The best bras for big busts

These are the things to look out for when you're buying a bra

These are the things to look out for when you're buying a bra

Is there anything more frustrating than finding the perfect bra if you've got big boobs? It certainly feels like your options are limited if you've got a D cup or above (hello maternity bras).

But it turns out that if you know what you're looking for, your options are broader than you'd think. Sharon Bell, Head of Product and Design at Ultimo shares her expert tips on which styles to look out for if you've got a big bust (and if you've got a small bust, we've got a separate guide here).

Do women will big busts need to look for extra support?

Bras for larger breasts tend to have additional linings in the cups and firm power mesh wings that are very important for support. Most also have a slightly wider strap.

Do you need to look for larger straps if you have a big bust?

Although the support for your breast doesn't actually come from the strap the breast weight does put pressure on the strap and in turn your shoulders, if the strap is to narrow it is likely to dig into your shoulders which causes discomfort and can dent and mark on the skin. So we recommend you opt for a wider strap to ensure maximum comfort.

What’s the best type of cup for big busts?

This depends on the shape and look that you prefer, there are a large variety of shapes and types available on the market now for fuller busts so there’s lots to choose from.

We’d recommend a plunge style for a good cleavage boost or to wear with low cut dresses or tops, a balcony style for more comfort and coverage for everyday wear beneath work wear or t-shirts. Moulded cups give a clean smooth line under clothes while lace and embroidery create a lighter feel and a less sculptured look that a lot of fuller busted ladies prefer. It’s really about what you like and what looks good on you!

What is the most comfortable bra for big busts?

This depends on your body shape as everyone is different, but the main thing is to make sure you are wearing the correct size. If you have that right, then the bra you choose should be comfortable while supporting and enhancing your natural shape.

Which bra style works best for a big bust?

There’s a common misconception that fuller bust bras are frumpy, at Ultimo that’s definitely not the case. Each style from our capsule collection of DD+ fashion and core lingerie combines amazing support with extreme comfort and style.

What should you look out for when buying a bra for a big bust?

I’d recommend you look for a slightly wider strap and an under band and wing that feel soft but firm. Opt for either a moulded or lined cup, because a cup that's too stretchy won't offer enough support.

Most importantly, the key thing is to check you’re wearing the right size and to try a bra on to make sure it ticks all of the boxes. Not every bra is the right styles or shape for everybody, but when you find the right one you’ll never look back.

Penny Goldstone

Penny Goldstone is the Digital Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, covering everything from catwalk trends to royal fashion and the latest high street and Instagram must-haves.

Penny grew up in France and studied languages and law at the Sorbonne Nouvelle University in Paris before moving to the UK for her MA in multimedia journalism at Bournemouth University. She moved to the UK permanently and has never looked back (though she does go back regularly to stock up on cheese and wine).

Although she's always loved fashion - she used to create scrapbooks of her favourite trends and looks, including Sienna Miller and Kate Moss' boho phase - her first job was at MoneySavingExpert.com, sourcing the best deals for everything from restaurants to designer sales.

However she quit after two years to follow her true passion, fashion journalism, and after many years of internships and freelance stints at magazines including Red, Cosmopolitan, Stylist and Good Housekeeping, landed her dream job as the Digital Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK.

Her favourite part of the job is discovering new brands and meeting designers, and travelling the world to attend events and fashion shows. Seeing her first Chanel runway IRL at Paris Fashion Week was a true pinch-me moment.