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The 21 best bras of 2024: Every style for comfort and support

From comfortable T-shirt bras to flattering minimizers and strapless faves, these are the best styles around.

Close-up of a diverse group of a female friends sitting together. Plus size women in underwear sitting close to each other.
These top-rated bras are comfortable and supportive!

We all want to look and feel our best, and that means wearing clothing that supports and accentuates our body types. And it starts with undergarments. Whether you like a strapless style, bralette, or an underwire bra with soft cups, there’s a perfect bra for everyone. The trick is finding it. To do so, we talked to bra fitters, designers and our own team of shopping experts to find the best bras across multiple categories.

Quick Overview
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With their guidelines in mind, we researched over 50 top-rated bras in various styles and price points — and tested a variety of them ourselves. We then further narrowed the list based on price versus quality, comfort, support, style, sizes and colors offered, and, of course, those that received glowing customer reviews. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable wireless bra, a minimizing option for larger busts or a cute strapless option, there’s a bra on this list for just about everyone. Read on to see the 21 bras that customers and experts say feel so good, you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.

That said, if you’re looking for something with added support, you’ll likely find it on another list we’ve curated for the best support bras. And be sure to check out our guides on the best sports bras, the best bras for large breasts and the best wireless bras, too.

Best bra overall for 2024

Fabric: 84% nylon, 16% spandex | Sizes: A to G | Colors: 16 options | Support features: Contoured plunge cups, molded mesh outer covers, elastic-edged stretch-lace wings and straps that increase in width as size increases | Type of bra: Plunge bra

When it comes to choosing the right bra "you want something that is well-sewn. You want it to be even and reinforced at the straps and back," Elisabeth Dale, author of The Bra Zone and founder of The Breast Life told us. This gorgeous bra from Natori ticks those boxes and more. It not only provides the all-day comfort and support you’d expect from a T-shirt bra but also has a feminine lace trim that gives it a more fashion-forward feel. The partially lined bra features contoured plunge cups that give your bust a flattering shape and elastic-lined edges that keep the bra securely in place without digging into your skin. Even better, the width of the straps increases as the sizes go up to give you the support and reinforcement you need. “This is a great fitting bra that makes my modest bust size look great!" raved one customer. "Very comfortable, provides a great contour and the lace does not show through the shirt. The price was worth it. This is now my go-to bra.”

Pros
  • Supportive
  • Pretty
  • All-day support
Cons
  • Pricey
$72 at Nordstrom
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$72 at Bare Necessities$58 at Amazon

Other top bras we recommend for 2024

Fabric: 72% nylon, 28% spandex | Sizes: A to DD | Colors: 7 options | Support features: Soft, dig-free straps that self-adjust for comfort and improved back supports | Type of bra: Full coverage

This smoothing, full-coverage bra by Spanx is so comfortable that it’s replaced all other bras for me. Along with being supportive, the comfy bra features patented SmartStretch straps that are specially designed to never fall down. I love that it clasps in the front and the fact that it creates a completely smooth base underneath my clothes. It comes in six colors and ranges in size from 32A to 40DDD. What’s more? The bra is so flattering and comfortable, even Jennifer Garner is a fan! She once told the brand, “You guys have no idea how many friends I’ve turned on to the Bra-llelujah!”

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Smoothing
  • Front closure
Cons
  • Limited color selection
$68 at Spanx
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$68 at Bloomingdales$68 at Nordstrom

Fabric: 78% nylon, 22% spandex | Sizes: C to H | Colors: 20 options | Support features: Full-figure underwire bra with 4-way stretch fabric and two-ply cups | Type of bra: Full coverage/T-shirt

If you’re looking to downplay your cup size, this minimizer from Vanity Fair may be just what you’re looking for. This full-coverage bra can minimize your bustline by up to one and a half inches. Along with a built-in underwire, it boasts two non-padded cups that comfortably cover and support your breasts. "Depending on the bra style and if you need a larger cup size, you might look for side panels or a wide back band and straps. These details are more critical in bras for people with fuller busts (anything over a DD)," expert Dale said. Luckily this option has extra side and back bands that are made from a four-way stretch material that smooths any bumps and bulges on your sides and back to create a nice layering base. It ranges in size from 36C to 42H and comes in a variety of colors. One happy customer reported: “Full coverage, minimizing and comfortable! Best bra I’ve found in a long time. I am very large-chested, and it is extremely difficult to find comfortable, affordable and nice bras! This checks all the boxes!”

