We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Style Lingerie & Hosiery The 15 Best Bras of 2024, Tested and Reviewed No matter what size and style you're after, these bras check all the boxes. By Jamie Fischer Jamie Fischer Jamie Fischer is a commerce writer for Real Simple. She has experience writing content for various digital publications including Parents, and is passionate about home, lifestyle, and beauty products. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines and Jen Woo Jen Woo Jen Woo is a freelance design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over ten years of experience. She is a regular contributor to Dwell and contributing editor at 7x7. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 10, 2024 Fact checked by Rich Scherr In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Final Verdict More to Consider How to Shop FAQs Take Our Word for It Photo: Real Simple Ditching your worn-out bras for something more supportive can make your daily life much more comfortable (goodbye loose straps and underwire stabs). But given the countless types of bras out there, shopping for a new one can become overwhelming. But worry not: We’ve spent hours testing bras and considering factors like style, size, fit, material, and return policy to find the best ones available for all kinds of busts and budgets. We also talked to Kimmay Caldwell, bra expert and undergarment educator, for pro tips on how to shop for bras. “Even the best bra in the wrong fit is going to feel like a bad bra,” says Caldwell, noting that most bra problems can be traced back to a loose or stretched-out band. Whether you're looking for a comfortable wireless bra or a supportive minimizer bra, here are the best recommendations for every style and occasion. Our Top Picks Best Overall Bra: ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra at Thirdlove.com $72 Jump to Review Best Budget Bra: Hanes ComfortFlex Fit Wireless Bra at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best Wireless Bra: Wacoal Comfort First Wire Free T-Shirt Bra at Amazon Jump to Review Best Push-Up Bra: Skims Ultimate Teardrop Push-Up Bra at Nordstrom $60 Jump to Review Best Bralette: Commando Butter Soft Support Adjustable Bralette at Zappos $53 Jump to Review Best Front-Close Bra: SALE Spanx Bra-llelujah Full Coverage Bra at Amazon $68 $37 Jump to Review Best Backless Bra: Gatherall Bra at Jcrew.com Jump to Review Best Strapless Bra: SALE Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Bra at Ae.com $50 $38 Jump to Review Best Full Coverage Bra: Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra at Soma.com Jump to Review Best Bra for Small Busts: Pepper All You Bra at Wearpepper.com Jump to Review Best Overall Bra ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra PHOTO: ThirdLove $72 at Thirdlove.com What Stands Out The versatile, smoothing bra is available in half-cup sizes and many colors. What Could Be Improved Some users have found the underwire a bit uncomfortable. If you can’t seem to find a bra that fits right, this T-shirt bra from ThirdLove has your back. The beloved lingerie retailer carries its bras in half-cup sizes and has an impressive range of band sizes, ranging from size 32 to 44, so you won’t have to settle for an ill fit. The 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra is made from nylon jersey fabric, which felt soft and cozy against our skin during testing. It also has smoothing properties, so it vanishes underneath a T-shirt and leaves no trace of bra lines or bulging. Crafted from ultra-thin memory foam, the cups mold to your body and won’t poke through a tight top. We were pleased to find that the bra fit us perfectly, with no gaping whatsoever, even for those of us with smaller busts. For added comfort, the straps on this bra have a no-slip lining, keeping them secure without digging into your skin. They also feature pleated details and gold alloy hardware for extra flair. ThirdLove carries their T-shirt bra in a wide range of neutral shades, so you’ll be able to find something close to your skin tone, as well as some more fun colors like Blue Ice and Tea Rose. The brand also has a generous 60-day return policy, offering plenty of time to try out your bra and return it if you need a different size. Size Range: 32A-44H | Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 60 days Best Budget Bra Hanes ComfortFlex Fit Wireless Bra PHOTO: JCPenney $15 at Amazon $16 at Hanes.com $15 at Jcpenney.com What Stands Out This lightweight, basic bra is ideal for daily wear. What Could Be Improved It doesn’t offer much support. The Hanes Oh-So-Light ComfortFlex Fit Wireless Bra provides lasting comfort all day long. It’s wireless and tagless to avoid irritation, and it's made with a four-way stretch fabric that doesn’t restrict movement. This bra is also completely smooth, so you won’t have to worry about any rogue, visible lines beneath your favorite T-shirts or blouses. Available in three neutrals (white, beige, and black), light blue, and pink, this bra is a versatile, affordable option to add to your collection. While it may not be the