped, and will have much more of an invisible finish under clothing.

How should I dress if I have back fat?

Don't let back fat dictate what you wear - you should feel free to put on clothes that make you feel your best, regardless of whether or not they are 'flattering'. However, if you are particularly insecure about your back fat, there are various things you can wear to feel more confident.

The right bra will be the best thing to smooth out back fat, so it's worth getting properly measured and investing in one of the bras on this list. Ensuring you have a high-quality, well-fitting bra will make you feel your most confident.

Dressing in darker shades like black can also help to slightly obscure any areas you may be insecure about, and slightly looser-fitting tops may help you feel more comfortable. However, there are many of us with insecurities about our own back fat, and it probably isn't something you notice on others.

Will a bra extender help with back fat?

A bra extender is a small extra piece of fabric with hook and eye fastenings that can be added in between the clasp at the back of your bra for an extra couple of inches of give around the band. They can be useful if your bra is feeling a little uncomfortable or for adding temporary extra room during times like pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Why does my back fat hang over my bra?

There are several reasons that could be causing back fat or spilling over your bra. These include:

• You're wearing the wrong bra size or style
• You haven't adjusted your bra properly
• Your bra has changed in shape and fit over time

Any of these factors can cause back fat, which is why it is important to wear the right bra size and the right style for the look you're after. Anything slightly off is likely to dig in, ride up, and cause excess back fat.

How should a bra look on your back?

Whether you're looking for the best bras for larger busts or the best minimiser bras, when it comes to fit, you want it to sit firmly enough to fully support your chest, but not so tightly that it causes pressure and overhang under arms or at the back. According to Boux Avenue's Retail Store Trainer, Lesley-Ann Potter, "You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably behind the clasp at the back of your bra when it's fastened on the loosest hook (with a new bra, as over time the underband stretches and it's advised to then tighten by using the next hook along). This helps ensure that the bra is snug enough to provide support, but not too tight that the bra digs in and becomes uncomfortable to wear." If you can't fit fingers behind the clasp, it could be that your underwear is actually causing bulges.

When you put on your bra, try looking at it from all angles in the mirror to make sure it's flattering and smooth in all the right places. The back band should sit firmly against your back and parallel to the floor - if it's riding up or digging in, it's not the right size for you.

What does a bra size really mean?

Bra sizes are all made up of a number followed by one or two letters - each part is basically a measurement. The number, for example, 32, 34 or 36, is worked out from the measurement around your ribcage (just below your bust) and is the size you should be looking for when it comes to the underband. When you measure, a general rule of thumb is to add four inches if your measurement comes out to an even number, and add five inches if it comes out to an odd number. So if you measured 32 inches around your ribcage, your underband size would be 36, and if you measured 33 inches, your actual size would be 38.

The letters are worked out by measuring around the fullest part of your breasts. Once you have that number, subtract the underband number to find how many inches difference there is.

For each inch of difference, you go up a letter. So for a 1-inch difference between your underband and full bust, it would be an A cup; if there's a 2-inch difference, it would be a B cup, and so on.

The reason behind all the maths is that traditionally bras had much less stretch because they were made from fabrics without any elastic. Bra materials have changed over the years, but the measurements have stayed the same!

Lesley-Ann gives us some key things to look for if you are unsure about the fit of your bra. She explains that quick signs are:

• Gaping or overflowing cups: This is a clear sign that your breasts aren't sitting well in your bra. If there is gaping at the top, your cup is too big, and your bust isn't filling it fully. If there is overhang along the front, your cup size is too small, and the edge of your bra is digging into your breasts to cause spillage.
• Straps digging in or falling down: Your straps should sit firmly but comfortably on your shoulders to ensure your chest has the right level of support. Try adjusting them yourself, and if they still don't feel right, you are most likely wearing the wrong size.
• Band rising up or digging in: The underband is key to providing hold and lift to your bust and should sit neatly from all angles without too much movement during the day. If you are constantly yanking it down or readjusting around your ribs, it's most likely too small for you.

Lesley-Ann recommends getting fitted by a professional every six to twelve months. She explains, "Throughout the year your bust shape can shift dramatically due to life’s natural rhythms like weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause. Wearing an ill-fitting bra may mean missing out on both comfort and support."

We're firm believers that every good outfit starts with the basics. Finding the best bra for you will result in your clothes sitting correctly and redefining your silhouette. Even the most perfectly curated capsule wardrobe wouldn't be effective without a well-stocked bra drawer to go with it.

The bra you'll need will differ depending on the day and the occasion. Think about the overall shape you're looking to create before selecting the best bra for the job.

According to Georgina Bibby, a lingerie expert for Next, every woman should invest in four essential types of bras: a sports bra for support during exercise, a non-wired, comfortable bra when lounging or enjoying days off at home, a good underwired supportive bra for everyday wear at work, and finally, a multiway or strapless bra for its versatility across all occasions.

Best bras as reviewed by our experts

With our guide on how to measure bra size in mind, we tested dozens of them to deliver the best bras in every category. When testing, we looked at the quality of the material, design, support, and arguably the most important factor – comfort. These are our favourite three styles for everyday wear.

Our top three picks

Best bras for large busts

"The best bra is an investment. Like anything you want to last for a long time, you need to invest and go for a brand that has a wide size range from back bands and cup sizes, to ensure the perfect fit", says Curvy Kate's PR and Content Manager and resident bra whisperer, Katie Weir.

She recommends: "If you have big boobs, the comfort and design of a bra is integral to a great fit and shape. Look for wide straps as these will feel super comfy across your shoulders, a wide, firm back band to hug and hold your body from the underarm right around to your back, as 80% of support comes from the band".

In our guide to the best bras for large busts, our expert tested lots of styles on the market, recommending six key designs. To save you some time, we've listed the top three below.

Most comfortable bras

When it comes to the best bras for comfort, non-wired styles are more often than not going to trump their wired counterparts. Because they don't include any hard materials underneath the cup, there's an added softness to them for comfort. With that in mind, they are usually best suited to women with smaller breasts, who don't need as much support. But that doesn't mean women with bigger boobs should avoid them.

"Non-wired means the bra has no wires around the cup, but the bra could still have side bones in the side seams for support," Georgina explains. "They are usually worn for comfort purposes, but a quality non-wired bra can still provide good support if fitted properly.

"Non-wired styles can come in all shapes – full cups, plunge, balcony, sports, etc. After and during the pandemic, sales of non-wired bras increased due to the consumer wanting to be more comfortable every day. Non-wired bras can be worn by all ages, from teens in training bras to the more senior wearer."

Best minimiser bras

The best minimiser bras create a smaller and less prominent appearance, without actually reducing the size of your bust. This can result in a smoother silhouette under clothing.

In our comprehensive guide, we've found six of the best styles on the market, including a sports bra and a non-wired style. To save you some time, here are the three that came out on top.

Best bras for back fat

If unwanted bumps are something you're worried about (we've all got them!), I’d recommend the best bras for back fat, which will create a much smoother look under clothing.

It was tough narrow it down in this category - our lowest rating was an impressive four stars - but scroll down for our tester's top three picks.

How we tested the best bras

We tasked two testers to try dozens of bras in order to narrow down the vast selection on the market to just the very best six in each category. Both testers are different cup sizes, ages and body shapes, and are looking for different things from the best bras.

Fit, support and comfort were all weighed up, and a final rating out of five stars was given. They wore them for a reasonable amount of time and washed each style, promising to report back with any problems.

We also took into account the design details and how the bra looks - because who says supportive bras have to be boring?

Learn more about how we test bras at woman&home in this detailed guide.

