{"id":644,"date":"2022-11-09T06:47:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-09T14:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/?p=644"},"modified":"2023-05-29T05:58:00","modified_gmt":"2023-05-29T12:58:00","slug":"what-is-shelf-bra","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/?p=644","title":{"rendered":"What Is a Shelf Bra (And How Do I Wear One?)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>There are many types and styles of bras on the market: Push up bras, full coverage bras, bralettes\u2026 the list goes on and on. The name of the bra style usually gives you a clue as to what the bra does, but sometimes you are left wondering what they could possibly be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-4eb1fe80 gb-headline-text\">\u200bWhat Is a Shelf Bra?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are 2 types of bras: built-in bras and platform. These bras are very different from each other. Built-in bras can be found within camisoles and tank tops, and oftentimes, built-in bras are great for smaller breasts and can be a girl&#8217;s first bra. On the other hand, platform bras are more risque than built-in bras, only cover a small portion of your breast, and are typically worn as lingerie.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-19\">\u200bBuilt-In Bras<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Built-in bras are the extra layer of fabric found within whatever outwear it may be attached to (i.e. camisoles or swimsuits), usually as a singlet. The support system on built-in bras consists of an elastic band that replaces the underwire in underwire bras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Built-in bras employs compression and sometimes padding to stay in place and support your breasts. Most built-in bras are extremely comfortable, which makes built-in bras a great option to wear regularly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-mv-video\"><div class=\"mv-video-target mv-video-id-yw19esklctjsbon1qkzf\" data-video-id=\"yw19esklctjsbon1qkzf\" data-volume=\"70\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You will want to ensure the elastic band are adjustable straps are thick enough to stay in place throughout the day. It may roll up under your breasts after a couple of hours of wear if it&#8217;s too thin.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"672\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-672x1024.jpg\" alt=\"The back band is a small piece of fabric, and has one or two cups stacked on each other, and has no underwire are the things you look for in a shelf bra\" class=\"wp-image-22705\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-672x1024.jpg 672w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-197x300.jpg 197w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-768x1170.jpg 768w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-1009x1536.jpg 1009w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01-1345x2048.jpg 1345w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-01.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-2\">\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200bMy <strong>favorite \u200bbuilt-in bra <\/strong>\u200bis\u200b\u200b\u200b the<strong> Hanes Women&#8217;s Stretch Cotton Cami with Built-in Bra<\/strong>. \u200b\u200b\u200b<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200b\u200bThis bra camisole combo is comfortable, has adjustable bra straps, and pairs well with pretty much everything. It\u2019s very affordable and comes highly recommended.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-4\">Platform Bras<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than being built-in into a top like the first bra I discussed, this bra stands alone, like a normal bra. It closely resembles an open-cup bra due to the number of breasts it exposes. The main difference is that not all built-in bras expose the nipple as open-cup bras do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s break down the anatomy of a built in bras:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"672\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-672x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Platform and built-in bras are examples of the different types of shelf bras\" class=\"wp-image-22708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-672x1024.jpg 672w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-197x300.jpg 197w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-768x1170.jpg 768w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-1009x1536.jpg 1009w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03-1345x2048.jpg 1345w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-03.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-10\">\u200bBuilt in Bras Band Structure<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The Built in Bras band can be either thin elastic bra straps, or have a hook and eye closure. More often than not, the back part of the band is a small piece of fabric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bCup Structure<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main cup in built-in bras is usually molded to the quarter half of the breast. The second cup usually is a rigid fabric such as lace, or nylon. It is used to prevent any spillage while still providing a seductive appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200b\u200b\u200bMy <strong>favorite \u200b\u200bplatform bra\u00a0\u200b<\/strong>is\u200b\u200b\u200b the<strong> Rosme Women&#8217;s Balconette Bra<\/strong>, which is a supportive underwire bra with gorgeous lace details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-5\">Advantages of Each Bra Type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A bra has the following advantages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><strong><strong>Comfort<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong>                                                                                                                                     Some built-in bras may have padding, but generally, built-in bras are not built like a normal bra. There may be light support but there\u2019s also no poking, chafing, and painful tightness that can happen with a normal bra.