most fashion-forward option, it’s a great wardrobe staple. It also comes in sizes S-3X to fit a range of body types. It’s worth noting that this bra isn’t the most supportive choice on the list, so while it’s good for light chores and errands, you may want to go with a different style if you’re seeking something more heavy-duty. Plus, it’s hand-wash only, which is a bit inconvenient. Even so, it’ll pay off to keep this affordable, everyday bra in great condition (and experts recommend hand-washing bras, regardless). Size Range: S-3XL | Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 30 days Best Wireless Bra Wacoal Comfort First Wire Free T-Shirt Bra PHOTO: Wacoal View on Amazon $68 at Nordstrom $68 at Zappos What Stands Out It offers ample comfort, support, and coverage, even for those with larger busts. What Could Be Improved It doesn’t come in many sizes or colors. Without painful wires poking and prodding, wireless bras are an extra comfortable option, and this pick from Wacoal proves that comfort and support are not mutually exclusive. We endured two weeks of traveling—including an overnight flight—comfortably in this bra. And considering it’s wireless, we couldn’t believe how impressive its support was. Crafted from a blend of polyester, nylon, and Spandex, we found the material silky, stretchy, and secure. It held up well throughout multiple washes without any stretching or sagging. The included straps were soft yet sturdy, and the cups offered ample coverage. Due to the coverage and support, we feel this pick is best suited for larger busts, but the size range caters to sizes 32A to 38DD. It also has adjustable straps, allowing for maximum comfort. We do wish it came in more sizes and colors, though. Overall, this pick proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for support. It’s one of the pricier bras on our list, but we think it’s a worthy investment. While wired options may fare better beneath formal wear, this will become a go-to for strapless tops and summer dresses. Size Range: 32A-38DD | Materials: Polyester, nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 60 days Best Push-Up Bra Skims Ultimate Teardrop Push-Up Bra PHOTO: Skims $60 at Nordstrom View on Skims.com What Stands Out The bra provides impressive volume and shape. What Could Be Improved It’s hand wash only, and the padding may be too much for some people. If you want a bra with extra oomph, the Skims Ultimate Teardrop Push-Up Bra will do the trick. Even those of us with smaller busts found that this bra delivered incredible lift, providing enough volume and shape to make it look like we went up multiple cup sizes. It does have a lot of padding, which may be less comfortable for daily wear, though this is key for the notable push-up effect. This bra is available in various sizes—from 30A to 44F—and has 10 skin tones. It can only be hand-washed, so it will require extra care to keep it clean. Still, we think the impressive push-up is worth the effort. Size Range: 30A-44F | Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 30 days Best Bralette Commando Butter Soft Support Adjustable Bralette PHOTO: Commando $53 at Zappos View on Wearcommando.com $78 at Shopbop.com What Stands Out With removable padding and adjustable straps, this bralette is more customizable than most. What Could Be Improved It doesn’t offer any lift, and the neckline may be visible under some shirts. Bralettes are less structured and more breathable than traditional bras, making them ideal for everyday wear. If you’re seeking a bralette that’s comfortable enough for lounging, you can’t go wrong with the Commando Butter Soft Support Adjustable Bralette. We found this bralette’s material—made from a blend of modal and elastane— to be buttery smooth and breathable. Available in only a few neutral colors, this bra isn’t a super vibrant choice. The scoop neckline is also high, which makes it visible beneath low-cut shirts. However, the sleek straps and simple design are generally sleek. Unlike most bralettes that stretch over your head, this one has adjustable straps and a clasp back closure, so you can tailor it to fit just right. It also has removable padding, allowing you to customize the coverage and opacity depending on your needs. Bonus point: it’s also machine-washable. Size Range: XS-XL (30A-38D) | Materials: Modal, elastane | Return Policy: 30 days Best Front-Close Bra Spanx Bra-llelujah Full Coverage Bra PHOTO: Spanx $37 at Amazon $68 at Nordstrom $62 at Zappos What Stands Out The straps are supportive, and the soft material retains its shape after laundering. What Could Be Improved The straps aren’t adjustable and may be too thick for some shirts. We’ve all strained to put on a bra, clumsily reaching for the small clasps behind our backs. With an easy-to-reach clasp, front-close bras like this one from Spanx help to simplify the process. This bra proved super supportive in our testing—the straps didn’t dig, the underwire didn’t poke, and our bust didn’t sag. Much of this support is thanks to the thick band and straps, which smoothed over our back. We only wish the straps were a bit thinner