padded bras: a complete guide
This guide will look at what padded bras actually do, as well as how they are different from other styles such as non-padded or push up. So, if you’re wondering whether padded or non padded bras are right for you, or if you’re weighing up push up bras vs. padded ones, we’ve got you covered.
WHAT IS A PADDED BRA?
Simply put, padded bras are bras with padding in the cup. This padding can be sewn into the cups or can be removable inserts.
The main difference between padded and unpadded bras is that they are design to enhance your natural shape, and make your bust look fuller and rounder by providing a subtle lift.
There are also different levels of padding, from lightly padded bras, like our Flex Smart Padded Bra, which provides support and flexibility, to styles like our Wild Rose Sensation Bra, for a subtle shaping effect.
WHAT DOES A PADDED BRA DO?
Alongside enhancing your clevage and defining your bust, wearing a padded bra has a range of benefits including:
Creating symmetry – If you have asymmetrical breasts (one breast is bigger than the other), wearing a padded bra can be a great way to support your natural shape and give the appearance of symmetry. Choosing a bra with removable padding inserts means you can take away the padding on the side that supports your larger breast. Padded bras will also help create a smooth look under tighter clothing.
Providing support – because they have an extra layer of thickness, padded bra cups can provide a lot of support, especially for those with larger breasts. If you’re worried about adding too much volume to your bust, we also offer a range of Minimizer Padded Bras which boast all the benefits of a padded bra while making your chest appear smaller.
Providing coverage – While you may not associate padded bras with modesty, the extra layer provides more coverage under clothing compared to a non-padded bra.
PUSH UP BRAS VS PADDED BRAS
Another popular style, push-up bras are similar to padded bras in that they’re designed to lift your bust and create cleavage.
Padded bras provide a much more subtle boost compared to push-ups and are often lined with an extra layer of fabric that can be removed, so you can adjust the padding level to your own needs. In contrast, push-up bras often have thicker padding throughout the cup, resulting in a more dramatic look.
HOW TO SHOP FOR A PADDED BRA
Just like with any style of bra, you should pick a padded bra that fits your body but also fits your lifestyle. From t-shirt bras to bralettes, padded bras come in a range of shapes, giving you plenty of options for finding your perfect fit.
If you’re wondering how to choose your padded bra size, we also have a few tips. If you’re looking for a bra with light padding, you should feel comfortable with your usual size but if you’re looking for a bra with more padding, we’d recommend going up a cup size to give your breasts enough room.
Still unsure which size is best for you? Take a look at our bra fitting guide or come and see us in store for a fitting.
CARING FOR YOUR PADDED BRAS
Well-designed, perfectly-fitting lingerie deserves to be cared for.
Once you’ve chosen your padded bra, you can maintain it’s quality and ensure it’s longevity by washing and drying it appropriately. We recommend washing padded bras by hand so they can keep their shape and fit. There’s no need to remove the padding. Avoid using a tumble dryer and leave your bras to air dry.
For more advice on how to care for your bras, take a look at our Clever Care tips.
Everybody should be able to find a bra that works for them, no matter what your day brings.
Whether you’re refreshing your collection or searching for your new favoruite style, we hope this guide has helped you decide whether padded bras are right for you
Take a look at our full range of padded bras to find your perfect fit.
