Read these 12 Underwire vs. Softcup Bras Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Bra tips and hundreds of other topics.
The battle of the underwire bra versus the soft cup bra still continues, but with more “common ground” now. Underwire bras provide additional lift for your breasts and give great support. They also come in many different styles and colors. Size definitely matters when it comes down to the choice between underwire and soft cup. Larger sizes benefit from the shaping quality of an underwire…although thanks to improved design and technology more wirefree bras are now able to offer full support. Smaller sizes can get enough support from a wide range of wirefree styles, but may also appreciate the extra lift an underwire provides. Most people simply have a mix of underwire and soft cup bras and wear either type depending on the outfit.
Underwire versus softcup is a bra battle that will continue to span generations. Underwire bras are those that provide additional lift for your breasts and give great support. Softcup usually focuses on comfort and also gives lift and support, but in a less dramatic fashion. Size definitely matters when it comes down to the choice between the two; larger sizes benefit from the shaping quality of an underwire and smaller sizes often find wirefree to be more comfortable with better lift for their smaller breasts. Most people simply have a mix of underwire and soft cup bras and wear both depending on the outfit.
A good rule of thumb to determine which one works for you is: B cups and up look better in underwire bras; A cups generally do better with soft cups, with the exception of cleavage baring outfits.
Known for their comfort, soft cup bras can provide average to full support, but are gentler on the skin than underwire. Often referred to as wirefree, soft cup bras come in an array of colors and styles and are just as sexy as their wired counterparts. Historically, soft cup bras were limited in the number of styles. However, in recent years, soft cup bras have made a comeback, with revolutionary technology to help soft cups give more lift and fullness to your breasts.
Despite so many new, flexible and cushioned underwire options on the market, many people still complain about discomfort in the underwire of women's bras. Sometimes this is a sign of an incorrect fit. If you are wearing a well-fitted underwire bra, you should not even feel the wire. If you do feel the wire digging into your skin, your underband is probably creeping up your back or your bra cup is too shallow. If your current underwire bra is uncomfortable, try a new size or style. Or get help from bra experts: go to a bra boutique or a L'eggs® Hanes® Bali® Playtex® Outlet store and get a free bra fit.
Many things in our lives lead to a change in bra size. Taking birth control pills, menopause, medications, a new exercise program, weight change, pregnancy and more can all affect the levels of hormones in your body. This can cause your breast size to change. If there is a huge change in size, you most likely need to get measured again. However, for small, temporary changes, simply adjust the straps on your bra or purchase a bra extender.
Some soft cup bras have foam padding to help give you the lift of an underwire bra. These wirefree versions lift and separate your breasts, making them look shapely and sitting them in the correct position on your chest. Glamorise® makes a great version of this bra for full figures.
The Glamorise Full Figure Bra with Front Closure dubs their method MagicLift® and promises all the lift of an underwire in a wirefree. The front closure adds more convenience and shows how some wirefree bras can be comfortable and sexy at the same time.
Bras don't have to be fancy, but they do have to be functional. Take comfort and function into consideration when purchasing an all-around bra for any occasion. Bra companies are constantly updating their design and fabrics, so a bra complaint you thought you had to live with may be solved by now. Tired of slipping straps? Bali® and Playtex® both offer a number of bras with straps specifically angled to stay on your shoulders. Bali even guarantees that their No Slip straps with thin grippers will stay in place. Underwires jabbing you? Bali No Poke Wire bras actually have patent-pending, cushioned, spring-tipped wires that move with you. Want to feel fresher? Get bras that breathe, like Bali Downtime bras or the many Playtex bras with Airform® fabric. Sensitive skin? Many Barely There® bras are free of tags, so there's no itch. Tired of show-through? From doubled cup fabric to a variety of linings, there are bra solutions in stores for you.
Pregnant women may choose soft cups during their pregnancy because the breasts are constantly changing and often become sensitive and sore. An underwire bra can further irritate the outer breast tissue, causing discomfort.
If you are not ready to purchase a special bra, then opt for a soft cup bra with extra support during this time of transition. Purchase special pregnancy or nursing bras for optimal comfort and functionality. Nursing bras feature convenient clips that make nursing easy and many open with one hand, allowing you a free hand to cradle the baby.
Discount lingerie is great for name brands that are often more expensive at larger retailers. It is important, however, to pay close attention to bras and other undergarments bought at discount prices. Look for any snags, frays or misshapen underwires or elastic. Sometimes, but not always, bras are discounted because they have some flaw or didn't fit well and as a result, didn't sell well. The exception, of course, is when you are able to purchase discount lingerie from large name brands on sale or clearance. Usually, this means the company is making room for the next shipment or season.
Avoid buying a bra that has a square-cut bustline. This will directly work against the roundness of your natural breast shape and make you look flatter than you really are. This is particularly true for soft cup bras.
Instead, purchase a bra that traces the contours and natural shape of your breasts to make them look rounder and fuller. This will flatter every body shape.
Underwire versus softcup is a bra battle that will continue to span generations. Underwire bras are those that provide additional lift for your breasts and give great support. Softcup usually focuses on comfort and also gives lift and support, but in a less dramatic fashion. Size definitely matters when it comes down to the choice between the two; larger sizes benefit from the shaping quality of an underwire and smaller sizes often find wirefree to be more comfortable with better lift for their smaller breasts. Most people simply have a mix of underwire and soft cup bras and wear both depending on the outfit.
A good rule of thumb to determine which one works for you is: B cups and up look better in underwire bras; A cups generally do better with soft cups, with the exception of cleavage baring outfits.
Finding a good fit in either underwire or soft cup bras is a never-ending challenge. Most experts recommend that when you find a bra that fits well and feels good, stock up! This way, if you are unable to find other bras to fit or if the manufacturer stops making that particular style or brand, you know that you have several bras that fit well. Then, you won't be in a pinch to immediately find a new brand to fit you as well the next time you have to shop for a new bra.