Bra shopping tips

• Book an online fit consultation: no, it's not the same as an in-person fitting, but virtual bra fittings can go a long way in helping you find the best fit, and subsequently the best bra for you.
• Put your new bra through its paces: "When you finally get your bra, make sure you try adjusting the straps and jiggling your boobs," says Carlotta Ghigi, Nudea’s in-house bra technologist and expert fitter. "As you’re putting the bra on, lean forward and ‘jiggle’ your boobs into the cups to get the best fit. This can be a real game-changer for some who’ve been wearing ill-fitting bras for years," she advises.
• Ensure hassle-free returns: "It's an oft-quoted statistic that 80% of British women are wearing the wrong bra size, but self-measurement is just one step in finding your fit," says Ghigi. "So it makes sense to ensure that returning items is as easy as possible."

FAQs

How do I know if a bra fits properly?

So you've found the best bra, but you're still unsure about how a bra should fit. We totally get it - finding a bra that fits like a glove takes time and a lot of trying on, but according to Priya Downes, CEO and co-founder of fit-first lingerie brand Nudea, there are a number of tell-tale signs that will indicate whether or not your bra fits as it should.

• Your bust is bulging out of cups and is showing through your top - giving the double boob effect.
• The centre front of the bra is not sitting against your sternum and is lifting away
• The cups are now empty and wrinkling.
• The underband is riding up at the back, and you have to tighten the straps
• A previously comfortable bra is now uncomfortable.

But it's also important to remember that the size of your boobs is likely to fluctuate throughout the month. While knowing how to measure bra size is extremely important, it's also important to take into consideration when you should measure your bra size.

"We wear bras every day of the month, so it's good to always be well-fitted," says Priya. "At the time of lowest hormonal activity, about seven days into the cycle, the breast will be at its smallest size, as well as on the last day of the cycle. It would be ideal to measure at both times."

Though she adds, "Usually one or two bigger bras for your biggest days will do, but we should also make sure that your smaller size is suitable for every day."

It's important to measure your bra size or get measured regularly, usually every six months, regardless of whether or not your bras still fit. This is because wearing the right bra is very important both to bust health and how our clothes fit. Your bra will naturally stretch as you wear it, so regularly keeping check of your size will always ensure you're getting the best lift possible.

What is the best bra to wear every day?

There is no definitive 'best bra' to wear every day, as the choice is subjective and depends on your shape and size, how much support you're looking for and what kind of comfort level you want. But these are some of the more common everyday bras for most people:

• T-shirt: Probably the most common choice for everyday wear, thanks to its moulded cups and smooth fabrics that look seamless under clothes.
• Full cup: Maximum coverage means secure support that reduces bulges and jiggling.
• Non-wired: Always a top pick for those looking for comfort.
• Balcony: One of the most flattering styles, as they support the breasts from underneath and lifts them upwards.
• Bralettes: Easy to throw on without awkward fastenings and generally don't use any wiring or much padding, so these are a common pick for everyday wear.
• Sports: The best sports bras and best high-impact sports bras are for those who need extra secure support for busy days.

When should I replace my bra?

As with a pair of the best jeans, you probably have a few favourite bras in your underwear drawer that you turn to again and again. But if you're wondering how often you should change your bra, it's probably more regularly than you think.

"A bra that you wear every other day should be washed every four wears, and if hand-washed, this bra will last you one year. But as bodies change, it is recommended that you have a bra fitting every 6 months to check your size and ensure maximum comfort," says Katie.

But when your bra no longer feels supportive - whether that's because your bra has lost its stretch, its fabric is wearing thin from over-washing, or your size has changed- it's time to seek out a replacement. But proper care of a bra can prolong its life.

Here are a few tips for making your favourite bra go the distance:

• Machine wash your bra in a garment bag and on a delicate cycle to keep it from getting twisted among your other clothes
• Line your bras up in your underwear drawer as they do in shops. Folding your bra one cup inside the other can shift the padding and compromise its shape.
• Invest in a special detergent to keep your bra in mint condition for as long as possible.

Bra shopping is tricky for anyone, but if you're a D cup or above, it can be particularly challenging. We ask a lot from the best bras for large busts - they need to fit perfectly, be comfortable, and work underneath all your clothes. A bra that ticks all three will make everyday dressing so much easier, which is where I can help. I'm a size 32FF and a trained bra fitter, and I've been testing a wide variety of bras to find the top seven styles.

Narrowing down the best bras to find the one for you can be overwhelming, as there are so many types, from non-wired bras that offer the ultimate in comfort to full-cup styles recommended by experts as the most supportive.

woman&home has been testing the best bras for large busts for the last four years, and we regularly check for updates. You can rest assured this guide includes the very latest styles, along with classic designs that are longstanding bestsellers.

Today's best deals

The quick list

• Back to the top ⤴

The best bras for large busts: Tried and tested

I've been a stylist for over 30 years and have dressed hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes. One of the most important things I consider when choosing clothes is the underwear that will go underneath, because selecting the right bra can make or break a great outfit. Whether you're in your twenties or are looking for bras for more mature women, these styles will cover all your everyday and special occasion needs. You may also wish to add one of the best sports bras to your collection if you exercise regularly.

I tested over 50 bras from a range of stockists and wore each style for at least four days, making a note of how it fitted, how supportive and comfortable it felt, what it looked like under a variety of clothes and finally how it looked after washing. Here's everything you need to know about the bras that offer the best support, lift, comfort and style for bigger boobs.

Best bras for Large Busts: Full Cup

Curvy Kate caters for women with large boobs (the average size they sell is a 34G). I wear a size 32FF, but for this review, I wore a size 32G, as it's the smallest size available. The bra fitted well on the cups, with no overspill or gaping, but the band felt tighter than usual. I predict that this bra will 'give' slightly over time and the band will stretch; however, you may want to go up a band size if you are between sizes.

The cups are made from 3 panels that completely encapsulate, lift and centre the breasts. The lower and side panels are lined with a firm mesh, and the upper panel is made from a sheer, more stretchy fabric. The straps are smooth, easy to adjust and are set closer together than on a balcony bra, making it a good choice for women with narrow or sloping shoulders.

I liked both the colour and the simple style of this bra. I wore it under a mid-weight jumper, and you couldn't see any hint of the bra below. It also worked under a silky top, too; the firm back panels helped to smooth any lumps or bumps. The bra is easy to care for (simply hand-wash and drip dry), and there has been no change in appearance after several washes.

I would usually consider spending up to £40 on a good quality bra from a specialist lingerie brand, and at £35, this bra is at the top end of my budget, but I think it has plenty of technical details that warrant the price. If you are looking for a bra that gives you maximum support, up to a K cup, and will work under most clothes in your wardrobe, this will earn its keep.

Find out more in my full Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Bras for large busts: Plunge

This bra is all about glamour. That said, it doesn't fall down in the practical stakes either. Fantasie is a brand with an excellent reputation in the specialist large-cup market, and they recently introduced a plunge version of their bestselling Fusion bra. It's a great bra if you want to create a cleavage effect while still feeling contained and confident that you aren't going to flash more than you intended! Other styles I trialled for this category left my boobs feeling squashed or were too padded and increased the volume, which I didn't feel comfortable in.

I find V-necklines are a flattering choice for my curvy figure, but if the neckline is too low, my bra shows. I often have to resort to a safety pin to conceal it, but this solves the problem. It's made from delicate lace fabric with lower cut inner cups, so the upper part of the cup exposes the breast beneath. The inner cups are slightly padded and made from the same foam fabric as a moulded T-shirt bra, which lifts the breasts, bringing them forward towards the centre of the bra. I normally wear a size 32FF, but I tried this in size 34F as I find Fantasie bras fit tighter around the band than other lingerie brands. It fitted well, with no overspill or gaping. It was incredibly comfortable to wear - the underwires are set wide to ensure they encircle the breast without touching the actual breast tissue, and the lace fabric was soft and stretchy.

