How to Wear a Shelf Bra like a Pro!
We are all familiar with the popular type of bras, such as push-up bras, and t-shirt bras among others. However, do you know when and how to wear a shelf bra?
Shelf bras are worn just like traditional bras, only that you might feel more cozy putting it on with a nipple patch, using a band bra, or even layering tops to conceal your ‘twins’. You can wear a shelf bra as lingerie, under normal clothes, or with a low-cut top.
What is a shelf bra?
Shelf bras are fitted with an elastic band that offers support to the breast, they have minimal nipple coverage or none at all. They offer half the coverage of the standard bra.
Shelf bras are available in two styles; built-in shelf bras and quarter-cup shelf bras. Though they are all shelf bras, they differ in so many ways.
1. Built-in shelf bras
If you are the kind of girl who hates to wear a bra under a top or camisole, the built-in shelf bras are the perfect match for you. They can be attached in either a camisole, tank top, or swimsuit. They are made of an elastic band, an underwire, and at times padding.
Our top pick Built-in Shelf bra is the Hanes Women’s Cotton Cami with Built-in Shelf Bra
Important Features of A Built-In Shelf Bra
- Material and Color
When choosing a built-in shelf bra, consider the weather. For instance, if your boobs get sweaty in high temperatures, you should consider a shelf bra that is dark in color to conceal any wet stains. Also, buy a top made of cotton only, it will help in absorbing the sweat, and in breathability.
Conversely, if you do not have any issues like sweaty boobs, choose any color that is appealing to you since built-in shelf bras are available in many colors.
- Padding
The layer In the middle of the built-in shelf bra and the actual top is thin. This points out that the nipples can peep through the top.
Who Should Wear A Built-In Shelf Bra?
- Women with Small Cups
Women with small breasts do not require minimal support from the bras. It offers relief from normal bras which sometimes have issues with straps, underwire, or shoulder bra dents.
- Women with Large Cups
Women with breast size A, B, and C are fortunate as they can wear all bra styles. But, women with larger or sagging boobs have a lot of work when choosing the right bra style for them.
In the same way, when choosing a built-in shelf bra they should buy the one with a thicker band and padding. They will help to keep your boobs in shape all day long.
Also, check out the Vislivin Cotton Camisole Adjustable Strap Tank Top with Built-in Shelf Bra
2. Platform Shelf Bra
They are also identified as split cups, 1/4 cups, 1/2 cups, and open-cup bras. Compared to a built-in shelf bra, they cover less of the breasts. They are made of lace fabrics, elastic bands, and thin straps. One of its main qualities is that it does not cover the nipples.
Our favorite platform shelf bra is the Wingslove 1/2 Cup Lace Bra Underwired Shelf-Bra.
Important Features of a Platform Shelf Bra
- Bra Band
They are made of an elastic band, thin straps, and hook and eye closure. Most are made of a small fabric band at the back. They are not suitable for people with large breasts as they require thick straps for added support.
- Cup Structure
They are designed either with one or two cups placed on top of the other. The first cup is meant for support while the second is for beautification.
The first cup accommodates a quarter-half of the breast while the second one is normally made of nylon or lace to prevent boob spillage and offer a seductive appearance.
You can also check out this Dreamgirl Women’s Plus-size Lace Open Cup Underwire Shelf-Bra
How to Wear a Shelf Bra- 3 Ways
- As Lingerie
One of the clear ways you can wear your open-cup shelf bra is as lingerie, go ahead, and add it to your lingerie collection.
The open-cup shelf bra will lift, support, and show your breast. They are comfortable and will add to your confidence. You will look sexy too!
- With Low Cut Top
Still, thinking about how you will wear your shelf bra? Have you tried it on low-cut tops and dresses? If not, give it a try.
Open-cup bras will do well with those types of clothes, they offer support and the cups will not show. Shelf bras make it stress-free to wear a dress or top with any neckline.
- Under Normal Clothes
You can wear a nippleless bra under your normal clothes.
Wear your open-cup bra under a top or nightdress that you feel relaxed wearing, without a bra. Reveal it to your partner in the bedroom and I bet he will be drooling over you.
Now you have adequate knowledge of how to wear a shelf bra, why not add it to your lingerie collection? The built-in shelf bra is mostly worn to offer support while the quarter-cup shelf bra is mostly for the sexy, appealing look.
Shelf bras offer both support and lift and can be worn with tops and dresses with any neckline.
Additional Questions
How do you wear a shelf bra?
To wear a shelf bra, first, you must make sure you’ve selected the correct size. Simply put it on in the same way you would with any standard bra by fastening the hook on the back. Once it’s on, adjust the positioning of your breasts within the cups for an optimal fit and comfortable positioning. Make sure to adjust the straps as well so that the bra provides suitable lift and maintains a snug fit. Having worn different types of bras for many years, I can assure you that achieving the ideal fit is crucial for comfort and support.
Why would you wear a shelf bra?
Many women, including myself, opt for shelf bras primarily for their lack of thick padding while still providing a flattering shape to the breasts. Not only is the comfort level high, but these bras also offer firm, thin pads that guarantee a natural yet enhanced shape to your breasts, providing a kind of cushioning. In my experience, shelf bras can be a good choice when you want a natural look without compromising on comfort.
Do shelf bras work?
Yes, shelf bras do indeed work. They tend to comprise an additional layer of fabric over the breast area coupled with an elastic band below, and though they might not offer much support like conventional bras, they are incredibly comfortable. Often used as an inexpensive option, they have become a favorite among women for everyday use, and especially for sessions of yoga or lounging at home. In my own daily routine, it’s common to find myself wearing a shelf bra for these exact situations.
Does a shelf bra have cups?
Shelf bras can sometimes include molded cups and occasionally feature removable padding. These additions can confer benefits by enhancing the shape and size of your breasts. However, the final decision really resides on the kind of aesthetic you’re personally aiming for. From my numerous experiences of wearing different types of bras, the variations in design and structure have always offered diverse outcomes, always dependent on specific needs and occasions. For further understanding on this topic, I would recommend you this useful guide on shelf bras.