15 best push-up bras to make you feel as good as you look
The best push-up bras don't exi-
Hold that thought. Because we're going to show you the ultimate push up bras to add to your lingerie drawer. And each and every one will make you look and feel your absolute best, for quite literally any upcoming plan in your busy diary.
SKIP TO: Shop the best push up bras | How we tested the best push-up bras | What is the best push-up bra for cleavage? | Is wearing a push-up bra bad for you?
- Katie Weir, @weirwonderful.
- Marina Nicoli, Lingerie Expert and Marketing Manager at Pour Moi.
But like finding the best-fit jeans, finding the perfect fit bra – be it a T-shirt bra, plunge bra or in this case, a push-up bra – can be tricky to say the least. Which is why we've called in the experts. Bra expert and self-proclaimed “confidence cheerleader” Katie Weir has been making sure women find the perfect bra for years, and she's here to give all her tips and tricks on finding the push-up bra that'll make you not be in such a rush to whip it off at the end of the day.
Katie's no. 1 rule is “it's so important to make sure you're putting your bra on correctly with the ‘lean and lift’ movement, this will ensure we are capturing all of the breast tissue from the armpit area and bringing it into the cup, which acts as a natural push up to the bust tissue.” And luckily, the bra Queen has created a handy video that'll make sure you're getting the most out of any push us bra by the way you put it on in the first place.
Katie's second top tip is “when it comes to push up bras, less is more!” and this is where some of us may be going wrong when knowing which push up bra to choose. She continues, “many people make the mistake of wearing heavily padded badly fitting bras to add the illusion of a fuller bust, but perfectly fitted non-padded and light foam padded bras will give enough oomph to the breast tissue you already have.” So, gone are the days of stuffing our bras with anything we can find to make them appear fuller, it's all about making the best of what you have.
When it comes to finding the very best padded bra, Weir wants us all to consider two things, “firstly, a firm back band is key as this will ensure that the bra is hugging your body and lifting your bust. Secondly, the correct cup size will support the breast tissue and ensure a close fit with zero gapes.” Now you know how to find the best push up bra, we wanted to know which ones the expert rates, and Katie told us, “my personal favourite is the Curvy Kate Boost Me Up as it gives a Bridgeton look, lifting all the bust tissue from the bottom to the top of the sweetheart neckline in cup sizes D-J.”
If you've got smaller boobs, Weir reminds us that “a lot of padding doesn't always equal a lot of lift – this Calvin Klein Push Up Plunge Bra is super soft to the touch and gives great cleavage.”
Push-up bras also needn’t be uncomfortable. Instead, comfort and lift are now synonymous with style and sex-appeal, allowing you to achieve the boost you desire without having your blood circulation cut off. Phew!
When it comes to knowing which is the best push up bra for you, Marina Nicoli – the lingerie expert and marketing manager at Pour Moi – suggests, “it's all about fit, cut, cups and details. A new bra should be after an expert fitting, the cut for push-up bras typical feature a plunge neckline to enhance cleavage, the cups are often padded or moulded sometimes with graduated padding that increases at the bottom of the cup to push the breasts upward and inward like the Pour Moi New Romance Padded Push-Up Plunge Bra and details should include soft, breathable fabrics and added details like lace, mesh, or embroidery to elevate the style.”
How we tested the best push-up bras:
We've also been testing out lots of styles for a while now, and you'll see our thoughts and reviews on them all below. One call-out design? Unlike traditional push-up bras that often use one large foam pad to add a bit of oomph, the SKIMS Ultimate Bra has been engineered with tapered padding to add graded fullness and a natural roundness that caters around your shape. It was developed using 3D scans and moulds of real women's busts – including miss Kim Kardarshian's herself – and comes in 9 colourways to suit a variety of skin tones and occasions. After testing it out for a while now, we can confirm it's one of the best push-up bras (and bras in general) we've ever worn – a statement, we know!
Don’t get us wrong, our wireless bra collection and sleep bra line-up will always have a place in our hearts (and top drawers) – and they continue to serve us well – but push-up bras have that special ability to make us feel uber confident no matter the occasion.