As a result of the cups being lower-cut, this bra does not provide the same level of coverage as a full-cup style, but I still felt contained and supported. The underwiring, along with the firm back panels and substantial straps, provides anchorage so the bra feels sturdy. I have worn this bra on many occasions, including a night out where I put it to the test on the dancefloor and can confirm it stayed in place and provided support, although the lower-cut cups did result in some jiggling!

I have hand washed the bra several times in warm water using a gentle lingerie liquid soap. After frequent washing, the bra has remained in perfect condition.

Find out more in my full Fantasie Fusion Lace Padded Plunge Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Bras for Large Busts: T-Shirt

A T-shirt bra is the best solution if you like to wear sheer or close-fitting tops and want a bra that will completely disappear. John Lewis is one of the UK's leading lingerie stockists, and out of all the T-shirt bras I tested, this was the one that combined a sleek, smooth finish with great support.

My go-to full-cup bras give me the level of support I need, but are made from lacy fabrics with trims that show under tight-fitting clothes. This bra is made from incredibly soft fabric and has moulded, seam-free cups that offer a practical solution to the problem. All of the edges are bonded rather than stitched, which contributes to the smooth finish. The straps were adjustable and also very smooth. The underwiring is flexible and moves with your body. There are no fabric labels inside the bra, and the washing instructions are printed directly onto the underside of the clasp.

T-shirt bras work by containing and compressing your boobs into preformed moulded cups, which give you a soft and natural shape. When I was wearing this bra, my boobs felt slightly squashed into place, rather than the uplifting, forward-projecting effect that you get with a full-cup bra. The padding works to smooth the nipple area, preventing any show-through on thin fabrics. Due to the moulded nature of the bra, I did get a little gaping at the base of the straps where my boobs have lost some fullness.

It gave me a good amount of support, and my only discomfort with this bra came from the padding, which made me feel overly warm on a hot, sunny day. But in general, it proved to be very comfortable. Due to the bonded seams and edges of the bra, it needs to be hand-washed to retain its shape, and ideally, stored flat and unfolded to keep its shape.

Find out more in my full John Lewis Sofia Smooth Underwired T-Shirt Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Bras for Large Busts: Value For Money

Amazon stocks a vast range of bras, including well-known labels such as Triumph and Fantasie. They also sell their own brand designs, which are often more affordable. I discovered the Delimira Minimiser bra when I was compiling my research, and it has tested well, so when I saw the Delimira Full Coverage Underwired Bra, I wanted to see if it would be a more affordable alternative to the Curvy Kate Wonderfully Full Cup style.

The bra is made from a stretch lace that has a slightly shiny finish. The lower part of the cups is lined with cotton jersey fabric. The metal underwires are encased in the lower band. The straps are 1.5cm wide and are flexible, smooth and easy to adjust. The straps are set closer together, making it a good choice for women with narrow or sloping shoulders.

The bra fitted well on the cups, with no overspill or gaping, but the band felt less supportive than the Fantasie Fusion Plunge bra. Overall, the bra fitted well, but I recommend ordering a few sizes and returning any that aren't the perfect fit.

I wore the bra while performing everyday activities, including shopping and walking my dog. The bra provided enough support to ensure I felt comfortable doing these low-impact tasks, but I felt uncomfortable when I had to run for the bus!

I wore this bra for a full day and night and found it more comfortable than many of my other full-cup bras. The cotton lining felt cool and breathable. The straps aren't padded and are very stretchy, and I noticed that they started to dig in slightly towards the end of the day. I rectified this by tightening the back band in order to get more support.

Find out more in my full Delimira Full Coverage Underwired Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Bras For Large Busts: Non-Wired

Apart from a brief period in life when I was pregnant and then breastfeeding, I've always felt more confident in wired bras, even sports bras. However, in the past few years, the technology and new fabrics available have allowed lingerie designers to develop ways to support the bust without any rigid structure, even for women with big boobs.

After discussing the pros and cons of non-wired styles with my friend Debbie Harper, Head of Styling at Good Morning Britain, she recommended this M&S bestseller. "It's comfortable enough to wear all day long while I'm at work in the studio", she said.

It wasn't available in my usual 32FF, so I went to be fitted and was offered a 32G. It fitted perfectly, with no overspill, bulges or gaping. I couldn't feel the hidden support structure, and the adjustable straps felt secure and didn't slip down. The underband fitted snugly and felt comfortable for most of the day.

If you usually wear an underwired full-cup bra, you will find that this bralette offers you less support than you are used to. I didn't feel as confident as usual when I had to run for the bus, but for general activities, the support was good enough. If you lead a very active lifestyle, you may find that you require more structure, but this bra was easily the most comfortable of the bras I tested.

Unlike many bralette styles, which are usually plain, this one is made from a daisy stretch lace that gives it a feminine and pretty appearance. The other huge advantage of this bra is that it can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle at a low temperature. I can confirm there has been no change to the look, shape or support after wearing and washing at least ten times.

Find out more in my full M&S Lace Non-Padded Bralette F-H Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best Bras For Large Busts: Strapless

A multiway bra is unlikely to become your everyday choice, but it will work under a variety of tricky necklines and prove useful as a solution to the problem of what to wear under strapless, one-shoulder and Bardot tops, or dresses with thin straps. Finding one that stays put and feels comfortable is challenging, particularly if you have a large bust. Pour Moi's Definitions range includes some of the best shapewear available, so I wasn't surprised to find they sell two strapless bras - a push-up style and a lightly padded style. I opted to try the latter as I didn't want to create extra volume but simply wanted a secure solution.

The design is sleek and simple, much like a smooth T-shirt bra, without fussy trims that might show under tight tops. I opted for the colourway that was closest to my skin shade, and I wore it for a variety of occasions, including a full-day event and a night out, and it didn't slip down or ride up with wear, even when dancing.

With ample underwired cups that are big enough to encapsulate most of the breast, the shape had the same effect as a balcony bra and lifted my boobs while leaving the uppermost part uncovered. You can use one strap to create a halterneck or one-shoulder bra, or remove them both for a completely strapless design. When both straps are attached, it transforms into a balcony bra.

Strapless bras must fit tightly around the band in order to provide the support you need, and this one is no exception. I could feel the band firmly against my ribcage at all times. My average size is a 32FF, but I opted for a size 34F. I felt comfortable in this bra for about four hours before the tightness of the band began to irritate me, but not enough to cause any real discomfort.

Like other moulded bras, this style needs to be hand-washed with a gentle liquid detergent.

Find out more in my full Pour Moi Definitions Multiway Strapless Bra Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable bra for large busts

American brand Evelyn & Bobbie only recently launched in the UK, and as soon as it did, we knew we needed to test one of their clever designs here at woman&home. They promise to support even the biggest busts with no need for underwire - and the seamless Defy bra really does live up to its name.

Evelyn & Bobbie recommend you wear this bra for three days to adapt to your body, but our tester Matilda found it fitted perfectly on day one. In fact, she put it on in the morning and forgot all about it. The sign of a seriously comfortable bra, indeed.

It's a full coverage bra that you pull on over your head, and the wide straps won't slip off your shoulders. According to the John Lewis website, it's "downward dog tested", which means you can go straight from your desk to the yoga mat. The high back is also really smoothing underneath clothes.

