The 14 Best Minimizer Bras for Large Breasts, According to Experts
If you have large breasts, you’ve got to be a little more selective when shopping for bras, whether you’re looking for wireless bras, T-shirt bras, or supportive bras, or the best minimizer bras, another subset of undergarments that help, well, minimize the appearance of busts.
- Jené Luciani, bra expert and author of The Bra Book
- Jenny Altman, bra expert
- Kimmay Caldwell, undergarment educator at Hurray! Kimmay
- Sarah Sullivan, intimates designer and creative director at Lively
Best minimizer bras, at a glance
- Best overall: Le Mystère, Side Profile Smoothing Minimizer Bra, $64
- Best everyday: Wacoal, Simple Shaping Minimizer Bra, $58
- Best budget: Olga, Cloud 9 Minimizer Bra, $29
- Best wireless: Le Mystère, Smooth Shape Wireless Minimizer Bra, $64
- Best seamless: Chantelle, C Magnifique Seamless Unlined Minimizer Bra, $78
- Best firm-fitting: Dominique, Mystique Seamless Unlined Minimizer Bra, $63
- Best breathable: Wacoal, Visual Effects Minimizer Bra, $72
- Best lace: Wacoal, Slim Silhouette Minimizer Bra, $72
- Best splurge: Simone Pérèle, Andora Minimizer Bra, $100
- Best with padded straps: Spanx, Low-Profile Minimizer Bra, $48
- Best editor-approved: Spanx, Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra, $68
- Best fan-favorite: Soma, Sensuous Sides 3-Inch Minimizer Bra, $50
- Best convertible: Lively, The Minimizer Bra, $48
- Best sports bra: Knix, Catalyst Sports Bra, $89
“With having a larger chest size, having a minimizer bra can allow you to wear certain styles that you may have previously written off,” says Sarah Sullivan, creative director at lingerie brand Lively. “It’s definitely good to have one in your collection.”
What is a minimizer bra?
“Technically speaking, a minimizer bra is a bra that takes breast tissue and brings it closer to the body, so the circumference around your body will be minimized,” says Kimmay Caldwell, undergarment educator at Hurray! Kimmay and creator of the online course Bra Confidence & Comfort.
Do minimizer bras work?
The short answer is yes. According to Caldwell, the best minimizer bras are typically made from firm materials with minimal stretch and offer full coverage, which in combination, work to press a person’s bust closer to their body. That said, not all minimizer bras are made equal—and there are a few considerations to keep in mind as you shop for the best option for you.
What to look for in a minimizer bra
Before adding any old minimizer bra to your cart, there’s a few styling details to keep in mind, with fit and feel being the most important. Simply put, try your bra on thoroughly before ripping the tags off. “When looking for a minimizer bra, trying it on under a few key wardrobe pieces is very important so you can see the shape it gives you and assess how certain clothes fit in that style,” Sullivan says. “Your shape under a shirt should be smooth with nothing cutting in at the neck, and you should feel minimized and round, but not flat and compressed.”
Consider more technical components, too: Is the band digging in around your ribcage, or is it gaping in certain areas? Are the cups padded or unpadded? What’s the spillage situation like? (There should be none.) “You should also make sure that the majority of the support is coming from the band so your straps aren’t doing all the work,” Sullivan says.
“As a bra expert, many women, especially new moms, reach out looking for minimizers,” says bra expert Jenny Altman. “I try to remind them that you are you. Don’t try to hide your size but, of course, wear the best products for yourself. Wearing something that squishes your breasts is not a minimizer, it only moves the breast tissue under the arms and around the back. Not something positive when it comes to self confidence. Instead, a minimizer, or any good bra, should fit well with support. The band should be fitted but comfortable. The cups should fully envelop each breast, keeping them separate, yet supported, without any spillage over the cups. Slipping straps means your brand isn’t right.”
Jené Luciani, bra expert and author of The Bra Book, adds that you might want to look for a minimizer bra with U-shape back and wide wings to keep it in place and simultaneously prevent the breasts from splaying. She says that you may also want to opt for an option with padded straps if you want to avoid the potential discomfort of thinner straps from cutting into your shoulders.
According to Caldwell, material is also an important consideration when shopping for a minimizer bra—and typically, a less stretchy material will help encapsulate the bust and keep it close to the body. She says, however, that a firm material isn’t necessary but a matter of preference that will largely depend on how much compression an individual is looking for.