Forget what you may have been told: push-up bras are for absolutely everyone, no matter your bra size/cup size/band size. While someone with small boobs may not require as much support as someone with double-D breasts (we’ve found the best bras for bigger boobs and larger busts here), a push-up bra is still something anyone can wear should they want to.
Without further ado, here are 15 push-up bras to suit all shapes and sizes.
Why we love it: Making a push-up bra functional and fashionable, we love the logo ‘lounge’ detailing on this smooth bra. The little bit of lace poking out from underneath the moulded cups also makes the plunge bra style look extra pretty, delicately places around the breasts. It's also great how the website tells you which bra size the model usual is (and what she's wearing), along with a before and after video once the bra is on to help work out how it may look on yourself. This particular style is also said to boost the cup by two sizes with the push-up technology and foam cups so it'll be great for so many different people.
Customers are saying: We've tried this bra and love how the back band is smooth, so it works seamlessly underneath clothes. It also looks amazing poking out from underneath a white shirt or cami thanks to the touch of lace. And we can confirm, it does give you a real boost in all the right places!
- Band sizes: 28-40.
- Cup Sizes: A-G.
- Colours: Black, nutmeg and honey.
- Material: 76% recycled polyamide, 24% elastane.
Save when you shop for push-up bras with these Lounge discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: Adorned with delicate floral lace, this push-up bra from Boux Avenue calls to be worn with the matching briefs for a truly adorable set. The all-over lace style is underwired with boost padding to enhance the cleavage and add volume to your cup size. We also loved how it not only comes in classic white and black but this bold pink along with limited edition shades including lilac and dusty blue.
Customers are saying: This is “such a gorgeous bra and has a really nice rounded shape with a push up effect.” But there are apparently some sizing discrepancies between colourways.
- Band sizes: 30-38.
- Cup Sizes: A-DD.
- Colours: 6 shades.
- Material: 71% polyamide, 19% polyester and 10% elastane.
Save when you shop for the best push up bra with these Boux Avenue discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: The Rebel Padded Bra offers is as chic as it is stylish with its soft textured lace and removable pads that'll give you that extra boost around the cleavage. It also has a sheer mesh back band, pretty bow detailing and even lace on the adjustable straps.
Customers are saying: The removable pads are a great addition as you can take them out and still wear the bra when you want a more relaxed look as well as a pushed up one. You can also have the choice of matching high-waist briefs or a thong.
- Band sizes: 32-28.
- Cup Sizes: A-F.
- Colours: 9 shades.
- Material: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane.
Save when you shop for the best push up bra with these Pour Moi discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: If you've always struggled to find a strapless bra that actually looks flattering and gives your assets a lift, then you might not have tried this Wonderbra style. It's longline so it stays in place and it features a plunge neckline for all those evening tops and dresses that are trickier to wear around this time of year.
Customers are saying: It was perfect! I went to a wedding and not once did I have to worry my bra was showing. I would say that the band at the back was fully extended and on the tighter side but just fit for me. I wouldn’t say it was super comfortable but it was perfectly reasonable for one day.
- Band sizes: 30-38.
- Cup Sizes: A-F.
- Colours: Black or beige.
- Material: 62% polyamide, 26% polyester, 12% elastane.
Why we love it: If you prefer to avoid underwired bras, then you'll want to know all about this Stripe & Stare smooth scult style. The brand is known for creating the comfiest lingerie around, so it still gives that push-up effect but with padding along instead of wiring. Going straight across the boobs but with a V-neckline, you still get that desired cleavage you'll want to achieve from a push-up bra, too. This one is available in sizes XS-4X instead of by cup and band, but there's a handy size guide that'll help you know which will be best for you.
Customers are saying: It's already had nearly 200 reviews, “it's the comfiest bra ever”, and “it's a really soft material and it looks great under all tops and dresses” so they've bought it in other colours. They have suggested to “size down from what size you think you'll be, it tends to run a little bigger”.
- Band sizes: 26-42.
- Cup Sizes: In sizes XS-4X instead.
- Colours: 7 shades and prints.
- Material: 89% polyamide, 11% elastane.