The sizes offered are S-XXL, but each size includes a dozen or so bra sizes, ranging from 30C to 54H. It's the most expensive on our list, but the impressive technology and clever features (for example, it distributes the weight of breasts to ease back pain) are well worth the extra money. Surprisingly, it's machine washable too, which is a big bonus.

In addition to the bra, there are matching longline shorts which promise to keep the dreaded thigh-chafe at bay.

You can read Matilda's full Evelyn & Bobbie Defy bra review here

• Back to the top ⤴

Bras that just missed the list

I tested over 50 bras, from a wide range of stockists for this feature, and it was a tricky task to narrow it down. The top three that just missed the list were:

How we tested the best bras for large busts

Finding the best bra that will suit you is a very personal choice, as we all vary in shape and size. I am a size 12/14, and most of my bras are a size 32FF, but as you will see from my reviews above, sizes can vary between brands. I tested 50 bras in a variety of styles and sizes for this trial, and in some cases, I was fitted in-store by a professional and in others, I ordered online and bought a couple of different sizes of the same bra and returned the ill-fitting ones. You must buy the correct size to ensure a comfortable fit.

I also considered the price of each bra and decided to limit my trial to mostly stick to bras priced between £20 and £40, as in my experience, this is the average amount that most women expect to spend. Once I found my perfect size, I then wore each style for at least four days. I have a busy life, and although I didn't exercise in these bras, I did put them to the test with lots of walking, jogging for the bus, dancing at a party and general everyday activities to be sure that the products I chose for this breakdown offered all-day support. I then washed them to test their staying power, too.

These are the main factors I considered for this trial:

• Fit and support: Once I had determined that I was wearing the correct size, I then considered exactly how the bra fitted. I made note of how supported I felt by the cups - was there any over-spill or bulging? Did the underwiring feel comfortable, or did it start to dig in after a few hours? Did the straps stay in place, and were they easy to adjust? Was the clasp easy to use, and in general, how comfortable did it feel throughout the day?
• Quality of materials: I considered the fabric and how it felt against my skin. I looked at the construction of the bra and made note of how well it was made, paying particular attention to the seams and how the underwires were concealed. I looked at the clasp and compared the amount of hook and eye fastening that was used, and whether they were sturdy enough to keep the bra in place. I then washed each bra once, following the manufacturer's instructions and checked for any changes in the quality, fit or comfort. I will continue to wear the styles and ensure this feature is updated if I feel that further wear and washing diminish the quality.
• Style: I set out to test every type of bra that a woman might need in day-to-day life. As a fashion stylist, I know that some styles are more suitable than others under certain outfits, and I wanted to cover as many solutions as possible. From practical bras that create a smooth silhouette to more sexy styles that create a cleavage, I tried them all.

You can also learn more about how we test bras in this detailed guide.

How to choose

The best bras for big boobs involve a lot more design technology than you might think, and for the most part, they are a feat of engineering. If you wear a size D cup or above, you should consider buying your bras from a specialist lingerie brand that embraces this design technology. It is possible to find large-cup bras at budget retailers, but I would advise shopping in the sales at the brands with a good reputation for fit and instead save money by buying past-season styles. Here's a quick checklist to remind you of the key criteria to look out for when shopping that will help you decipher if a bra is going to work for you.

• Fit: Getting this right is key to lasting comfort. It's best to get professionally measured if you can, and always opt for bra styles that are measured by cup and band size rather than S, M, L, etc. If you're unsure of the fit or size you're after, we always recommend ordering a few sizes to find the one that works best for you.
• Style: What do you need your bra to do? Are you looking for an everyday style that will work under the majority of your outfits? Do you need extra support, or is comfort your priority? Has the bra got to work with a tricky neckline? Do you want to minimise your bust or show off your cleavage? Use my guide above to help you decide what style works for you, or ask a professional fitter for help.
• Price: What's your budget? Larger-sized bras do not have to be expensive, and once you know your size and preferred style, you can get some great bargains in the sales or on Amazon. Much like shopping for the best jeans for your body type, you can spend a fortune on expensive designer lingerie if you want, but I don't believe the bras will be any more supportive or comfortable than the styles that topped my list.

How to get the right fit

The most sensible way to find your bra size is to be fitted by a professional bra fitter at a department store or lingerie specialist. Many companies offer virtual fittings too, via their websites. If you prefer to work out your own size, follow our 3-step guide below.

Step 1 - Start by wearing a bra that you feel most comfortable in and measure in inches directly under your bust, keeping the tape tight and level around your body. If this number is odd, you will have to add or subtract an inch to find your size.

Step 2 - Measure around the fullest part of your bust (usually the nipple line), keeping the tape level all the way around your back.

Step 3 - Subtract your band size (from step 1) from your bust size (from step 2) and use the difference to calculate your cup size. For example, if you have zero difference in inches, you are AA cup size, 1 inch = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, 3 inches a C cup, and so on.

But beware! Bra sizes are not standardised; each brand will fit differently, and it's impossible to find the right fit based on size alone. You need to pay close attention to the look and feel of the bra. Here are the signs to look out for...

1. Your bra rides up at the back - This is a sign that the band size is too big. The band should fit firmly and provide 80% of the support.

2. Underwires digging in - The underwire should not rest on the actual breast tissue or cut in under the arms. Go up a cup size.

3. Bulging cups - The top of the breast should fit smoothly into the cups without overspill. If in doubt, go up a cup size.

4. Gaping at the front - The centre front of the bra must lie flat against the breast bone without sitting on any breast tissue. This is a sign that your cup size is too small.

5. Uncomfortable straps - You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the straps. If they dig in, consider going up a cup size and down a band size.

Tip: When trying on a bra for the first time, fasten it on the loosest hook. Over time, your bra will stretch as you wash and wear it, which will allow you to fasten it tighter as this happens.

• Back to the top ⤴

FAQs

What bra lifts and separates large breasts?

A balcony bra is specifically designed to lift and separate breasts. The straps are set wider apart, and the centre gore sits higher to widen the gap between the two breasts. I call this 'the milkmaid effect', and it works with square or scooped necklines.

What kind of bras are good for big busts?

This does come down to personal preference and may be more dependent on your bust shape than just your size. However, a wired full cup bra is generally speaking the best bra shape for large busts as it supports all of the breast tissue. A full coverage bra won't work for every occasion, but if you're looking for an uplifting everyday choice, a full cup design is, in my opinion, the best choice.

Lingerie stylist and bra expert Katie Weir advises: "A balcony bra with side support is amazing for a fuller bust as it projects all of the breast tissue forward into the centre of the body for a perky, uplifted shape.

"Fuller bust bras, which are full cup with a stretch top cup, are great for holding the bust tissue right to the top of the cup with zero gaping.

"Fuller bust brands generally have a 3-hook back band, which is perfect for offering firm and comfortable support. 80% of the bra support comes from the back band, so it is important to have a firm grip!"

The answer to the padded vs non-padded bra debate lies more in personal preference and the final look you want to create. A heavily padded bra will add volume and increase the size of your bust. A lightly padded/moulded design will create a rounded, more even shape without increasing the overall size. A bra with no padding will simply keep your breasts supported without any increase in volume, and generally reposition their shape to look perkier.

I've spent years trying to find the most comfortable bras, as I struggle with harsh underwires and rigid padding. I much prefer softer styles, but it's a tricky task to find pieces that are both supportive and comfy. Thankfully, underwear designs have come a long way, and you can now find lift and support from lingerie that also feels wonderfully soft and easy to wear.

As a fashion editor, I have worn and worked with an endless amount of underwear and certainly had some favourite brands going into this, but I was really excited when I was asked to test the most comfortable bras because I was intrigued to try some new-to-me labels and styles to find the non-wired bras that look after my boobs without any ouch moments.

