What is a Push Up Bra?

 

 

 Introduction

 

A push up bra is a type of bra designed to lift the breasts and create the appearance of a more voluptuous bust. Push up bras use padded cups, underwires, and other features to push the breasts up and inwards, enhancing cleavage and creating a fuller, rounder shape. While often enhancing the perceived size and shape of the breasts, push up bras serve functional purposes as well, providing lift and support. Push up bras have been popular since the 1950s, with innovations in fabric, padding, and structure leading to many variations in style. Understanding the features and purpose of push up bras can help you find the best option to achieve your desired look.

 

Table of Contents

 

-  History of the Push Up Bra

-  How Push Up Bras Create Lift and Cleavage

-  Styles of Push Up Bras

-  Sizing and Fit

-  Pros and Cons of Wearing a Push Up Bra

-     Pros

-     Cons

-  Caring for Your Push Up Bra

-     Washing

-     Storage 

-     Signs of Wear

-  When to Wear a Push Up Bra

-     Everyday Wear

-     Special Occasions

-     Exercise

-  Alternatives to Push Up Bras

-     Bras with Removable Padding

-     Bralettes

-     Stick On Bras

-  Who Can Wear a Push Up Bra

-     Big Busted Women

-     Small Busted Women

-     Teens

-     Men

-  Frequently Asked Questions

-     What is the difference between a padded bra and a push up bra?

-     Do push up bras cause sagging?

-     Are push up bras comfortable?

-     Can you sleep in a push up bra?

-     What clothes look good with a push up bra?

-     How do you hide push up bra pads?

-     How do you walk in a push up bra?

-     What is better, a push up bra or padded bra?

-     How do you make breasts look bigger without a bra?

-     What household items can be used as a push up bra?

 

 History of the Push Up Bra 👗

 

The concept of bras that lift and shape the breasts dates back centuries, with early versions called "bust bodices" worn in the late 1800s. But the modern push up bra emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. Maidenform is credited with developing the first official push up bra in 1949, using darts and stitching techniques to lift the breasts.

 

Push up bras gained more popularity in the next decades, with brands like Victoria's Secret and Frederick's of Hollywood using padding and underwires to increase cleavage and lift. Many link the rise of push up bras to the popularity of the "sweater girl" look, as women sought bras that would make their breasts prominently stand out in tight knit tops.

 

Technological innovations like lycra fabric, gel padding, and more flexible underwires led to increased comfort and effectiveness in shaping. By the 1990s and early 2000s push up bras were a wardrobe staple, with plunging necklines making enhanced cleavage especially desirable. Today push up bras remain popular for their ability to achieve a rounded, enhanced bust line under clothing.

 

 How Push Up Bras Create Lift and Cleavage 📏

 

So how exactly does this magic undergarment lift and boost the breasts? Push up bras use a combination of features to achieve their volumizing effects:

 

- Padded cups - Foam, gel, or other padding is used to line the bottom and sides of the cups. This padding pushes the breasts inwards and upwards.

 

- Underwires - Bending underwire frames lift the breasts from below and increase forward projection.

 

- Plunging center gore - A low center panel between the cups pulls the breasts inwards, enhancing cleavage.

 

- Removable pads - Some styles include removable push pads that can be inserted into pockets in the bottom of the cups.

 

- Torso band tightness - Tight bands anchor the bra against the rib cage, preventing the breasts from sagging downwards.

 

- Special cup shapes - Cups crafted in a convex shape or with internal slings can boost lift.

 

So in short, push up bras use a concerted effort of padding, underwires, and structural fabric to push the breasts up and in for maximum lift!

 

 Styles of Push Up Bras 👙

 

There are a few main styles that offer that coveted push up effect:

 

- Padded push up bras - Padding lines the bottom half of the cups to lift the breasts. Padding thickness can vary.

 

- Underwire push up bras - Rigid underwire frames in the front lift and support the breasts.

 

- Plunge push up bras - Push up bras with a low center gore for low cut tops. Creates impressive cleavage.

