Spanx has long been synonymous with comfort and support, and that remains true for their bras. Most women are familiar with the woes associated with traditional bras. Their underwire pokes, their straps slip, their bands pinch and the strapless ones fall. Spanx created a line of bras designed to combat all of these issues.
From classic T-shirt bras to push-ups to bralettes, Spanx has a full line of bras that are supportive and comfortable, like the SPANX Women’s Bra-llelujah Racerback Bra, to go with every garment.
What to know before you buy a Spanx bra
Size
Finding the right bra size is a lifelong battle for some women. However, there are some tips that can help you determine the right size for you. When it comes to the band, know that it should be parallel to the floor and go around the body in what looks like a straight line. If it has an arch shape or is lifting at the sides, that’s not the right fit. The gore — the piece of fabric between the two cups — should rest flat against the chest; it shouldn’t be floating or rising up. If you have underwire, all of the breast tissue should sit within the wire; the wire shouldn’t be pressing into the tissue or cutting into your sides. It should encircle the breast tissue and support it, never cut it off.
What you’re wearing
You’re familiar with your own personal style and what sorts of clothes you like to wear. If you like to wear clothing with plunging necklines, you might like a U-plunge, T-shirt or push-up bra. If you wear a lot of racerback tank tops, look for either a racerback bra or one with adjustable straps that can be cinched into the racerback position. If you have a full bust that you’d like to contain and you have a modest style, Spanx has some great options for that, such as full coverage and sports bras.
Activities
Spanx makes a variety of bras, each suited for different activities and lifestyles. They have nursing bras for mothers who need easy access when it’s time to pump or feed. They also offer a great line of athletic bras that provide support when running, jumping and beyond. If you need a strapless bra that will stay in place during long hours of dancing in a cocktail dress, Spanx offers those, too. Think about your lifestyle and activities and what sort of support you need before choosing your Spanx bra.
Spanx bra features
Flexibility
Even when you understand your bra size, it can still be nice to have a bit of flexibility in case your weight fluctuates or you just have days when your bust is fuller than others due to hormones or bloat. If you choose a bra with a hook-and-eye closure, make sure it has several settings so you can adjust it as needed. Should you opt for a pull-on design or a bra that simply clasps in the front on the gore, make sure the band material is stretchy so you can move with ease.
Flat lines and seams
One of the most popular features of many Spanx bras is their flat lines and seams. Spanx specializes in making undergarments that create smooth lines so there aren’t any bumps or bulges. If you’ll be wearing particularly tight clothing, opt for one of their bras that’s designed to smooth out the back, shoulders and bust. It’s important to consult the size guide, because if a bra is too large or too small, it will fail to create a seamless aesthetic.
Color
Most Spanx bras come in either nude or black, and some come in colorful designs. When wearing light colors or transparent tops, a nude bra is a good choice as it won’t be visible through the top. However, black bras have their benefits as well. Black bras won’t show sweat stains as much as nude bras. They’re also ideal for sheer black tops or dresses. It’s worth noting that the dyes in your clothing can rub off on your bras, and these stains show more on nude bras than black ones.
Spanx bra cost
Spanx bras range from around $40 on the low end to $90 on the high end. Those featuring advanced technology like compression panels or underwire cost more than simple bralettes or sports bras.
Spanx bra FAQ
Are Spanx bras comfortable?
A. Spanx bras are designed to relieve wearers of the problems most bras pose. Their underwire is well-contained in durable fabric, so it shouldn’t poke through. Their wide and comfortable straps don’t dig into shoulders or slip out of place. Their fabric is soft, supportive and breathable and most of their designs have flat seams.
Are Spanx bras worth it?
A. While there might be more affordable bras on the market, many are made with low-quality materials that deteriorate after a few wears and washes or don’t provide the support you need. Spanx bras are designed to last and many users gladly pay the higher price tag for the support and comfort they provide.
Which Spanx bra should I get?
Best of the best Spanx bra
SPANX Women’s Bra-llelujah Racerback Bra: available at Amazon and Macy’s
Our take: With underwire cups and a racerback design, this bra is designed to offer support while looking good under most everyday wear.
What we like: A front closure makes this bra easy to put on and take off. It has molded cups and underwire for a flattering lift without any bulges or lines. The back is made of hosiery and is super flexible and soft.
What we dislike: The straps are not adjustable.
Best bang for your buck Spanx bra
SPANX Women’s Bra-llelujah Bralette: available at Amazon and Macy’s
Our take: Free of any metal hardware or plastic, this is a lightweight and soft bra.
What we like: Those who don’t need the lift of underwire and just want something comfortable and light will enjoy this bralette. Its cups offer good coverage and its pull-on style is easy to put on. The wide straps don’t dig into shoulders and they stay in place well.
What we dislike: The sizing runs small.
Honorable mention Spanx bra
SPANX Women’s Up for Anything Strapless Bra: available at Amazon and Macy’s
Our take: When you need support in a strapless top, this reliable bra is a good choice.
What we like: With a hook-and-eye closure and convertible, removable straps, this bra is easy to customize for different outfits. Its memory foam cups are comfortable and mold to the bust shape.
What we dislike: The band can stretch out.
Julia Austin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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