so we could wear them with more outfits. And while the straps aren’t adjustable, we didn’t mind, as they were secure enough to stay on without slipping off. The material also felt silky, soft, and stretchy against our skin, retaining its shape post-wash. Some of us experienced occasional discomfort from the underwire, but once we adjusted our bust within the cups, it felt much better. In terms of padding, this bra struck the perfect balance—it was thick enough for coverage, but thin enough that we forgot we were wearing it after a few hours. Size Range: 32A-40DD | Materials: Nylon, lycra, elastane | Return Policy: 60 days Best Backless Bra Gatherall Bra PHOTO: J. Crew View on Jcrew.com View on Wegatherall.com $68 at Macy's What Stands Out The adhesive can endure sweat, multiple washes, and several wears. What Could Be Improved Some moisture may accumulate in the cups. Finding the perfect backless bra can be challenging, especially when balancing comfort, support, and stability. The Gatherall Bra reigned as the best backless bra we tested with its weightless design and strong adhesive. While there was no silicone rim around the edge of the cup, the sticky interior proved strong enough to stay on all day—even enduring sweat—without shifting or falling off. After multiple washes and wears, the bra still maintained its adhesive. It also was easy to wrap back up to store between wears. Despite its stickiness, the bra peeled off painlessly without leaving dirt or residue on our skin. We did notice a bit of moisture upon removal, though that's common after eight hours of wear. Some denim fibers from our outfit also adhered to the adhesive, which was frustrating because we couldn’t wash the sticky part with water. If you need a bra to hide beneath your favorite backless, off-the-shoulder tops and dresses, this is an excellent choice. Size Range: A-DD | Materials: Silicone | Return Policy: 30 days Best Strapless Bra Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Bra PHOTO: Aerie $38 at Ae.com What Stands Out Despite being strapless, this bra is supportive and secure. What Could Be Improved The band may feel a bit tight. Whether it be a romantic date night or a GNO, strapless bras are a must for special occasions. That said, they aren’t always secure or comfortable, slipping, poking, or prodding. Enter Aerie’s Real Sunnie Strapless Bra, which has impressive comfort and support. While most strapless bras are prone to shifting and slipping, this pick did none of the above. This is one of the first strapless bras we felt we could wear for an extended period without discomfort. Some of us did find this bra a tad tight at times, though the snug fit prevented the bra from falling. Generally speaking, we found it tight enough to provide ample support and stay secure but not too tight that it dug into our skin. The lining was thick yet breathable, making it ideal for summer wear. It maintained its quality after washing, a testament to its durability. Plus, this pick comes with removable straps, offering two ways to wear for the price of one. It’s available in sizes 32A-40D in black and nude, and we found the size guide to be very accurate. Still, should you order the wrong size, the unlimited return policy has you covered. Size Range: 32A-40D | Materials: Recycled nylon, polyester | Return Policy: No time limit Best Full Coverage Bra Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra PHOTO: Soma View on Soma.com What Stands Out The material is buttery soft. What Could Be Improved It pills under the cups and may cling to certain clothing fabrics. True to its name, this bra from Soma provides the “perfect coverage.” We found this bra both weightless and substantial at the same time. The lightly padded cups adequately covered the surface of our bust, offering support without feeling restrictive. Where this bra stands out is its material—the blend of nylon and Spandex felt buttery soft on our skin, making this a cozy pick for lazy days. We noticed that soft material occasionally stuck to the fabric of our shirt—especially with tighter tops—but once we repositioned it, we were all set. Despite the full-coverage cups, we were amazed by how well the bra camouflaged beneath our clothing, becoming almost invisible under any shirt. The bra maintained its shape post-wash, though we did observe some slight pilling under the cups. Still, if you want a cozy full-coverage bra for everyday wear, we vouch for this one. Size Range: 32B-42DDD | Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 60 days Best Bra for Small Busts Pepper All You Bra PHOTO: Pepper View on Wearpepper.com What Stands Out The bra has shallow, demi-style cups that give the small breasts a natural fit and look. What Could Be Improved The lined mesh edge of the cup and neckline may show on form-fitting or low-cut clothing. Say goodbye to gaping cups, uncomfortable padding, and bands that ride up, thanks to the Pepper Classic All You Bra. It’s made from remarkably soft elastane and nylon, which hugs your curves like your favorite pair of leggings. The super smooth fabric felt soft, stretchy, and breathable on our skin. We’re