 

- Convertible push up bras - Bras with removable straps that can be worn in different configurations.

 

- T-shirt push up bras - Smooth-cupped push up bras that are seamless under clothing.

 

- Adhesive push up bras - Reusable silicone bras that adhere directly to the skin, without bands or straps.

 

- One-shoulder push up bras - Push up bras with an asymmetric one strap design. Worn under one-shoulder dresses and tops.

 

So whether you want a simple daily push up T-shirt bra or a show-stopping plunge bra for a night out, there are many styles designed to lift and enhance!

 

 Sizing and Fit 📏

 

Getting the right size is crucial for a push up bra to work its magic. Here are some tips for finding your perfect size:

 

- Get professionally fitted at lingerie stores if possible. Having an expert assess your band and cup fit makes a difference.

 

- Carefully measure around your ribcage under the bust, then measure around the fullest part of the bust. Refer to sizing charts.

 

- The band should fit very snugly on the loosest hook setting, with space to tighten over time. Tight bands anchor the lift.

 

- Cups should fully encase the breasts without spillage, gaping, or cutting in. Padding can disguise fit issues.

 

- Plunge styles should not dig in at the sides of the breasts. If they do, size up in the cup.

 

- Try on multiple sizes, as sizing varies across brands and styles. Don't assume you are one universal size.

 

Getting the band snugness, cup volume, and style right ensures maximum comfort, support and lift from a push up bra. Don't hesitate to try on many options!

 

 Pros and Cons of Wearing a Push Up Bra ➕➖

 

 Pros:

 

- Creates impressive cleavage and lift

- Makes breasts appear larger and more voluptuous

- Enhances curves under clothing

- Wide variety of stylish designs

- Provides support via underwire and strong bands

- Can make small busts fill out clothes better

- Portable enhancement with removable pads

- Most feel sexy and confident wearing push up styles

 

 Cons:

 

- Can be uncomfortable if the wrong size or style

- May not provide enough support for physical activity

- Requires adjustment throughout the day

- Removable pads can shift around

- Not recommended for sleeping or lounging

- May contribute to sagging if ill-fitting or worn constantly

- Some feel they send unrealistic messages about needing breast "enhancement"

 

 Caring for Your Push Up Bra 💛

 

To get the most out of your push up bras, follow these care tips:

 

 Washing

 

- Hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent

- Lay flat or use a wash bag to protect shape

- Avoid machine washing, heat, and fabric softener

 

 Storage

 

- Store in a drawer, stacked flat or hanging

- Don't fold cups or bunch up padding

- Rotate between bras to prolong elasticity 

 

 Signs of Wear

 

- Replace at first sign of damaged wires, torn fabric, or compromised padding

- Look for loosening of bands and straps

- Cup fit changes over time as fabric stretches - if cups gap or breasts spill over, it's time for a new bra

 

Proper washing and storage preserves the structure and extends a push up bra's lifespan. But replace immediately if you notice any damage or compromised fit.

 

 When to Wear a Push Up Bra 👗👙

 

Push up bras are versatile - you can wear them daily or save them for special events. Here are some circumstances that call for the va-va-voom effect of a push up bra:

 

 Everyday Wear

 

- Under T-shirts, tanks, and knits to add curve and shape

- To give demure necklines a subtle sexy edge 

- For work underneath button-downs and blazers

- To boost confidence and feel your best around the house

 

 Special Occasions 

 

- On dates and nights out for eye-catching cleavage

- Under strapless dresses and low-cut tops

- To fill out wedding gowns with structure and lift

- As part of a boudoir lingerie look

 

 Exercise

 

- Low support sports bras for yoga and barre

- Light padding provides coverage during cardio

- Underneath sports jerseys and tanks

 

Both in everyday life and special events, push up bras deliver oomph exactly when you need it!