Why we love it: SKIMS became a best-selling hit as soon as it launched in the United Kingdom, and if you try on pieces like this Fits Everybody Push-Up Bra you'll immediately see why. It moulds to your body, feels so soft to the touch and does what it says – pushing boobs up and cleavage in! And in cup sizes A-H, it's one of the most size inclusive push-up bra styles to add to your lingerie collection.
Customers are saying: “Probably the best bra I've ever owned. So comfortable and the right amount of uplift,” and, “I forget that I’m wearing it.”
- Band sizes: 30-44.
- Cup Sizes: A-H.
- Colours: 10 shades.
- Material: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane.
Why we love it: Famed for their plunge bras, self-proclaimed 'Queens of Cleavage' Wonderbra present this backless offering for nights (or days) that require showing off a little skin. Pefect for wedding guest outfits, tops that are lower cut and tricky low-back looks, it'll help you out with so may ‘fits this season. Designed to be invisible under clothing, the smooth moulded cups stay unnoticed from the front, and inside, there’s the famous hand-suppory technology which makes you feel 360-degree supoort around your boobs.
Customers are saying: “Bought this for a low-back dress for a wedding and it was so comfortable. The bottom strap was completely hidden.”
- Band sizes: 30-38.
- Cup Sizes: A-DD.
- Colours: Black.
- Material: 65% polyamide, 20% polyester, 15% elastane.
Save when you shop for the best push up bra with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: Everyone needs a classic strapless bra in their top drawer, and preferably one that's going to hold your boobs up too. This microfiber silhouette is sure to do the job thanks to its balconette design. It also comes with straps so you can easily make it work as your everyday bra, and the wiring will make sure you stay in place all day (or night) long. The graduated moulded cups will give you that little extra boost you may want, without being too OTT padded.
Customers are saying: It doesn't work with lower-cut tops and dresses as it sits higher up on the boobs than a lot of the more plunge style.
- Band sizes: 32-38.
- Cup Sizes: B-DD.
- Colours: Black and natural.
- Material: 94% polyamide, 6% elastane.
Why we love it: When it comes to any bra – from a strapless bra, to a balconette bra – we can always rely on M&S to deliver the goods. And the main thing that we love, is like their padded shoes, its lingerie is alwasy just as comfy. This push-up iteration is made with flexifit technology so it moves with you, instead of being restrictive – ideal for an everyday style. Wired and padded to create that boost you want from a push-up, the lace-detail is an added bonus!
Customers are saying: They've said “comfortable, ideal for slightly sagging breasts”, and “I purchased one of these in store and it's so comfortable that I ordered four more in different colours”, and in our opinion, you can't get a better review than that!
- Band sizes: 32-40.
- Cup Sizes: A-E.
- Colours: Black, white, pink.
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex.
Save when you shop for push-up bras with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: Shaped with padded cups, this demi cup bra is smooth to the touch for a undetactable finish beneath T-shirts and vests and clingier dresses for a night out or event. The deep V plunge will give you lots of cleavage, and you can also cross the straps over at the back as a multiway.
Customers are saying: It enhances your boobs by up to two sizes, but it's hand wash only so something to consider.
- Band sizes: 32-44.
- Cup Sizes: A-G.
- Colours: 14 shades.
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex.
Why we love it: Push-up bras don't come much prettier than this one, do they? Adorned with delicate lace that'll poke out the top of your low-cut necklines, this design provides a more subtle/natural look than some of the other push-up bras we've tried and tested for you. Best for those with a smaller cup size, it does come in so many pretty colourways with contrasting lace but only up to a cup D. The Wireless style is however super comfy, has graduated moulding to enhance smaller cups and it does suggest it boosts cups by up to two sizes.
Customers are saying: The largest cup size it goes up to currently is a D so customers with larger breasts won't be able to shop this style.
- Band sizes: 32-38.
- Cup Sizes: B-D.
- Colours: 9 colourways.
- Material: 46% polyester, 43% polyamide, 11% elastane.
Why we love it: Push-up bras come in all shapes and sizes, and this one offers maximum va va voom courtesy of padding at the sides as well as underneath the boobs. This means your assets will be both lifted and squeezed together for the ultimate cleavage thanks to the plunging neckline. Best part? It also has multiway straps so you can cross over at the back and a smooth back band to stay hiden under clothes. You can also chuck it in the washing machine with your usual load and it'll come out good as new.
