The best bras to support, lift and shape your bust - plus expert advice on sizing and maintenance

Possibly the most important thing in your closet, the best bras are there to ensure you get maximum uplift and support. Getting your foundations right ensures your clothes will sit on your body correctly, redefining your silhouette. 

Finding the best bras can take some work and the bra you'll need will differ from outfit to outfit. Giving a helping hand in lifting and shaping your bust line, you should think about the overall shape you're looking to create before selecting the best bra for the job. For a more hourglass shape you might want to try the best push-up bras, or a plunge bra for fuller cleavage, while a t-shirt bra will give you a smooth shape under a top. This does mean however that you may need to invest in various types of bras from several categories.

We've tested dozens of bra styles, from the bras that deliver the best lift and shape for everyday to specialist bra solutions and more, in order to pick the best bras. When testing we looked at the quality of the material, design, support, and arguably the most important factor - comfort. We also took into consideration different body types, cup preferences, and budgets. The bras that made our list were a joy to wear - no falling straps, no wires digging into the ribcage, or gaping cups. Just great fit, lift, and style.

In order to identify the best bras, we have tried on multiple bras from numerous brands across style categories. For each section, we have picked a 'best' and two runners-up to give you a choice of style, budget and - where possible - we've tried to ensure that those that need the best bras for large busts and those that require the best bras for small busts are catered for in each category, so you can get the fit that's right for you. 

These bras have all been tested within the last 6 months, and the page will be updated every 3 months to keep an up-to-date list of best bras available in 2023 

The best bras as chosen by our experts

Best t-shirt bras

The best t-shirt bras are a brilliant choice for every day. The exact shape of a t-shirt bra can vary slightly, but all feature molded cups, which create nice smooth lines beneath your clothes - even form-fitting ones, and generally feel soft and comfortable. They’re a good choice if your boobs are different sizes (don’t worry - almost everyone has one that’s bigger than the other) as the molded cups will create the illusion of a more even and rounded shape. To max out your cost per wear, and ensure your new t-shirt bra goes undetected beneath your clothes, stock up on classics such as black, white and flesh tones. A molded cup might look daunting but it offers instant and easy shaping. If you have a bigger bust and don't want to add too much to your silhouette, then opt for molded cups with a very slim layer of padding. You might find that very fitted clothes, without stretch in them can be a bit tighter if you wear with a t-shirt bra, as these bras work best under fabrics with a little bit more give. 

One of the best t-shirt bras for a bigger bust, the Figleaves Smoothing Sweetheart bra launched a few years ago and has become an integral part of the Figleaves collection (and lots of underwear drawers too). Supremely comfortable and at a great price point, this sweetheart neckline bra is cut low enough to be discreet under clothing and work with V and scoop necks, but high enough to offer fantastic support. With a two hook back, but smooth and decently deep back panels, it's also a great bra for smoothing out back fat. Incredibly comfortable, this t-shirt bra is ideal for everyday wear. Made of high-quality, second-skin soft microfiber, as well as a light foam lining and smooth cups you'll wonder how you got dressed without this beauty in your bra arsenal. Available for D-F boobs, and back sizes 30-40, Figleaves provide excellent bras for bigger busts. 

Best of the rest...

Best strapless bras

A strapless bra is, as you might have guessed by the name, is a bra that’s free from straps. More of an occasion piece than an everyday essential, it’ll go undetected beneath tops with either no straps or narrow spaghetti ones. As the bulk of the support is coming from either underwiring or the backband, they can become uncomfortable if worn for long periods of time as they have to be relatively firm fitting on the underband - especially if you’ve got a bigger bust. That being said, resist the urge to size up, as that will mean your strapless bra will offer lower levels of support and your bra will be too loose, risking a wardrobe malfunction. While the best strapless bras used to be reserved for those with a small bust, thanks to engineering and hard work, whatever size your bust, there is now a strapless bra to suit. So when you're looking for what to wear to a winter wedding, you certainly can go strap-free. 

From shoppers and lingerie experts alike, Wonderbra’s Ultimate Strapless Bra has long been hailed as the best on the market. We're pleased to confirm that it's worth every single bit of the hype. Incredibly sturdy, its unbudging band is patterned with small silicone dots, which prevent the bra from slipping. This brand excels due to its unique hand-shaped system, designed to lift your bust from the inside. Admittedly, this makes it not the most comfortable option to be wearing for long periods of time, but if you're looking for unparalleled support and a discreet style, then the people at Wonderbra know exactly what they're doing. Available up to a G cup this bra does work for larger busts, although the underband only goes up to a size 38. 

