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Plunge, full cup, balcony, balconette – bra style names can be confusing, especially as different manufacturers don't always use them in exactly the same way. In our fitting room, customers are more likely to describe what they want than ask for a particular style: “I want my breasts to be fully covered”, “I need something for a low neckline”, “I don't like bras that cover too much” or “I'd like a little more lift”. In this guide, we explain the differences between popular bra styles, how they can affect breast shape and support, and why the style name alone won't tell you whether a bra will fit well.

Does a good sports bra have to have underwires? Not necessarily. Both wired and non-wired sports bras can provide effective support during exercise. What matters most is the overall construction, how well the bra fits and the type of activity you do. Running and jumping place different demands on a sports bra than yoga or Pilates.

What does side support mean in a bra, and how is a side support bra different from other styles? Put simply, it means additional support at the outer side of the cup, designed to help gather the breast from the side and guide it more towards the centre and forward. However, the words “side support” do not describe the whole bra construction – two bras with a side support panel can fit and shape the same bust very differently.

What bra should you choose under a wedding dress to truly support your bust? This is one of the most common questions we hear in the fitting room. And it’s a very good one — because it’s not just about being invisible under the dress. What really matters is whether it stays stable throughout the day: when walking, bending or dancing.

Bralettes, non-wired bras and wire-free bras are increasingly popular with women looking for comfort: less pressure at the centre of the chest, soft fabrics and a more natural shape. A non-wired bra is not an inferior version of a wired bra. It is simply a different design, using its band, cup construction and fabric to provide support rather than relying on underwires.