Of all of the pieces of clothing that women wear on a daily basis, I don’t think any item inspires as much love or hate as the bra.
On the one hand, a good bra is like a security blanket: cute, comfortable and supportive. But on the other, a bad bra can ruin your day just by being itchy, too tight, or making surprise appearances.
On top of all of that, whether a bra is “good” or “bad” totally depends on the situation. You might almost never wear a backless bra, but the one time you're in a fancy dress in the wedding party? You will thank your lucky stars that it was on hand.
That’s why it’s so important to know exactly what kind of bra is appropriate for any given occasion, and, more importantly, for any given outfit — like a comfortable and supportive sports bra made right at home!
So how do you know which bra is right for what you’re wearing?
Well, a great way to get started is to check out our handy primer of the 7 go-to bras that will have your back (and your front!) in just about any situation!
Thumbnail Photo Credit: Instagram/agatasliwinska
1. The Plunge
A plunge-style bra might look a little funny on its own, but this bra is the ideal shape for any deep vee necklines.
This is the go-to undergarment for pairing with formal dress with a low neckline, or, for more everyday use, with button-down blouses and shirt-dresses.
2. The Strapless
Ah, the strapless bra. We've all been there.
It's what you you put on under your fabulous new slip dress with the spaghetti straps or with that strapless bridesmaid dress.
This is worth investing in, a good strapless bra can mean the difference between an amazing memory, and a night spent worrying about potential wardrobe malfunctions.
3. The Athletic
I firmly believe that every woman should have a substantial stock of sports bras.
Not only are they non-negotiable when it comes to exercising, there is no more comfortable bra on the planet.
Everyone should travel in a sports bra; no one deserves to wear an underwire on a trans-Atlantic flight
4. The Backless
This is the bigger, badder sister of the strapless bra.
Strictly for special occasions, the backless bra works via a combination of double-sided tape and magic, and is the go-to move for formal gowns that cut away at the back.
5. The Racerback
You never think you need a racerback until it's too late, and you're trying to clip together your bra straps with a safety pin to keep them from peeking out.
Save yourself the hassle, and keep one on-hand for any and all tank-top emergencies.
6. The Bralette
Lightly lined, unpadded, and wireless, the bralette is just a classed-up sports bra.
If you need plenty of support, this probably isn't the bra for you — but bralettes are perfect for days where you want to feel pretty and feminine, but don't want any extra padding.
7. The Tee Shirt
Perhaps the most ubiquitous bra in any woman's wardrobe, the tee shirt bra should be your go-to undergarment.
It's comfortable, flattering, and offers plenty of coverage and support.
Best of all, it's designed to go smoothly underneath your favorite tees and sweaters, making it easy to wear with just about all of your everyday clothes!
And if you love this handy-dandy guide to undergarments, please SHARE on Facebook for everyone still looking for the perfect piece for that one outfit!