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Best multi-way bras

A multi-way bra can be worn in a variety of different ways by adjusting or removing the straps. They’re super versatile and an incredibly handy style to have in your underwear drawer, and can be used as a solution to almost any underwear related wardrobe dilemma - such as disguising straps beneath a top with a narrow back, a halterneck or an asymmetric neckline. A multi-way bra can also be worn as a strapless bra, or with the straps straight, à la your standard bra. Multi-way bras are suitable for all bra sizes, although those with a larger bust may find the typically narrow straps dig in a little.

There are multi-way bras, and then there’s an M&S multi-way bra. Going above and beyond, this is the most versatile multi-way bra we’ve seen to date. Aside from the usual options to wear with a halterneck, one shoulder, or cross-over straps, there’s also an impressive 12 eyelets on the inside of the cup, all of which you can attach a strap to. Choose between transparent or opaque straps and backband depending on your outfit. While we love the versatility of this, its biggest drawback is its limited sizing range. Only available up to a 36 back (which is smaller than many of the best French lingerie brands) it also only fits up to a DD cup. One of the best bras for small busts when it comes to multi way wear designs, we've got options for larger busts below.

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Best push-up bras

Want to give your bust some extra oomph? A push-up bra may be the style for you. A push-up bra differs from a padded bra in that the bulk of the padding tends to sit in a 'C' shape around the outer edge of the cups. This pushes your breasts upwards and inwards, creating impressive cleavage and the illusion of a bigger bust, and it is possible to give the appearance of a larger and fuller bust by more than one cup size when wearing one. Most push-up bras are low at the front and similar in shape to a plunge bra, this helps to angle the bust forward and together for a more curvaceous bust line. 

Mollie is one of Boux Avenue’s bestseller, with one bra purchased every 10 minutes. Hailed as one of the best push-up bras, this lingerie staple works for cup sizes across the spectrum and is available in nine colorways. The removable padding in sizes A-DD shapes accentuates smaller busts, while the plunging shape supports and holds breast sizes DD+ to a G cup. Regardless, the full-coverage cups will boost your bust, creating a full, rounded shape both under clothes and without them. Great quality and a fantastic price, we love that it's available up to a 44 back size too.

Best of the rest...

Best balcony bra

A balcony bra, also sometimes referred to as a balconette bra, is a flattering choice for boobs of all shapes and sizes. One of the most common bras, you're likely to already have one tucked away in your lingerie drawer. Balcony bras have wide-set straps and half-moon-shaped wiring at the base of the cups which supports your breasts from beneath and lifts them upwards. They create a full, rounded shape, and are available with or without wiring and padding. The shape of the cups means balcony bras provide less coverage than a full cup style, making them the perfect partner to tops or dresses with a lower neckline, whilst remaining some of the best bras for lift and side support.

Like most balcony bras, this classic style is designed with the cup cut horizontally, which hoists the breasts upwards, rather than inwards, making it one of the best bras for lift and shape. What you get is a natural lift, over deep, plunging cleavage, enhanced by a four-part seamed cup and sturdy underwire. The Curvy Kate Victory Balcony Bra offers a firm, natural finish, minus padding - a thoughtful inclusion for bigger busts that warrant non-restrictive wiggle room. The cups have a smooth shape that will work underneath dresses and t-shirts alike. Made with quality mesh material it feels sleek and flirty and great against the skin. You can tell that Curvy Kate is one of the best bra brands, as the bra features strong stitching. Having made a name for itself fashioning up the big busted bra market, the Victory bra wins in the style stakes too. Utterly functional for every day, the cut-out detail across the breastbone adds a stylish and sexy twist. The small V hardware between the cups is a nice addition too. 

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Best padded bras

A padded bra is any bra that features padding on the cups. The extent of the padding can vary from bra to bra, and padded bras are available in a wide range of shapes. There are many benefits to a padded bra and a number of reasons why you might opt for one. A lightly padded bra will ensure your nipples aren't visible and create a smooth, symmetrical shape beneath clothes. A bra with more padding will give your bust a boost, making your boobs appear bigger than they are. You may want to wear a padded bra every day, or only wear one to fill a particular top. The padding can add extra warmth, so you may want to avoid a heavily padded bra in warmer months, but in the winter it can help keep you cozy.