big fans of the flattering mesh accents on the cups, which look cute and provide extra lift and shaping. While the mesh isn’t too textured, it was slightly visible beneath tighter tops and peeked out in certain lower necklines. However, the bra’s sleek material was generally compatible with semi-sheer t-shirts, so it didn’t show any bra lines or texture. This bra was designed specifically with small busts in mind, so it comes in cup sizes AA-B and band sizes 30-40. The cups are lightly lined and shallow, so they sit closer to your chest, eliminating the gaping cups common with traditional bras. We found that this bra contoured our shape perfectly and offered ideal coverage—we would even go as far as to say these are the best-fitting cups we’ve ever tried in a bra with underwire. The straps are thin yet sturdy, connected to the full cups to offer support without warping them. It retained its shape throughout the testing period, so we also think this is a durable pick for long-lasting wear. Size Range: 30AA-42B | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Return Policy: 30 days Best Bra for Large Busts Elomi Cate Side Support Bra PHOTO: Wacoal $35 at Amazon $44 at Nordstrom $65 at Zappos What Stands Out Its four-part, double-layer underwire cups shape the bust and provide full coverage. What Could Be Improved The bra straps are not convertible. The Elomi Cate Side Support Bra is designed to offer lift, support, and shape for people with fuller busts. Caldwell says the brand “uses power mesh in some of their products because they go up to a 46 band and very full cup sizes,” which ensures that this bra will hold your bust in place throughout any activity and the band will stay snug after many uses. One key feature of this bra is its four-part, double-layer underwire cups which shape your bust and provide full coverage. The cups have mesh accents and flat finish embroidery, so you can wear a cute bra without it poking through your shirt. For additional structure, it’s built with support panels that work to separate your breasts and keep them lifted. Plus, the stretchy polyester fabric feels like you’re wearing a cozy hug for all-day comfort. In terms of size, this bra ranges from a 34 to a 46 band size and U.K. cup sizes DD-K, which is equivalent to DD/E-O in U.S. sizing. It also comes in a great variety of colors, including both skin-tone shades and bolder hues. One slight disadvantage is that the straps aren’t convertible, so you may not want to pair this bra with a halter or racerback top. However, the straps are adjustable and close-set, which means they won’t slip off your shoulders during the day. Size Range: 32D-46O | Materials: Polyamide, elastane, polyester | Return Policy: 30 days Best T-Shirt Bra Lively The T-Shirt Bra PHOTO: Lively $45 at Wearlively.com What Stands Out The straps are adjustable in the front. What Could Be Improved The cup size may be too big or small depending on your size. The Lively T-Shirt Bra checks all the boxes of a good t-shirt bra: soft, comfortable, and practically invisible. We loved this bra’s unique band—the stretchy elastic bottom hugs the body, preventing the band from climbing throughout the day. Unlike other bras with rough, scratchy bands, the material was soft and smooth. Even the lace element on the back was comfortable and didn't cause any irritation. Besides its soft material, this pick also stands out for its adjustability. The straps adjust from the front, making it easy to find the right fit without contorting or twisting around. The straps are also convertible, so you can transition to a racerback when needed. We appreciate the wide-set design, which we found flattering beneath shirts. In terms of cup fit, we had mixed reviews—some people with fuller breasts found that the demi cups didn’t provide full enough coverage, while those with smaller breasts noticed some extra room in the cups. Even so, we all can agree it offered ample support. It also retained its shape over time, with only slight pilling between the cups. Size Range: 32A-38DDD | Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Return Policy: 30 days Best Tank Bra Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette PHOTO: Nordstrom View on Harperwilde.com What Stands Out The proprietary band construction lifts and supports without any underwire, so it's great for lounging. What Could Be Improved It lacks the cups of a traditional bra. For moments when you just can’t be bothered with underwires and clasps, consider the Harper Bliss Bralette. It’s like wearing your favorite T-shirt, just more supportive thanks to its proprietary band construction which gives you lift without any underwire. Caldwell tells us that she “wears it all the time,” and that “it has a nice low band, so it doesn't roll like other non-wire bras.” She also mentions that it’s “great for traveling,” so if you’re on the go, know that this bra will support you throughout the day without causing any discomfort. This bra is made from buttery soft nylon and elastane, which has a slightly compressive effect to keep everything smooth and held up. Plus, this bra has a chic