I usually go for a wired, firm hold bra for a day at the office, but when it starts to feel tight and dig in, I count down the minutes until I can get home and whip it off again. So I was keen to find the best bra for day-to-day wear that would feel good while taking care of my bust.

I understand how tricky it can be to find ‘the one’, so I tested 28 bras from a wide range of brands and made sure I trialled a good mix of shapes and styles. I'm a size 36C, so what works for me might not necessarily be a winner for you, but while vetting the most comfortable bras, I considered everything from the fabric to the support and fit, as well as how comfy they felt to wear for a full day. Additionally, I thought about the cup range and general support for busts of all sizes. The way the bra looked was also a big factor for me. In the past, wireless bras could often be a little simplistic, and maybe even a bit frumpy, but these days there's an amazing array of shapes and cuts available that can look great and feel fabulous, so you don't need to compromise on style.

Wondering if non-wired bras are for you? Boobs can feel a little sore and tender during times like pregnancy and menopause, or sometimes it just feels nice to have a break from very structured bras. Whatever your reasons for wanting the most comfortable bras, I have taken the hassle out of your browsing and rounded up the comfy styles you really can rely on.

The quick list

I’ve condensed all my thoughts from the last few months of testing the most comfortable bras into an easy summary for you. These are the styles I'd recommend to friends.

Most Comfortable Bras: Tried & Tested

You’ll find plenty more details about each bra below. Wondering how we test bras? I wore each bra for a full day, and thought about the design and fabrics, as well as support, but most importantly, how comfortable they were to wear. At W&H, we take our bra testing very seriously and only feature products that we truly love. The items below made it into the best buys because they really were comfy and easy to wear while keeping my boobs in check.

Most comfortable bra for large busts

This piece from the new-to-the-UK brand is cleverly designed to provide support and lift for even the largest of busts without the need for underwire. I tried the Defy bra, and it blew me away. The modern fabric is designed to work with the heat from your body to mould to your natural curves and shape for the perfect fit that doesn’t pinch or dig in. The brand recommends wearing it for three days for it to soften up and adapt to your shape, but I actually found it fitted beautifully after just a few hours - I could pop it on in the morning and forget all about it.

It has quite a full amount of coverage and a high back, which isn’t the sexiest look, but it’s super smoothing under clothes and a great choice for anybody looking for the best bras for back fat. It’s a pull-on, so there’s no tricky clasps to deal with, and once on, it added a smooth and pert shape to my chest and offered plenty of hold for even the ultimate test – a session at a busy soft play centre with my toddler! The cups have an innovative design that somehow lifts and supports boobs and all without the need for a wire or stiff, shaped cups.

The clever adaptive fabric means that although the sizing covers S-XXL, each size includes a dozen or so bra sizes, ranging from 30C to 54H. I tried it in a medium in the Himalayan Salt colourway, but it's also available in black and a soft sand shade.

This one is up there with the most expensive bras I've tried, and I appreciate that it is a big investment. I honestly think it's worth the money, though, thanks to the science-backed fabrics and clever fit. The design evenly distributes the weight of breasts to ease back pain and straining, too, so if you have an ample bosom, I think this one will really help.

There are matching high-waisted knickers available too, as well as light, longer line shorts which promise to keep the dreaded thigh-chafe at bay.

I expected the modern materials to be delicate to care for, but this one is fine to throw in the washing machine on a cool wash, which is a winner for me!

You can read my full Evelyn & Bobbie Defy bra review here

Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable bra overall

I have long been a fan of the underwear range from M&S – in fact, the Contourwear Non-Wired Plunge Bra made it into my round-up of the best bras for back fat, too. I had high hopes for this bra, and I'm happy to report that it did not disappoint. The sumptuous black lace on the underband and at the back gives it a sexier feel, and the fuss-free full cup front was very flattering on my boobs.

The support this one offered was great. I wore it for a very busy day, which included dashing for a train, a long day in the office, and then the school pick-up. This bra saw me through it all, holding my chest in place without feeling too rigid, whilst the soft and silky fabric was such a treat against my skin. I could put it on first thing and not have to think about it later – there was no need for yanking it down or readjusting.

As with most M&S bras, this one works brilliantly for both small and large breasts, but sadly, the cup size only goes up to an E, so not ideal for women looking for the best bras for large busts.

Even though the fabrics are quite delicate, this one can be washed in the machine at 40 degrees. I found that after cleaning, it dried speedily and fitted just as well as before.

It exceeded my expectations in terms of style and general support, while being incredibly soft to wear. I found myself reaching for it again and again.

You can read my full M&S Body Soft Non-Wired Bra review here

Back to the top ⤴

Most Comfortable Bra for loungewear

For a low-key day at home, I always prefer much lighter support. This gorgeous bralette does just that and helps create a smooth shape without feeling at all restrictive. The soft and stretchy lace material was easy to move around in, yet held up well even after hours of wear without feeling loose. It’s wire-free and has removable pads for an even softer feel, it’s a pull-on, so there’s no clasps to worry about, and you can adjust the shoulder straps to find a better fit for your shape.

While I don’t think it would provide enough support for my boobs while running for the bus or a busy day of errands, it was great for a little lift and hold while I’m at home in my favourite sweatshirt and leggings. The sizing does go up to XXL, but I don’t think this would be a great choice if you have very large boobs and need a higher level of hold - you might prefer another comfy bra alternative that offers a little more structure, like the Spanx Comfort Bra.

The design gets a big thumbs up from me as I love the unusual turquoise colour and pretty lace fabric. It’s also available in other colour options, including bright pink and classic white. The lacy fabric is surprisingly easy to care for too - you can pop it in the wash without any worries - no shrinking, bobbling or loss of shape.

This super soft bralette style bra has fast become one of my favourites for a cosy sofa day at home - it’s such a treat to wear.

Read my full Sloggi Zero Feel bra review here

Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable bra for lift

Of course, the support and comfort of a bra is the most important thing, but an unusual or bright design can definitely make it feel a little more special, and that's exactly what drew me towards this cheerfully coloured bra. I was excited to give it a go, and after a couple of days of wear, I can confirm that this piece does far more than just look good.

As with the whole Stripe & Stare range, it's wire-free and made of seriously soft modal fabric. It's easy to move around in, and the flexible padding in the cups smoothed and lifted my bust brilliantly to create some cleavage, without being too much or feeling overly structured and rigid. It has a slightly fuller bralette-style front that offers coverage without covering up my chest completely, and while it's not a plunge or push-up bra, it still creates a great shape and offers better lift than I expected. It adds just the right amount of oomph for day-to-day.

I wore this bra for a busy day at work, which involved a hectic commute and a mad dash to the office, as well as a calmer day at home in my loungewear and found that it offered the perfect level of support the whole time and really did feel great. I popped it on in the morning and didn't have to think about it later - it was stretchy and supple enough to wear while on the sofa, but also kept my boobs in check while in work-mode. It looked after my bust well, but it may not be the ideal amount of hold if you have very large breasts, as it only covers 26A-42E. If you need plenty of support, it's probably best to opt for the Evelyn & Bobby Defy Wire-Free Bra, which offers a wider range of cup sizes.

The brand describes it as 'cloud soft', and I genuinely agree - it was wonderfully comfortable, and the fabric is very gentle on skin - I also like the clever details like printing the care instructions inside the back straps rather than a silky label that might be scratchy. The bra is made from 89% polyamide and 11% elastane, and has been created thoughtfully as the fabrics are produced with 50% less carbon emissions and water consumption than standard modal materials. Another thing that impressed me is that the material is designed to break down over time, so when you are finished with it, it can be composted. It's a very guilt-free way to update your underwear collection!

