The 15 Best Minimizer Bras from Lacy to Athletic

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Minimizer bras are the unsung heroes of the undergarment world. We praise sports bras for holding our boobs in place during moments of intense cardio. We worship bralettes for offering a comfortable wire-free fit that doesn’t feel constricting. We celebrate push-up bras for enhancing the shape of our breasts. However, rarely do we give minimizer bras the medal of honor they deserve. Although we should, especially those with bigger boobs.

Minimizer bras are specifically designed to reduce the appearance of a woman’s bustline by compressing, and thus redistributing, breast tissue. "Minimizers are often used as shapewear for the breast to reduce the measurement to fit into no-stretch garments, such as a button-down top or no-stretch satin or leather," says Jessica Pfister, vice president of Le Mystère. Pfister also tells Bazaar that minimizer bras can benefit someone with a very active lifestyle, as they effectively work to restrict excess movement, which ultimately leads to less pain and discomfort.

Ahead, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best minimizer bras, from simple designs that feature neutral shades to more intricate styles adorned with lace. These bras deserve a round of applause, because they’re bound to save the day.

ThirdLove 24/7® Unlined Minimizer Bra

No foam cups? No problem. ThirdLove’s unlined minimizer bra offers ample support and coverage without the extra bulk that is often caused by lining.

Cup sizes: B–H

Band sizes: 32–44

Colors: Taupe, black

What reviewers are saying: “Love this bra. Very comfortable. I’ll be purchasing more colors. I am a 36 E. Always looking for a good minimizer. This one fits the bill!”

Muse Full Cup Lace Bra

If you already have a collection of neutral-colored bras, perhaps it’s time to spice things up a bit? You can do so with Montelle’s lace bra, which is offered in a variety of shades, but our favorite is this deep purple hue. With a smooth nylon material and a mesh-lined cup that offers extra support, this bra proves that style and comfort can coexist.

Cup sizes: D-G

Band sizes: 32-40

Colors: Purple (lace), gray, tan, beige, brown, blush pink, black, multicolored, pink (lace), blue (lace),

Low Profile Minimizer Bra

Cutout detailing adds interest to this versatile, lightly lined minimizer bra by Spanx, and it comes in three other colors.

Cup sizes: DD-G

Band sizes: 32-42

Colors: Beige, black, pink, brown

What reviewers are saying:"The best bra. Period. Supports, minimizes, and does not show under white tops."

C Magnifique Minimizer Bra

Chantelle’s C Magnifique minimizer bra features a combination of tight fabrics, such as nylon and spandex, which work together to provide ample support. This snug bra is also equipped with fully adjustable shoulder straps and a double-lined mesh band to really hold everything in place.

Cup sizes: C-DDD

Band sizes: 32-42

Colors: Black, Dark brown, nude, light brown

What reviewers are saying: “Consistently happy! Chantelle is the only bra I will wear.”

Lace Strapless Minimizer Bra

The biggest fear about wearing a strapless bra is that it will gradually slip below your bustline, and this fear is often a reality for those with larger breasts. If you’ve experienced such a terror, you have all the right in the world to be apprehensive, but we can assure you that you can let your guard down with a Victoria's Secret strapless minimizer bra. This form-fitting bra is specifically designed to offer the perfect amount of compression while staying firmly put.

Cup sizes: B-G

Band sizes: 32-44

Colors: Black, beige

What reviewers are saying: “Very comfortable, pretty and looks nice. You don't realize that it is strapless. The best strapless bra I have ever worn.”

CrossOver Bra

With Honeylove’s CrossOver bra, you can run around and jump up and down all you want. Why? Well, the magic is in the straps. They’re adjustable and can be crisscrossed along the back to yield extra reinforcement during physical activity.

Sizes: XS-3X

Colors: Black/brown, nude, black, white, red, pink, burgundy, navy, black (lace), white (lace)

What reviewers are saying: “This is absolutely the best bra I have ever owned. I’m not one for reviews, but this bra is worthy of one. Fits perfectly in every way. I’m already letting my friends know how important it is that they give it a try. I have ordered two, and plan on ordering more.”

Lilyette By Bali Minimizer Underwire Bra

While searching for a comfortable minimizer bra, make sure that you’re paying close attention to the width of the straps. Wider straps can help with weight distribution, ultimately leading to less shoulder pain and a more pleasant experience overall. Lilyette’s minimizer bra offers just that,

Cup Sizes: C-DDD

Band sizes: 34-42

Colors: White, black, pink, cream, navy

What reviewers are saying: “I have bought this particular style of Bali minimizer bra for a few years. The fit and lift is excellent! Very comfortable to work in.”

