Bra styles go through several changes over time because they are forever evolving. Today, we have thousands of bra styles, with varying features and functionalities. Many women love to experiment with different colours and patterns of bras, which has created huge demands for trendy bra designs on the lingerie market. You might have heard of everyday bras, sports bras, wirefree bras, etc., but have you ever heard of cage bras? Right now, these bras are the rage. In this blog, let’s look at what a cage bra is, its features, types and benefits. Ready to learn more about these trail blazing innerwear for women? 

What Is Unique About the Cage Bra?

A cage bra, as the name indicates, is a style of bra where the straps are crafted to form a cage-like design. Aside from the two straps (that pass over the shoulders) seen in a regular bra, there are additional straps in a cage bra. 

In many of these bras, the cage-like pattern will be on the front, and in others, the design is seen on the back. In some bras, both the front and the back have this pattern. Did you know that some of these bras have straps styled to look like a star?

Benefits of Wearing Cage Bras

Here are some wonderful benefits of wearing these bras:

• They make you look extra stylish and sensuous.
• They are perfect to be paired with your sheer and backless outfits.
• Lace/mesh cage bras, which can be used for special occasions, are available on the market.
• High-quality bras offer utmost comfort and act like second skin.
• Wearing this bra style is a simple, yet beautiful way of showing off your lovely curves.
• These bras, paired with matching cage panties, form a complete lingerie set.

Types of Cage Bras

These bras come in a variety of styles/types from which you can choose the one most suitable for you!

NOTE: The following sub-categories fall under the broader category of ‘cage bras’.

Sports Bras

Choose these bras if you want something that offers extra support and comfort to your breasts while working out. They have wider straps for additional lift and support, and at the same time, make you look super stylish!

Underwired Bras

These combine the cage-like design with underwires for better shape and support. If you love fashionable bra styles, underwired bras of this type are a must-have in your lingerie wardrobe.

Padded Bras

As the name suggests, these styles come with light or full padding. Just like regular padded bras, they offer better lift to the breasts and a nicer silhouette.

Non-padded Bras

They are lightweight (since there is no padding) and provide a natural shape in any outfit. Made of soft, breathable fabrics, these styles are the ideal choice for both formal and casual wear.

T-Shirt Bras

These pretty bras are perfect to be paired with T-shirts and tops. They offer a seamless look under outfits, while providing a chic appearance.

Cage Bralettes

It’s the fusion of a cage bra and a bralette, which can be used as a standalone piece with long skirts or pants to achieve an Indo Western look. You can also wear such a bralette under an outfit of your choice. 

What Is a Cupless Cage Bra?

You might have seen celebrities and models wearing these bras. In this style, there are no actual bra cups, but the fabric is designed to form the outlines of the cups. The main purpose of this style is to provide the required lift to the breasts, while remaining lightweight. The straps usually go around the neck, instead of the shoulders. 

How Can You Style It?

Here are some tips to style your bra:

• Pair it with a casual top to get a stylish, fancy look.
• Wear it under a saree blouse to obtain a perky look in a saree.
• Style this bra with a kurta to achieve a chic, elegant appearance.
• Pair it with a backless dress to get a strappy look at the back.
• Try it with any traditional attire like a lehenga to appear ethnic-cum-elegant.  

Why Should You Opt for This Style?

I hope you have now learned about what a cage bra is. These bras add beauty and glamour to your everyday outfits. No wonder they are the ‘in’ thing right now! Just like everyday bras, they are available in a variety of hues and designs from which you can take your pick. If you are tired of wearing regular bras, you can try cage bras for a change. It’s the perfect way to look and feel more beautiful and confident inside out!

FAQs

1. What are the different styles of cage bras?

Cage bras are of various styles like underwired, padded, non-padded, etc. There are also sports bras, T-shirt bras and bralettes that fall under the broader category of cage bras.

2. How do you wear or style a cage bra?

You can pair this bra with a casual top to obtain a chic, stylish look. You can even wear the bra, along with a backless dress, to get a strappy-back look.

3. What kind of outfits does it work with?

Cage bras go well with long kurtas, casual and fancy tops, saree blouses, lehengas, etc. For the bottoms, you can wear jeans of different styles, wide-legged pants and skirts.

Written and Illustrated by TINA WILSON

Happy Mother’s Day. This is not directed to your mom or mine, I am speaking to the mother of all mothers, Earth. We owe her. We won’t survive if she doesn’t. We have no choice but to protect her. It’s not easy and some brands walk the walk.

I’ve been an Araks fan for years, the founder created a brand around fine silk and mesh undies in extraordinary colors.  It’s not easy to make a silk underwire bra look good and feel good enough to become a lingerie mainstay. I also love their mesh. The brand is crafted locally in NYC in a women-owned manufacturing facility and the OEKO-TEX 100 certified fabrics are milled in Korea following safe chemical management with zero wastewater practices.

