This glossary will help you become an expert on one of our most necessary pieces of lingerie!

1. Built in bra. Many clothing pieces, such as formal gowns, bathing suits, and camis have bras built right into them. Many built-in cami “bras” really aren’t a supportive bra, but an elasticized additional cloth. If you need more support, wear a strapless bra with these. The elastic will help hold the strapless bra very nicely and you’ll have the lift and support you desire.

2. Bustier. Bustier’s aren’t considered bras, but they are in the same family and deserved mention. They are longer than bras, typically reaching down to the ribs or the waist. They push up the bust similar to a push up bra, but they do it by tightening against the upper midriff and forcing breasts to move up. Some bustiers can be worn as a cami or outer top, while other ones are meant as underclothing.

3. Convertible bra. This bra has removable and adjustable straps that are just a bit longer than regular straps. This gives you lots of options for strapless outfits, halter tops or racer back styles. They come in many cups styles and padding and/or underwire options.

4. Demi cup bra. This type of bra covers just the bottom half of your breasts. Many have a little padding, removable pads, and/or underwires to lift and enhance your breasts. This is great bra for plunging neckline outfits.

5. Full cup bra. This type of cup gives complete coverage and support, ideal for heavier breasts. They have all the options of the other bras in regard to padding/underwire, and convertible strap options.

6. Padded Bras. Padded bras can have just a light padding that helps to keep erect nipples from becoming noticeable, which is ideal for business environments. They can also come more heavily padded, adding up to a full cup size for those that wish to have fuller looking breasts without resorting to pills or surgery.

7. Peephole bra. There are strategic keyhole or slit openings in these bras to expose the nipples. Mostly used for intimate moments to increase your sexy quotient!

8. Push up bra. These bras have clever padding in the bottom/side portions of the cup to lift and push your breasts together for a fuller look and added enhancement. The padding is sometimes water or silicone to create an extra natural look and feel to your breasts.

9. Shelf Bra. A shelf bra doesn’t have cups, but it has a bit of a shelf that supports just the lower half of the breast, keeping the rest of the breast exposed. These are great if you are going for a bra-less look, or to watch your partner’s face when they see how sexy you look wearing one. These bras are also called “cupless bras”.

10. Sports bras. Sports bras are usually designed to look more like halter tops, but have maximum support for your breasts. Every woman who is physically active should make sure and wear a sports bra to protect the soft tissues of their chest.

11. Strapless Bra. Strapless bras are designed to fit without the support of straps. These are ideal for tube tops and strapless formal wear.

12. Underwire. An underwire is a piece of metal or plastic or even just reinforced material directly under the cup of the bra. This helps support the breasts and maintain the shape of the bra. Every cup style has underwire cups available and it’s really a matter of preference as to whether these work well for you or not.

Now, get out there and pick out some bras with your new-found knowledge! Let me know if this glossary helped in what choices of style you decided on.