The 13 Best Minimizer Bras from Lacy to Athletic
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The 13 Best Minimizer Bras from Lacy to Athletic
There are several reasons to seek the best minimizer bras. "The most obvious reason would be for a woman looking to reduce the appearance of her bustline," says Jessica Pfister, vice president of Le Mystère, making them one of the best bras for big boobs. "Minimizers are also often used as shapewear for the breast to reduce the measurement to fit into no-stretch garments, such as a button-down top or no-stretch satin or leather," she continues. "Minimizers are also used simply for comfort in women with large pendulous breasts. By reducing breast movement, they can combat breast pain."
A wider wire is the most important feature to focus on on when shopping for the best minimizer bras, because it spreads out breast tissue. "Your breast tissue doesn't just mysteriously disappear, it has to go somewhere, and the wider underwire allows your tissue to spread while giving less of a projection," notes Pfister.
While minimizer bras are typically for fuller busts, they serve other breast sizes and shapes, like those with pendulous breasts and anyone over a C cup seeking extra support or to reduce the appearance of breast tissue. "Beyond the change of size appearance to your breast tissue," Pfister adds, "minimizers can also benefit someone with a very active lifestyle or a profession requiring significant activity." In some ways, a minimizer works like a sports bra to encapsulate the breast tissue and compress it with a heavier, non-stretch microfiber that prevents movement. "When breast tissue is properly supported, you reduce the risk of damaging your cooper's ligament, which can cause permanent sag and discomfort," Pfister explains.
Depending on your goals and lifestyle, the best minimizer bras are just as beneficial and comfortable every day when you're between appointments, running errands, or enjoying a bustling weekend social calendar. So whether you're seeking a new T-shirt bra, live for the best seamless bras, or exclusively shop the best bras on Amazon, keep scrolling for the 13 best minimizer bras, from pretty lace to simple black.
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Smooth Profile Underwire Minimizer Bra
Le Mystère
nordstrom.com
$64.00
"A top three seller for Le Mystère, this is the go-to for a super comfortable bra that minimizes your bust line by more than 1 ½ inches," Pfister tells BAZAAR.
What reviewers are saying: "The most comfortable and truly minimizing bra I have had. The wide-set front and broad cups give the profile I want. Just as important: no bounce when I walk. Straps are set close enough in back they don't slide off my narrow shoulders."
nordstrom.com - 3/17
Angie Front Close Minimizer Bra
Paramour by Felina
amazon.com
$45.00
If you're searching for a front-closure minimizer, this one is the prettiest and the perfect solution for full-bust women looking to reduce their bust projection. "This unique bra is designed to minimize the appearance of your bust without sacrificing style and elegance," says Pfister. "Unlike bulky minimizer bras, the Angie Front Close Minimizer Bra is sleek and lightweight, providing all-day comfort."
Shopper review: "I love this bra more than I'd expected to. It fits well, has a classy, sophisticated look to it, it holds my breasts in place nicely, and totally enhances my silhouette."
amazon.com - 4/17
The Minimizer Bra
Lively
wearlively.com
$45.00
Behold the most comfortable minimizer bra, featuring plush straps and double-layered fabric cups.
Shopper Review: "Sizing accurate. No spillage. I have tried many minimizer bras. This is by far the most comfortable and effective bra I have ever worn. My shirts fit so much better. Very pleased after purchasing one, so I then purchased the bundle."
wearlively.com - 5/17
WonderWire Front Close Underwire Bra
Glamorise
nordstrom.com
$59.00
This minimizer features shape-enhancing cups with an extra layer of cushioning and padded straps for exceptional shape and comfort.
Shopper review: "This bra is the best! Comfortable, cool even on a hot day, and gives the separation and lift I need. I am full-busted and wear a 40 F and need front closure for a rotator cuff tear."
nordstrom.com - 6/17
Pure Plus Underwire T-Shirt Bra
Montelle Intimates
nordstrom.com
$69.00
Pfister deems this minimizer a must-have T-shirt bra for B to H cups. "It's crafted with a signature ultra-soft microfiber and a lightweight four-way stretch foam cup that holds and contours your shape," she explains. "The side wings and underbust are lined with power mesh and embellished with smooth stretch floral lace."
