Top drawer: the bras every woman should own

Bras are the basis of every woman’s outfit. They get the most wear but the least love of anything in the wardrobe. A well-fitting bra or appropriate lingerie to suit your outfit can make the rest of your clothes look better, can streamline your shape and flatter your figure, while a bad bra – quite literally – can seriously let you down.

According to Brown Thomas buyer Roslyn Ellis, “lingerie that is good quality, correctly fitted and styled to suit your shape will enhance how you look in your clothes and ultimately how great you feel about yourself.”

They’re not called foundation garments for nothing; a hard-working and stylish lingerie wardrobe is worth investing in and is crucial to achieving the best for your body and your clothing.

When updating your delicates drawer, you should aim to achieve the perfect mix of function, fashion and varying styles or shapes, but first you need to make room.

Freshen up your top drawer by tossing anything that’s ill-fitting, loose, worn-out or overstretched. Bras get a lot more stress with wear than most of other garments, and when they start to flag they just won’t flatter you, so it’s imperative you do a cull: edit or bra fit at least every six months to a year.

You might not feel like doing a complete overhaul, but it is always worth streamlining your lingerie drawer. Here’s our guide to the must-have bras every woman should own.

The T-shirt

Other styles are more overtly sexy, but the T-shirt bra’s main functions are to be invisible and comfortable. Ultra-smooth and seam-free, they will disappear under anything so are definitely not limited to wearing under T-shirts. Find one you love and buy in bulk.

Coral T-shirt bra, €30, Wonderbra, Debenhams

The plunge

If button-down shirts, V-necks or lower-cut tops or dresses are on rotation in your wardrobe, a bra that cuts deep and supports is a must. With a narrow centre gore and angled cups, the plunge bra stays hidden, and dramatic necklines remain the focus.

Lace-detail plunge bra, €35, Rosie for Autograph at Marks & Spencer

The lift

A style that gives good cleavage and lift is an essential part of your arsenal. For small-breasted woman, it might mean a push-up bra, while for medium- to larger-chested ladies who want a touch more lift without overdoing it, a balconette will give you that healthy perk.

Purple lace balconette bra, €47.95, Heidi Klum Intimates at Brown Thomas

The nude

What it lacks in prettiness, the nude bra makes up for with its chameleon-like qualities. It earns a rightful place in your top drawer and works under almost all garments, from tailored pieces to sheer fabrics and white, light or bright colours. Opt for a smooth finish with minimal embellishment for maximum versatility.

Stella McCartney Smooth and Lace bra, €54.95; and briefs, €29.95, at Brown Thomas

The sport

Shop for the proper level of support for your favoured exercise: a light support bra, such as a crop-top style, for walking or yoga; or maximum structure, with inbuilt cups and adjustable straps, for more vigorous sports.

Freya at Littlewoods underwire crop-top sports bra, €57

Strapless

All women can benefit from having at least one great strapless bra in their wardrobe, but it is not enough just to do the basics. Pick a strapless style that features removable straps and multi-way positioning to provide solutions for the trickiest of ensembles. Yes, even those off-the-shoulder tops that are the neckline du jour for summer.

Autograph at Marks & Spencer Lisette multiway bra and brief set, from €37

Wireless

Wireless or soft-cup bras are not just for smaller busts. They have a bit more shape to them than the likes of a bandeau style and are more attractive than a sports bra. Instead of a hook-and-eye closure, they tend to be pull-on, and in a word they are comfortable, making the top-notch choice for lazy weekend mornings.

River Island lilac lace triangle bra, €18

Black 

Whether worn unapologetically under a white T-shirt or peeking out from under a sheer black shirt, nothing beats the black bra when it comes to adding some allure. A black bra transcends time and trends. Opt for luxe fabrics such as lace or silk for the wow factor.

Maison Lejaby crystal black bra, €85 at Arnotts