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We tested 64 bras to find the best for large busts
Supportive and comfortable bras for over a DD-cup size? Yes, really!
Because bras aren't always designed for larger chest sizes, it can be particularly difficult to find one that fits and feels comfortable, supportive and flattering. And not only are they hard to find, but the best bras for big busts tend to be pricey, so you also want to make sure you're investing in a design that will actually last.
Pro Tip: "The larger the bust, the more stability that might be needed in a bra to maintain proper support, so it's extra important for those with larger busts to be in the correct band size," notes Madison Anne, a bra educator with over one million followers on TikTok. "A snug band can help keep the cups in place and the breasts lifted."
To make bra shopping a bit easier for you, our colleagues at the Good Housekeeping Institute in the US put 64 different bras through the wringer to find the best. They evaluated each one in their Textiles Lab and asked panellists to try them out so they could get real-user feedback. We've then taken their results, analysed them and made sure the products recommended are identical in the UK.
While bras for large breasts can encompass styles with larger cup sizes (over DD cup size) or those with wider bands (over 38 band size), the picks below are primarily designs that are available in larger cup sizes. We also always recommend cross-referencing your measurements against a brand's size guide, as they do vary slightly (just like clothes). These are the top-rated ones at a glance:
- Best overall: Natori Pure Luxe Bra
- Best balconette: Lane Bryant Comfort Bliss Lightly Lined Balconette Bra
- Best seamed: Elomi Plus Size Full Coverage Underwire Bra
We've also included some picks from our editor, who is a DD+, highlighting some great UK-based brands that weren't included in testing.
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive
- High durability scores in our tests
- Great fit and stays in place
Cons
- Lace straps visible under some tops
This Natori bra has a classic underwire fit that lifts and shapes, and it uses extremely smooth fabric for a luxe (as the name implies!) feel. The bra earned top scores among wearers of all cup sizes, including those with larger boobs who particularly liked the full-coverage design. A few testers commented that the lace straps were difficult to wear under certain clothing, though.
This bra also proved to be durable in our Lab evaluations: it washed well and completely recovered without misshaping after being stretched out.
Tester notes: "It was perfect in every way! It felt invisible, but did its job perfectly,” said a tester who wears a 34DDD bra. This beloved bra was rated highly by our panellists who said it fitted well, felt supportive, stayed put and was easy to take on and off.
"If there’s a best bra in the world that universally fits the many different types of busts, from big and small to round and pointed, this is it," said one GH editor. "I’ve owned many bras, and I thought I’d found the perfect bra for me, but this one completely blows it out of the water. I don’t know if any other bra can compare," she said.
Band Sizes: 30–38 | Cup Sizes: B–G | Material: Nylon and spandex blend
Lane Bryant Comfort Bliss Lightly Lined Balconette Bra
Pros
- Impressive support, according to testers
- Five hook-and-eye closures and adjustable straps for a customised fit
- Creates natural cleavage with medium-coverage cups
Cons
- Visible under some tops, according to testers
Balconette bras have a chic, feminine look with straps that are set wider apart to create more lift and cleavage than a traditional underwire. Many of them lack the support needed for larger busts, though, except for this style from Lane Bryant. It combines the style of a balconette bra with impressive support so there's no fear of slippage, thanks to the medium-coverage cups.
The five hook-and-eye closures in the back offer ultimate security and a customised fit. There's also a wide bottom band and side wings that help create a smooth look, but some testers did note that the band was more visible under certain tops. In the front is a small cutout between the cups and band for ventilation to prevent dreaded under-boob sweat. This bra also held up to our lab tests with minimal changes in appearance or shrinkage post-laundering.
Tester notes: When asked if she'd recommend this bra to others that wear the same size of 48F, one tester said yes, "because many bras on the market for larger sizes do not come with this kind of all-day comfort." Another tester with a 40G bra size said, "I liked the level of support this bra offers, particularly with the thicker shoulder straps."