Angie Front Close Minimizer Bra

If you're searching for a front-closure minimizer, this one is the perfect solution for full-bust women looking to reduce their bust projection. It's designed to minimize the appearance of your bust and it's sleek and lightweight construction providing all-day comfort.

Cup Sizes: C-H

Band sizes: 34-44

Colors: Black, gray, pink, pastel pink

What reviewers are saying: “My new favorite! After trying several times to find a replacement for the original t shirt bra, this one fits the bill! A good neutral yet feminine color for my skin & so comfortable to wear that I get grumpy when it's in the wash.”

Smooth Profile Underwire Minimizer Bra

"A top three seller for Le Mystère, this is the go-to for a super comfortable bra that minimizes your bust line by more than 1 ½ inches," Pfister tells BAZAAR.

Cup sizes: C-H

Band sizes: 34-38

Colors: Black, beige

What reviewers are saying: "The most comfortable and truly minimizing bra I have had. The wide-set front and broad cups give the profile I want. Just as important: No bounce when I walk. Straps are set close enough in back they don't slide off my narrow shoulders."

The Minimizer Bra

Behold the most comfortable minimizer bra, featuring plush straps and double-layered fabric cups.

Cup sizes: C-G

Band sizes: 32-40

Colors: Cream, black

What reviewers are saying: "Sizing accurate. No spillage. I have tried many minimizer bras. This is by far the most comfortable and effective bra I have ever worn. My shirts fit so much better. Very pleased after purchasing one, so I then purchased the bundle."

WonderWire Front Close Underwire Bra

This minimizer features shape-enhancing cups with an extra layer of cushioning and padded straps for exceptional shape and comfort.

Cup sizes: B-H

Band sizes: 34-50

Colors: Brown, black, white, nude, pink, multicolored

What reviewers are saying:"This bra is the best! Comfortable, cool even on a hot day, and gives the separation and lift I need. I am full-busted and wear a 40 F and need front closure for a rotator cuff tear."

Back Appeal Underwire Minimizer Bra

This underwire minimizer bra pays special attention to the back with a specially designed smoothing band and full-coverage molded cups for maximum support.

Cup sizes: D-DDD

Band sizes: 32-42

Colors: Black, pink

What reviewers are saying: "I cannot believe how nice this feels. Light padding, so it molds perfectly to my shape. I feel extremely lifted where I should be, and the weight that is lifted is—incredible. Most comfortable thing I've ever owned. And yes, it does minimize by about an inch."

Enora Minimizer Bra

A little lace to dress up your minimizer? Yes, please.

Cup sizes: C-H

Band sizes: 32-44

Colors: Black, nude, red, blue

Caresse Full-Figure Minimizer Bra

Delicate lace lends a modern and oh-so-feminine touch to this seamless minimizer.

Cup sizes: D-G

Band sizes: 32-40

Colors: Light pink, black

What reviewers are saying: "The fit and shape are amazing. It truly does take a cup size off of you."

Beauty Back Smoothing Minimizer Bra

This back-smoothing effect of this minimizer is akin to an airbrushed look under slinky fabrics and tees.

Cup sizes: C-H

Band sizes: 32-38

Colors: Neutral, navy, black, pink, brown, tan, white, peach, neutral (lace), white (lace), purple, light blue, lilac, dark blue

What reviewers are saying: "I absolutely can't believe how great this bra is! I bought three of them. I am a size H and struggle to find bras that are good Quality minimizers. This bra is a winner! Comfort, fit, and it's pretty!!!"

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best minimizer bra?

The best minimizer bras very by your size and wardrobing needs. Several brands including Wacoal, Chantelle, Spanx, and more make minimizing bras that reduce breast size with a focus on comfort. According to bra experts and shopper reviews, Le Mystère's 'Smooth Profile' bra is one of the best classic minimizer bras. For working out, Natori's 'Dynamic Contour Sports Bra' is a favorite.

Do minimizer bras really work?

Minimizer bras that have a wider wire can spread breast tissue and appear to reduce their size. To be considered a true minimizer, Le Mystère VP Jessica Pfister says the bra has to be able to reduce your breast projection by 1 ½ inches. You can check by wrapping a tape measure around your back and the fullest part of your breast. Then perform the same measurement with the minimizer. "You should notice a significant difference between the projection measurements," Pfister says.

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