Pros
  • Full coverage
  • Minimizer
  • Comfortable
  • Smoothing
Cons
  • Some shoppers weren't a fan of the underwire
$22 at Amazon

Fabric: 77% nylon, 23% spandex | Sizes: A to DDD | Colors: 30 options | Support features: Heavier weight for increased support | Type of bra: Seamless full coverage

This buttery-soft wireless bra comes in 28 different styles. Made from a blend of elastane and nylon, this pullover bra has a seamless knit band that hugs the body and provides the lift and support you need without a pesky underwire. It has a V-shaped neckline on the front and back, and it’s designed to keep its shape even if you wear it every day, so you don’t have to worry about stretching it out. The bra comes with removable pads if you’d like a little extra shaping. “I have been on a search for a very comfortable bra for the last year. I need support because I am a 34DDD, but the older I get the less I want to wear an underwire. This bra literally feels like you are wearing nothing, yet it’s supportive. I just ordered two more of these,” wrote one shopper.

Pros
  • Soft
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless
Cons
  • Limited sizes
$58 at Amazon

Fabric: 91% nylon, 9% spandex | Sizes: B to H | Colors: 4 options | Support features: Molded underwire cups, back and side boning | Type of bra: Convertible

This strapless bra from Wacoal has an impressive 4.6-star rating with more than 2,000 reviews on Nordstrom, and for good reason. The smoothing bra features molded cups and light foam padding to provide a comfortable, natural shape, while the back and sides have boning and gripper strips to help keep the bra in place. It even comes with removable straps, so you can add them when you need extra support. The convertible bra can be worn conventionally, halter style or crossed in the back. “I usually have issues finding a strapless bra in my size, since I am a 34DDD. The bra fits perfectly, it stays in place and is very comfortable. It gives great support and the right amount of cleavage. I am so excited I finally found the right strapless bra,” raved one shopper.

Pros
  • Convertible
  • Doesn't slip down
  • Supportive
Cons
  • Pricey
$76 at Nordstrom
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$76 at Zappos$76 at Amazon

Fabric: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | Sizes: B to DD | Colors: 16 options | Support features: Underwire, front-adjustable straps, extra coverage panels | Type of bra: T-shirt

Experts and shoppers alike love this comfy bra! Kimmay Caldwell, expert bra fitter and founder of HurrayKimmay.com, listed this as one of her top bra picks and it's easy to see why. It has a lightweight underwire built-in to provide support without discomfort. Plus, the straps are adjustable at the front for added convenience. Perhaps best of all, is the smoothing effect the bra creates. "Even when your bra fits well and the underwire is where it’s supposed to be, our bodies are soft and some 'stuff' can squish out. It’s totally normal and OK! If you want to smooth it over, this bra has extra side coverage using elastic-free fabric. It smooths out underarm 'sleevage' for a super sleek look," said Caldwell.

Pros
  • All-day support
  • Good coverage
  • Smoothing
Cons
  • Limited cup sizes
$20 at Amazon

Fabric: 79% nylon, 21% spandex | Sizes: XS to 6XL | Colors: 11 options | Support features: Wireless band for a comfortable lift without underwire | Type of bra: V-neck

Thousands of shoppers can't get over how comfortable and supportive this popular bra is. Another one of Caldwell's top picks, the bestselling bra is made with no foam, cups, wires or padding, making it so comfortable that many shoppers say they forget they're wearing it. Its durable microfiber fabric construction gives you the lift and support you need without sacrificing comfort. It comes in eight colors and ranges in size from XS to 4XL. One five-star reviewer reviewer raved, "I’ve never been able to wear an unstructured bra until now, but these are amazing for a 60-plus-year-old 34DD. Just purchased a second set because I don’t want to wear anything else."

