Bra shopping with friends in high school went a little something like this: We'd walk into an explosively pink mall store, they'd rack up armfuls of options, and I'd head to where I could buy bras in petite sizes (aka: bras so padded their cups were essentially convex, or bras so dressed down they appeared to be training bras). For whatever reason, bra designers back then seemed to assume people shopping for petite bra sizes fit into two categories: va-va voom cleavage or "Nothing to see here, thanks!"
It's enough to make you want to throw you hands in the air, tossing your bra off with them (and more power to you, if that's your preference!). Still, the old fashioned mindset that petite size wearers prefer 'all or nothing' made one-stop bra shopping frustrating. Now, I cherry pick my favorite bras from a ton of different stores online (one might have the comfiest fitting bands, while another store's nude bra never shows under sheer tops). It takes longer to source from different sites, but it's worth it.
Everyone shopping for petite size bras is looking for something a little different. Some sources say demi cups are great for petite frames, while if you don't want underwire support, a stretchy bralette provides the ultimate comfort fit. Either way, here's hoping that this roundup of great bras for petite sizes saves you some time-consuming cherry picking of your own.
1Underwire With Embroidered Details & Scalloped Edges
Intimately Day Dreamer Underwire Bra (32A-36DD), $48, Free People
I love this bra because despite the detailed embroidery and scalloped edges, it's completely smooth and undetectable beneath clothes. The underwire provides a secure fit that lets the less structured cups follow the natural line of your chest, instead of the other way around.
2Strappy Lace Bralette That's Fancy But Comfy
BP. Strappy Lace Bralette (XXS-XL), $19, Nordstrom
What genius decided fancy underwear has to be incredibly uncomfortable? This bralette is the best of both worlds: a cool caged strappy design and an underwire-free, adjustable fit (and partially lined for additional coverage beneath tops, too).
3Supportive Strapless For 28+ Bands & D+ Cups
Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Bra (28D-38J), $24-$75, Amazon
If you're best supported by a large cup size but still need a small band, this underwire strapless style is worth a look. Carrying band sizes 28, 30, and higher in cups D through J, reviewers are saying things like, "Seriously, once it is on I do not have to adjust my boobs at all," and "I have never been able to find a strapless in my size and this exceeded my expectations." Side boning prevents the edges from rolling, and silicone grips keep slippage to a minimum.
4A Padded Strap Push-Up For AA & Up
KUTU Underwire Brassiere Push Up (32AA-38B), $50, Amazon
If you want a bra with padding, don't think you have to sacrifice on comfort to get a little lift. This style starts at AA cup, and the padded straps on top ensure the extra padding doesn't cause this bra to dig into your shoulders. Plus, the straps are even removable.
5A Supportive Balconette For 28+ Bands & D+ Cups
Panache Tango II Balconette Bra (28D-44FF), $56, Amazon
If you've got a petite band size and a D or higher cup size, this balconette bra could be a great option to consider. It's super supportive because of the three-part balconette cup style, and its power mesh fabric ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day.
6Front-Closing Lace Triangle Bra
Chelsea28 Lace Triangle Bra (XS-L), $23, Nordstrom
For anyone who loathes pulling a bra around backwards and upside down to get the darn thing on — here's your answer: A front-closing bra that makes mornings that much easier. Plus, 20 percent spandex adds a comfy amount of stretch to soft lace cups, while a wider elastic band at bottom ensures it stays put.
7Structured Bralette With Adjustable Straps
Free People You Pretty Thing Bralette (XS-L), $38, Nordstrom
This criss-crossing bralette provides a little more structure than traditional styles, thanks to a design that's both decorative and functional. Plus, adjustable straps ensure a customized fit every time you wear it.
8Minimalist Triangle Bra For T-Shirts
Lula Lu Petites Delilah Wireless Bra (32AAA-36B), $39-$58, Amazon
If you're a fan of the 'less is more' aesthetic, then check out this comfy wireless bra that comes in size AAA and up. Clean lines and no pokey wires is a win-win.
9Stretch Contour Cups in AA & Up
Wacoal Petite Embrace Lace Push Up Bra (32AA-36C), $40, Amazon
Contour cups are a great choice, if you're looking for a fit that follows the natural curve of your body but still adds noticeable lift. One reviewer, who said they're a petite bra size, even said, "I would order this bra in several colors, if that were an option! I'm excited to have found another bra that fits--not an easy task when you're my size."
10Sports Bra With Mesh Cutouts
Amoena Performance Light Support Sports Bra (32AA-42DD), $49, Amazon
When it comes to working it out, I need a little style inspiration. This mesh cutout sports bra provides petite frames with light coverage under a workout top or worn on its own, which is exactly what I want on a run.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