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compression<\/strong><br>Built-in bras support your breasts through compression.&nbsp; This style of bra doesn\u2019t have separate padded cups as regular bras do, so it compresses and holds your breasts closer to your chest to keep them in place.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Economy<\/strong><br>I love all the convenience and economy of an all-in-one outfit. A built-in bra might not be a whole outfit, but it\u2019s a top with a built-in bra. It combines two layers into one. That\u2019s one less extra layer of clothing to worry about!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Versatility<\/strong>&nbsp;<br>Camisoles are not the only garments you\u2019ll see a  bra in. They\u2019re also in tankinis, bikini tops, leotards, and tank tops and can support you under your outdoor wear. They\u2019re also versatile. They can be dressed up appropriately for more conservative settings, but can also be sexy and demure for <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/is-it-better-to-sleep-with-without-bra\/\">sleeping and lounging purposes<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Widely Available<\/strong><br>Built-in bra camisoles can be found at almost all places where bras and clothing are available. They can be bought from your neighborhood general store, high-end department stores, and even online.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/betterfit-what-shelf-bra-04.jpg\" alt=\"A woman wearing a black shirt and blue denim jeans is holding a white lace shelf bra and standing near a blue couch\" class=\"wp-image-27568\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/betterfit-what-shelf-bra-04.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/betterfit-what-shelf-bra-04-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/betterfit-what-shelf-bra-04-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-16\">Advantages of the Platform Bra<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>When on the hunt for a new bra, keep in mind what this seductive garment can offer you, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fuller Breast Appearance<\/strong><br>Smaller padded cups sizes could benefit from the full-breast look that quarter-cup bras can provide, especially when you buy one with the two-cup system. The molded central cup pushes smaller breasts up, and the second quarter cup rounds it all off. This ensures a smooth, supple look under your clothes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lift and Support<\/strong><br>Bras provide lift to the breasts resting on them. <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/how-big-c-cups\/\">Cup sizes C<\/a> and below should be fine without an underwire. D+ padded cups would benefit from finding underwire bras that <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/most-comfortable-underwire-bra\/\">include a comfortable underwire for maximum support<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comparing Shelf Bras to Other Bras<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><table><thead><tr><th>\n          <strong>Bra Style<\/strong>\n        <\/th><th>\n          <strong>Coverage<\/strong>\n        <\/th><th>\n          <strong>Support<\/strong>\n        <\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\n          <strong>Shelf<\/strong>\n        <\/td><td>Quarter to full-coverage<\/td><td>Elastic or underwire<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\n          <strong>Platform<\/strong>\n        <\/td><td>Open or half cup<\/td><td>Elastic <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\n          <strong>Camisole<\/strong>\n        <\/td><td>Full-coverage<\/td><td>Elastic<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-8\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-12\">When and How to Wear Shelf Bras<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a time, occasion, and matching garment for every bra. These bras are no exception, however versatile they may be.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"672\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-672x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Know when to wear a shelf bra\" class=\"wp-image-22707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-672x1024.jpg 672w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-197x300.jpg 197w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-768x1170.jpg 768w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-1009x1536.jpg 1009w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02-1345x2048.jpg 1345w, https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thebetterfit-what-is-shelf-bra-02.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>How to Wear a Built-In Bra<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These built-in bras are meant for everyday wear or low-impact activity. Don\u2019t expect it to withstand an hour-long session at the gym, but it will be perfect for your walk in the park, or lounging around your house.