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless
  • Supportive
  • Wide range of sizes
Cons
  • Some shoppers say it runs small
$45 at Harper Wilde

Fabric: 81% polyester, 16% nylon, 3% elastane | Sizes: B to HH | Colors: 11 options | Support features: Underwire, adjustable straps | Type of bra: T-shirt

Shoppers with large bust sizes can’t stop raving about this pretty option. Sleek and stylish, this bra smooths out lumps and bumps while still looking good up to a size HH cup. The brand is one of Dale's go-to's and the full-coverage balcony bra has molded cups, adjustable straps that make it great for bigger busts. "Full-cup bras are super comfy for that eight-hour everyday bra," says Dale. It comes in 11 versatile colors that will pair perfectly with the rest of your wardrobe. One five-star reviewer wrote, “If you're slim in the ribcage, but have larger cups, then this bra is a must-try! I ordered my true size, 28F, and haven't worn anything else since. If you're on the fence, just go for it. Can be worn comfortably all day. The girls stay facing forward, high and proud, and stay put allllllll day. There's no spillage. Seriously, I never write reviews, but when something works, it's worth talking about.”

Pros
  • Large cup and band sizes
  • Supportive
  • Full coverage
Cons
  • No small cup sizes
$70 at Amazon

Fabric: 76% nylon, 24% spandex | Sizes: A to H | Colors: 11 options | Support features: Memory foam cups, no-slip straps | Type of bra: T-shirt

This popular bra comes in half sizes, so you can easily find one that fits perfectly. Smaller cup sizes know how hard it can be to find a bra that both fits at the band and doesn’t gap in the cups. That’s likely why more than 40,000 shoppers love this classic T-shirt bra that comes in half-cup sizes, so they can easily find their perfect fit even for small breasts. One customer with a A½ cup size commented, “I had waited waaaaay too long to find a bra that fits just right, and I'm so glad I did. It fits like a glove and is so comfortable I forget I'm wearing it. Highly recommend!”

Pros
  • Comes in half sizes
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
Cons
  • Pricey
$72 at Third Love
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$72 at Amazon

Fabric: 84% nylon, 16% spandex | Sizes: D to H | Colors: 13 options | Support features: 3D knitted fabric, rounded 4-way stretch molded knit cup, double layer power mesh on side wings | Type of bra: T-shirt

If you need extra support on your sides, check out this Montelle bra that has extra-wide straps. This classic bra is a favorite of Montelle Intimates brand director Annette Smith because “this spacer cup technology is light and breathable — you feel like you are barely wearing a bra. It’s supportive all day long and creates a lovely round shape.” Shoppers also love the extra-wide bands that offer extra support and help smooth out their sides and back. “This is the perfect lightweight bra," wrote one. "Very comfortable and supportive. The wire doesn’t dig into my armpits, which is a common problem with larger cup sizes. I’m ordering more."

Pros
  • Extended band sizes
  • Side support
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • No small cup sizes
$25 at Montelle
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$64 at Nordstrom

Fabric: Nylon, spandex, rayon | Sizes: A to DDD | Colors: 3 options | Support features: Soft side boning, adjustable straps | Type of bra: Deep V

When it comes to bra shopping, you no longer have to choose between comfort and style thanks to this option. Not only will this Lively bra keep you comfortable with its wire-free design, but it can also be worn with practically everything, thanks to its plunging V-neck silhouette. Made from a super soft modal fabric, the bra features breathable mesh wings to keep you cool and soft boning at the sides for additional support. What’s more, it has a J-hook at the back that lets you convert it into a racerback instantly. “I love how it looks under T-shirts. My favorite features are the deep V and the hook to convert it to a halter — I use that feature way more than I ever thought I would,” raved one shopper. Others say the convertible bra is perfect for travel since it can be worn under so many different silhouettes.