V-neck cut in the front and back, perfect for pairing with a low-cut top. While this bralette doesn't have the cups of a traditional bra, it does feature a double-layer sling to add extra support for sizes large and above. Speaking of which: Harper Wilde offers this bralette in an impressive range of sizes from XS-4X, so everyone can enjoy its comfort. Size Range: XS-4XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Return Policy: 90 days Most Comfortable Bra Cuup Scoop Bra PHOTO: CUUP View on Shopcuup.com $68 at Bloomingdales View on Fwrd.com What Stands Out The thin design and luxurious material make this bra comfortable enough to wear all day. What Could Be Improved The straps may be a bit short, and they aren't convertible. When shopping for the right bra, comfort is crucial. You want a bra that you can wear all day, every day, without pain or discomfort. The Cuup Scoop Bra scored highly in our testing, earning it the title of our most comfortable bra. This bra fit us perfectly, providing the right amount of lift without being too pushy, gaping, or bubbling. We found it extremely supportive and comfortable—the straps didn’t dig, and the wire didn’t prod. The material was arguably one of the best we tried: It was soft, luxurious, and flexible but still secure. We do wish the straps were a bit longer, though. We were impressed by how invisible this bra was under clothing—it looked and felt like a second skin. Since it doesn’t have padding or extra lining, this is a thin, barely-there bra. Despite the lack of padding, we liked that this bra was thick enough to provide coverage and a subtle amount of cleavage. After enduring multiple washes, this bra continued to look good as new. Due to its lightweight feel, luxurious material, and ample lift, we think this is the perfect everyday bra. Size Range: 30A–44H | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Return Policy: 30 days Best Balconette Bra Chantelle Fleurs Demi Bra PHOTO: Nordstrom $71 at Nordstrom View on Chantelle.com $95 at Bloomingdales What Stands Out This lightweight bra features lace detailing, gold hardware, smooth underwire, and adjustable straps. What Could Be Improved It’s on the pricey side. Caldwell says this is her favorite lace style from Chantelle, a French bra maker known for elegant, high-quality bras. The gorgeous Fleurs Demi Bra features transparent cups with an embroidered floral design and scalloped edges, as well as gold hardware. It’s sexy, sophisticated, and supportive—what more could you possibly want in a bra? Beyond its look, this bra is also incredibly well-made. It has a smooth underwire to lift your bust without any poking, and it features a U-shaped back that anchors the straps to prevent slipping. The straps are adjustable too, so you can customize this bra to find your perfect fit. The band and center gore are made with semi-sheer mesh, which feels light and airy against the skin for ultimate comfort. This bra comes in sizes 32B to 36G/38DD. Since it’s on the pricier side, you may be worried about getting the wrong size but know that Chantelle allows free returns within 60 days of delivery, so you can try out this bra risk-free. Plus, since Chantelle uses only the highest quality materials, you know this one will last a while with proper care, making it a worthy undergarment to splurge on. Size Range: 32B-36G/38DD | Materials: Polyamide, elastane, polyester | Return Policy: 60 days Final Verdict Our top pick is the ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra because of its soft fabric, seamless appearance, and foam-molded cups that fit you just right. We’re also a big fan of its impressive size range including half-cup sizes, allowing everyone to find a comfortable bra that fits just right. If you’re shopping on a budget, we recommend the Hanes Oh-So-Light ComfortFlex Fit Wireless Bra for its wide range of sizes and four-way stretch fabric that allows you to move freely. More to Consider Skims Fits Everybody T-Shirt Bra: This bra boasts an impressive size range—from 30A to 46H— and is available in 10 skin tones, making it the most inclusive bra on our list. However, it received mixed reviews in our testing. While some of us found the bra comfortable enough to sleep in, others noticed that the straps and underwire dug into the skin. True & Co. Soft Form V Neck Adjustable Strap Bra: We loved the material of this wireless bra, which was soft, smooth, and stretchy. Despite the lack of wires, this bra was surprisingly supportive, even for those with larger busts. But since there isn’t a clasp, the bra may stretch out a bit as you pull it over your head. How to Shop for Bras Like a Pro Style There are many different bra styles to shop, including T-shirt, wireless, balconette, push-up, and more. Each style has its benefits and uses, so it’s helpful to consider what you need before going bra shopping. For instance, if you want something supportive yet comfortable enough for everyday use, a wireless bra is best. But if you want something to accentuate your cleavage, a push-up bra is the way to go. According to Caldwell, t-shirt bras are ideal for those seeking a