Band Sizes: 34–54 | Cup Sizes: B–K | Material: Nylon and spandex blend
Pros
- Textured shoulder straps that stay put
- Popular among wearers with large breasts and a small band size
- Side support panels to help provide more shape and separation
Cons
- Seams and front bow are slightly more visible under clothes
"Seamed bras, like demi cups or 'cut and sew' cup constructions, are also a great help to lift and hold fuller busts – sometimes better than moulded T-shirt bras," says Madison Anne. This seamed bra from Elomi features side support panels to help provide more shape and separation.
The textured, adjustable straps help prevent them from slipping off shoulders. Although some wearers feel that seamed bras are more visible under clothes, Anne advises that it's not a huge concern as "how they hold your breasts can really make a massive difference!" Chic details, like semi-sheer panels and a tiny bow in the front, elevate this feminine style; however, the seams and the bow may be more visible under clothes.
User notes: This bra is especially popular among those with large breasts and a small band size. One reviewer with a 34H bra size said, "The girls are heavy and need some lifting, lots of support, comfortable, underwire, smooth, but modest and pretty. This bra checks all of the boxes." Another reviewer with a 34HH bra size reported, "This bra is an excellent fit. Great support."
Band Sizes: 32–46 | Cup Sizes: E–K | Material: Polyester, nylon and elastane blend
Glamorise Wonderwire Front Close Bra
Pros
- Front closure is easier to get on
- Cushioning on straps and underwire for comfort
- Smoother look in the back
Cons
- May be too much coverage for some preferences
Getting a bra on can be quite the struggle, whether you have to pull it over your head or hook the closure in the back. This one's ideal for anyone with limited movement or who prefers to close their bra in the front.
It also stands out for its comfortable features, like wide, padded straps to prevent digging in at the shoulders and cushioned underwires to stop poking and prodding. Plus, the smoothing fabric in the back helps enhance your natural shape and mitigate bulging. Because the bra is designed to offer full coverage, it can peek out under lower-cut tops.
Tester notes: With over 32,000 Amazon reviews and an average 4.0-star rating, this bra's stylish appearance and supportive, comfortable fit is clearly a popular buy.
"As a woman of a certain age with large, deflated breasts, I have found this bra to be the best fit and the most comfortable to put on and wear (I'm no longer planning my day around when I'll take off my bra!)," said one satisfied tester who wears a 42H bra size. "I recommend this bra for every full-figured woman looking for comfort!"
Band Sizes: 34–50 | Cup Sizes: B–G | Material: Polyamide, polyester and elastane blend
Pros
- Available in small band sizes
- Rated comfortable and supportive by testers
- Cute and feminine design, according to testers
Cons
- Some found the fit could be slightly off, so it may require some trying on for some
This bra from Freya stands out not only for being available in cup sizes ranging from B to HH, but also for performing well across the board for those who wear larger bra sizes. It's designed to offer excellent support and shaping while remaining hidden under most tops because the cut isn't high and the straps aren't too thick. It's also available in small band sizes for those who are petite with large chests.
Tester notes: Those who wear cup sizes D through G gave the bra high marks for comfort, fit and support. "The bra was very supportive and held everything perfectly in place," said one tester with a 34G bra size. She appreciated that "it fitted just right" and explained, "It's hard to find a bra like that for me."
Testers also liked this bra's appearance with one 36DD-bra-size tester saying, "I love the design of the bra – feminine, flirty and cute."
Band Sizes: 28–38 | Cup Sizes: B–HH | Material: Polyester, nylon and elastane blend
Pros
- Smooth design for a discreet look
- Available in larger cup sizes than most
Cons
- Lower stretch-recovery scores
While many bras have cute lace details, this one is totally smooth so it won't be visible under tight-fitting clothes. It's also available in a wide size range, including bands as low as 28 and cups up to a size H. And the straps can be unhooked in the back and converted, so it's wearable as a standard bra or cross-back style to hide under racerback tops.
In our Textiles Lab tests, the bra showed no shrinkage and minimal changes in appearance after laundering, but the fabric did stretch out a bit in our stretch-recovery tests.
Tester notes: Even better, testers with larger cup sizes said it stayed in place all day long. "This bra was amazingly supportive," said one tester with a 34D bra size. "It didn't look like an old lady bra," reported one 34E bra size tester. "In my size, bras can look like armour, but this was attractive and light!"