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless
  • Supportive
  • Convertible
Cons
  • Limited band sizes
$45 at Lively
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$45 at Shopbop

Fabric: 92% modal, 8% spandex | Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 4 options | Support features: Front closure, convertible straps | Type of bra: Bralette

Designed by breast cancer survivor Dana Donofree, this bra is ideal for people who have had a mastectomy, since it simplifies dressing post-surgery making it ideal for post-operative recovery. “The wide back bridge design and thicker straps offer additional support through the back and underarms,” said Donofree. “The Rora, like most of our bras, features our trademark Tencel modal fabric that provides buttery-soft, irritation-free comfort.” The bra also boasts a front closure design and pockets that you can slip your prosthetics or symmetry shapers into. “Prior to surgery I tried several different bras and chose the AnaOno. This bra was exactly what I needed post-op for a lumpectomy. It was easy to use, was very supportive, and it was incredibly soft and breathable. Highly recommend,” said one customer.” While it was initially designed for mastectomies, shoppers who have had breast reductions and augmentations also rave about how comfortable and supportive it is post-surgery.

Pros
  • Soft
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Easy to put on and take off
Cons
  • Limited colors
$59 at Nordstrom
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$59 at Soma

Fabric: 81% nylon, 19% spandex | Sizes: A to DDD | Colors: 1 option | Support features: Soft underwire, front-adjusting straps | Type of bra: T-shirt

We can’t get over how pretty this polka-dot bra is. This Lively balconette bra gives your girls a little lift, but it also helps keep you cool thanks to its breathable mesh material. The convertible straps are fully adjustable from the front, so you don’t have to struggle to fix them from the back, and it easily converts into a racerback. One reviewer shared: “I got this bra in green about six months ago and wear it almost every day. Lively bras are the most comfortable I’ve found, and the unlined bras are the perfect cross between the comfort of a bralette and the support of a bra."

Pros
  • Supportive
  • Pretty
  • Convertible
Cons
  • Only 1 color available
$10 at Lively

Fabric: 8% recycled polyester, 12% spandex | Sizes: XXS to XXXL | Colors: 7 options | Support features: Compression fit, elastic chest band | Type of bra: Sports bra

In the market for a supportive and comfortable sports bra? Over 2,000 Amazon customers recommend this option from Nike. The pull-on bra offers medium support and light compression to get you through various activities. It also has Nike’s signature Dri-Fit technology that pulls away sweat from your body to keep you cool and dry during your workouts. It ranges in size from XXS to 3XL and comes in three versatile colors. “No one likes to shop for bras. This is a great product. It fits well, keeps the girls in line, and doesn't cut into your sides. It rides a little high in the armpits but does what it needs to do so you don't have side boob. Wicks sweat well too," raved one shopper.

Pros
  • Supportive
  • Comfortable
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Some shoppers find the compression too strong
$37 at Amazon

Fabric: 6% polyamide, 24% spandex | Sizes: A to H | Colors: 21 options | Support features: Push-up, foam pads, flexible underwire | Type of bra: T-shirt

This sleek bra from Skims is specially designed to give you the lift you’re craving without a ton of extra padding. It may look like your traditional bra, but this innovative style has lightweight push-up foam pads built in to give your bust a boost. The push-up is not only buttery soft but also offers stretch for added comfort and sizing flexibility. Said one happy shopper: “It’s the most inexpensive boob job you can purchase. I mean it. I liked that this bra didn’t hike my boobs up to my neck but still gave them a noticeable ‘oomph.’ Also, it’s crazy to me how it managed to be comfortable and made my boobs feel like they were being lifted by clouds. What in the shapewear sorcery?”

