We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Fashion Clothing Bras & Underwear The 11 Best Bras for Large Breasts of 2024, According to Our Testers and Bra Experts These styles lift, minimize, and support with lasting comfort By Kate Watson Kate Watson Kate Watson is a contributing shopping writer at PEOPLE, focusing on fashion and beauty content. With an eye for detail and a love for deep-dive research, Kate strives to deliver engaging stories that make shopping for what you need (or just want) easier. Her words have also been featured in Bridal Guide magazine and NeimanMarcus.com. People Editorial Guidelines and Courtney Leiva Courtney Leiva Courtney Leiva joined the PEOPLE team as a writer in 2022. Over the past ten years, she has contributed to various shopping, beauty, health, and wellness stories, with commerce content being her specialty. Courtney's commerce content has been published in InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, and more. When she is not writing, you can find her combing through Reddit threads for the scoop on the latest trends, adding new kitchen appliances to her collection, or finding yet an excuse to go to HomeGoods. Courtney graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a concentration in Journalism from Ramapo College of New Jersey. People Editorial Guidelines Published on October 18, 2024 07:15AM EDT In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Others We Tested What to Know Behind the Scenes FAQ Why Trust PEOPLE? What Is PEOPLE Tested? Photo: People Finding a comfortable bra that’s also supportive can be challenging, especially when you have a large bust. We’ve pulled together the best bras for large breasts that uplift and shape without sacrificing comfort. From sports bras to bust-lifting and minimizing bras, we wore a range of styles for up to 350 hours to ensure comfort and support through daily wear. We also asked experts for advice on picking the most comfortable, well-fitting, and durable bras. Here are the best bras for large breasts based on expert insights and PEOPLE’s testing. Our Top Picks Best Overall: ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra at Thirdlove.com $72 Jump to Review Best Budget: SALE Playtex Smoothing Minimizer Wirefree Bra at Amazon $39 $18 Jump to Review Best Support: Elomi Side Support Plunge Bra at Amazon $72 Jump to Review Best Sports Bra: SALE Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra at Amazon $35 $25 Jump to Review Best Minimizer: Bare The Absolute Minimizer at Amazon $48 Jump to Review Most Comfortable: Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra at Soma.com Jump to Review Most Comfortable, Runner Up: Wacoal Elevated Allure Underwire Bra at Wacoal-america.com Jump to Review Best Wireless: Soma Embraceable Full Coverage Wireless Bra at Soma.com Jump to Review Best Lacy: Bravissimo Millie Bra at Bravissimo.com Jump to Review Best Plunge: Cuup Scoop Bra at Shopcuup.com Jump to Review Best Overall ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra PHOTO: ThirdLove $72 at Thirdlove.com Star Qualities Extremely comfortable and adjustable Flattering under casual clothes Excellent fit with no gapping or sizing issues Red Flags Not very padded More minimizing than enhancing, which all depends on what you’re looking for Our top pick is the ThirdLove T-shirt Bra for its adjustable, full-coverage fit without spillage or gapping and ultra comfort — so much so that our tester forgot they were wearing it after 12+ hours! Its bust-minimizing and smoothing effect works well under various clothing types, especially V-necks and fitted materials. It’s an ideal everyday bra that holds up well after multiple wears and washes, but if you’re seeking more padding or lift, there are other options on our list. Band Sizes: 32–44 | Cup Sizes: A–H | Colors: 12 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Budget Playtex Smoothing Minimizer Wirefree Bra PHOTO: Amazon $39 $18 at Amazon $32 at Kohls.com View on Jcpenney.com Star Qualities Comfortable yet supportive fit with full coverage Stretchy breathable material and adjustable straps Durable and affordable Red Flags Straps could be thicker, but still very supportive as is Consider this Playtex option if you’re looking for a reasonably priced everyday bra that’s comfortable, durable through washes, bust-minimizing, and supportive. In our testing, the bra provided a 1.5-inch reduction as well as a natural shape and full coverage under fitted tops. The stretchy, breathable material moves with you, and the adjustable straps offer a customized fit. While they’d have liked slightly wider straps, our tester still wore this bra on repeat. Band Sizes: 36–44 | Cup Sizes: C–DDD | Colors: 3 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Support Elomi Side Support Plunge Bra PHOTO: Nordstrom $72 at Amazon $35 at Nordstrom $51 at Zappos Star Qualities Comfortable all-day wear Supportive and flattering lift Durable Red Flags Limited sizing and adjustable features Mesh material limits what it can be worn with This Elomi bra’s underwire provides a flattering, supportive lift that enhances the bust shape without discomfort. Per our tests, the bra maintains its quality after several washes. Its straps are relatively short and have limited adjustability, which might impact comfort for some. Also, the mesh material, while stylish and sexy, shows under other sheer clothing. The