Perhaps, the most important consideration to make is to select a minimizer bra in the right ideal size to ensure that it is comfortable for you. “A comfortable, good fitting bra is the key to any good outfit, so find what works and feels good,” says Altman. With all these factors in mind, there’s no one size fits all when it comes to minimizer bras—but ahead are some expert recommendations worth trying on.
Best minimizer bras
“This full-coverage minimizer bra reduces bust lines by up to an inch and a half thanks to double-layer cups and extended power mesh smoothing under the arms and back,” says Altman. It’s lightweight, with adjustable straps and a three-row hook-and-eye closure. “Designed in a timeless floral jacquard, the Le Mystère Side Profile features a power micro liner for an all-over sleek finish while floral lace at the extra-wide wings provides an effortlessly feminine touch,” says Altman. Shop it in two colors and sizes up to H.
Sizes: C–H cup, 34- to 38-inch band
Colors: 2
What reviewers say: “This is the perfect minimizer! It’s streamlined, clean under all my shirts—from blouses to t-shirts to sweatshirts—[and] super comfortable with excellent stretch in all the right places, from the fabric to the band and the shoulder strap. I love this bra and will buy it again! Excellent quality of materials and excellent fit… very comfortable but very supportive.” — Bare Necessities customer
Pros:
- Smooth molded cups
- Side-smoothing wings
Con:
- Some reviewers say it runs small
The Wacoal Simple Shaping Minimizer Bra boasts an endorsement from Caldwell, who loves it for a few reasons: “It’s made of a material with very little stretch to it. It’s very smooth, which is ideal for underneath clothing. It features a wide back with wide straps. And it’s only $58.” The minimizer bra is replete with full-coverage cups and a hook-and-eye closure for a customized fit. What’s more, the bra’s simple design makes it ideal as an everyday bra. It’s available in two colors and in a wide array of sizes, including cup sizes up to G and band sizes up to 44 inches wide.
Sizes available: C-G cup, 32- to 44-inch band
Colors: 2
What reviewers say: “I am a 40D and I love everything about this bra. I love the way it fits, lifts, [and] it’s smooth, not padded. I love the minimizing qualities, but mostly it just makes me look good. I like this over other 40D bras. If you’re thinking about this, get it. You will never regret it. You will love it!” — Wacoal customer
Pros:
- Smooth cups
- Wide straps and U-shaped back
Con:
- Some reviewers say it runs small
If you’re looking for a low-price, high-quality minimizer bra, this one from Olga will fit the bill. “It is full coverage, simple, smooth, with a wide back that lays nice and flat, which is important to a lot of people,” says Caldwell. What’s more? “It has rigid front straps,” she says, with the caveat: “It’s not fully adjustable, but for some people, they might want rigid straps with really firm support.” The minimizer bra comes in cup sizes up to DDDD and band sizes up to 44 inches, and in four classic colors, all with lace detailing that adds a touch of visual interest to its simple and straightforward design.
Sizes available: C-DDD cup, 40- to 44-inch band
Colors: 4
What reviewers say: “This is by far the most comfortable bra I’ve ever worn. I forget I’m even wearing it! I was concerned at first about the lack of padding; however, those concerns were quickly put to rest. Being on the larger-breasted, it’s always a struggle to find something that works for the girls, plus looks good. This one fits both requirements and it’s SO soft. I immediately ordered three more. ” — Bare Necessities customer
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Designed with rigid front straps for firm support
Con:
- Limited size options
Who says large-busted individuals can’t go wireless? “This modern unlined wireless smoother has stitch-free technology and a clean streamlined aesthetic. It’s designed with soft sueded matte microfiber with the perfect amount of stretch and recovery,” says Altman. It’s double layered, with the second layer knitted with spandex, which minimizes and allows for fit flexibility across a range of sizes. Shop it sizes up to XXL and two colors.
Sizes available: S-XXL
Colors: 2
What reviewers say: “I have been looking for a comfortable wire-free bra to wear around the house and for running errands. The fit on this is perfect and the material is so soft and comfortable. Gives great support even though it is not traditionally cup-sized and does not contain an underwire. Highly recommend!” — Bare Necessities customer
Pros:
- Wire-free support
- Flexible fit across various sizes
Con:
- Not ideal for those looking for firm support
Chantelle’s C Magnifique Seamless Unlined Minimizer is designed to be undetectable underneath T-shirts, blouses, and dresses while providing the optimal amount of support. Caldwell says that it ticks all the boxes for a minimizer bra—it features full-coverage cups, adjustable straps, and a U-shaped back that stretches to hug your body. What’s more? “It comes in really beautiful colors,” she says. You can select among 12 colors, as well as an inclusive range of sizes. This option comes in cup sizes up to J and band sizes up to 44 inches wide.
