A guide to the best minimiser bras

Basically, the opposite of a push up bra.

best-minimiser-bras-UK

by Samantha Price |
Updated on

Despite constantly being told we should be looking to maximise our assets, sometimes what we're looking for is the best minimiser bra. Although they can be hard to find, the best bras that minimise your bust are out there. To make things a little bit easier, we've searched high and low for the best minimiser bra in the UK from trusted brands like Marks & Spencer, Triumph and more.

In fact, we've even enlisted the advice of an expert from Triumph about what exactly a minimiser is, how they work and whether they're safe to wear. But how exactly does a minimiser bra work? We explore this in our guide to the best minimiser bras in the UK.

Closer's best minimiser bras at a glance

Having quite literally the opposite effect of a push-up bra, a minimiser bra reduces the size of your bust. They're typically designed to make you look a cup size smaller. Not only that, but they also smooth over the appearance of your bust, keeping everything securely in place and preventing any spillage. Believe us, they're a smart option under clothes with buttons like blouses and shirt dresses, especially if you're fed up with any annoying gaping going on!

While you might be imagining we've selected an edit of totally unflattering frumpy bras, wearing a minimiser doesn't mean you should have to compromise on style. That's why we've chosen some cute bras with various colours, designs and sizes, so you can look and feel your best from the moment you get dressed.

SHOP: Best minimiser bras UK

Editor's choice

Triumph Harmony Spotlight Minimiser BraTriumph

The Triumph Harmony Spotlight Minimiser Bra has sexy, unpadded semi-sheer cups with just the right amount of coverage while being totally supportive due to its thick straps and band to keep you in place. It's so sleek, sophisticated and lightweight while still managing to minimise your bust. How?! We are living in this comfortable everyday bra for the foreseeable. Not to mention, it comes in a choice of flattering colours that are to die for.

Our review: "I've never tried a minimiser bra before, but this minimiser bra is NOTHING like what I had in mind - in the best way possible. I was so surprised at how unbelievably comfortable and supportive it was, despite having lightweight semi-sheer unpadded cups. It's the perfect balance between keeping you supported while allowing you to breathe, and it's hands-down become a new everyday favourite for me. Despite being a 34D, I definitely don't have a bigger bust, so I can't comment on how well it minimises for those with a larger cup size. However, I did notice that it did make me look about a cup size smaller, so it's definitely a win in my eyes."

Pros

  • Super, super, super comfortable
  • Supportive thick straps and band
  • Lightweight mesh material

Cons

  • May not minimise a very large bust

Best highly rated minimiser bra

WingsLove Women's Full Cup Minimiser Bra Amazon
Price: $23.99 - 29.99

As the most highly rated minimising bra on our list, the WingsLove Full Cup Minimiser Bra deserved a top spot. Reviewers say it's the most comfortable bra they own, becoming a sure favourite in their underwear drawer. There's no wiring or padding here, and its close-to-skin feel makes you feel secure and kept in place throughout the day.

Pros

  • Includes a variety of colours
  • Comfortable and free from wires
  • The size range runs to a 48HH in some designs

Cons

  • May be tricky to get correct size for some

Best budget minimiser bra

As the bestselling minimising bra on Amazon, we're definitely considering the Ayigedu Plus Size Minimiser Bra due to its incredible range. It comes in a variety of colour choices and LOADS of inclusive sizes. Not only that, but it's also the best budget option on our list. A fabulous choice, reviewers say it's supportive, comfortable and gets the job done. Could you ask for anything more?

Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Thick underband and straps provide support
  • The sizing runs to a 52F!

Cons

  • May be tricky to get correct size for some

Best minimiser bra for choice

Bravissimo Fantasie Illusion BraBravissimo

The Bravissimo Fantasie Illusion Bra is included in Bravissimo's range of minimising bras because it has a high-coverage full-cup style that smooths out the appearance of the bust. The only padding that'll be found here is on the straps and around the hook-and-eye for total comfort. Otherwise? You'll get a natural, unpadded shape that simply disappears under tops thanks to its smooth fabric.

Pros

  • Includes a variety of colours
  • Has a high-coverage full-cup style
  • The size range runs to a 42G

Cons

  • Minimising power could be better

Best bestselling minimiser bra

Wild Blooms Minimiser Full Cup Bra C-HMarks and Spencer

You can always trust M&S to deliver, and their Wild Blooms Minimiser Full Cup Bra C-H is a highly rated option that's also reasonably priced. Bras are expensive, but this bestselling minimiser from Marks & Spencer is ridiculously affordable. Featuring pretty lace details and wiring for extra support, this bra is a real contender on our list.

Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Reduces the bust by up to one cup size
  • The size range runs to 44H

Cons

  • Could include more choice of colours

Best trusted minimiser bra

Triumph Women's Ladyform Minimiser BraAmazon
Price: $21.84 - £49.21

Triumph have some of the best bras about, and the Triumph Ladyform Minimiser Bra is a popular choice. A trusted brand in the lingerie world, especially for bigger busts, we love this sophisticated design. There are so many colours and designs to select from, but not only is it pretty, it's also a great supportive bra.

