Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (2024)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (1) Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (2)

We like to think of push-up bras as one of the founding fathers of lingerie – a legendary legacy among lingerie collections. It’s one of the greats, and arguably one of the most well-known and popular bra styles. However, with fame often comes common misconceptions. So we’re here to combat some urban myths about push up bras. Here’s everything you could possibly need to know about push-up bras.

What is a push-up bra?

Did you know the padded bra was firstinvented in 1947 by Frederick Mellinger?This was a life changing design that gave women the ability to add more volume and shaping to their bust lines, and the first step towards what we know today as the push-up bra .

But, it wasn’t until 1964 that the real breakthrough happened. The Wonderbra, designed by Louise Poirier for Canadian company Canadelle that swept the world by storm and introduced a new BFF to women ever since.

So, what does a push-up bra do? A push-up bra is padded with discrete cushioning to lift your breasts to create the desired cleavage. They help to make your breasts look fuller and leave you feeling fabulous. This lift can be as natural or as exaggerated as you want it to be, based on the push-up style that you choose.

There are many reasons women choose push-up bras.

Support and comfort

Our push-up bras are designed with super soft cup liners that minimises breast movement and reduces friction. Plus, they feel great against your skin. You'll be kept in place securely all day long and very well supported.

The padded inserts of the bra follow the natural shape of your breasts, so you'll be very comfortable without any dig-in to your breast tissue or chest bone.

Confidence boost

If you're looking to flaunt and exaggerate your breasts, the push-up bra is your best friend. It's definitely one of those self-love moments, like a good mani, pedi and fake tan, where a simple solution amplifies your assets and makes you feel instantly sexier.

Outfit choice

You definitely do not need an excuse to wear a push-up bra, but sometimes this style compliments your outfit and/or occasion perfectly.

Whether it's a low-cut top, a tight dress, or just an outfit that will hang better from the shoulders with perkier breasts; push-up bras will be your go-to bra choice.

There's no rule book on occasions to wear a push-up bra. Examples include an anniversary, girls' night out, date night, or just for an everyday confidence boost.

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (3)

Who should wear a push-up bra?

Anyone and everyone can wear a push-up bra. They are designed to shape and lift allbreast shapes.This is a flattering style for all body types, and a good push-up bra will enhance your natural shape

Smaller Breasts

For the smaller chested, you can benefit from wearing a push-up bra as it will give you the look of fuller, more exaggerated breasts.

Larger breasts

Larger busted women can wear a push-up for a more natural lift, offering more support and comfort than other bra styles

Wide-set or conical breasts

Push-up bras will naturally draw your breasts together towards the centre of your chest – we like to call this the push-together, not necessarily the push-up. Unsure what shape breasts you have?

Check out our handy guide on breast shapes and how to find the right bra for your shape

SHOP ALL PUSH UP

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (4)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (5)

My Fit Lace Graduated Push up Plunge Bra

$74.95

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (6)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (7)

My Fit Lace Graduated Push up Plunge Bra

$74.95

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (8)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (9)

My Fit Lace 200% Boost Push Up Plunge Bra

$79.95

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (12)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (13)

My Fit Lace Graduated Push up Plunge Bra

$74.95

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (14)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (15)

Keyhole Boost Bra

$64.95

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (16)

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (17)

Keyhole Boost Bra

$64.95

Push-up bra styles

Believe it or not, there are many varieties of push-up bras. When choosing what style is best for you, it very much depends on how you want your breasts to look or the outfit you are wanting to pair it with.

At Bendon Lingerie, the majority of our push-up bra styles are within ourPleasure Statecollection, however, we also have a few styles within ourme. by bendonandBendonranges.

The Customised Boost

At Bendon Lingerie, we understand that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we launched ourMy Fit range, offering you a customised boost and the perfect cleavage based on your cup size. This was the first ever push-up bra that graduates in every cup size (smaller cups have more padding and boost, with less boost in the larger cups).

This boost style is called ‘For Me Only’ orFMO.

