You can't remember the last time you bought bras, or maybe your size has changed and you're looking to revamp your closet. Or perhaps you're surveying your current collection and asking yourself: How many bras is too many?
If you're wondering how many bras a woman should own, there's really no right or wrong answer. It all comes down to how many different types of bras you like to wear and how often you do laundry. Here are some guidelines for how many bras you should own for each type:
Everyday Bras
These are your go-to bras, the ones you reach for the most. If you have smaller breasts, your everyday bras might be wireless lounge bras, while you might find yourself opting for more structured bras with underwire if you have larger breasts. Many people prefer their everyday bras to be made of plain, soft fabric with minimal trim, so it lays flat under any clothing. This is why t-shirt bra styles are so popular. They have minimal adornment and look great under any type of shirt, no matter how tight. However, your everyday bras might be lacy and unlined. It's really up to you, your comfort and what you prefer to wear every day of the week. Generally, you should have at least two everyday bras that are nude colored or otherwise close to your skin tone. Then, you'll want one to two bras in additional neutral colors, such as black, grey or white, that will look good under a variety of outfits and colors.
Bralettes and Wireless Bras
If your everyday bras are underwire, then you'll probably want a few wireless bras for lounging around the house. And if your everyday bras are indeed wireless, then you might want some even less structured bralettes for lazy days around the house. Bralettes and wireless bras come in a variety of styles, just like regular bras. You might prefer wireless bras made of soft, unadorned materials with convertible straps, while others like lacy halter-top bralettes. You might even want several different styles so you can feel a little fancy sometimes even when you're at home. You'll want between one and three bras in this style, depending on how much time you spend lounging at home. Some women, especially those with larger breasts, find it more comfortable to wear an underwire bra than one without wires, so they might only need one. Women who live in wireless bras might want two or three.
Sports Bras
If you work out, then you definitely need sports bras. Sports bras generally fall into three categories: light support, medium support and high support. The amount of support offered varies by cup size. For example, the same style of sports bra might offer medium support to an A cup, but only light support to a C cup. You will want at least one sports bra of each type, for a total of three. Make sure that the bra offers true light, medium or high support for whatever your cup size is. If you are larger breasted, you might need to seek out sports bras that offer independent cup and band sizing rather than choosing from sizes XS through XL. Sports bras should be washed after they are worn, as they can harbor sweat, bacteria and dirt that can irritate your skin. If you work out more than three times a week, or don't do laundry that often, you will want to get additional sports bras so that you have enough clean ones to wear in between laundry days.
Special Occasion Bras
There will probably be a few bras that you only wear on occasion, but they are still helpful to keep in your closet. Some examples include strapless bras, bandeaus, bustiers, longline bras, adhesive bras, lacy bras, bridal bras and more-or could even be your standard t-shirt bra in a bold color. One person's everyday bra might be another's special occasion bra, so it's really about you and your preferences. Most people have between one and four special occasion bras, though some may have more depending on their style and what type of clothes they like to wear. You might own anywhere between five and 15 (or even more) bras. It all depends on your lifestyle and your preferences. If you don't need a bunch of different styles and you're diligent about washing them regularly, you can get away with fewer bras. But if you need to own a lot of bras or you simply love getting new styles, that's also 100 percent valid! The right number of bras to own is whatever number works best for you.
As an avid lingerie enthusiast with a deep understanding of bra styles, materials, and preferences, let me guide you through the intricacies of building the perfect bra wardrobe. My expertise stems from years of personal experience, extensive research, and a genuine passion for understanding the nuances of lingerie fashion.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
Everyday Bras:
1. Wireless Lounge Bras:
- Ideal for smaller breasts.
- Often made of plain, soft fabric for comfort.
- Preferred for daily wear.
2. Structured Bras with Underwire:
- Suitable for larger breasts.
- Offers more support and shape.
3. T-Shirt Bra Styles:
- Minimal adornment and suitable for tight clothing.
- Typically made of plain, soft fabric.
4. Color Variety:
- At least two nude-colored bras close to your skin tone.
- One to two bras in additional neutral colors like black, grey, or white.
Bralettes and Wireless Bras:
1. Variety of Styles:
- Soft, unadorned materials with convertible straps.
- Lacy halter-top bralettes for a fancier feel.
2. Number of Bras:
- One to three bras depending on the time spent lounging at home.
- Personal preference for structured or wireless options.
Sports Bras:
1. Categories:
- Light support, medium support, and high support.
- Support level varies by cup size.
2. Washing Frequency:
- Should be washed after each use due to sweat and bacteria.
- Consider additional bras if working out frequently.
Special Occasion Bras:
1. Types:
- Strapless bras, bandeaus, bustiers, longline bras, adhesive bras, lacy bras, bridal bras, etc.
- Personalized to individual preferences and occasions.
2. Quantity:
- Usually between one and four special occasion bras.
- Can vary based on style and personal wardrobe choices.
General Advice:
1. Lifestyle and Preferences:
- The total number of bras (between five and 15 or more) depends on lifestyle and preferences.
- Diligence in washing can influence the required quantity.
2. Individual Style:
- The right number of bras is subjective and varies from person to person.
- Some may prefer fewer styles, while others may enjoy a diverse collection.
In conclusion, the key to a well-rounded bra collection is understanding your personal preferences, lifestyle, and the occasions for which you need specific types of bras. Whether you're a minimalist or a lingerie aficionado, the perfect number of bras for you is the one that aligns with your comfort and style.