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How to Wear Platform Bras<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fit is almost everything when it comes to a great bra! When attempting a quarter-cup bra <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/what-age-should-you-wear-bra\/\">for the first time<\/a>, don\u2019t be afraid to grab sizes outside your range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When a platform bra is worn underneath a V-neck or low cut shirt, the delicate lace of the bra can be seen at the neckline like you would see <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/how-to-wear-bralette-under-clothes\/\">when wearing a bralette<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1662527169642\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What Is a Hidden Bra?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><strong>A hidden bra is a built-in bra woven into swimsuits or bikini tops. It provides additional coverage and light support without making the swimsuit too bulky.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1662527210709\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What Are the Disadvantages of This Type of Bra?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><strong>The biggest drawback of this bra is that its padded cups lack the rigidity and firmness of those seen in normal bras. In effect, it may not help you form perkier breasts.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1662527228154\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Is This Bra the Same as a Camisole Bra?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><strong>No, this type of bra isn&#8217;t the same as a camisole bra. These bras focus on the breasts, whereas a camisole bra can cover the torso.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"lyte-wrapper\" title=\"What Is a Shelf Bra? Two Types Explained (Built-In vs Lingerie)\" style=\"width:853px;max-width:100%;margin:5px auto;\"><div class=\"lyMe\" id=\"WYL_mzsLx06CIn4\" itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><div><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-youtube-lyte\/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FmzsLx06CIn4%2Fhqdefault.jpg\" \/><meta itemprop=\"embedURL\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mzsLx06CIn4\" \/><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT12M\" \/><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2022-08-18T22:50:01Z\" \/><\/div><div id=\"lyte_mzsLx06CIn4\" data-src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-youtube-lyte\/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FmzsLx06CIn4%2Fhqdefault.jpg\" class=\"pL\"><div class=\"tC\"><div class=\"tT\" itemprop=\"name\">What Is a Shelf Bra? Two Types Explained (Built-In vs Lingerie)<\/div><\/div><div class=\"play\"><\/div><div class=\"ctrl\"><div class=\"Lctrl\"><\/div><div class=\"Rctrl\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/mzsLx06CIn4\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-youtube-lyte\/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FmzsLx06CIn4%2F0.jpg\" alt=\"What Is a Shelf Bra? Two Types Explained (Built-In vs Lingerie)\" width=\"853\" height=\"460\" \/><br \/>Watch this video on YouTube<\/a><\/noscript><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"A shelf bra can mean a built-in shelf bra or an open-cup\/ &quot;cupless bra&quot; \/ lingerie style; this video explains both. Here is my recommendation if you&#039;re looking for a great cami: https:\/\/amzn.to\/47Czh5W And, this Dobreva quarter cup bra is my favorite: https:\/\/amzn.to\/4lxvnPb As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. #Ad Resources: - https:\/\/thebetterfit.com\/what-is-shelf-bra\/ - https:\/\/thebetterfit.com\/what-is-balconette-bra\/ - https:\/\/thebetterfit.com\/best-balconette-bra\/ Had enough of ill-fitted bras that pinch, slip, or chafe? Not any more! Get your accurate bra size at home without going to a lingerie shop. Enter your measurements here &amp; our calculator will find the rest: https:\/\/brasizecalculatorusa.com\/ Learn about The Better Fit: https:\/\/thebetterfit.com\/about\/\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"lL\" style=\"max-width:100%;width:853px;margin:5px auto;\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-7\">\u200bConclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, the 2 types of shelf bras are pretty different. The built-in bra is comfortable good for everyday wear. The platform bra is meant for more seductive occasions, with way less coverage than the built-in bra. Most women reserve the platform bra for their lingerie collection.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There are many types and styles of bras on the market: Push up bras, full coverage bras, bralettes\u2026 the list goes on and on. The name of the bra style usually gives you a clue as to what the bra &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"What Is a Shelf Bra (And How Do I Wear One?)\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/?p=644#more-644\" aria-label=\"Read more about What Is a Shelf Bra (And How Do I Wear One?)\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":656,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-644","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/644","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=644"}],"version-history":[{"count":40,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/644\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32708,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/644\/revisions\/32708"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/656"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=644"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=644"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.thebetterfit.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=644"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}