The 200% Boost

If you're looking for the WOW factor, the 200% boost adds two cup sizes instantly across every cup size. Designed with cutting edge innovative technology. This style provides a 'grab and hold’ application to maximise extreme push and impact.

Also referred to as 'Oh My Bod' orOMB, it's bound to level-up any showstopping outfit.

The Lace Push-Up Bra

Opt for something a little more delicate and feminine and choose a lace push-up bra. Lace is an elegant and sensual addition to any lingerie drawer. Available in either customised (FMO) or 200% boost (OMB), your breasts will look even sexier enhanced in a lacey style.

My Fit Lace Push-Up Braavailable in sizes 10-14, A-D.

The Push-Up Plunge

Designed with a deep v-neckline, the front gives an extra sexy plunging silhouette that will stay hidden under your outfit. It’s our secret weapon of choice under those low-cut dresses.

Una Push-Up Plunge Braavailable in sizes 10-14, A-DD

Magnolia Push-Up Plunge Bra available in sizes 10-14, A-DD

Back To Basics

Wearing a push-up bra under a plain tee can make your breasts appear fuller. Perfect for everyday wear, your breasts can be exaggerated without distracting from your outfit.

Bendon Body Basics Push Upavailable in sizes 10-16, A-D

Me.by bendon Keyhole Boost Braavailable in sizes 10-16, A-DD

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (18)

Push-Up Bra FAQ’s Answered

Is a push-up bra good for daily use?

Yes, a well-fitting push-up bra is fine for daily wear. The padding adds an extra level of comfort and makes you feel really supported. You may love the style and how you feel or choose to mix it up with other styles (we have plenty to choose from!).

What age should you wear a push-up bra?

There's no age when you 'should' wear a push-up bra, it's completely at your discretion to what you feel comfortable and confident in. However, a push-up bra might be a daunting step if it’s yourfirst bra,or you may choose to never wear one and opt for a different style altogether. 

How do you know if a push-up bra fits?

A push-up bra should fit you like any lined bra would. There should be no spillage over the top of the cups, gaping in the underarms, digging in of straps or strain on the band. We recommend getting fitted by a lingerie specialist at your nearest Bendon store to ensure the perfect fit. Fittings are quick and discreet and you can get tailored advice for a comfortable fit every time.Here’s what to expect at your fitting.

We do not advise wearing a size too small thinking it will give you a better lift or larger cleavage. This can cause you unnecessary pain and discomfort, and no one needs that from their bra!

Find the best push-up bra for you at Bendon

When choosing a push-up bra style, choose the style that will make you look and feel your best. Those with larger breasts might prefer a more subtle lift, or those with smaller breasts might be seeking an exaggerated boost. There's no right or wrong, we will have the style best suited for your preference.

Do you have more questions about push-up bras?

Visit one of our storesto speak to our helpful team of experts.Shop our rangeof push-up bras now.

Push-up bras not for you? Discover ourother bra styles.

The best lingerie is lingerie that fits. We're proud to be the lingerie home of comfort and fit, empowering women to feel confident in their bodies.

Check out our size guide to find your best fit and find your best bra at Bendon.

More from the Insider Blog

The latest & greatest from Bendon Lingerie

Everything You need To Know About Push-up Bras (2024)

FAQs

What to know about push-up bra? ›

A push-up bra is padded with discrete cushioning to lift your breasts to create the desired cleavage. They help to make your breasts look fuller and leave you feeling fabulous. This lift can be as natural or as exaggerated as you want it to be, based on the push-up style that you choose.

Do push-up bras work on saggy breasts? ›

More than just a cleavage enhancer, a push-up bra can provide lift, create a fuller or rounder look and even lend much-needed support for those with small and large breasts. Plus, the shaping and smoothing benefits of wearing a good push-up bra can help boost your confidence.

Does a push-up bra actually work? ›

Push-up bras are designed to add volume and lift to the breasts, giving a more youthful appearance. They can be worn on special occasions or for extra boost underclothing that doesn't have much support. However, they should not be worn every day as this could cause ligament damage and sagging over time.