Pros

  • Reduces the bust by up to one cup size
  • Made with LYCRA for flexibility
  • The sizes run to a 44E

Cons

  • Prices vary a lot with designs

Best everyday minimiser bra

Delimira Minimiser BraAmazon
Price: $22.94 - 26.99

Looking for a no-fuss everyday bra? The Delimira Minimiser Bra is your girl. A simple design with full coverage cups that consist of compression lining for smoothing out your bust, it can minimise your cup size up to two inches. Not only does it come in a tonne of colours, but also has thick padded straps and high-cut sides for support.

Pros

  • Includes a wide variety of colours
  • Minimises the bust up to two inches
  • The size range runs to a 44F in some designs

Cons

  • Underwiring may be uncomfortable for some

Best supportive minimiser bra

Triumph
Price: $15.40 (Was £44)

uk.triumph.com

With a sleek, sophisticated silhouette, the Triumph True Shape Sensation Minimiser Bra adapts to your shape. Looking streamlined under your clothes, it reduces the look of your bust due to it's innovative jersey material that slims without compromising on comfort. The wide, padded straps offer support and style, with clean edges that sit flat against your skin.

Pros

  • Has a smooth sculpted feel
  • Reduces the bust by up to one cup size
  • The sizes run to 44F

Cons

  • Short shoulder straps despite being adjustable

Best smoothing minimiser bra

Flexifit™ Wired Minimiser Bra C-HMarks and Spencer

For the barely there feel, the Flexifit™ Wired Minimiser Bra C-H from Marks & Spencer features moulded cups that are designed to move with you. Made from breathable, flexible fabric, despite being a minimiser, this bra will never feel restrictive due to its four-way stretch. Its adjustable straps mean it can be converted to a racerback bra for added support, and non-padded cups give a natural, smooth shape.

Pros

  • Has a smooth sculpted feel
  • Reduces the bust by up to one cup size
  • The size range runs to 44H

Cons

  • Could include more choice of colours

Best minimiser bra for full coverage

Wacoal Back Appeal Underwired Minimiser BraJohn Lewis
Price: $55
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=c84bfba7fb9057c609599595b4f5e218&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=C0xAEhVYThgRFU4eW1IKW1FXWFhLVkxGTFcJWEpCHhRZVw0HDkxVBwFSHVRHE1NRVRhMV1FcRxVdFFBIX1gNUVkLHAcTGgQQWB1FRQxSAgoBDgoFCwdW&x=v1&prdId=9264256444&barcode=UwgDU19XVQNfWg0DBgY%3D
Alternative retailers
Macy's$72.00View offer
Bloomingdale's$72.00View offer
Saks Fifth Avenue$72.00View offer
Nordstrom$72.00View offer

From John Lewis, the Wacoal Back Appeal Underwired Minimiser Bra is a favourite with customers. Its high, full-coverage non-padded cups offer loads of support and give a flattering, natural shape. Reviews say it's super comfortable, with an amazing minimising effect. Close-set straps prevent that dreaded annoying slipping, and side smoothing support prevents bulges.

Pros

  • Minimises the bust up to one inch
  • Full coverage cups with natural shaping
  • The sizes run up to 38F

Cons

  • Only available in one colour

Best multi minimiser bra

Gorgeous DD+ 2 Pack Jacquard Stripe Minimiser BraDebenhams
Price: $7-£20 (was £26)

www.debenhams.com

Looking for a set of minimiser bras? This Gorgeous DD+ 2 Pack Jacquard Stripe Minimiser Bra includes two bras, one black and one 'nude' for everyday wear. Underwired for support, these bras are a good option if you're looking for a low-maintenance minimiser that does the trick.

Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Features supportive underwiring
  • The sizes run to 40E

Cons

  • The cup size may run small

Here's where to shop the best minimiser bra UK:

Bravissimo

Debenhams

JD Williams

Marks & Spencer

Simply Be

Triumph

Very

FAQs

What to look for in a minimiser bra?

When it comes to buying a bra for it's minimising power, there'll be a few things you'll want to consider. It goes without saying, but what you'll want to avoid is anything with padded cups, as this is only going to enhance your bust instead. Go for cups without padding that have a high level of full coverage. Ideally, they might have some sort of compression material, a bit like that found in a supportive sports bra, to bring your bust in.

How does a minimiser bra work?

We spoke to a spokesperson at Triumph, Claudia Roos, Head of Creative Design Europe about how a minimiser bra works. She says, 'For a minimizer bra, we use specialised fabric with reduced elasticity to provide enhanced support and a precise fit. The cup construction is designed to be less deep, pushing the breasts to the side, creating a flatter, minimised appearance.' A minimiser bra may be the best option for women with a bigger bust, much like the best sports bras for big busts.

Is a minimiser bra safe to wear?

In terms of whether a minimiser bra is safe to wear, Claudia says: 'Yes, it is completely safe. The design of the minimizer bra involves full cup coverage and a higher side cut compared to other bras, which redistributes the breast volume. The broader straps not only act as a support bra but also prevent any discomfort or digging into the skin. Furthermore, we select the fabric for its supportive and functional qualities, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.'

Samantha Price is a Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Product Writer for Closer. With two years of experience at Bauer, she has worked on several projects, from championing the Closer newsletters to writing expertly crafted buying guides.

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