It took me exactly 11 years to come to terms with the fact that I was never going to have big boobs. In those years, I never thought bras for small boobs could shape and support your chest without the use of awkward padding and cushion. I stocked up on every enhancing bra and learned all the small boob bra hacks imaginable, and spent a lot of time envying my bustier counterparts, praying that mine would eventually come in. In a society where the female body is under constant judgment, I thought I was less of a woman because my cups did not runneth over.
After ditching most of my heavily padded bras, I realized that was not the case. At the end of the day, my boobs got their job done. Who was I to hate on them? The boob-ceptance philosophy is about working with your itty-bittys, and not against them. Some days I walk through the city confidently sans-bra, and there are others when I think, "Yeah, I could use a bra for small chests that offers a little lift and separate action with this dress"— which is fine.
And on those days, these bras and accompanying accoutrements give just the right amount of support for the small chested women of the world.
1. Wear A Barely There Bra for Barely There Dresses
Fashion Forms Backless Strapless U Plunge Bra (Sizes A-D), $21-$36, Amazon
Some outfits just call for the works — strapless, backless and low-cut — with just a hint of padding for shaping. The adhesive on the cups and the side wings make this molded cup bra extra-secure to keep everything in place.
2. Get Natural Lift From An Unlined Demi Cup
Timpa Duet Lace Underwire Demi Bra (Sizes 32A-38C) , $25-$41, Amazon
If you want a little lift but hate the way a padded bra feels, a demi bra will give you more support and definition — and this one comes in more than 15 different shades. One reviewer even said, "I wear this bra when I want to look amazing on the outside and feel sexy underneath, and know that it is all ME, no extra 'help'."
3. Get A Multiway Bra You Can Wear With Every Single Dress
V Shape Push Up Deep Plunge Convertible (Sizes 32A-40D), $5-$16, Amazon
This bra is the Transformer of the undergarment world. It can be worn conventionally, as a halter or criss-crossed, and with the deep plunge and extender strap for the hook-and-eye closure, it works under low-cut and backless dresses. Really, what can't this bra do?
4. Try A Silicone Bra for Natural-Feeling Support
Kissbobo Strapless Invisible Self Adhesive Silicone Bras (Sizes A-D), $9-$10, Amazon
Some call them chicken cutlets, some call them sticky boobs — I just call them the contraption that allows me to wear backless shirts and dresses. This silicone adhesive bra makes for a natural looking (and feeling) support system that allows for cleavage control, which, for me, is always welcome.
5. Get Lift & Support Without Any Extra Padding
The Perk Up: Adhesive Breast Lifts, $11, Amazon
While it's fine to go support-less whenever you choose, there are some days when all you want is a little anti-gravity support (no extra push-up required). On those days, skip a bra all together. These flexible, 100 percent cotton stickies lift from the top (instead of pushing from underneath) to give support without the bulk of a bra.
6. Update Your Favorite Bra With An Extender Strap
Closecret Adjustable Low Back Converter Straps, $10, Amazon
Why mess with magic, right? If you already have an old faithful bra you refuse to part ways with, this added strap will reinforce for a more secure fit. You'll also be able to wear open back styles without wondering if your bra strap is showing.
7. Go Braless, But If You Still Want A Little Coverage — Try Tape
Braza Body & Clothing Double Sided Flash Tape, $11, Amazon
If you're feeling fine and fancy-free, you may just want to forgo a bra for the day. I commend you. If you want the freedom of going braless with a little more security, though, throw some double sided tape in your bag just in case you have a button malfunction.
8. Stay Secure in Full-Coverage Stick Ons
Fashion Forms Women's Adhesive Bra (A-DD), $8-$13, Amazon
The cupped shape of this self-stick bra gives the coverage of a full bra, while still allowing you the freedom to wear whatever you want — strapless, backless, sheer or otherwise, you'll still have a good amount of lift.
9. Ditch A Bra and Go For Pasties, Instead
Reusable Adhesive Silicone Nipple Covers by Pinky Petals, $15, Amazon
And I don't mean rhinestoned tassel pasties (unless that's your thing). These self-stick silicone covers take care of an important concern many small chested girls have when it comes to wearing sheer and see-through clothing: nipple peek through. Never fear a cool breeze again.
10. When All Else Fails, Go For A Lacy Bralette
b.tempt'd by Wacoal Women's B.Gorgeous Bralette Bra (Sizes 30-38), $20-$29, Amazon
Even though some support is nice, the biggest perk of being on the small side is how many bralettes there are available. Yes, there are bralettes for our well-endowed sisters, too, but there do seem to be way more available in smaller sizes, so take advantage of it.
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