Essentials for a Complete Bra Wardrobe

A woman should have a collection of bras that she draws from for everyday wear -- a week's supply at a minimum. You're not alone if you wear the same bra a few days in a row; most of us do (assuming it isn't soiled by perspiration). But, instead of wearing the same bra for a few days, alternate two or more bras over a week. The reason? A bra should have a day off between wearings. Body heat tends to relax the fabric. It needs time to return to its original shape. Also, an extra day lets the bra air out and feel fresher the next time you put it on.

Everyday bras can be seamless or seamed. The important point is that they support you, look good under your clothes and are comfortable.

Also, consider different bras for winter and summer. For winter, bras with padding actually provide extra warmth. For summer, consider including a supply of lightweight, cotton bras -- they're cooler and more comfortable in the heat.

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The backless bra is a must-have for formal attire. Some can even can be converted to strapless for more versatility. If you don’t wear low-back clothing, you need not add this to your lingerie wardrobe

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Every woman should own at least one black bra. They are the perfect answer under black tops (unless the top is sheer, then it should be nude), they make all women look slimmer and sexy, and the biggest pay-off is that men go berserk when you wear one.

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Convertible Bras

A convertible bra has modifiable straps that can be transformed into a halter, racer-back, one-shoulder, or strapless style. A convertible bra is a great versatile bra, and handy to have in case you need a quick solution without time to go shopping.

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Demi Cup Bras

The truth is, men love demi bras. This contoured, underwire bra has cups partially cut away to expose the top of the breast. This bra style almost always has wide set shoulder straps as well. It's a very flattering style and comes in handy when you find yourself with a low cut, wide scoop or square neckline where your every day bra will show. Not to mention... it's a great date bra!

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Lace Bras

It's tempting each morning to grab one of your everyday bras to wear. But if you're feeling blue or less-than-feminine, there is no better way to lift your spirits and make you feel great about yourself than putting on a beautiful lacy bra. Every woman needs a pretty lacy bra... and by-the-way - men love them, especially in black.

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Longline Bras

Lately, this bra style has been overlooked by most women. But, it should be in every woman's lingerie wardrobe (except for those very few with no figure issues). A long-line bra is a little miracle because of its midriff-slimming effect, with to-the-waist panels that provide extra smoothing for form-fitting outfits. A long-line bra is a great solution when you put on a blouse or dress and want a smooth silhouette.

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Minimizer Bras

A minimizer bra reduces your bust projection. It does not reduce your bust size, but rather redistributes breast flesh more under the arms and up the chest. If you are full busted and find that some button-down blouses have that pulling look around the bust-line, or look tight, a minimizer can quickly solve this problem.

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Molded Bras

Molded bras have cups that maintain a breast shape whether on or off. This is achieved by having the cup molded out of a thin foam. Besides giving your breast a great pre-determined shape, a molded bra totally eliminates any nipple show-through (we call it "bullet proofing"). If you are modesty conscious, a molded bra is a great answer for you.

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Plunge Bras

Plunging necklines are all the rage and manufacturers have come up with innovative bra solutions to accommodate these sexy styles. Having a bra with a low center front is a must to have on hand if you'll be wearing plunging necklines.

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Push-up Bras

A push-up bra is designed with additional padding at the bottom portion of the cup, which lifts the breasts to give the illusion of a fuller bust-line. This type of bra comes in handy when an outfit calls for a more filled-out look. It is most frequently used with eveningwear. Most push-up bras come in C cups or smaller and have wide-set straps. However, HerRoom has some push-up bras that go up to DD cups.

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Racerback Bras

If you wear sleeveless or racerback style tops, a racerback bra is a must-have. This style also prevents bra straps from slipping off shoulders. This is a bra you'll wear throughout the summer months.

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Shelf Bras

I'm not saying you need one, but you should at least look at them. Apart from being extremely titillating to men, smaller breasted women can actually wear them in place of a bra if they want a "natural" look but without the sagging. If you want to go braless but secretly wish you had some support, a shelf bra is the answer.

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Seamless Bras

This bra has molded cups and thus no seams. It gives a smooth and almost transparent look under clothing. A wonderful style when you want a bra that is almost invisible for sheer or clingy fabrics.

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Sports Bras

Even if you're only moderately active, a sports bra is a must in your wardrobe. Breasts are supported by the non-elastic Cooper's ligaments. Frequent exercising breaks down the ligaments and causes permanent sagging in your breasts. Wearing a sports bra will help prevent damage to the breast tissue. Manufacturers often categorize their sports-bra line by the level of impact and exercise intensity: if you participate in various sports or exercise activities, you may need several different sports bras.

Compare high-impact sports bras in our exclusive "bounce test" videos

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Strapless Bras

As the name implies, this bra has no straps. Rather it has wide sides and sewn in silicone stitching to keep it in place. This style should be worn with strapless tops, evening gowns, or outfits where a normal bra would show.

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Wide-set Strap Bras

A bra with widely-spaced shoulder straps. This style is great for boat neck and wide, squared necklines. Many demi-cups and push-up bras have wide-set straps.

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