Another plus point is that this one is machine washable, which makes a nice change from my heavily structured and delicate bras that often need to be hand-washed.

I have tried dozens and dozens of bras over the years, and this one really stands out for me. It's the perfect mix of everyday support with some lift as well as easy comfort, and all with a bright and bold design that sparks joy every time I wear it.

Read my full Stripe & Stare Smooth Sculpt padded bra review here.

Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable smoothing bra

When you think of Spanx, shaping shorts probably spring to mind. I've worn plenty of the brand's best shapewear over the years, and have heard great things about the Spanx Seamless Leggings. But the bra range was new to me!

I opted for this sportier design, which promises to add support and hold to boobs while being very flexible. The full-front piece offers more coverage than a traditional bralette, and while there isn’t any padding or wires, the fabric is a little thicker and firmer, which brilliantly smooths and creates a very sleek finish.

The firmer fabric supported my chest while chasing my toddler round the park or tidying the house, with no harsh tightness, and it moved with me rather than against me, so I found it easy to wear for hours and had no complaints.

While it doesn’t offer fuller hold for a day at work or running errands, it’s an excellent option for wearing at home or for a relaxed weekend, and I think it’ll look after a wide range of bust sizes well with the impressive size range on offer

Unlike a lot of my structured and more delicate bras, the padding-free shape of this one means it can be rinsed in the washing machine and washed at a lower temperature. I found that it washed well and after drying, it retained its shape and hold brilliantly.

Overall, I found it a comfortable and very flattering bra that smoothed and lifted my boobs, and I like the clever reversible design, as it means you get two bras for the price of one.

You can read my full Spanx Comfort Bra Review here

Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable bras - best front fastening

There's a lot about this bra that I really liked. The main thing for me was the stylish design looks good while having lots of clever technical details that make it fit better too.

It pulls on a bit like a waistcoat, with a flattering crossover front that fastens under each boob. It's the perfect bra if you struggle with awkward fastenings at the back.

The front fastenings have three rows of hook-and-eyes, so you can adjust each side to suit your shape, and easily make it a little looser or tighter without too much effort. The wider straps also have hidden, thinner straps inside that can be removed for a softer feel or added in for extra support. These extra details give this bra a customisable feel, which I really enjoyed, and I wore it a little looser for lounging around, before switching to a firmer setting on busier days.

The cups themselves are soft and made from a silky smooth fabric like a classic bralette, but the crossover design seems to pull the material over boobs to feel taught and secure, to provide plenty of hold.

I liked the peachy pink colourway and the subtle jacquard print fabric, plus the elasticated underband has a very contemporary and sporty feel to it while still being very feminine.

The delicate fabric needs to be hand-washed, so avoid the machine with this one. Once cleaned, it dried very quickly and felt like new.

This one is up there with the comfiest I’ve tried. As well as being stretchy and easy to wear, the fine fabric adds a gentle hold that would suit smaller and medium-sized boobs well, and I love how flattering the crossover front is. While it wouldn’t be enough lift and hold for a very busy day, this light level of support is perfect at home or for a quick pop to the shops. It's unlike any bra I've worn before - and I’ve been wearing it on repeat.

You can read my full Fantasie Fusion Leisure Bra review here

Back to the top ⤴

How we tested the most comfortable bras

While looking for the most comfortable bras, I tested 25 different styles. I wore each one for at least a full day, and while wearing them I considered the fit, style and fabrics, as well as how comfy they were to wear. I was searching for comfortable pieces, but it was important to think about every aspect of the bras to make sure it's a good all-rounder that I would happily recommend to others.

I tried a wide range of styles, shapes and designs from different brands that cater for a range of sizes and budgets. I tested a few classic triangle-shaped bralettes but found that they didn't offer any real support, and are probably best for those with smaller busts or as a sleep bra. I found anything with a wire to be a no-go for this round-up, as even those styles that promised a comfy fit still felt a little too stiff with hard underwire in the cups.

The fit is up there as the key part of finding a good bra, in addition to how well it supported boobs and how comfortable it felt to wear all day. I wanted to be able to pop it on and not have to worry about it for the rest of the day. I also thought about the shape it created on my bust and how neatly it sat under clothes.

I considered how soft and breathable fabrics were. I looked at how well materials held up after being washed and dried. While not as influential as the technical aspects of each bra, I still thought about the colour, pattern, and shapes of each piece of lingerie I tried. In the past, I have found wireless bras to be a little simple and less wow-worthy, but these days they can be just as stylish as traditional bras, so I factored in how they looked, too.

Other styles to try

Wacoal has some great styles too, and the Back Appeal was a strong contender due to the supple fabrics and impressive hold, but I found the design and fit weren't as wow-worthy as some of the others on my list, so it narrowly missed a spot in my best buys.

How to choose the most comfortable bra for you

When it comes to selecting the best bras for comfort, it's all down to personal preference, but as a general guide, there are a few key features that you should always look for to find an easy-to-wear bra:

• Comfy materials: When you’re looking for a soft and wearable piece, the fabric can make a big difference. Look for silky and microfibre fabrics that are gentle against skin while being breathable, and avoid anything too thick as this can feel a little more rigid and tight, and may be too hot during summer.
• Wide straps and underband: The underband is where most of the support and lift come from for a bra. Wide straps make them less likely to dig into your shoulders, giving greater comfort overall. The wide underband should help to hold your bust and stop overspill, while feeling much more comfortable around your sides and back than a skinnier band.
• Sleek and simple designs: I found that pull-on styles minus any embellishment or bold seams tended to be comfier because there was no tricky clasp to deal with or any worry about the fastenings rubbing against or digging into skin. A smooth and sleek design will sit neatly under clothes and will be easier to forget about when you’re wearing it than something overly fussy
• Minimal padding: Padding is great for a little extra oomph, but it can feel very stiff and structured, and will take away from the comfiness. When it comes to easy-to-wear bras, opt for softer cups with minimal or no padding. You can still get plenty of shape and definition from a non-padded bra, and they feel much more supple to wear.
• Good fit: You want the back band to stay where it is all day without riding up, and the shoulder straps shouldn’t feel harsh or dig in. You should be filling the cup, without overspilling, and your breasts should still sit in the correct position, although, as there tends to be less lift and sculpt, they might not be quite as high as usual.
• How it looks: Whatever you're wearing, you want it to look good and make you feel great. Whether you want something a little sexy or pretty, taking time to find a style that suits you and your capsule wardrobe can make it feel extra special to wear.

FAQs

What kind of bra is most comfortable for all day wear?

Bras are a very personal thing, so the answer to this will vary from woman to woman, but for me, I’d say that a wire-free design with softer cups will always be more comfortable than a traditional structured piece.

It’s always best to try on different styles to find the perfect fit for you, and to get the right level of support for your bust and your lifestyle. Whichever you go for, you want to be able to wear it without having to think about it - it should neatly under clothes and feel great.

Can wireless bras still provide support for larger busts?

If you have a fuller bust, you can still feel comfy in a wire-free bra. Look for stretchy yet firm fabrics that will move with your body while still having enough hold to stop your bust from bouncing all over the place. Moving around a lot and even short bursts of exercise like dashing for the bus can all put strain on the tissue and ligaments in your boobs, which can lead to discomfort, so it is important to find a bra that offers the right level of support for everyday.

I’d recommend looking for pieces that have extra supportive details like wider straps and fuller back panels to lift and hold better. I spoke to Wacoal Europe Fit Specialist, Paulene Leese, who explained: “Whilst wired bras can give a better shape as they separate the bust, as long as the wireless bra gives the support on the band, you can still experience a good level of lift and they can still take the weight of the bust away from the neck and shoulders.”