bra is expensive, but given its comfort and supportive quality, it’s a worthwhile investment. Band Sizes: 32–46 | Cup Sizes: DD–K | Colors: 14 | Materials: Polyamide, polyester, elastane | Care: Hand wash, line dry PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Sports Bra Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra PHOTO: Amazon $35 $25 at Amazon $27 at Underarmour.com $35 at Dick's Star Qualities Secure yet comfortable fit for large chests Great for high-impact activities True to size and durable Red Flags Not adjustable Visible padding As one of the most comfortable sports bras we’ve tested, this Under Armour bra is particularly great for larger breasts thanks to its snug, secure fit without causing pinching or spillage. Our tester, who wears a 36DD, was impressed by the support during HIIT workouts. She rarely needed to hold her chest during jumping jacks or high knees to avoid discomfort. Although it lacks adjustability and has somewhat visible padding, the bra is a practical, affordable option. Sizes: XS–3X (32AA–44DD) | Colors: 97 | Materials: Polyester | Care: Machine wash PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Minimizer Bare The Absolute Minimizer PHOTO: Bare Necessities $48 at Amazon View on Barenecessities.com Star Qualities Supportive underwire lift and adjustable straps Light, breathable fabric that’s extremely comfortable Maintains shape after washing Red Flags More costly Like the Playtex bra, this Bare Necessities option comfortably supports and minimizes the bust for all-day wear but comes in a broader size and color range. It minimized our tester’s 38D bust up to an inch, and they loved its soft, breathable fabric and adjustable stay-put straps that never caused bulging or spillage. The price may be steep, but we think the quality, fit, comfort, and support make it worth the investment. Band Sizes: 30–42 | Cup Sizes: B–I | Colors: 12 | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Care: Hand wash, line dry Expert Says Jené Luciani Sena, the bestselling author of “The Bra Book,” says a minimizer bra is “designed to reduce projection” and should “sit flush against the top of the breasts, so there is no billowing out.” She adds that a wide band also helps support a large bust. PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Most Comfortable Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra PHOTO: Soma View on Soma.com Star Qualities Provides full, supportive coverage Light padding creates a nice shape without increasing bust size Red Flags Fabric pilled slightly after machine wash and dry Underwire bras aren’t typically known for comfort, but this Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra busted that myth. Our testers, who wear 36DD and 38DD cup sizes, appreciated its soft elastic back panel and the microfiber-lined cups, which felt smooth and kept their breasts safely tucked inside without slipping. Best of all, the underwire didn’t poke them for several days with 8+ hours of wear each. The only downside is that the fabric pilled slightly after machine washing, though the shape and fit remained intact. Band Sizes: 32–42 | Cup Sizes: B–DDD | Colors: 13 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash cold PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Most Comfortable, Runner Up Wacoal Elevated Allure Underwire Bra PHOTO: Wacoal View on Wacoal-america.com Star Qualities Barely-there feel Thin material is ideal under form-fitting clothes Decent support via adjustable straps and four-hook closure Red Flags No minimizing effect or targeted support for larger breasts Delicate fabric may not be durable Thin material has no extra padding Our tester loved this bra for its ultra-soft fabric, "no-bra feeling," and highly adjustable, stretchy straps and band that move with you without irritation. The thin, delicate material is undetectable under tight clothes and V-necks. However, its light padding and semi-support have no minimizing effect, which might be a drawback for some. It’s a breathable, comfortable option with a wider range of sizes than the Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra, but the latter offers slightly more support for a lower cost. Band Sizes: 32–42 | Cup Sizes: C–H | Colors: 6 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash warm, line dry PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Wireless Soma Embraceable Full Coverage Wireless Bra PHOTO: Soma View on Soma.com Star Qualities Supportive despite being wire-free Full coverage cups Soft, comfortable fabric and adjustable band and straps One of the more affordable options on our list Red Flags We couldn’t find any! We were pleasantly surprised by this bra’s support despite being unlined and wire-free — it was supportive enough for light-impact workouts. Its second-skin-like feel forms nicely to the body without bulging underneath clothes, binding, pinching, or poking. The sturdy, adjustable straps and band also offer a truly custom fit. While it’s not as embellished, its long-lasting comfort and durable construction set it apart from other wireless options. Plus, it’s pretty affordable. Band Sizes: 34–44 | Cup Sizes: C–H | Colors: 5 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash People Best Lacy Bravissimo Millie Bra PHOTO: Bravissimo View on Bravissimo.com Star Qualities Supportive with comfortable underwire Pretty design that creates a nice