What happens if I wear a push-up bra every day? ›

Push up bras can be worn every day

Some fear that daily wear will cause breast sagging and ligament damage over time. However, this is simply not the case! You can absolutely wear a well-fitting push up bra daily without any issues. In fact, it's actually a pretty comfortable choice, thanks to the extra padding.

What are the disadvantages of push-up bra? ›

Push-up bras are designed to add volume and lift to the breasts, giving a more youthful appearance. They can be worn on special occasions or for extra boost underclothing that doesn't have much support. However, they should not be worn every day as this could cause ligament damage and sagging over time.

What size push-up bra should I get? ›

Now, coming back to the size, the answer is that the size remains same in case of push-up bras as your usual bras. You don't have to go for a size up as brands craft them carefully considering your original size. Just because they add a cup size or two doesn't imply that you have to go for a size or two up.

How to tell if someone is wearing a pushup bra? ›

If you're making out, you'll probably be able to feel if the bra is padded or not and if the bra isn't padded then it's most likely not a push-up. Also, if her chest looks a little squished toward the center, she might be wearing a push-up bra. The cleavage will be a straight vertical line.

Why do push up bras not work on me? ›

Push up bras don't suit women with wide-set breasts, as in when your breasts have a noticeable gap between them.

Which bra is best for sagging and heavy breasts? ›

What type of bra is the best choice for sagging breasts? The best bra for sagging breasts is a padded push-up bra with wiring. If you don't want padding, you can opt for an underwired push-up or plunge bra.

What is a Level 3 push-up bra? ›

The level 3 bras are meant for women with small bust who want to get better cleavage. These bras add 2 cup sizes to your breasts. Note: Women with full or heavy bust should not choose these.

What is a Level 1 push-up bra? ›

Push-up bras are categorized on the thickness of the padding. Level 1: Level 1 is a light push-up bra perfect for women with full or semi-full breasts. The padding covers one-third of the base. It gives the breast a gentle lift and accentuates the breasts without making them look unrealistic.

How to wear a push-up bra correctly? ›

Start by hooking the band around your body. Then lean down to place your breasts in the bra. Adjust the straps so they're sitting snuggly on your shoulders but not digging into you. Choose a push-up bra with padding that isn't overly hard and unnatural looking for a seamless finish.

What do guys think about push-up bras? ›

Not surprisingly, most men preferred women in push-up bras and thongs, however, bralettes and cheeky briefs were both close seconds. While some of the results were hardly shocking -- it looks like most men have literally no idea how much a bra costs -- other responses left us pleasantly surprised.

Is it okay to sleep with a push-up bra on? ›

Is it OK to wear my bra to sleep? There's nothing wrong with wearing a bra while you sleep if that's what you're comfortable with. Sleeping in a bra will not make your breasts perkier or prevent them from getting saggy. And it will not stop breasts from growing or cause breast cancer.

What age should you wear a push-up bra? ›

You have to be 16 to get your learner's permit, 18 to vote, 25 to rent a car... but there aren't any age restrictions on push-up bras.

Are push-up bras good for small breasts? ›

The best bras for enhancing small breasts

For added oomph, choose a lightly padded or push-up bra to enhance your bust. Wonderbra's Refined Glamour push-up bra comes in size 32A upwards.

How do you know if a push-up bra is too big? ›

Your breasts should sit comfortably in each cup without gapping or overflow. If there is cup gapping even after you've tightened the straps, you likely need a smaller cup size. If you have overflow on the top or the sides, you likely need a bigger cup size for more cup volume.

Can I sleep in a push-up bra? ›

There's nothing wrong with wearing a bra while you sleep if that's what you're comfortable with.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Last Updated:

Views: 5450

Rating: 4 / 5 (71 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Birthday: 1993-01-10

Address: Suite 391 6963 Ullrich Shore, Bellefort, WI 01350-7893

Phone: +6806610432415

Job: Dynamic Manufacturing Assistant

Hobby: amateur radio, Taekwondo, Wood carving, Parkour, Skateboarding, Running, Rafting

Introduction: My name is Pres. Lawanda Wiegand, I am a inquisitive, helpful, glamorous, cheerful, open, clever, innocent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.