Are wire-free bras better for your breasts?

While comfort may be the reason most women opt for softer bras, some shoppers buy them as they worry about doing damage to their breasts with harsh wires. I asked Paulene her thoughts, and she told me: “As long as a wired bra isn’t digging into breast tissue and fits well, both wired and non-wired bras can have equal benefits. It is important you are wearing the right size for maximum comfort and to avoid any painful pinching.”

Alexandra Thrower, Brand Manager at bra brand Chantelle, explained to woman&home: “Your bra has a very important role, and that is to protect and bear the weight of your bust. Most women don’t realise how heavy their bust is (anything between about 500g for B/C cups, to 2+ kg for G+ cups). They need to be supported. You may also find that not wearing a bra will worsen back, shoulders, or neck pains and give you headaches."

Non-wired options can make for more comfortable bras for anyone who suffers from tenderness, especially during different times of the menstrual cycle or in the various stages of menopause.

Why the fit of your bra can impact comfort

One of the biggest factors that can mean a bra doesn't feel comfy is that it fits incorrectly. Even the softest of styles might feel uncomfortable if it's too big or too tight.

Use our expert guide on how to measure bra size with just a tape measure at home. If you're not confident going through the process on your own, you can look up advice and tips online from brands like Victoria's Secret and Triumph, or book an appointment to visit your local lingerie store. Most brands, including M&S and John Lewis, offer free measuring services.

How often should I replace my bras for optimal support and comfort?

It can be hard to say goodbye to a favourite bra - especially if you've owned it for a while and it seems to feel perfectly comfortable every time you wear it. It is important to replace your underwear, though, as over time the elastic and stretch can start to deteriorate, which means that the general hold, firmness and shape of your underwear will start to lessen, and it won't look after your bust as well as it did.

If you wear a bra regularly and wash it in a machine, you can expect it to last for around 6-12 months before it starts to lose its shine, and even sooner if you use a tumble dryer, as the heat can affect the fabrics. Avoid wearing the same bra every single day and try hand-washing your lingerie to keep it going for longer.

It's also important to look out for signs that your bra is already on its way out - things like an underwire poking through, curled-over edges of cups, lumpy padding, or very loose straps, even when you've tightened them all the way, can be red flags when it comes to your underwear, and mean your chest won't be cared for properly.

Finding the best purple shampoo is, on paper, pretty straightforward. All you need is something to wash your hair with that contains a toning purple pigment but with the sheer amount of formulas out there, choosing just one is no easy feat.

If you're looking for this kind of shampoo, it's very likely you have blonde, grey or perhaps balayage hair and want to cool down yellow, brassy tones. Much like the best shampoos for fine hair and best shampoos for curly hair though, the formulas do vary. While all violet shampoos aim to perform roughly the same function (toning for blonde hair), each has its own unique merits or lack thereof - so, it's always helpful to get expert insight before you buy.

Thus, with many a blonde (both faux and natural) on our beauty team who have experimented with a whole host of toning products in pursuit of icier strands, we can confidently say that these are the nine best purple shampoos on the market.

The best purple shampoos, tested and loved by our beauty team

As mentioned, there are many iterations of purple shampoo, much like any other cleansing or conditioning formula. So, we've rounded up the best of the best from brands like Kérastase and Pureology, all of which have been rigorously tested by our team. (We won't talk about the havoc wreaked upon our bathroom tiles in the process...)

How we tested the best purple shampoo

The woman&home beauty team includes members with various unnatural blonde hairstyles. This includes brunette with balayage, naturally mousy blonde packed with ultra-bright and fine highlights, and bleached, warmer-toned blonde that's prone to brassiness.

To see which purple shampoos really worked, we each tested a selection of products. We looked at factors like how our hair felt after washing and if it did a good job of cleaning as well as toning, paying attention to the kind of toning effect it had – silver, white or champagne, for example.

Generally, we find that most purple shampoos yield visible results after a single wash, but we tested these shampoos over multiple washes to be able to assess their true toning abilities. After seeing the results, these are the purple shampoos we would recommend to anyone to help grey or blonde hair look its best.

Getting the correct bra fit is so important, but making your way to a professional fitting service is a luxury not everyone has the time for. That's why we put together this handy four-step guide on how to measure your bra size at home.

A well-fitted bra is the ultimate foundation piece to any wardrobe and ensures the rest of your outfit sits properly against your body. It's why the best bras can make or break an outfit. Getting professionally fitted is the ideal, but you can also learn how to measure bra size yourself, at home, and it's surprisingly easy.

A survey by lingerie brand, Nudea, suggests that 50% of women hadn't been measured for a bra fitting in over 5 years (you're supposed to get measured every 6 months by the way - yes, really). Of the surveyed 600 women, 79% were wearing the wrong cup and band size. If you're shrinking in your seat, thinking this story sounds all too familiar, then it's time to take action.

Wearing the correct bra size will not only boost your bust and your confidence, but it will also ensure your bra isn't uncomfortably digging in. You can spend as much money as you like on lingerie, but if it isn't the correct size, it's not going to be able to do its job properly.

We’ve chatted to the best in the bra-fitting business to find out how to accurately measure bra size at home.

How to measure bra size at home - two methods

To measure your bra at home, there are two methods you could follow. Both require a tape measure, so make sure you have one handy.

Method one is a traditional method, which is the option largely used on the high street and involves measuring your back and bust while standing up.

However there is also the ‘Boob or Bust’ method, this style of measuring has gained popularity in recent years and uses four measurements and a computer algorithm to work out your size. One of its appeals is that it's easy to follow at home.

Both methods are detailed below.

The traditional method

Selling some of the best bras for large busts, Rigby & Peller was established in 1939. With a long heritage as one of the best bra brands, it’s no surprise that they sit on the traditional side of the fence when it comes to measuring bra size.

To follow Rigby & Peller's tried-and-tested at-home method, all you need is a tape measure and a spare 10 minutes.

1. Measure the underband: (where the wire of your bra normally sits) make sure you are going straight around, as tightly as possible.
2. Calculate your back size: with a simple formula:
   If your measurement is an even number, add four (ie 32 + 4 + 36)
   And if it's odd, add five (ie 33 + 5 = 38).
   This gives you your back size.
3. Measure the fullest part of your boobs: to get your cup size. Make a note of that number.
4. Count up to this number from your back number: this calculates your cup size. For example:

The Boob or Bust method

If you’d prefer not to do your own calculations, you can put your bra size in the hands of Boob or Bust’s online tool. A highly popular method for those looking for how to measure bra size at home, this takes care of all the hard work for you.

To begin with, you need to take four measurements using a flexible tape measure. They are:

1. Tight: With your bra off, measure under the bust as tight as you can go.
2. Snug: With your bra off, measure under the bust again, but this time leave a gap big enough to fit two fingers beneath the tape.
3. Standing: With your bra off, standing up, measure around the fullest point of your bust. Take care not to squish or squash your boobs at this point.
4. Leaning: Similarly to standing, repeat the process again, but this time while leaning over with your breasts dangling downwards at a 90° angle.

Once you have jotted down all your measurements in inches, you can input them into the Boob or Bust calculator. And if you're skeptical, in its recent survey, 79% of women said they felt their bras selected with the Boob or Bust calculator fitted better.

They also ask for your dress size, as well as whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding and over 18, as all of these factors can impact your size.