smooth look that’s practically invisible beneath clothing and tight tops. For those who want a bit more cleavage and shape, she suggests either a demi bra, with a straight-across cup, or a plunge bra, which is ideal for lower necklines. Balconette bras arguably have one of the most timeless and elegant shapes. While they may look similar to a demi bra, Caldwell explains that a balconette bra has a sweetheart neckline, so it might come up a bit higher on the sides and dive towards the center gore. While it has a similar shape, she says it isn’t as straight across as a demi bra. Convertible bras are a clear winner for versatility—you can wear them under plunging necklines, strapless tops, and summer dresses. “You can wear it without straps or as a halter with one strap, you can do one shoulder, you can do criss cross in the back for a racerback—you can decide where those straps go in the back to match your particular outfit,” says Caldwell. While some convertible bras have a plunge front or sweetheart shape, strapless bras are typically more straight across in the front. If strapless isn't your style, Caldwell notes that other options let you criss cross the straps or include a J-hook so you can lengthen your straps and hook them together. While shopping for a new bra, we also recommend looking at the bra closure mechanism—most bras have a clasp in the back with three or four hooks. However, if you have mobility issues or dislike back clasps, a front-closure bra, like the Spanx Bra-llelujah! Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra, is a great choice. “You can put your bra on almost like a little jacket and then hook it in the front, so it’s more accessible,” says Caldwell. That said, Caldwell notes that front-closure bras aren’t the best for all bodies. For large or close-set busts, getting a clasp between the breasts can be tricky unless the bra has a high-center gore (meaning that there’s extra material between the cups). “Typically a front closure bra is pretty small in the front," she says. "If you need extra separation there, and your bra just has that one little clasp at the bottom, it just seems like a lot of boob in the middle of the body for some folks." Furthermore, Caldwell says that front closure bras don't typically have the additional rows of hooks that back clasps do, so once it stretches out, you won’t be able to adjust it. Due to the lack of customization, you may have to replace front-closure bras more frequently. Still, they’re worth considering for those who struggle to put on back-clasp bras. Size and Fit Comfort is the number one priority when bra shopping, so it’s important to ensure your bra feels supportive for your size and breast shape before purchasing. Since most bras are made with elastic that stretches over time, Caldwell advises looking for a bra with a band that feels snug to your body. “It’s ideal if you can start with it sitting nice and snug on the loosest hook, because that way as it stretches and starts to ride up, you can move it in," she says. That said, if you’re pregnant, on medication, or experiencing other changes with your body, Caldwell offers different advice: “I usually suggest putting [the closure] on the middle hook,” she advises. “That way, if your body expands, you can push it out, and if it stretches the bra strap so that you can move it in.” There are a few ways to ensure the fit of your band is the right size for you. For starters, you should hook the band at the outermost hook and ensure it’s parallel to the ground. Then, slide a finger underneath the band. If you can fit more than one finger, the band is too loose, and if you can’t fit a finger at all, it’s too tight. When it comes to cups, Caldwell says that foam-molded cups are particularly popular right now. While foam molding has built-in nipple coverage, she admits it doesn’t suit everyone’s bust. If you dislike foam molded cups, a stretch lace cut-and-sew bra might be a better option. “A stretch lace cut-and-sew bra is cut and sewn together, which means it has seams and sometimes offers the best support—it's like those seams are supports on a bridge,” she says. “They really give a natural lift and awesome shape.” Beyond foam molded and cut-and-sew cups, you may also see cups with spacer 3D molding. While these look like standard foam-molded cups, Caldwell explains that 3D bras typically have a knit design, offering improved ventilation and breathability. To check if you’re wearing the right cup size, first put on a tight T-shirt. If you see any puckering or bulging, you need a bigger size. Also, be sure to turn sideways and check the alignment of your breasts. They should sit halfway between your shoulders and elbows—if not, you may need additional support (or looser straps). Materials Most bras are made with an elastic band, foam cups, and a lining made of nylon, cotton, lace, or elastane (aka Spandex). Nylon is a smooth, durable fabric that feels comfortable against the skin, making it a good choice for bras. It has a slight stretch and moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool. Cotton is another popular option, particularly