Much like with everything in life, the underwear drawer requires balance. For every lightweight comfy bra someone with a small chest might own, there tends to be a va-va-voom bra for small boobs that lifts and supports you. It’s a law of physics, really.
This is not to say that any one chest size is easier to outfit than another, but my small-busted sisters know that there are days when a T-shirt bra for small boobs just won’t do. There are days when I want something with a little more oomph, a little more bang, and on those days, bras that support small chests are what I want to grab. It could be because I bought a top that's just a bit too big for me, or maybe I'm just tired of that annoying space between the bra cup and my actual chest.
Some bras support with a little extra padding or a secure underwire, some even support with their own inflatable push-up technology — yes, you read that correctly — inflatable push up. So read on if you’re looking for the perfect bra that lifts and supports small chests to add to your collection of everyday T-shirt bras and sports bras. Remember, it’s all about balance.
1. Try A Push Up Bra With Removable Padding For Lift
Lily of France 62+ Ways to Wow Bra (32A-38D), $19-$33, Amazon
This plunging bra has the right amount of support, thanks to removable padding. If there's a day you want to go subtle, just take them out for an easy, everyday bra.
2. Fill In The Uncomfortable Gap Between The Bra & Your Chest
Cabales Smart Cups Bra Inserts, $11 (Was $19), AmazonIf you already have a bra you seriously love, but there's an annoying gap between the cup and your chest, slide an insert in for a more secure and snug fit. This set of three will match your nude, black, and white bras.
3. Get Custom Lift With A Backless Inflatable Bra
Backless Strapless Bra with Inflatable Cups (XS-L), $30, Amazon
Yes, you read right. This bra is not only great for backless dresses, it also has technology that allows you to add as much or as little lift as you like with a manual air pump. Who knew?
4. Control Your Support With A Front Clasp Push Up
Maidenform Custom Lift T-Back Bra (34A-38D), $12-$38, Amazon
I've always loved front-clasp bras for their cleavage creation, but this one also has light-lift padding and adjustable T-back straps, making it a perfect one to have in your underwear drawer.
5. Get Support During Your Workout With This Padded Sports Bra
La Isla Racerback Cool Comfort Sports Bra (32A-38C), $19-$25, Amazon
We need shape and support in the gym just as much as anywhere else, and this sports bra delivers with its moisture-wicking fabric and supportive underwire.
6. If You Want A Natural-Feeling Lift, Try Silicone Inserts
Silicone Inserts , $11, Amazon
If you don't like the feel of a padded foam bra but still want some lift, these silicone inserts will add comfy lift that feels natural. They can also be placed in swimsuits.
7. Combine A Lacy Little Bralette With Contoured Lift
The Little Bra Company Women's Lucia Bra (28A-34C), $13-$60, Amazon
Lace bralettes are my favorite, but they don't do much in the way of lift and support. However, this lacy bra designed for smaller busts has underwire and molded cups.
8. Get Extra Lift By Adding One Cup Size
Lily of France Boost Lace Push Up Bra (32A-38C), $24-$58, Amazon
Padded bras are nothing new, but this one has seamless cups with a lace overlay that adds one whole cup size. If that's not lift and support, I don't know what is.
9. Or Use An Insert To Go One Size Up
Double Scoop Push-Up Bra Inserts, $20, Amazon
If you already found the perfect bra for that one dress but it's just a bit too big, you can also use inserts to up your cup size for trickier tops.
10. Get This Bra For Support In Any Backless or Strapless Dress
Reusable Invisible Strapless Self Adhesive Backless Silicone Push-up Bra (A-D), $10, Amazon
Sometimes it's totally fine to go without a bra under a backless or strapless dress. For times when you'd prefer the support, this silicone push-up bra is just what you need.
11. The Perfect Strapless Bra For The Most Support
Haby Lingerie Wide Base and Back Strapless Body Underwire Bra (32B-38C) , $25, Amazon
When the occasion calls for a strapless bra, you don't want one that'll slip and fall off of you. This one has a wide base, underwire, and molded cups for extra security.
12. An Everyday T-Shirt Bra That Also Lifts
Vassarette Soft 'N Smooth Wire-Free T-Shirt Bra (34A-38C), $10-$16, Amazon
Nothing beats the comfort of an everyday T-shirt bra, so if you're looking for one that'll still give some lift, this one is lightly padded for a smooth look under your clothes with just a hint of lift.
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Images: Fotolia (1); Amazon (12)