Customers are saying: Excellent quality, lightweight and super comfortable given the amount of padding.
- Band sizes: 32-40.
- Cup Sizes: A-D.
- Colours: 26 colours.
- Material: 62% nylon, 20% rayon, 18% spandex.
Save when you shop for the best push up bra with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
Why we love it: You may assume an undergarment that's going to push your boobs up could never be considered a comfortable bra, but you'd be wrong. This wire-free foam cup design is built for everyday wear so you're likely to forget you even put it on. And with the completely smooth seamless style, it'll be even easier than you may think!
Customers are saying: “The feeling of this bra is incredible, from the fabric to the look everything is perfect. It runs a little bit small, though.”
- Band sizes: 30-46.
- Cup Sizes: A-H.
- Colours: 7 shades.
- Material: 62% nylon, 20% rayon, 18% spandex.
Why we love it: The lace trims lend a pretty finish to this plunging push-up bra, and the logo straps make for a subtle detail you don't get on many other styles so these are just some of the reasons we rate this Calvin Klein style. Best for smaller boobs (as suggested by lingerie expert, Katie Weir) this should give you a little boost with underwiring and soft foam padding but also still have all the perks of a classic T-shirt bra when it comes to comfort and look.
Customers are saying: Sizes sell out regularly, so be speedy!
- Band sizes: 30-38.
- Cup Sizes: A-DD.
- Colours: Pink.
- Material: 70% polyamide, 30% elastane.
Why we love it: A multiway bra is basically is bound to give you more outfit opportunities, so we're here for it. This Wacoal push-up style is the fuss-free seamless, smooth style that you'll end up wearing on heavy rotation. Wear it as it is or unhook to cross over at the back, it'll be as comfy as it looks no matter you choose how to wear it. The graduated foam cups help to lift up the breast tissue, creating a boosted appearance at the top, and it's an updated version of the most-loved Wacoal Silhouette Intuition style.
Customers are saying: The reviews are in and we loved how this style worked so well underneath plain T-shirts and slip dresses without showing through. It is hand wash only so make sure to stick to this to keep it at its best.
- Band sizes: 30-38.
- Cup Sizes: A-F.
- Colours: Red, black, frappe.
- Material: 43% nylon, 42% elastane, 15% polyester.
What is the best push-up bra for cleavage?
It's so important when choosing a new bra to make sure to have a bra fittings – according to a recent survey for the Doing It Pour Moi campaign, 29% of women aged 30+ have never had a professional bra fitting. And with regular changes to a woman’s body, lingerie brand Pour Moi recommends getting fitted at least every 6 to 12 months – and the brand has The Fit Finder quiz online which should help you determine which size you are, if you can't get to an IRL fitting. And we hope this won’t come as a surprise to anyone, but not everyone’s boobs are the same, so when it comes to finding the best push up bra for cleavage, it will depend on your shape. Some people’s breasts sit front and centre while others are further apart. Those of you with a larger gap between your boobs should look to push-up bras with a gap between the cups (i.e. balcony or balconette bras), and those with a closer cleavage should opt for bras with cups that touch (like plunge bras). This is to ensure that the bra actually sits over your breasts and provides support to your tissue, as well as giving you a helping hand in the lifting department.
Is wearing a push-up bra bad for you?
Wearing a push-up bra is not bad for you - provided you’re wearing the correct size. The perfect fit is crucial. If you wear a bra that’s too small for you (push-up or not) you’ll find you get uncomfortable quite quickly and that your breast tissue is spilling out or being cut into by the wires. If you wear a bra that’s too big for you then you won’t receive the correct support you need and you’ll find that your tissue will start to sag overtime.
Seeking more bra content? Head this way for the best bra of all time (including bralettes and underwire bras), over here for strapless bras and in this direction for sports bras that'll keep you supported when you work out. We've also got an edit of the best sexy lingerie sets, stick on bras, and bridal lingerie. You're well and truly sorted.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd and for freelance fashion editor Harriet Davey, follow her on Instagram @harriet.davey.
