7 best bras for Asymmetrical or uneven breast

Bra-shopping is unpleasant at the best of times. If you already know your size, have perfectly matched breasts, and know what you want–you might make it through the experience without crying. The rest of us, however, have a rougher go of things.

Asymmetrical breasts, or uneven breast size or shape, affects between 10% and 50% of women. Bra size is dependent on the shape of the breasts themselves, but also the ribcage, body fat, and other factors.

How the breast attaches to the chest will also affect how a bra fits. Breasts, too, can change in size or shape over a woman’s lifetime, especially with life changes such as pregnancy or weight change, and even through the course of a monthly hormonal cycle.

Please note that asymmetry is perfectly normal, but changes to breast density and symmetry that are new or rapidly changing should be checked out by a doctor, just in case.

Determining Your Bra Size – A Starting Point

Of course, the easiest approach to determining your bra size is a professional fitting. Many stores offer this service in-person, but online consultations are an option these days. Then again, you can do it all at home, on your own.

Determining your basic bra size is straight-forward: put on your favorite bra, and grab a tape measure. Measure just above the breast, around the rib cage, for the band size–if it’s odd, round down to the closest even number. Then measure the fullest part of your breast, keeping the tape measure level. If it’s a fraction, round up. Subtract the two numbers. If your breasts add 1 inch, you’re an A cup, and so forth.

Tweaking the Size and Fit

The smaller breast will have more fabric puckering around it, and the cup may hang more loosely from the breast. Conversely, the larger breast may pull more snugly on the fabric, or even spill over the edges of the cup. It’s generally advised that you find a bra that fits the larger breast, then add padding to the smaller breast for the illusion of symmetry and for optimal support.

Best Silicone Gel Inserts

Silicone Bra Inserts from Uplift Secret

Mismatched breasts can be a source of insecurity for a lot of women, so finding the right bra and/or padding can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Basic options exist for fabric pads or for silicone gel inserts.

If the breasts are close to the same size, adjustable straps can make all the difference in the world. Tighten the strap on the side with the smaller breast-neither the strap nor band should pucker, fold, or dig in. Wider straps are frequently more comfortable for larger, and thus heavier, breasts. Most of the support should come from the band and cups, not the straps.

Best High-Impact Sports Bra

Under Armour Women’s Vanish Asymmetrical Low Sports Bra

Another option is to find a stretchy bra without molded cups, so the bra can hug each breast appropriately–you can’t go wrong with UnderArmour. Women who engage in high-impact activities, from aerobics to chasing children, will appreciate the high level of support and the sweat-wicking fabric.

Even better, if you’re a Prime member, you get a 7 day trial to try on clothes, with free returns. It’s risk-free!

Best Affordable Basic Lace Bra

Bali One Smooth U Underwire Bra

If you want a bra with cups, I recommend the brand Bali–they’re a classic for a reason, and they’re cheap enough you won’t be wasting too much money if it’s the wrong size. In fact, you could order a few sister sizes and see what fits you the best.

Plus, this bra has adjustable straps and can convert to a racerback style, with 30 different options for color!

Unfortunately, with such an economical bra, there’s not a pocket to add inserts or pads, but if you’ve got the right size bra and insert, your breast will hold the additional padding in place.

Best T-Shirt Bra

Olga Women’s Play It Cool Underwire Contour Bra

One of the most popular bras on the internet is this t-shirt bra by Olga. Fans rave about the comfortable fabric and wide straps that never dig in, though it’s exclusively available in larger sizes.

Best Bra for Smaller Breasts

MELENECA Women’s Balconette Bra with Padded

Smaller-busted women might prefer this sexy balconette bra that comes in six different colors. People who bought this bra brag that their breasts look like they’re sitting on a shelf, which may or may not be the effect you’re going for. Then again, the lace is much more aesthetic than a less-sexy, more-supportive sports bra.

What About Serious Asymmetry?

Vollence Silicone Breast Forms Fake Boobs for Mastectomy Prosthesis Transgender

But what if your breasts are seriously asymmetric? Like, one-sided mastectomy asymmetric? Luckily, breast prostheses are safe, hypoallergenic, and affordable. Clothed, it is the same effect as surgical enhancement, and users have the option to wear one or a pair, depending on their needs.

Best Braless Options

Nipple covers disposable nipple Pasties nipple Petals Nude

Some of you just want to throw your hands up in the air at this point, and never wear a bra again. I see you! And to make sure I don’t see all of you, consider boob tape, pasties, or other braless options.