Shopper review: "Smooth thinly lined cups, provides nice line under clothes. Comfortable, and I like where the band falls on the rib cage. Seems lower in the back and helps to smooth."
nordstrom.com - 7/17
Back Appeal Underwire Minimizer Bra
Wacoal
https://www.neimanmarcus.com
$72.00
This underwire minimizer bra pays special attention to the back with a specially designed smoothing band and full-coverage molded cups for maximum support.
Shopper review: "I cannot believe how nice this feels. Light padding, so it molds perfectly to my shape. I feel extremely lifted where I should be, and the weight that is lifted is—incredible. Most comfortable thing I've ever owned. And yes, it does minimize by about an inch ."
neimanmarcus.com - 8/17
Low Profile Minimizer Bra
Spanx
spanx.com
$72.00
Cutout detailing adds interest to this versatile, lightly lined minimizer bra by Spanx, and it comes in three other colors.
Shopper review: "The best bra. Period. Supports, minimizes, and does not show under white tops."
spanx.com - 9/17
Minimizer Bra
Parfait
nordstrom.com
$52.00
A little lace to dress up your minimizer? Yes, please.
Shopper review: "My triple D's have never been more happy!!! The support is fantastic, and it's comfortable at the same time."
nordstrom.com - 10/17
C Magnifique Seamless Unlined Minimizer
Chantelle
amazon.com
$76.00
If unlined is your taste, this seamless, full-coverage minimizer bra is for you.
Shopper review: "I have never worn a better bra. Due to my large bust size, I have never been able to find a smooth T-shirt bra that flatters and fits. This bra is well worth the price in gold. The back is comfortable. The shoulder straps are comfortable. The look under clothes is flattering and smooth. I can't recommend this bra highly enough to my fellow full-figured sisters!"
amazon.com - 11/17
Caresse Full-Figure Minimizer Bra
Simone Perele
bloomingdales.com
$105.00
Delicate lace lends a modern and oh-so-feminine touch to this seamless minimizer.
Shopper review: "The fit and shape are amazing. It truly does take a cup size off of you."
bloomingdales.com - 12/17
Dynamic Contour Underwire Sports Bra
Natori
nordstrom.com
$76.00
Jogging, burpees, and jumping jacks will no longer be a pain point in this minimizer sports bra designed for high-impact workouts.
Shopper review: "I'm a 34DDD size 8/10. My breasts have always felt large for my body, and I've tried all types and styles of bras. This is the most comfortable bra I've ever owned. Like some other reviewers, I use this as a daily bra for work, yoga, and walking. As a working mom, I love that I can transition from my desk job to play at any given moment. I find it to be very supportive and provide my breasts with a nice even shape under any garment. Did I mention I have four different colors? Will never hesitate to get another!"
nordstrom.com - 13/17
Beauty Back Smoothing Minimizer Bra
Vanity Fair
amazon.com
$50.00
This back-smoothing effect of this minimizer is akin to an airbrushed look under slinky fabrics and tees.
Shopper review: "I absolutely can't believe how great this bra is! I bought three of them. I am a size H and struggle to find bras that are good Quality minimizers. This bra is a winner! Comfort, fit, and it's pretty!!!"
amazon.com - 14/17
Tailored Strapless Minimizer Bra
Lilyette
amazon.com
$26.00
Add this convertible minimizer bra to your bag of tricks, whether you wear it strapless, crisscrossed, or as a halter.
Shopper review: "This bra is by far my favorite. I've been looking for it forever! Stays up and minimizes; these two things usually don't go together, but this bra does the impossible. Highly recommend!!!!"
amazon.com - 15/17
Frequently Asked Questions
line breakHearst Owned - 16/17
What is the best minimizer bra?
The best minimizer bras very by your size and wardrobing needs. Several brands including Wacoal, Chantelle, Spanx, and more make minimizing bras that reduce breast size with a focus on comfort. According to bra experts and shopper reviews, Le Mystère's 'Smooth Profile' bra is one of the best classic minimizer bras. For working out, Natori's 'Dynamic Contour Sports Bra' is a favorite.
Vanni Bassetti - Getty Images - 17/17
Do minimizer bras really work?
Minimizer bras that have a wider wire can spread breast tissue and appear to reduce their size. To be considered a true minimizer, Le Mystère VP Jessica Pfister says the bra has to be able to reduce your breast projection by 1 ½ inches. You can check by wrapping a tape measure around your back and the fullest part of your breast. Then perform the same measurement with the minimizer. "You should notice a significant difference between the projection measurements," Pfister says.
AFP Contributor - Getty Images