Bra Glossary

From anatomy to fabrics, here's everything you need to know about bra terminology.

Bra Anatomy

Band

The part of the bra that wraps around your ribcage. Provides 80% of support. Should be snug and level.

Cup

The part that holds and shapes the breast. Comes in various styles (molded, seamed, etc.).

Gore

The center front piece connecting the two cups. Should lie flat against your sternum.

Underwire

Semi-circular wire that follows the natural curve of the breast for support. Should sit on ribcage, not breast tissue.

Straps

Adjustable bands over the shoulders. Should stay in place without digging. Provide 10% of support.

Wing

The side panels that connect the cups to the band. Wider wings provide more support.

Hook and Eye

The closure system at the back (or front). Multiple rows allow for band stretch over time.

Bridge

Another term for the gore - the center connection between cups.

Bra Styles

Balconette

Cups cut horizontally with wide-set straps. Creates rounded, lifted shape. Great for low necklines.

Bralette

Unstructured, wireless bra. Often made of lace or soft fabric. Comfortable for smaller busts or lounging.

Demi Cup

Cups that cover about half the breast. Lower cut than full coverage. Good for V-necks.

Full Coverage

Cups that fully enclose the breast. Maximum support and coverage. Ideal for larger busts.

Plunge

Deep V-shaped neckline between cups. Low gore allows for low-cut tops. Pushes breasts together.

Push-Up

Angled padding that lifts and pushes breasts toward center. Creates cleavage.

Sports Bra

Designed for physical activity. Minimizes movement through compression or encapsulation.

T-Shirt Bra

Smooth, seamless cups (usually molded). Invisible under fitted clothing.

Wireless

Bra without underwire. More comfortable for some; less structured support.

Minimizer

Redistributes breast tissue to make bust appear smaller. Good for reducing projection.

Strapless

No shoulder straps. Relies on band and grip technology to stay up.

Convertible

Straps can be removed or reconfigured (cross-back, halter, one-shoulder, etc.).

Sizing Terms

Band Size

The number in your bra size (e.g., 34 in 34D). Measures ribcage circumference.

Cup Size

The letter in your bra size (e.g., D in 34D). Based on difference between bust and band.

Sister Size

Sizes with the same cup volume but different bands. 32DD = 34D = 36C.

True to Size

When a brand's sizing matches standard measurements without adjustment needed.

UK Sizing

British sizing system. Uses DD, E, F, FF, G, GG... Different from US after D cup.

US Sizing

American sizing system. Uses DD, DDD, G, H... Different from UK after D cup.

EU Sizing

European sizing. Uses centimeters and different cup progression.

Fit Terms

Quadboob

When breast tissue spills over the top of cups. Indicates cups are too small or wrong shape.

Gapping

When cups pull away from breast. Can mean cups too big, wrong shape, or band too loose.

Riding Up

When the band rises up your back. Indicates band is too loose or straps too tight.

Digging

When any part of the bra creates painful pressure or marks. Sign of poor fit.

Orange in a Glass

When cups are too shallow for projected breasts, causing spillage over and under.

Tacking

When the gore lies flat against your chest. A sign of good fit.

Fabrics & Materials

Microfiber

Smooth, synthetic fabric. Soft against skin, moisture-wicking.

Lace

Decorative openwork fabric. Can be stretchy or non-stretch. Romantic look.

Mesh

Sheer, breathable fabric with tiny holes. Lightweight and cooling.

Spacer Fabric

3D knitted fabric with air pockets. Breathable, lightweight, smooth.

Memory Foam

Padding that molds to your shape with body heat. Comfortable, personalized fit.

Molded

Pre-formed cups (usually foam). Smooth appearance, consistent shape.

Still Have Questions?

Our AI can explain any of these terms in context and help you apply them to your fitting.