If you’re looking for a fancy bra at an affordable price point, the Rosie for Autograph range ticks all the boxes. British clothing brand M&S is well-loved for its lingerie department and is well known for making some of the best bras. A failsafe option, the signature shapes remain pretty much the same year after year, updated with new colorways and this padded bra shape is a recurring favorite. We found that the Silk & Lace Underwired Full Cup Bra provided plenty of coverage and lots of support. The light padding and underwiring worked together to lift and boost the bust, while the luxe silk straps kept the fit comfortable. The smooth, lace-free cup felt sexy and sultry but utterly practical too. The sleek finish means this padded bra works well under t-shirts and other close-fitting fabrics too. The neutral hue also ensures you can team it with any of your best underwear pieces too. 

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Best plunge bras

Plunge bras are cut low at the front, making them easy to disguise beneath sweeping or V-necklines. The cups are angled, pushing your boobs upwards and towards each other. This will create cleavage and provide lift, especially for those with smaller busts. Plunge bras can be padded or non-padded, and wired or non-wired. These choices are up to you and will depend on personal taste and the size and shape of your bust.

It’s easy to think that this dainty, lace-styled bra wouldn't be supportive thanks to its light material. But once you try on this crowd-pleasing piece of lingerie, you’ll soon be proved wrong. The Figleaves Juliette offers a secure fit and good support, thanks to its clever double lining and sturdy underwire. Since it's a plunge style, the bra provides a flattering shape underneath t-shirts and your best shirts. The pretty lace design makes this feel a little bit more dressed up and while it is discreet under clothing, a flash of the lace under a blouse won't be seen as a fashion faux pas when your bra is this pretty. With a lower price point, this bra is fair quality for everyday wear. Available in four colorways, there are neutral hues for basic wear and bolder iterations such as red and pink for when you want to feel a little more glam. One of Figleaves most loved styles, it's worth noting it comes up a little small. 

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Best bralettes

One of the most comfortable bras, bralettes have grown in popularity in recent years, particularly during lockdown, becoming a huge bra category in their own right. Interpretations can vary from brand to brand but a bralette tends to refer to a lightweight bra that's free from wiring. If you've debated bras vs bralettes, you might be interested to know that modern bralettes can now offer as much support as a traditional non-wired bra, whilst also delivering on comfort and style. Shapes can range from a high-coverage crop top to a barely-there triangle shape. In most cases, bralettes are made from feminine fabrics such as lace or silk, although the best plus size bralettes or bralettes for larger busts might feature sturdier fabrics for extra support. If you have a smaller bust, a bralette should provide enough support for all day wear. But if you have a bigger bust, you might find that it's not giving you enough lift and hold to keep you comfortable. If that sounds like you, save your bralettes for slow-paced days and integrate them into your best loungewear looks. They also make some of the best sleep bras too, if you need added night time support. 

The Bra-llelujah! Unlined Bralette resembles one of the best sports bras, a thoroughly modern silhouette, it features a plunging triangle shape, supportive shoulder straps, and a wide, hosiery-style back. Known for making some of the best shapewear, the Spanx Bra-llelujah! offers a lovely smooth finish and is crafted from a long-wearing Lycra mix for the softness of a t-shirt and the stretch of a pair of tights. Only available up to an XL and with quite a low cut at the front, while this bralette has stretch, it really is more suitable for those with a smaller bust, offering too light a level of support for bigger busts. The stretch fabric means you can pull this bra on and off, and the smooth, fasten-free back will help to smooth out any lumps and bumps. It comes in a great array of colors and fun prints too.

Best of the rest...

Read our Figleaves Millie bralette review here.

Best non-wired bras

Non-wired bras are any bra that is free from underwiring. They can come in a variety of different shapes, from plunge through to balcony, and can be padded or non-padded. Non-wired bras tend to be a more popular choice for those with smaller, perkier busts, which don't need the support of underwiring. Those with bigger busts may find that a non-wired bra is a more comfortable choice, as wiring can have the potential to dig in. Although a non-wired bra is often seen as having less support than a wired design, developments within the industry have seen an increasing number of well-crafted, gravity-defying, wire-free designs. You may even want to wear a wired bra during the day, and switch to a non-wired one for lounging and sleeping. 

This Fantasie bra is almost a hybrid between a bra and a bralette. One of the best plus size lingerie brands, Fantasie bras are designed to support large busts - all while boasting gorgeous designs. This non-wired design is one of our absolute favorites, catering up to an H cup, it features side support to help push your bust line up and forward for a beautiful shape, with no padding required. The fabric is sturdy, offering great uplift, all without compromising on style, and the lace detailing is lovely too. Thinking of every little detail, the padded hook and eye clasp at the back offers just that little bit of extra comfort, so you can get on with feeling and looking great. 