for interior lining because it feels remarkably soft. Elastane gives bras their stretch, which is key for comfort and versatility, as the body can fluctuate slightly even within a month. Lace bras offer more style and elegance, but the texture may protrude through thin T-shirts. If lace irritates your skin, Caldwell recommends washing it before wearing it. “I get really red when I put on some lace, and it's because they sometimes put starch in the bra cup to make it look really crisp and to keep its shape,” Caldwell says. Despite the occasional splotches, she still adores the fabric. The type of material you choose will also affect your bra's longevity. According to Caldwell, bras made of stretch mesh or stretchy jersey material will stretch out faster than lined or power mesh bras. Return Policy Even after measuring your size, sometimes a bra still doesn’t fit quite right. That’s why we recommend looking at the brand’s return policy before buying, just in case you need to send it back. Most bra brands offer a return policy of 30 days, so you can take some time to decide if the fit is right for you. “Brands know you’re not getting fit by someone and you're kind of guessing, so they're saying ‘please try it on and then send back what doesn't work,’” says Caldwell. Questions You Might Ask How do you measure your bra size? While you can measure your bra size at home, Caldwell suggests going to a professional or a local bra boutique with a wide range of sizes for your fitting needs. “Not only will they measure you, but they will also be able to help you decide which styles and which sizes in each bra are going to fit,” she says. To measure yourself at home, Caldwell says to start by finding your band size. Take a tape measure and wrap it underneath your underbust, then take a deep breath in and out. It’s also important to ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the floor and snug against your body while you measure. Round your measurement up to the closest inch and then to the closest even number to find your band size. For example, if you measured 29 inches, you can round up to 30 as your starting band size. Next, find your bust measurement. This time, wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust and take a deep breath in and out. “This time, you just want it to kiss your bust—you don't need it to squeeze in at all," says Caldwell. Once you get that number, subtract it from your band size (the 30 from the previous example) to find your cup size. “One inch equals every letter, so you’ll be A, B, C, D, or E, and in U.S. sizing, an E is a DD,” Caldwell says. If, for example, your bust measurement is 35 inches and your band is 30 inches, subtract 30 to get 5, which means that your bra size is 30E or 30DD. When it comes to measuring yourself, Caldwell recommends having a bra on. “It's still usually a better indication of your volume than if you were to just let your bust hang, especially if you are a very full-busted person, an elderly person, or nursing.” However, avoid wearing a minimizer or push-up bra for the best fit. Bra sizes can also vary by retailer, so it’s good practice to reference their size chart before purchasing. How many bras should you own? While the number of bras you own will depend on your daily routine and preferences, Caldwell says 7-10 bras are enough for most people. “I usually suggest that folks start with the two or three basics and just compare those, and then start adding in those other categories one by one,” she says. “Seven to 10 bras are a big investment, so just add them in little by little. You can go off in all sorts of different directions: pretty bras, stick-on bras, etc., but start with the basics.” How long should bras last? The average lifespan for a bra is around six months to a year, but the longevity of your bra depends on various factors. “If you’re someone like me who has hundreds of bras, they’re going to last a lot longer than somebody who has only a couple,” Caldwell explains. Since people with full busts have more weight on their chest, it causes the band to stretch out faster, so they may have to buy bras more often. The last factor to consider is how well-made your bra is. “If you're buying a really cheap bra that uses super stretchy elastic and doesn't have any kind of structure to it, that is probably going to stretch out really fast as opposed to something that's made with firmer or more durable materials,” says Caldwell. To increase the longevity of your bras, Caldwell suggests hand washing and air drying them. A good bra should last six to 12 months, given that you take proper care of it. If you notice changes in how the band, straps, or cups fit, or if you see little elastic “hairs” appear on your bra, you’re due for a new one. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple, and Jen Woo, a freelance design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we researched and tested a variety of bras, considering factors like size, style and fit, materials, and return policy. For top-tier insight on shopping for bras, we tapped Kimmay Caldwell, bra expert and undergarment educator.