How to measure bra size if one breast is bigger than the other

“Most ladies have one boob that’s larger than the other and we would always recommend fitting to the bigger size,” says explains Laura Franklin, customer services manager at Bravissimo.

“You never want one to be squished,” adds Katie Weir, of Weir Wonderful. “And you can always tighten the strap on the smaller side to fit the cup. If there’s a considerable difference, and it’s affecting your confidence, then consider adding a fillet. Balcony and stretch-cup bras are best for balancing an uneven bust with minimal gaping.”

The advice to size up stands across all bra types - whether it's one of the best bras for small busts, or one of the best minimiser bras.

If you do have quite a discrepancy, you could always look into having a custom bra made, but for most people, you should be able to balance it with sizing up.

How to measure bra size without a measuring tape

But don't fret if you don't have a tape measure - not all bra fitters are fans of using tape measures. And Katie believes, particularly with bigger boobs that using a tape measure can cause inaccuracies and suggests that virtual fittings - something that largely emerged because of the pandemic is a better option.

"(I say) Drop the measuring tape, it can be very tempting to use a measuring tape to get your bra size from home, BUT this can be an unreliable way to get the correct size. The reason being everyone has a different tension on the tape and the bigger the boobs, the harder to wrap around!"

Many places, including Weir Wonderful and Curvy Kate offer professional bra fitting from home, with virtual fitting appointments - perfect if you can't get into store but still want expert help.

How to virtual bra fittings work you ask?

"Virtual bra fittings require you to wear your best fitting bra (no matter how terrible it is, but underwired is preferred), the virtual bra fitter will then walk you through the steps to help you identify the best fit and recommend bra shapes and styles to suit you but to also ones which you want to wear. Curvy Kate also offers follow-up appointments so that you can try on your new bras to check the fit."

A number of retailers now offer virtual fitting appointments to help customers find the right size and fit.

Best branded virtual bra fittings and guides to try

• Virtual bra fittings at Curvy Kate
• Virtual bra fittings at Nudea
• Virtual bra fittings at Bravissimo
• Bra Fit Finder at Boux Avenue
• Bra size calculator at Marks & Spencer
• Bra size calculator at Boob or bust

When in my cycle should I measure bra size?

Your bra sizing changes throughout your cycle, but most of us will notice an increase in boob size as we approach our period. While it’s nothing to worry about (it’s just caused by fluctuating hormones), it could give you an inaccurate measurement when it comes to bra fitting.

“Somewhere in the middle of your cycle is normally a good time to find your usual size,” advises Laura. “If you notice a dramatic increase in cup size in the week before your period, it might be worth investing in a bigger bra just for that time of the month. Or, stock up on styles with stretchy lace for days when you need a little more room.”

We'd advise sticking to your usual size for the majority of your cycle but getting in some most comfortable bras or even some of the best bralettes for the days when your boobs are a little bigger. When it comes to best sports bras though, it's essential to have the right support for exercising.

How often should you measure bra size?

Whether it's in store or online, you should be measuring your bra size every six months. Of course, you should do this more regularly if you have lost or gained weight, or if you are finding your current bras uncomfortable.

Naturally, you need to wash your bras regularly. To increase the longevity of your bras though, make sure to wash your bras according to the care instructions. Washing your bras incorrectly can stretch the fabric or damage the underwire, which will result in a poor fit in the long run.

If you prefer not to measure yourself at home, many stores offer bra fitting services free of charge, from bra specialists to retail and department stores including M&S, Boux Avenue and John Lewis, and online through the likes of Curvy Kate. So, there is no excuse!

Is it a big deal if my bra doesn't fit properly?

Yes, wearing the wrong size bra or an ill-fitting bra will for starters, be uncomfortable, but it will also mean that your clothes don't sit properly, and the shape of your bustline could become distorted. An ill-fitted bra can also dig in, causing marks and bruises.

Plenty of women love the feeling of whipping off their bra at the end of the day, and we get that going bra-free, or for a soft cup bra can be more comfortable, but your bra should never feel uncomfortable or hurt you.

“If a bra doesn’t fit and support you well, you may notice the back band is riding up your back - a sign that the back size is too big for you,” explains Laura. “Most of the bra’s support comes from the back band, so if this is too big, then the weight of your boobs can pull the bra down at the front and up at the back".

"You may also notice that the wires in between your boobs are sticking out. This indicates that the cups could be too small and your boobs are pushing the wires away from your body. It could also be that the back band isn’t tight enough to pull the wires in close to you.

“Another sign of a badly fitting bra is that the wires under your arms are pressing on your breast tissue. This normally means the cup is too small and the wires are not encasing all of your boobs. If the wires are digging in under your arm or are too high, this could be that it is too big in the cup or simply the wrong style for you.”

If you find that you don't have a smooth finish at the back of your bra, you may want to look at one of best bras for back fat, these often have wider back panels to help create a smoother silhouette.

How do I know if my bra fits properly?

During an in-person or online bra fitting appointment, the fitter will work through a checklist to make sure your bra offers maximum support, without compromising on comfort.

It's also important to note that "new bras will give a bit after their first wash," says Lois Siciliano, Pour Moi Lingerie Technologist.

So when you're trying on new bras, make sure to "move about, sit down and try on clothes. Making sure that your bra is comfortable. (and) Always wear it on the loosest of the fastenings, this way over the lifetime of a bra when the elastic becomes less strong, you can fasten tighter to allow for this".

When analysing the fit of a bra, there are four key things you need to note:

1. Two-finger tension on the back band

“Always check your band,” says Katie. “If you feel that you aren’t getting a gentle hug from your band, it probably means that it isn’t firm enough and you should go down a back size. Remember, at least 80% of your bra support should come from the band."

“If you’re not sure how snug it should feel, pop two fingers behind the hook and eye when the bra is on the loosest hook. If you can pull the back band on a new bra back further than an inch, your band is too big.” continues Katie.

And remember to start off on the right footing by hooking your bra on the loosest hook.

“Your back band should sit horizontally around your body without riding up or digging in,” adds Laura. “We recommend fastening a new bra on its roomiest hooks, so you can tighten it if it stretches over time with wash and wear.”

2. Comfortably placed under-wiring

“The underwires in your bra should sit flat on your ribcage (not your boob!) all the way round to your armpits,” says Laura. “The wires between your boobs should lie flat against your chest without digging in, rubbing or poking out.”

Despite popular belief, bras are not made to be uncomfortable, and you know you've found a winning style when you forget you're wearing one.

If you find underwired bras uncomfortable, it could also be down to style. Try a plunge bra over a balconette, as the wire finishes much lower down the cup. Pretty, wire-free triangle bras and the best bralettes are a good choice, too - although if you have a larger bust, make sure they're offering good enough lift and support. If you're on the fence about bralettes, read our guide on bras vs bralettes to help you decide what the right style for you is.

3. Boobs are fully encapsulated in the bra cup

You've probably never even considered 'how you put your bra on,' but it can make a real difference to the fit.

“When you put on a bra, hold the underwires and jiggle your bust gently so the breast tissue fills the cups,” advises Kate.

“The ‘Scoop and Swoop’ is up next. First, take your hand and place it on the opposite breast. Reach around all of the breast tissue and lift the bust to ensure the breast is fully enclosed in the bra. Your cups shouldn’t be half-full, nor half-empty, instead, they should fit flush to your chest with no gaping or spillage.”

This will ensure you can work out exactly what size you are but also give you a smoother and more flattering finish. If you've been in the wrong bra size, you'll instantly notice how differently your clothes fit with a well-fitting bra.

“If you’re bulging out of your bra or your cups are wrinkling, it’s likely you need a different cup size,” says Laura.

4. Strap sliders sit in the middle of your back