Pros
  • Tons of colors
  • Great lift
  • Comfortable
  • Large cup size range
Cons
  • Only five band sizes
$56 at Skims

Fabric: 87% nylon, 13% spandex | Sizes: D to DDD | Colors: 2 options | Support features: Adjustable straps, U-shaped back | Type of bra: T-shirt

With band sizes ranging from 38 to 46, this comfy bra is perfect for plus sizes. Thanks to the expanded size range, classic fit and padded straps, it is one of Dreamfit vice president Jessica Pfister’s favorites from the brand — “all of the incredible details of a designer bra in an expanded size range for just $30,” she said. The bra's molded no-show cups and the wide band provide a smooth layering base for clothes, while the cushioned foam straps relieve pressure from your shoulders. One reviewer called it “a great bra for bigger women,” adding, “Got this for my daughter in 46DD, and she loves it. She says that the cups fill well, no overflow. The underband is good and combined with the underwire (that she can't feel at all!), her twins feel well-supported. She loves that the straps are padded too, along with the cups, because there's none of the normal drag on her shoulders. Definitely a win.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Supportive
  • Comfortable
  • Large band sizes
Cons
  • Not a huge range of cup sizes
$20 at Amazon

Fabric: 81% nylon, 19% spandex | Sizes: A to DD | Colors: 5 options | Support features: Memory foam cups, side panels, adjustable straps | Type of bra: T-shirt

This demi cup bra from Soma has a sweetheart neckline that reveals a hint of cleavage while still giving you the support you need. The memory-foam blend cups give you a nice shape but aren't full coverage, so you can still let a bit of cleavage peak through a tank top with a plunging neckline. The bra also has lace side panels that are supportive and won't show through your clothes and adjustable straps. One happy shopper raved, "I bought my first Embraceable Enchanting Lace Demi Bra in store on a whim. It quickly became my favorite bra. Now I need one in every color! It’s the most comfortable bra I’ve ever worn!"

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Supportive
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Doesn't have large cup sizes
$29 at Soma

Fabric: 100% nylon | Sizes: C to L | Colors: 14 options | Support features: 3-part unlined underwire cups | Type of bra: Full coverage/T-shirt

This sexy lace option looks feminine and provides the ample support and coverage that larger busts need. Anyone with a larger bust size knows, they typically have had to choose between a bra that looks good and one that will actually support them. Luckily, this PrimaDonna option is both fashionable and functional. Bra expert Dale is a fan, saying the brand is "pricey but worth every cent." That's thanks to the bra's deep molded cups that provide excellent lift for large breasts, the ample side support that smooths out any lumps and the pretty details that make the bra stand out from the crowd. One five-star shopper wrote, "As a large-breasted woman, this bra is marvelous. I've been buying them for years and still wear the old ones even though they are very 'worn' looking. This bra holds the girls where they need to be and the underwires do not pinch or stab you. No muffin tops either. Just a great-fitting bra. Well worth the money." 

Pros
  • Side support
  • Full coverage
  • Comfortable
  • Gives lift
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Doesn't come in small cup sizes
$146 at Amazon

Fabric: 65% polyester, 35% polyamide | Sizes: B to G | Colors: 3 options | Support features: 3D molded underwire | Type of bra: T-shirt

"Bras are a lot like jeans. Everybody has a different favorite based on what fits their body best, and the style they're going for. That said, there are a few great basic bras that fit well on lots of people," expert bra fitter Caldwell told us, and this Simone Perele option topped her list. The lightly molded cups offer a smooth contoured fit without adding any extra bulky padding to give you a natural shape. Shoppers can't get over how soft the material is or how pretty the floral detailing along the band and straps is. "Beautiful and comfortable," raved one. "I love Simone Perele's Andora bras and have bought five of them. This is a super comfortable and flattering bra with a nice snug band that never slips and gives great support."

