The bras every woman should own

I have spent the last few weeks researching types of bras. There is a ton of helpful information out there already. Instead of rehashing what's already out there, I'm going to give you some helpful, educational links. Then I'll tell you which ones I think everyone should have in their bra wardrobe.

Helpful bra links

Linda's online has a great Bra School section of their website. There's a ton of information there, but for today's purposes, take a look at the Bra Style Guide. It has great illustrations of each type of bra and an overview of how it should fit. While you're there, check out their bra troubleshooting guide.

The Ultimate Bra guide is not as in depth with their bra styles, but they do show photos of the common types of bras.

Third Love has this really cool fit finder tool. If you don't want to go get a fitting or you have one or two specific issues you're trying to solve, this might help. They also have an iPhone app that is pretty darn accurate. 

Bras you need to own

Sports bra, T Shirt bra, convertible bra, bralette, and soft cup mesh bra. 

Sports bra

You need a sports bra that fits. Most women at the gym are not wearing sports bras that fit. If you're over an A cup, it needs to have underwire and it needs to be full coverage. It should hold your girls in and minimize bouncing. Many sports bras have 3 or more hooks - this is great because the support from a bra comes from a band. Anything less (or a pull on) isn't going to give you any support.
I prefer a racerback or bra with a J-hook so I can convert it to racerback. It keeps the straps from sliding, which is especially important during high impact physical activity. My all time favorite sports bra is the Panache sports bra. It's amazing. It's comfortable and supportive, and it still looks nice. I don't know what I did before I found this bra. The best part is that it comes in a massive range of sizes, so it accommodates all types of breasts. It's pricey, but it's worth the investment. I've had mine for 2 years and they are barely showing signs of wear.

T Shirt or Molded cup bra

These types of bras have only really become popular in the last 10 years. I don't know what I did without them. I feel like the molded cup gives me just a little bit of extra support and a consistent shape. Almost all T Shirt bras are molded cup bras and they're all seamless. The standard suggestion is to get a Tshirt bra in a color that matched your skin tone. That's a good place to start, but I say get one in a color that will go under whatever you wear a lot of. I wear a lot of black and grey, so most of mine are black. My favorite T Shirt bras right now are from Natori. The Natori Pure Allure (this also comes in a great array of sizes!) and Feathers T-back bras.

Convertible bra

Sometimes you need a special bra for a special outfit. Instead of buying a strapless bra, get a convertible bra. You'll get more use out of it and can use it as a T Shirt bra too. I like convertible bras because you can do a cross-back thing with straps, as well as a halter, which can come in handy for summer. I love my Le Mystere Soiree - it has come in handy over the years.

Fun bra

This can be whatever is fun for you. Demi, balconette, push up, plunge, bralette ...whatever. You do you. Something that you feel attractive in and you enjoy wearing. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful in what they wear. Buy yourself something that fits nice and makes you feel great. I have started making sure that every bra I wear makes me feel this way and it makes a big difference in how I dress, and how I feel about how I look. Just make sure the damn thing fits.