Sizes available: C-J cup, 32- to 44-inch band
Colors: 12
What reviewers say: “It covers ALL of me. Comfortable. My breasts don’t fall out of the bra when I bend over. I’m a double D so comfort is everything. This is my favorite bra!!!” — Chantelle customer
Pros:
- 4.7-star overall rating after more than 1,500 customer reviews
- Wide range of color options
Con:
- Some reviewers say it runs small
Dominique’s Mystique Seamless Unlined Minimizer Bra offers very minimal stretch. “This one features a firm fit,” says Caldwell—something to keep in mind as you shop. While it offers firm support, it provides slightly less coverage than the options featured on the list, which Caldwell says, makes it ideal for those who want to show more cleavage and less cup. It comes in nine colors, and cup sizes up to H and band sizes up to 48 inches wide, so you’re likely to find an option that is ideal for you.
Sizes available: A-H cup, 30- to 48-inch band
Colors: 9
What reviewers say: “I have been wearing the Dominique Seamless Minimizer Bra for several years. It fits perfectly and gives full support.” — Bare Necessities customer
Pros:
- Provides firm support
- Inclusive sizing
Con:
- Some reviewers say it is too stiff for their liking
The Wacoal Visual Effects Minimizer Bra also comes with the recommendation of Caldwell. “This one has more stretch to more easily accommodate different sizes, and it also comes in more colors, which is fun,” she says. Caldwell also loves that it is breathable. Both the full-coverage cups and the band are lined with meshto help keep wearers more cool and comfortable. The bra also features adjustable straps and a U-shaped back with a hook-and-eye closure to keep straps in place. It comesin inclusive sizes, including cup sizes up to I and bands up to 44 inches, andas mentioned above, a range of pretty colors.
Sizes available: C-I cup, 32- to 44-inch band
Colors: 6
What reviewers say: “Minimizer bras always left me feeling squished. This bra did not let me down. Good sturdy straps, good support, good coverage, no spillage, and most of all: comfort!” — Wacoal customer
Pros:
- Lined with mesh to keep wearers cool and comfortable
- Inclusive sizing
Con:
- Some reviewers say it wasn’t very supportive
Minimizer bras can be both pretty and functional—and this Wacoal option is proof of that. It has this lace appliqué at the top, which is really different for a minimizer,” says Caldwell. “It’s a really beautiful option.” Despite its delicate lace look, the bra offers wearers utmost support. It features full-coverage cups, adjustable wide straps, and a U-shaped back with a hook-and-eye closure. Like many of Walcoal’s minimizer bras, it comes in a wide range of sizes. This option is available in cup sizes up to H and bands up to 42 inches. It’s currently available black, beige, and a gorgeous muted blue color.
Sizes available: C-H cup, 32- to 42-inch band
Colors: 3
What reviewers say: “Discovered this bra while shopping for a new minimizer bra. LOVE this one! Fit, coverage, and comfort are just what I was looking to find. Could replace all my bras with this one!” — Wacoal customer
Pros:
- Attractive design
- Inclusive sizing
Con:
- Some reviewers say the sizing is inconsistent
Caldwell is a big fan of the Andora minimizer bra from French lingerie brand Simone Pérèle—and not only because it looks elegant. She loves that it moves with you while the full-coverage cups offer firm but not restrictive support. She also says that the cups are smooth, and almost silky, making it virtually invisible underneath clothing. This bra also features adjustable lacy straps and a U-shaped back to reinforce both comfort and support. It comes in seven colors, and in a wide selection of sizes, including cup sizes up to G and bands up to 42 inches wide.
Sizes available: B-G cup, 32- to 42-inch band
Colors: 7
What reviewers say: “This was pricey but worth every cent! I love the fit and [it] is easily my favorite bra in the drawer.” — Amazon customer
Pros:
- Attractive lace design
- Inclusive sizing
Con:
- Pricey
The Spanx Low-Profile Minimizer Bra comes with the recommendation of Luciani. It features everything she recommends in a minimizer bra, including full-coverage cups, an inner side sling to prevent spillage, and padded straps to provide wearers with extra comfort. Plus, it’s made with a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you sweat-free. This bra comes in four neutral colors (Black, Champagne Beige, Vintage Rose, and Cafe Au Lait), which is perfect for those who want a bra for everyday wear, and it’s currently available for just under $50. The only tradeoff is that size options are limited.