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Pretty
  • Flattering
Cons
  • Expensive
$110 at Nordstrom
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$110 at Bare Necessities

Fabric: 70% recycled nylon, 20% virgin nylon, 10% spandex | Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 22 options | Support features: 360 stretch fabric, 3D molded cups with knit-in support zones | Type of bra: Nursing bra

A comfortable maternity bra is a must for all breastfeeding moms, and if you’re still looking for your perfect option, thousands of Amazon shoppers recommend this one from Bravado Designs. It features a seamless, wireless design for ample comfort and has drop-down cups to provide easy access for pumping or feeding. The comfy bra also ranges in cup sizes from XS to 2XL and comes in a range of pretty colors. Wrote one happy wearer: "I was a little hesitant to pay this much for a bra, but I have tried several less expensive nursing bras that I wasn't happy with. This is the best bra I've tried and well worth the money. I love it! It's a very comfortable fit and the fabric really does stretch and move with you. ... This is such a great bra that I'll probably keep using it even when I'm not nursing anymore." 

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless
  • Seamless
  • Variety of colors
Cons
  • Some shoppers say they had to exchange for a size up
$39 at Amazon

Fabric: 95% cotton, 5% spandex | Sizes: 7 to 14 years of age | Colors: 10 combination packs | Support features: Adjustable straps | Type of bra: Training bra

With over 10,000 five-star reviews and No.1 bestseller status on Amazon, these training bras are a clear favorite among new wearers. The stretchy and soft pull-on bralette has no hooks, cups or underwire, meaning it will be comfortable all day long. Along with a super soft cotton/spandex material, the trainer also boasts adjustable straps so you can find the perfect fit. And at $3 a bra, you can't beat the price! One reviewer wrote, "Purchased for my 10-year-old. True to size and my daughter said that these are very comfortable. The fabric feels good on the skin and is breathable, and they can be worn under many tops. Definitely did the job that we needed done."

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Comfortable
  • Stretchy
Cons
  • Not machine washable
$15 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Factors to consider when shopping for a bra

Size

When it comes to shopping for bras, nothing is more important than finding out your correct bra size, and unfortunately, up to 80% of bra wearers are wearing the wrong size. Not only can this cause daily discomfort but it can also increase chafing and neck, back and breast pain. And it can even contribute to bad posture! Luckily, it is easy to figure out your correct size, and you can do this in just a few minutes at home.

“First, you will need a tape measure (measuring unit should be inches) to take your rib and bust measurements,” said Noemi Diaz-Justino, senior design director of lingerie brand True & Co. “Holding the tape measure parallel to the floor, wrap it snuggly (not tight) around your rib cage. If the measurement is an odd number, add 5 inches. If the measurement is an even number, add 4 inches. Next, keeping the tape measure parallel to the floor, wrap the tape measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust. Now subtract the rib measurement (with the added inches) from the bust measurement. The difference will determine your cup size. The guide for cup sizes goes like this: 1 inch = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, 3 inches = C cup, 4 inches = D cup, 5 inches = DD, 6 inches = DDD.”

Fit

Now that you know how to measure your bra size, it’s time to make sure the bra you choose fits properly because a well-fitting bra makes all the difference. According to Dana Donofree, breast cancer survivor and founder/CEO of bra line AnaOno, your bra should fit “securely and comfortably around your rib cage without gapping or overflowing in the cups. Your chest should feel secure and at ease while you wear a bra, so it should not ride up in the front or the back, and the straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders.”

If you still need help figuring out the right fit, Jessica Pfister, vice president of Dreamfit Intimates, says there are a few fit checks you can do. “First, the top of the cup should contain the breast without bulging or gaping. If it’s bulging, the cup is too small or your straps are too tight. Underwire should follow the perimeter of the breast tissue and rest on the rib cage and the bra band should hug firmly around the body, anchoring the bra cup and underwire in place.”

“The band of the bra should also fit horizontally across the back. If it rides up in the center, this indicates that the weight of the breasts is pulling the back of the band up and the band is too large. You may need to go down a band size,” she added. “The center front of the bra should lie flat, tacking close to the breastbone. And if your straps are correctly adjusted, you should only be able to fit two fingers under the strap.”