Appreciating its thoughtful design for everyday wear, one tester with a 34G bra size said, "I loved that it can work as a racerback and that the straps were not wide, but were very supportive and did not dig into my shoulders."
Band Sizes: 28–38 | Cup Sizes: B–H | Material: Polyamide, polyester, cotton and elastane blend
Bravissimo is a one-stop shop for D+ underwear and swimwear, making it a great place to turn to if you're after a bra that looks good and supports well. With shops up and down the UK, it's also ideal if you want to try before you buy, or go for a fitting.
This style is a favourite of our homes editor for its unique lace pattern and keyhole back. And of course, it's comfortable too.
Band Sizes: 30–40 | Cup Sizes: DD–L | Material: Polyamide and spandex
Another UK-based brand, Bluebella does modern, elevated lingerie at an affordable price. It caters up to a 40 band and an F cup, which is a more limited size range than some. But it's still better than many lingerie brands, so we thought we'd include it on the list. If it caters to your size, and you want something a little special, it's well worth considering.
Band Sizes: 30–40 | Cup Sizes: A–F | Material: Recycled polyamide, recycled polyester, elastane
This bra doesn't come cheap, but if your budget stretches, it's quite possibly the most comfortable bra one busty GH editor has ever tried (scored in a serendipitous sale). The T-shirt design should sit well under most of your clothes, and the floral lace detailing on the straps is a nice, decorative touch.
Band Sizes: 30–42 | Cup Sizes: A–F | Material: Nylon and spandex blend
No underwear round-up is complete without the nation's favourite: Marks and Spencer. The high-street stalwart has increased its range of bras for bigger boobs in recent years, and this timeless style comes in F to J cups, 32 to 46 bands and four different colourways. So now it's never been easier to add a well-fitting bra to your wardrobe, no matter your size.
Band Sizes: 32–46 | Cup Sizes: F–J | Material: Polyamide, polyester and spandex
Sometimes, you just want something comfy for lounging in at home, and Stripe and Stare's bralettes fit the bill. They don't rival the others on our list when it comes to support, but the fabric is sumptuously soft. Plus, you can pick from a range of colours and prints to inject a bit of fun and vibrancy into your day.
Sizes: XS - 4XL | Material: Biodegradable TENCEL™ Micro Modal
How we test bras for large busts
In the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab, we test all types of undergarments. In our latest review, we analysed 64 styles of bras and have amassed thousands of data points, which we analyse to determine our top picks. Our testing is split into two categories: In-Lab testing and consumer testing.
In our Lab tests, we primarily focus on evaluating performance and durability. Bras are meant to conform to your body, but shouldn’t stretch with repeated use. In the Textiles Lab, we run a standardised test to measure how well a bra maintains its shape. We mark the fabric and stretch it out to a standard length for a set period of time and then measure how well the fabric recovers back to its original shape after it's released.
We also put bras through repeated wash testing to analyse how well they hold up to regular laundering, focusing on appearance after washing and shrinkage.
And most importantly, we put bras through their paces by asking hundreds of at-home testers try them on and wear them. We choose consumers with a wide range of different band and cup sizes, including those with DD–H cup sizes, for more inclusive test results.
They wear the bras and then answer surveys, giving their thoughts on the performance and appearance of each. They consider comfort level and support, how easy it is to put on and take off, visibility of the bra under clothing and how well the it stays in place. They also share their opinions on what they liked and disliked about each bra.
What to look for when shopping for the best bras for large busts
Not all bras are created equal, and it's important to keep that in mind when shopping. Here are some things to consider.
✔️ Sizing: Measure your bra size if you haven't within the last year. Once you've determined your best cup and band size, it's still important to consult each brand's sizing charts and talk with the brand's fit expert, if available, because every brand's sizing is a little different.
✔️ Snug bottom band: "A well-fitting bra will have a snug (but not uncomfortable!) band that doesn't move throughout the day, and provides nearly 90% of the bra's support," said Anne. "Typically, you don't want to be able to pull a firm band more than two inches away from your back – excess stretchiness could indicate it's too big."