Sizes available: DD-G cup, 32- to 42-inch band
Colors: 4
What reviewers say: “This is my favorite bra … it fits perfectly, it’s comfortable to wear all day, and it gives the best support.” — Spanx customer
Pros:
- Padded straps reinforce comfort
- Made of moisture-wicking fabric to stave off sweat
Con:
- Limited size options
Spanx’s Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra comes highly recommended by editor Abbey Stone, who says, “While most of the minimizing bras I tried took a lock-and-load approach to breast reduction, with rigid fabric, wide straps, and many a hook-and-eye clasp, the Spanx Bra-llelujah (a name that will never not be funny to me) was mercifully lightweight.” Keep in mind that it isn’t a minimizer bra, but for Stone, it provided—in her words—“chest-reducing results” and an ideal amount of support.
The bra is replete with wide elastic straps and a U-shaped back, plus a front-closure which makes it easy to put on and take off. You can shop it in six colors and sizes up to DD.
Sizes available: A-DD cup, 32- to 40-inch band
Colors: 6
What reviewers say: “Really like this bra. It’s comfortable and creates a nice silhouette. It’s easy to put on and take off. The straps are very comfortable for me. There is good coverage for under t-shirts. I like the light padding and the smoothing effect on my sides and back.” — Spanx customer
Pros:
- Comfortable yet supportive
- Front closure makes it easy to put on and take off
Con:
- Straps aren’t adjustable
The Soma Sensuous Sides 3-Inch Minimizer Bra is a favorite among Well+Good readers—and it’s no question why. It boasts full-coverage cups, wide adjustable straps, and a U-shaped back to offer a comfortable amount of support, and thanks to its padded smoothing wings, it smooths your sides without digging into your skin to provide seamless coverage. The lace detail also adds a nice touch of visual appeal. (What’s not to love?) The bra is available in sizes up to D, and while they only come in three colors, the neutral hues will suit most wardrobes.
Sizes available: D-G cup, 34- to 42-inch band
Colors: 3
What reviewers say: “Finally found a bra that is comfortable, attractive, and minimizes! Straps are comfy and it’s nice not having to adjust and tug at them all the time. Put it on in the morning and don’t think about it again.” — Soma customer
Pros:
- Made with side-smoothing technology
- Inexpensive
Con:
- Some reviewers say it runs small
There’s a reason this bra is so popular. The wide adjustable straps won’t dig into your skin, while the U-shaped back and unpadded full-coverage cups will keep you comfortably supported. What sets it apart from the other options on the list is that you can convert the straps to a criss-cross back for more support. What’s more, it’s also constructed with an adequate amount of spandex to stretch with you as you move. It’s available in up to G sizes and two color options, light beige and black.
Sizes available: D-G cup, 32- to 40-inch band
Colors: 2
What reviewers say: “I just purchased the minimizer bra and I love it! Extremely comfortable, not too tight and a convenient hook feature to wear with racer back tops.” — Lively customer
Cons:
- Convertible straps
- Provides a comfortable amount of support
Con:
- Limited color options
Those with big boobs know that even though sports bras are supposed to be compressive, they’re often not compressive enough, but the Knix Catalyst Sports is an exception. The super supporter will carry you through your sweatiest workouts. Running, weightlifting, dreaded burpees—boobs up to F sizes will be able to handle it all (and look good doing it) in this high-impact sports bra. It’s replete with a hook-and-eye closure for additional support while keeping you cool and comfortable. Shop it in 16 options, including solid colors and fun prints.
Sizes available: A-F cup, 28- to 42-inch band
Colors: 16
What reviewers say: “This isn’t my first, second, or third Catalyst purchase—I don’t even know how many I have now because I don’t wear anything else. I run, play hockey, horseback ride, go to the gym, and work in these—NOTHING I’ve even worn rivals the support and comfort—I can wear them all day, and when I get home, I DON’T rip them off as the first thing I do, like I did with every other bra I’ve ever owned. They don’t leave red lines, my shoulders aren’t sore, and they hold up well to repeated wash and wear.” — Knix customer
Pros:
- Made for high-impact activities
- Wireless construction
Con:
- Some reviewers say the sizing is inconsistent
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