Are You Wearing the Right Bra for Your Breast Type?
We know all breasts are not created equally—but did you know that experts have identified seven different types? Unsurprisingly, that means the process of finding the right bra for each person goes way beyond getting the right cup and band size down. Apparently, there’s also width, length, and placement to think about, as these all affect what your set is like. The lingerie fit pros at ThirdLove make a business out of getting shoppers into the right bras, and offered to share their diagrams identifying what each breast type looks like (and which bra‘s best for ’em) with us. Check out their findings, below.
The type: East West
What it is: Your breasts gravitate toward the outside of your torso, pointing outward and leaving some space in the direct center of your chest.
What type of bra is best: A T-shirt bra, which will give you all the shaping you need.
The type: Separated Siblings
What it is: Breasts are fuller than East West but still fall out toward the sides of the body.
What type of bra is best: A plunge style, which will help pull the breasts up and together.
The type: Bell of the Ball
What it is: Breasts are slightly thinner at the top before rounding out to a curve.
What type of bra is best: A full-coverage style, which will shape your chest. (Since many people with this breast type are also bustier, extra support can be good for lifting and cradling.)
The type: Globe-Trotters
What it is: Breasts are very round and equally full on top and bottom.
What type of bra is best: A thin unlined style, which offers light coverage.
The type: Petite
What it is: Most likely a small cup size, the breast is longer than wide.
What type of bra is best: A plunge, which will help center and lift the breasts. (Depending on your cup size and desired look, consider a bra with padding on the outer curve.)
The type: Siblings, Not Twins
What it is: Both breasts are not the same size and can be asymmetrical in shape.
What type of bra is best: A style with removable inserts, which will allow you to even out the chest.
The type: Teardrop
What it is: If there was such a thing as a “normal” breast, we guess this would be it. The shape is full, belling out slightly at the bottom.
What type of bra is best: Pretty much any style will work. Shop based on what you prefer, coverage- and lift-wise.