Bra types: an overview of all the cuts and shapes on offer

Although there are a few aspects to consider when choosing the perfect bra, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you feel 100% comfortable. That’s why we’ve developed comfy bras made of natural materials that feel like a second skin. Our range contains a wide selection of different types of bras: every woman is bound to find her dream style.

The underwire bra is a style that features a curved, sewn-in wire: the ‘underwire’. This runs below the breasts to add shape. In addition, the underwire provides additional support, which is especially advantageous for those with a fuller bust.

Since the underwire is quite stiff, it’s particularly important to choose the correct cup size to prevent it from digging in or sticking out. In addition, getting the size right ensures that the underwire bra actually gives you the support it’s supposed to. 

In addition to underwire bras, wireless bras are also available in a wide variety of cuts, for example in a balcony or triangle shape. The cups are tailored and, together with the underbust band, provide support and shape the bust beautifully. The special thing about these bras is the unique comfort that comes from the lack of an underwire.

Bustiers also have no underwire and are therefore very comfortable to wear. Compared to other bra shapes, however, they have a much more sporty look and straight cut. Bustiers have no cups – or the cups they do have are very subtle – which makes the bust area resemble a bandeau bra.

If you need extra support, you should make sure you pick the right material when looking for a bustier. Thinner fabrics are particularly comfortable and light on the skin. Firmer fabrics, on the other hand, provide the necessary support, especially for exercise or if you have larger breasts.

Padded bras have reinforced cups that make your breasts look nice and round without digging in or pressing on your skin. In the right size, this type of bra is very comfortable: it provides a lot of support and, above all, peace of mind.

With a padded bra, you won’t have to worry about your nipples showing through, especially when you’re wearing tight tops. These bras are also available with a variety of special features, such as beautiful lace, a push-up effect or in a triangle shape.

The triangle bra is a special bra cut: the cups are shaped like a triangle, with the straps attached to the tip of the triangle.

Triangle bras come with or without reinforced cups, and you can choose between wireless and underwire versions. The cut of these bras is a classic shape that flatters any bust. Due to the wide centre bridge, triangle bras are the perfect choice when wearing low-cut tops, in particular.

Spacer bras are practical and versatile padded bras made of a special material. Thanks to their seamless design, spacer bras are also a good choice under tight, flowing tops if you want to avoid any seams showing.

Spacer bras are particularly light on the skin thanks to their smooth cups and fine ECONYL yarn. They are therefore especially suitable for summer and sports due to their ability to regulate body temperature and absorb moisture.

Depending on your cup size, it might be a good idea to find out about special types of bras. For those with a larger chest, bras with more support are often the most comfortable option. This support is provided by wider straps and other bra features, such as an underwire and a wider underbust band.

Special bras are also available for people with a fuller bust. These relief bras have wider straps, a firmer fabric and enclose the entire bust. The underbust band is also usually wider, which offers more support. If you want to optically reduce the appearance of your bust by one or two cup sizes, you can also wear minimiser bras in a triangle cut.

Women with a smaller bra size usually have different requirements of their bras than women with a larger bust. Comfort is not a problem for women with A and B cups in the vast majority of bras. Underwire bras are not needed in most cases, since a small bust needs less support to hold the weight of your breasts.

Instead of extra support, many women with smaller busts look for a bra that shapes the breasts and conceals the nipples. Padded bras are particularly well suited for this. Push-up or maximiser bras are also very popular among those with small cup sizes.

There might come a time when you need a special type of bra – for example, on occasions when you’ll be wearing an extravagant outfit. Here are some examples of special bra types:

• Strapless bandeau bras for neckholder tops

• Stick-on bras for backless tops

• Halter-neck bras for racerback tops

• T-shirt bras under tight tops

• Corsages to flatter the whole figure

• Maternity bras for breastfeeding mothers

Whenever you’re looking for a bra, make sure it is made of high-quality, natural materials that feel comfortable on the skin. You’ll know whether the fit is right judging by a few different factors. Firstly, the straps, cups, underwire and underbust band should not dig in anywhere. Secondly, all the parts of the bra should sit comfortably on the skin without slipping down or sticking out. Finally, your breasts should fill the cups without spilling out of the top or the sides.

In this article, we’ve showcased a range of different bra shapes. Nevertheless, it’s not always easy to find the perfect bra for yourself. The first step is finding out your bra size. However, it’s important to note that your calculated cup size may differ from your actual size: depending on your physique, the crossover sizes often fit better.

Those with fuller busts should ensure they have extra support. This is provided by underwire and relief bras, for example, but also by bustiers made from a firmer fabric. Almost all bras fit smaller busts. Here, as is often the case: the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Your well-being always comes first.

Whether with or without a bra, whether in a bustier or with reinforced cups – the main thing is that you feel free, confident and completely comfortable. This is exactly what the team at CALIDA has achieved with our different types of bras. Take a look at our wide range and let yourself be enchanted by our sustainable and uniquely comfortable underwear.

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