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Best full-cup bras

Full cup bras offer the most coverage. They essentially cover the full breast for maximum support and minimum jiggle, making it an ideal style if you're looking for a bra that will make you feel really secure. As a full cup bra offers the most coverage, you will also have a reduced cleavage in this style. A bra that works for all shapes and sizes, full cups are particularly popular for larger busts, as smaller busts may find that fabric can gape. Finishing fairly high across the bust line, you'll want to avoid this style under lower neckline tops and dresses. 

A full cup bra is often seen as substance over style, but this Panache design delivers both in droves. Made from super-soft silk and trimmed with delicate lace, the Panache Clara bra does the job and looks gorgeous whilst doing so too. Using a two-part cup to create a beautifully rounded shape, without any padding. The stretch fabric helps to encapsulate each breast, essentially hugging it into shape, offering supreme coverage and jiggle-free support. Already making some of the best sports bras, Panache know how to keep a bustline in check and we love that this bra comes in lots of colors and trim combos. Available up to a J cup this is a fantastic everyday option for those with a bigger bust. 

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How we selected and tested the best bras

There's no universally held standard of 'the best bra' - everybody has a different idea of how a good bra should fit, flatter and support. But there are some common qualities we firmly believe all of the best bras should share: 

• Fit - when it comes to bras, fit is everything. If you're finding that your current bras aren't doing what they need to, then it's definitely time for a new one. With our guide on how to measure bra size in mind, we wore the bras through work and the weekend, to really test their fit, support, and wearability. 
• The quality of the materials - if cared for properly, the best bras should also prove excellent value for wear. This is why we rigorously tested the quality of their materials, their washability (following expert guidance on how to wash bras, of course), and longevity, to see if they really step up to the plate. 
• Style - who said supportive bras had to be boring? From pretty lace balcony bras to wow-worthy push-up bras, we tried them all - to help you find the bras that will make your boobs look amazing, both in and out of clothes. 

How to find the best bra

"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. 

"Seek professional advice, many lingerie retailers offer both in-person and virtual bra fittings -  such as an appointment with Curvy Kates Bra Whisperer. Taking less than 30 minutes over Zoom, you can find your perfect fit and leave feeling really knowledgable about your bra".

And what should you look out for?

"(Particularly) 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".

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 center 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 lowest 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 everyday?

There is no definitive 'best bra' to wear everyday, 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 bras: Probably the most common choice for everyday wear thanks to its molded cups and smooth fabrics that look seamless under clothes.
• Full cup bras: Maximum coverage means secure support that reduces bulges and jiggling.
• Non-wired bras: Always a top pick for those looking for comfort.
• Balcony bras: One of the most flattering styles as they support the breasts from underneath and lift 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 bras: The best sports bras and best high-impact sports bras are for those who need extra secure support for busy days,

According to Katie, there are three key styles we should all be adding to our bra-drobes though.

"Plunge Bra - this is perfect for lower cut outfits as you show a little more décolletage. The center wire sits lower between the boobs which still offers great support and separation for the best shape.

"Balcony Bra - this is a fuller coverage style that separates the bust with the wire sitting higher between the boobs. This bra shape is great for feeling super secure in your bra, make sure it is perfectly fitting so that you don’t spill out of the cup. You can also get a balcony bra with side support which projects your bust forward to give incredible shape and for ladies who want to have a minimizer effect without the squashing this bra shape eliminates the boobs from going east/west."

"Strapless Bra - this will change your life. A perfectly fitting strapless bra will hold your boobs up without the pain. Always make sure that the wires reach around, the breast tissue and the back band should offer 100% of the support".

Which bra is best for shape?

If you're looking to create shape with your bra, there are a few different styles and features you can look out for:

• Padded/molded cups: Padded and/or molded cups are the best way to create shape. This can be in a more structured style with underwire or even in a comfortable bralette with removable cups.
• Underwire: A bra with underwire will help to create shape as it will lift the bust from underneath.
• Side support: Side support is always helpful with creating shape as it pushes the bust inwards and upwards from the sides.
• Balcony cut: A balcony or balconette style bra creates shape from the way that it holds up the bust.

Top tips for buying a bra online 

We're firm believers that every good fashion look starts with the basics, and a good bra is non-negotiable. Even the most well-thought-through capsule wardrobe wouldn't be effective without a well-stocked bra drawer to go with it. 

Here's how to make sure you get it right the first time around when shopping online:

• 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."

When should I replace my bra? 

As with a pair of the best jeans, you probably have a few favorite 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 favorite 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 like 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, like the Nudea Bra & Briefs Detergent and Softener Duo, to keep your bra in mint condition for as long as possible.