shape Inclusive sizing Lightweight and breathable Red Flags Runs slightly small Lace is pretty but can be itchy and visible through thin tops Straps and tight band dig in with extended wear Most expensive on our list For a bra that combines style and support, opt for this Bravissimo balconette pick. We loved its lightweight, breathable feel and the flattering shape it provides under clothing. Though, the sexy lace can feel itchy and may peek through tighter fabrics — a pro or con, depending on the vibe and occasion. With an impressively broad size range, easy-to-adjust straps, and a three-hook back for a custom fit (helpful, as it runs small), this is the priciest bra on our list. Still, its intricate design and support make it a worthy splurge if you’re looking to spice up your bra lineup. Band Sizes: 28–40 | Cup Sizes: D–K | Colors: 11 | Materials: Polyamide, elastan Expert Says “Given the numerous popular sheer top styles and trends in visible undergarments, lace bras are in,” says Rosie Mangiarotti, a fashion and garment expert and founder of Perkies, a line of unique sticky bras. PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Plunge Cuup Scoop Bra PHOTO: CUUP View on Shopcuup.com $68 at Bloomingdales View on Fwrd.com Star Qualities Scoop-neck cut provides medium coverage without spillage Light padding without adding extra bulk Silky-soft, lightweight material Red Flags Not the best nipple coverage The Cuup Scoop Bra has just the right amount of plunge to feel sexy without spillage and is one of the most comfortable bras our tester has ever tried. It’s silky-soft, supple, and lightweight, with light padding and comfortable underwire support, providing lift without discomfort. The thick straps don’t dig into the shoulders, even on a size E chest. However, the lightweight cups don’t mask the shape of the nipples as well as other bras, which is something to keep in mind. Band Sizes: 30–44 | Cup Sizes: A–H | Colors: 35 | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Care: Hand wash warm, lay flat to dry Expert Says “Cuup is best known for its high quality and variation in bra fabrics, all the while creating bras with excellent design and strong side support,” says Mangiarotti. “Cuup’s inclusive bra sizes range from a 30 to 44 band size, and an A to H cup size, and the bras are made from incredibly soft and stylish fabrics.” PHOTO: People PHOTO: People Best Contour Knix WingWoman Contour Bra PHOTO: Knix View on Knix Star Qualities More supportive than other underwire bras Slight lift for plunging necklines Red Flags Sizing can be tricky but includes a wide range This wireless Knix bra offers more support than other underwire styles we’ve tried and provides a subtle lift and smooth shape for large breasts. Despite the plunging neckline, the molded cups and thick band lend excellent coverage and comfort without spillage — a great everyday option beneath V-necklines. Though the sizing is confusing at first glance (definitely use the size chart when shopping!), we found the overall fit amazing and love the customizable features. Band Sizes: 28–48 | Cup Sizes: A–H | Colors: 7 | Materials: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry PHOTO: People / Bridget Dewald PHOTO: People / Bridget Dewald Other Bras We Tested Soma Vanishing 360 Wireless Bra: We appreciated this Soma bra’s wireless support, durability, and light padding for nipple coverage. However, it felt uncomfortable and ill-fitting, even following the size guide. Despite its adjustability, we couldn’t make it more comfortable or prevent it from moving during wear. Spanx Bra-llelujah!® Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra: We loved this Spanx bra’s super-soft, stretchy material and supportive lift, but the underwire band dug into our rib cage. While it smoothed and lifted our breasts, it caused some spillage and may be too enhancing for some. We also wish it had adjustable features and held up better through multiple washes, as it showed some pilling. People What to Know About Bras for Large Breasts Size and Fit While shopping for a bra for large breasts, you’ll want to prioritize styles that fit comfortably with plenty of coverage. However, if you are unsure of your size and aren’t sure how you’ll find it, it’s best to consult a trained professional, according to Jessica Pfister, a lingerie expert. “Bra fitting is an art, not a science, and every bra varies from one to the next,” Pfister says. “A fitter will know how to get you into the correct bra to make you look and feel fabulous!” For instance, you might find that a plus-size sports bra will provide a better fit than simply one for large breasts. If you're confident about your bra size, it's still wise to double-check each brand's size charts for the specific bra to see if it will be a good fit for you. The bras for large busts with the most extensive cup and band options (versus a standard S/M/L/XL+ scale) will naturally provide a better fit. Style Just like when buying, say, postpartum underwear or shapewear, figuring out what style of bra to get wholly depends on your needs and what issues you need to address, especially if you have a large bust. Bras for large busts must be supportive to help reduce back pain and provide the right amount of coverage and adjustability. We suggest the Soma Intimates Perfect Coverage Bra for an everyday bra for large busts because of its soft microfiber