Choosing options that have adjustable bands and straps is also key to getting a customized fit, said Kimmay Caldwell, expert bra fitter and founder of HurrayKimmay.com. "Often people mistake comfort with loose, carefree bras. But those tend to be loose, roam around and not fit well. So many of the clients I've fit said they want wire-free and stretchy, but once they're in the right size, they love the feel and look of a wired bra," she added.

Fabrics

“A bra should be made from good-quality components,” said Annette Smith, brand director for Montelle Intimates. “Good-quality elastic, foam, mesh and fabric will ensure your bra lasts for many months still doing the job it was meant to do.”

When it comes to finding a soft fabric Dreamfit's Pfister told us, “Personally, I think there is nothing better than a super soft microfiber, modal or cotton spandex bra. They look smooth and feel incredibly comfortable. But, honestly, technology is so amazing now that you can have the most incredible lace bra that has a finish on it to make it feel just as soft and yummy against the skin.” Smith agreed, adding, “Lace bras are not itchy if they are a good quality.”

Just remember if you are investing in a high-quality bra, you need to properly take care of it to keep its shape and softness. "Throwing them in the washer and (God forbid) dryer, and using your typical clothing soap will ruin the elastic, shape and material making it harsh and brittle and dented," said Caldwell.

Support

"Think of it as building a bridge," said Elisabeth Dale, author of The Bra Zone and founder of The Breast Life. "You don’t need much to cross a small creek on foot, but you want structural steel to carry the weight of a car. The same goes for bras. Many A through C cups can get by without much in the way of wires, etc. Once you get beyond that point, the D through G cups, you’ll want underwires, side panels, etc. When you go up to G cups, you’ll want to buy bras from brands specializing in those bigger cup sizes."

Silhouette

Choosing the right silhouette “all depends on your lifestyle and your aesthetic,” said Smith. Think about the purpose of your bra, if you’re shopping for a comfortable bra to wear every day, you may want to consider a T-shirt bra that offers more coverage and plenty of support, while if you’re looking for a sexier option for special occasions, you may consider a pretty balconette option, a push-up style or a plunging bra.

Bra FAQs

How many bras should I own?

Everyone will have a different answer for this question, depending on your lifestyle and preferences. It might help to think in terms of occasion. Everyday bras in neutral colors are great for daily wear. Sports bras are best for breaking a sweat in the gym, and you might need a few of these so you can wash after every use. Specialty bras such as push-up bras or strapless bras are good to have on hand for specific dresses and tops. You might also want to have bralettes and wireless bras on hand for added comfort. Finally, you might need one or several nursing or maternity bras for that phase of your life.

How often should you wash bras?

Deciding how often to wash your bras is a question about both hygiene and longevity. The standard rule of thumb is to wash your bra at least every third wear to keep them clean and to ensure you don’t experience a buildup of sweat, odor and bacteria. That might mean washing your sports bra after every wear. But wash too frequently and specialty bras could lose their shape or stretch. If you want to wash one of your garments more frequently, but you’re worried about wear and tear, consider handwashing. As always, follow the instructions on the label for best results.

Should you wear a bra to bed?

If you’ve heard rumors about wearing bras to bed, we’re here to put your mind at ease. There is no scientific evidence suggesting that wearing a bra to bed negatively impacts breast health. So whether or not you decide to wear one while you sleep is purely a matter of preference. If you find, however, that wearing one to bed makes you uncomfortable or causes breakouts or body odor, you might want to refrain.

How can I find out my bra cup and band size?

There are tons of guides online, usually through individual retailers, offering advice on how to measure yourself to find your bra cup and band size. If you have trouble doing this yourself, many specialty lingerie stores will offer a free consult in person. In many cases, your best bet will be to try on several sizes and see for yourself which fits best.

To start, measure your band size by measuring snugly around your rib cage below your bust. Round to the nearest number. Then calculate your bust size by measuring the fullest part of your bust. To figure out your cup size, subtract the band size from the cup size. For each inch of difference, you’ll increase in cup size. A will be one inch, B will be two inches and so forth.

Our team of experts