 

 Alternatives to Push Up Bras 🩲

 

Push up bras aren't for everyone. Thankfully plenty of options provide lift and enhancement without padding or underwires:

 

 Bras with Removable Padding

 

Try unlined bras with pockets for removable padding instead of sewn-in push up padding. Lets you control the lift.

 

 Bralettes

 

Soft, unstructured bralettes can be worn under tight tops to define shape while still feeling comfy.

 

 Stick On Bras

 

Adhesive, reusable silicone bras give subtle lift and work with strapless outfits.

 

 Corsets and Bustiers

 

Structured shaping garments cinch in the waist and push up the breasts.

 

 Shoulder Support Bras

 

Wide straps and high frames provide a natural lift, minus padding.

 

So, whether you dislike underwires or want lighter lift, alternatives to traditional padded push up bras exist!

 

 Who Can Wear a Push Up Bra? 🤔

 

One of the great things about push up bras is that they work for most body types and genders.

 

 Big Busted Women

 

Contrary to popular belief, push up bras aren't just for small chested women. The lift helps resist downward pull on large breasts and provides attractive shaping under clothes.

 

 Small Busted Women

 

Padding adds volume and creates cleavage for smaller cup sizes. Push up bras help fill out tops.

 

 Teens 

 

Lightly padded bras provide shape for developing breasts, plus confidence for young girls.

 

 Men

 

Crossdressing men or drag queens use push up bras to achieve a feminine curvy outline.

 

No matter your age, gender identity, or body type, anyone can wear a push up bra for a little lift!

 

 Frequently Asked Questions ❓

 

 What is the difference between a padded bra and a push up bra?

 

Padded bras simply line the cups with extra foam or fabric to provide nipple coverage and subtle enhancement. Push up bras use strategic padding, wires, and fabrics to purposefully lift breasts upwards and inwards.

 

 Do push up bras cause sagging?

 

Properly fitted push up bras don't cause sagging or damage breast tissue. Ill-fitting push up bras with bands too loose or cups too small can lead to sagging over time though.

 

 Are push up bras comfortable?

 

Many push up bras today combine padding with seamless fabrics and flexible underwires, creating a very comfortable lift. But too-tight bands or underwire digging can decrease comfort.

 

 Can you sleep in a push up bra?

 

Sleeping in any bra can strain breast tissue, so it's best to opt for a soft bralette or go bra-free at night. The snug fit required for push up bras makes them particularly unsuitable for sleeping.

 

 What clothes look good with a push up bra?

 

Low cut tops and dresses, tight form-fitting knits, and strapless necklines make the most of push up bras. Avoid bulky fabrics that conceal the silhouette.

 

 How do you hide push up bra pads?

 

Use silicone nipple covers or inserts to smooth the outline under tight shirts. Tape down edges of removable pads. Opt for lightly lined cups over bulky pads.

 

 How do you walk in a push up bra?

 

Practice good posture by keeping shoulders back to balance weight distribution. Scoop breasts into cups while walking to prevent bouncing. It may also help to tighten straps.

 

 What is better, a push up bra or padded bra?

 

It depends on preferences and needs! Push up bras provide more dramatic lift and cleavage, while padded bras smooth shape. Consider comfort, outfit, and activities.

 

 How do you make breasts look bigger without a bra?

 

Use cleavage-enhancing tapes and sticky cutlets, try bust-boosting makeup contours, select v-neck tops, maintain good posture, and consider temporary options like breast plumping creams.

 

 What household items can be used as a push up bra?

 

Socks, pantyhose leggings, bubble wrap, and silicone breast petals can mimic push up padding at home. Use caution trying household items, as improper materials and fit risks health issues. Only use household items on rare occasions.

 

 Conclusion

 

From creating alluring cleavage to boosting confidence, push up bras remain a staple decades after their invention. Their ability to subtly enhance your natural shape makes them a go-to in many women's wardrobes. Just be sure to select the right size, style, and fit for your body's needs. With the proper push up bra, you can achieve that sensual lift while still feeling comfortable and supported. So go ahead and give your look a boost with the magic of push up bras!