Bra Style Guide

There are so many different bra styles out on the market these days. From Balconette to T-Shirt, what do all of these strange words mean? Thankfully, you're not the only one wondering. Our customers at Hourglass Lingerie frequently ask what the different bra styles are and what would be best for them.

We want to help you, so we created handy guides to every style of bra out there. From when to wear it to how to size it perfectly, these guides are jam-packed with lots of information! Scroll along to find the perfect bra style for you!


What is a
Balconette Bra?

Looking to share your inner Marilyn Monroe? Then the Balconette Bra may be the perfect bra for you! This style, made popular by the star in the 1950s, goes by many names such as balconette, balcony, and balconnet. All of these names mean the same thing- the idea that the bra is like a “balcony” lifting up your breasts.

What is a
Bustier Bra?

You’ve heard of the Bustier before, from wedding magazines to lingerie shops to even medieval dresses- these bras have been around for a while! Not to be confused with the corset, the bustier is an incredibly versatile piece of lingerie.

What is a
Full Coverage Bra?

There has always been a negative stigma surrounding Full Coverage Bras. People think that something covering so much skin could never be sexy- and boy are they wrong! These bras have come a long way from the drab and boring prints and are known for how great they feel on the body.


What is a
Longline Bra?

Remember those pointy cup bras our grandmothers used to wear back in the day? That style has morphed and changed since and led us to the very trendy Longline Bra. This bra style blends together fashion-chic and a retro look. This makes it destined to be one of your favorite styles (and ours at Hourglass Lingerie’s, too!)

What is a
Mastectomy Bra?

The term "Mastectomy Bra" is very broad. It generally refers to any style of bra that an be worn post-surgery to promote comfort and healthy recovery in breast tissue. There are lots of different options marketed to women after their mastectomy, so how can you know which one will suit you best?

What is a
Nursing Bra?

Many women are tasked with the question of whether or not they need a Nursing Bra after giving birth. Hourglass Lingerie is here to tell you that we think you do! Nursing bras serve so many critical purposes beyond just assisting in breastfeeding. Allow us to teach you everything we know!


What is a
Padded Bra?

Padded Bras are one of the most essential bra styles that all women should have in their closet. They come in tons of different styles, colors, and prints. The possibilities are endless! This bra's versatility allows it to be a staple piece in your closet for days in, nights out, and everything in between!

What is a
Plunge Bra?

There are many misconceptions about the spectacular Plunge Bra style, and we are here to bust them! Plunge bras are an incredible option for nearly every outfit, and yet most women look right past them. The unique cup shape does so much more than look good under a low-cut top.

What is a
Push Up Bra?

Everyone has heard of the coveted Push Up Bra. They’re featured by all of the top brands and are known to be the most prized bra in every women’s lingerie drawer. They may be known for their exceptional cleavage enhancement, but we love them for the hourglass figure they create!


What is a
Side Support Bra?

Hourglass Lingerie is always working to find the best solution for our full-busted, full-figured ladies. When we began looking into the best bras for women in this category, Side Support Bras quickly became the center of our attention. Say goodbye to those days of battling with button-down shirts and underarm breast spillage!

What is a
Sleep Bra?

For women with large or sensitive breasts, trying to sleep without the support of a bra can be uncomfortable. A Sleep Bra, purchased to be worn overnight as a part of your pajamas or by itself, is a great option to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible while you get your rest for the evening.

What is a
Soft Cup Bra?

Many ladies come to our shop wondering what the difference in between a Soft Cup Bra and a wire-free bra. Well, we’re here to tell you that they’re the same exact thing! If you’re looking for casual comfort, the soft cup bra is perfect for you


What is a
Sports Bra?

Whether you’re a marathon runner, casual yogi, or just beginning your fitness journey, you need to invest into at least one Sports Bra. They’re one of the only bra styles that is made for every single body shape and size. This, as well as many other reasons, are why sports bras are one of Hourglass Lingerie’s best-selling bra styles.

What is a
Strapless Bra?

Lots of women hear the words Strapless Bra and brush it off as not right for their body type. The truth is that strapless bras have come a long way in recent years and now most (if not all) women can wear them and look great!

What is a
T-Shirt Bra?

One of the most annoying parts of wearing a bra is when it shows through that perfect outfit you’ve been planning for days. Thankfully, enough women came together to combat this problem and thus, the T-Shirt Bra was born! This bra style is a must-have staple for every woman.