Best bras for lift, side support, large busts & more

If you find yourself constantly shifting the band of your bra or fiddling with the straps (um, been there), then it’s possible that you’re wearing the wrong style. Finding a great fitting bra can be down to knowing what type is best for your breast shape.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a new bra that feels comfortable and actually works for you, listen up. Knowing what type of boobs you have, and subsequently discovering what your boobs actually need from a bra, will be the ultimate indicator of which type of bra will suit you best.

It may sound super obvious, but bigger boobs will likely need more support and lift, while smaller chested women will probably prefer more anchoring.

Worth noting here: there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from wearing whatever bra you want. Got a bigger bust and feel more comfortable in a triangle bra? Go for it. Smaller chested and more keen on the balconettes? You do you. This is simply a rough outline of how an expert would advise you buy, were you to go for a bra fitting in person.

Related Story

We picked the brains of Bravissimo bra fitting expert Louise Gardner, who shared her top tips on which style to opt for. All boobs are different, but to find the best bra for you (and the most comfortable fit), follow these suggestions from an expert.

Whether you’re after the best bra for lift, the best bra for side support, the best bra for long flights or the best bras for a large bust, we’ve got something for everyone.

How to find the best bra for your type of breast

Best bra for a small chest

If you’ve got smaller breasts, a demi bra will offer the perfect amount of support for you. Why? Well, as Louise explains, the wide-set straps will help to anchor the sides of your bra even more, making you feel super comfortable.

Bluebella Irena wired bra purple rose

Now 50% Off

Skims Cotton logo underwire demi bra

Now 47% Off

Hunkemoller Isabelle non-padded underwired bra

M&S Body Soft™ wired plunge bra

Best bra for side support

So, it’s side support you're after. Louise recommends opting for a triangle, wireless bra. Underwire will work to allow your breasts to sit more comfortably in the front and, with less at the sides, that might dig in. If underwire isn’t comfortable at all, go for a triangle-shaped, wireless bra that works naturally with your own shape. Any extra support at the sides, like boning or seaming, is a bonus.

Dora Larsen Devon lace underwire bra

Everlane The invisible bra

M&S Flexifit™ non wired bralette

Free People Last dance lace triangle bralette

Best bra for long flights

Two words: max comfort. Behold, the T-shirt bra. If you’ve got smaller boobs, you can pretty much wear what you want – bralettes ahoy. If you’re looking for some added shape and coverage, or need extra support, moulded T-shirt bras will be a great option, says Louise. Padding will also provide extra shape and lift if you want it.

M&S Shape Define™ non wired full cup t-shirt bra

Wonderbra T-Shirt Bra in black

H&M 2-pack microfibre padded underwired bras

M&S Body™ padded full cup t-shirt bra

Best bra for a large bust

The best bra for a large bust can feel impossible to find, but Louise reckons a balconette bra is the ideal selection if you’re looking for a great all-rounder. “A balconette means boobs are lifted, separated and supported, without coming too high in the cup. This style gives you a nice rounded shape and is perfect for everyday wear,” she explains.

Agent Provocateur Balconette underwired bra

Now 39% Off

SKIMS Unlined balconette bra

Figleaves Curve butterfly balcony underwired padded bra

Now 25% Off

Bravissimo Millie Bra

Best bra for lift

Looking for some lift? “Full cup bras are the best bra for lift, as they’re great for bigger or unsupported boobs” says Louise. “The higher cut means a more demure coverage when you need it,” she adds.

Pour Moi St Tropez full cup bra

Simply Be 2-Pack Lesley everyday embroidered full cup bras

Calvin Klein Full cup bralette

M&S Wild Blooms wired full cup bra

Best bra for lift and side support

Next up: the best bra for lift and side support. Louise explains that if you have uneven or naturally less buoyant boobs, a moulded cup bra can provide a more rigid structure. “The smooth, rounded, cup, will keep your boobs safely holstered, whilst creating a soft but defined outline for your bust,” she explains.

Simone Pérèle Karma moulded-cup stretch-lace bra

Boux Avenue Comfort microfibre plunge bra

Now 31% Off

Chantelle Pure Light underwired stretch-woven bra

Freya Signature moulded bra

Best bra for cleavage

This can be for aesthetic reasons or for if you have fuller boobs which touch in the middle, explains Louise. “You’ll find a plunge bra the most comfortable option”, she shares.

“If you have a bigger gap between your boobs, a plunge or balconette style with a shorter underwire will be most comfortable. For a forward fitting shape, look for styles with a hidden side sling.”

Skims Fits Everybody plunge bra

Now 48% Off

Savage x Fenty Ripple Effect lace unlined plunge bra

M&S Flexifit™ lace wired push-up bra

Pour Moi Fleur padded push-up plunge T-shirt bra

Related Stories

Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items. 

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7pLvSpqapp5yewaK6jZympmeloHynrdKhoKimX6jBurjEaJhscGdpfnDAx55km52jqXqjvsCsZJ%2BnomLGsMHRZpmrnZGowW6%2Fx5qnnmc%3D