material and plush underwire that remains comfortable through extended wear. Other bra styles for large busts include balconettes, mesh, wired and wireless, sports bras, minimizers, and comfortable bralettes. They all provide different benefits and solutions, so be sure you choose the correct bra style for your specific needs. Price Bras for large breasts range in price, but luckily, there are high-quality, supportive options on both ends of the spectrum. We recommend the Playtex 18-Hour Ultimate Lift Wireless Bra, currently on sale for under $20, for a budget-friendly bra for large breasts. The Under Armour Women’s Crossback Mid Impact Sports Bra is also an affordable sports bra for large chests that’s currently discounted depending on your size. Behind the Scenes To find the best bras for large breasts, our testers, ranging from a size 32A to 38F, wore various bra styles suited to large chests from notable brands for over 350 hours, carefully assessing each for its fit, support, and comfort. Fit: We determined our best bra size based on the manufacturer’s size chart and, upon receiving it, assessed how it felt around our bust and back, noticing if it fits snugly without being too tight or restrictive. For minimizer bras, like the Bare Necessities The Absolute Minimizer, we used a flexible measuring tape to measure our busts in a regular unlined bra and again while wearing the minimizer bra to determine how much it decreased our chest size. Adjustability: While assessing the fit, we noted whether the bra had an adjustable band and/or straps and if they were easy to customize to our shape and preference. Support: We then wore our bras once or twice a week throughout the testing period to see how well they stabilized larger busts throughout the day, particularly for wireless or enhancing styles that may offer too little or too much support. Comfort: Large breasts need support but deserve comfort, too, so we took the bra’s material and overall feel into account throughout our daily activities, noting any digging, pinching, or discomfort, especially for underwire styles that tend to poke. Design: Since we tested a range of bra styles and silhouettes, we documented how effectively each enhanced or minimized our bust shape and how well it worked under different types of clothing, like tight tops and dresses. Quality: It’s one thing for a bra to be comfortable and supportive, but will it last? We washed each bra at least one to four times per week, following the brand’s care instructions to see how well the shape and fabric were maintained. Based on these attributes, each bra received an overall average rating of one to five. Of the final 11 bras on our list, two earned a rating of 4.5 or higher, including our best overall: ThirdLove T-Shirt Bra. Frequently Asked Questions What type of bra is best for a wide set? “Finding the best-fit bra for wide-set breasts — a.k.a. east-west breasts — can be a challenge,” says Sapna Palep, CEO of Journelle, a multi-brand lingerie retailer. “That said, it’s best to get fitted with a professional fit specialist,” Palep says. “Finding the right bra size always ensures you get the right fit.” Are underwired bras better for large breasts? “Underwire bras can offer more support and lift and give shape to larger cup sizes,” Palep tells PEOPLE. “Not only do underwire bras give a lift to larger breasts, but also a rounder shape. These are a good choice for styling under fitted tops and blouses.” Which bra is best for making heavy breasts look smaller? You’ll want to choose a bra for large busts with contoured, full-coverage cups and light padding to make heavier breasts look smaller, says Palep. “A full-coverage cup will not only give you shaping benefits but will also cover more breast tissue and encapsulate breasts completely,” she explains. “Also, look for bras without heavy padding — the extra padding will only add more heaviness to your breasts. Finally, choose smooth and contoured cups, like ones made with microfiber.” A minimizer bra, like the Bare Necessities The Absolute Minimizer, is a great choice to make heavy breasts look smaller. Why Trust PEOPLE? Kate Watson is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has seven years of experience in fashion writing. She recently covered the most comfortable sports bras and best swim dresses. For this story, Kate analyzed and aggregated testing results from various bra tests to determine each style’s winning features (and drawbacks) to best support large busts comfortably. She also considered each bra’s size, color, price range, and the occasions and clothing it’s best suited for. Courtney Leiva is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as The Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, HuffPost, and more. For this story, Courtney spoke with several industry experts about the standout features (straps, cups, bands, etc.) to consider in a bra as you shop. Our Expert Panel Rosie Mangiarotti, a fashion and garment expert and the founder of Perkies Annette Bourne, a lingerie specialist Jené Luciani Sena, a bra expert and author of The Bra Book Jessica Pfister, a lingerie expert Sapna Palep, the CEO of Journelle, a multi-brand lingerie retailer What Is PEOPLE Tested? We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs. But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square. In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.