✔️ Underwires: A bra's underwires are the small plastic or metal wires that line its cup for structure and lift. While they aren't necessary, they can help provide extra support. If you're more interested in comfort than support, opt for a wireless bra.
✔️ Padding: Most bras offer some level of padding to help maintain shape and provide coverage. Push-up padding is thicker at the bottom and sides of the cup to push your breasts up for a fuller look.
✔️ Straps: Adjustable straps are made with a slider that allows you to lengthen or shorten each one to best fit your body. Wider straps are often more comfortable and provide more support for wearers with larger breasts. Convertible straps are great because they mean the bra can be worn in different ways – standard over-the-shoulder, strapless, one-shoulder, racerback, cross-body and more.
✔️ Closure: The most typical type of closure for bras is the hook-and-eye clasp, which tends to hook on the back of the band. Some bras feature front clasps for easier closure and a smoother look in the back, while others may not feature a closure at all and can just be slipped on. "On a new bra, start on the loosest set of hook and eyes. That way, as the bra naturally stretches over time, you can move to tighter hooks as needed," Anne says.
Which type of bra is best for a heavy bust?
There's no need to limit yourself to one type of bra. There are a variety of styles on the market that provide enough support for large breasts. Here's what to look for to ensure they're supportive enough for your cup size.
- Underwire bras are the most popular style for large busts as the wire provides shaping as well as lifting and separating the breasts. Look for a wider bottom band and padding around the wire to prevent any digging in.
- Wire-free bras have structured cups, usually made with foam, and a firm bottom band to mimic the support of an underwire without the use of any wire at all. Moulded cups are key here to provide lift.
- Strapless bras have a bad rap for being uncomfortable and failing to stay up. However, supportive strapless bras do exist. Look for styles with minimal padding in the cups and boning along the sides for added support.
- Bralettes with adjustable features like wide, adjustable straps and a back hook-and-eye closure can offer enough support for large chests. Opt for styles sold in traditional bra sizing (cup size and band size) for a better fit.
How should bras for large breasts fit?
To determine if a bra fits you properly, examine the fit of the cups, band and straps. You shouldn't see any gapping or overflow in the cups, the band should lie flat against your breast bone and the straps should feel comfortable and stay in place.
"The wire should capture even the tissue that extends into your armpit, and you shouldn't see any bubbling or spilling over the tops of the cups when the cup size is correct, " advises Anne.
When trying on a bra, she recommends to "just lean forward a bit and tuck your hand into the cup between the fabric and your tissue. Then 'scoop' the tissue forward, and then 'swoop' it up with your fingers!" She calls this the "Scoop and Swoop" trick to ensure you're wearing the right bra size. "Doing this might reveal the cup is still too small once all the tissue is settled, and that you still need a bit more room," said Anne.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been a leading expert in bras for decades.
Amanda Constantine joined the US Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst after working as a lecturer at The Ohio State University. She's tested and written about intimate apparel of all kinds, including men's and women's underwear, lingerie, bras for small busts, bralettes and more. Constantine referenced recent bra testing and used her relevant expertise when selecting the best bras for large busts.
Emma Seymour is the associate director in the Textiles Lab at Good Housekeeping Institute in the US, where she's been testing all types of apparel products, including bras, since 2018. She has a B.S. in fibre science from Cornell University. She updated this article based on testing by Aidan Collins and Rachael Chen.
Back in the UK, our homes editor, Hannah Mendelsohn, is well acquainted with both reviewing products (hundreds of them!) and shopping for DD+ bras. All the editor's picks are either from brands she has tried or heard great things about from fellow busty shoppers.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
Hannah is our homes editor, specialising in reviewing the latest kitchen appliances, cleaning products, mattresses and bedding, and crafting equipment. Hannah has written about hundreds of products, from air fryers to smoothie makers to pillows, and is committed to finding the most reliable and best value for money buys.
Hannah is also interested in sustainability in the home and has completed a course with the University of the Arts London in sustainable textiles, so she can help cut through the noise on what’s green and what’s not. Hannah has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously worked as a freelance lifestyle and women’s sports journalist, working for Stylist, Sky Sports and more.
Hannah has also previously worked in a florist and can normally be found caring for her house plants or sewing something new for her home or wardrobe.
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