Calida is one of the premium European brands with a higher price point, and the quality is worth it, the soft and silky organic cotton they use is breathable and naturally temp regulating. Calida is for that classic mom who believes in shopping less and wearing longer. Quality is a form of sustainability. From the classic button front pj to the mix and match separates Calida will be mom’s favorite.

For that “granola mom” and I say this with the utmost reverence, there is Pact, they have a strong history of sustainable practices in their organic cotton with water savings (7 gallons), their carbon offset for climate and the product is made in a fair-trade factory in India which employs just under a 1000 people. The colors are natural looking and soothing.

You gotta love Lattelove. They have an extensive array of wonderful fabrics in lovely prints with texture and color and eco-friendly benefits.  The Lenzing Ecovera is a popular fabric within the collection. I love the lace top and capri pj with a touch of lace at the neck and sleeve, its feminine coverage for the mom with curious kids. It’s a tough choice when you’re on the Lattelove website, trust me.

Those of us in fashion believe we are preaching to the choir, and the choir is deaf.  Deaf to the swift decline of Mother Earth.  I wish I had the answers, I wish I always made the right sustainable choices in all my purchase, but I don’t, I’d be lying if I said I did.  I don’t know anyone who does.  People are still freaking out over the mandatory compost bins in NYC, and that’s an easy step in the right direction.

We are constantly being told as fashion creators that customers do not care, and that price is the determining factor in a purchase, that no one wants to pay for sustainability.  We will pay for it one way or another. I choose to believe it is not too late and that all the mothers out there will fight for their children because they cannot hop on a spaceship and leave for even a few minutes let alone a lifetime.

Peace and Love, and Recycle.

Tina

Let’s have a real talk about two of the trendiest and most talked-about bra types right now—bralettes and fashion bras. If you’ve been browsing through Instagram reels, online lingerie stores or even just curious after reading women’s threads, you’re probably wondering:

Are bralettes and fashion bras the same?

Which one suits me better?

Are they just for show or do they actually support?

Let’s decode it all, right here. Whether you’re a college girl exploring fun styles, a homemaker wanting everyday glam, or a working woman looking for innerwear that feels as good as it looks—this one’s for you. 

First Up, What Is a Bralette?

A bralette is a simpler, more relaxed version of a bra. It’s typically made of soft, lightweight fabrics and lacks the wires and heavy padding that are found in traditional bras. Bralettes are loved for their comfort, breathability and versatility, making them perfect for daily wear, especially for small to medium busts.

But that doesn’t mean fuller-busted women can’t enjoy them. Bralettes designed with padded cups, broad underband and wings, wide straps and hook & eye closures can provide decent support for heavier breasts.

Key Features 

• Can be non-padded, padded, or might come with removable padding.
• Often made with lace, mesh, modal, cotton or spandex blends.
• No underwires (though a few styles might have light boning).
• Comes in various styles: halter neck, multistrap neckline, lace neckline, scallop neckline, slip on, racerback, longline, triangle cups, etc.
• Can be worn as outerwear or innerwear.

When to Choose a Bralette?

Opt for a bralette when:

Comfort is the Priority

If you’re looking for something soft, wire-free and easy to wear, a bralette is the way to go.

Casual or Lounge Wear

For days when you just want to relax and feel comfortable, bralettes are the best choice.

Style Matters Too

With lace, mesh or fun patterns, you can wear a bralette like a pro. Pair it with your favourite loose tops, sheer clothes or even under a cosy sweater for an effortless look.

So, What Is a Fashion Bra Then?

Fashion bras/Fancy bras, on the other hand, are structured and stylish undergarments designed with proper construction. These bras are built to provide high support, especially for larger busts. Whether it’s a padded bra, a balconette, or a push-up style, fashion bras are perfect for providing the right lift and shape.

One of the standout features of fashion bras is that they’re designed not just for support, but for style as well. Like bralettes, fashion bras with attractive lace, gathers or embellishments make them ideal for wearing outside as blouse replacements. Think of pairing them with a saree, lehenga, or even under a fancy top for a modern look. With the right fashion bra, you can have both support and style, making it a versatile piece in your wardrobe.

Key Features

• Can be padded, non-padded, lightly padded, wired or wire-free.
• Comes in a variety of necklines, strap designs and back styles.
• Materials include lace, satin, mesh, nylon, spandex or shimmer fabrics.

When to Choose a Fashion Bra?

Fashion bras are perfect when:

You Need High Support

These bras are built with structure and underwires that provide the kind of support needed for larger busts.

You Want to Add Style

With intricate lace designs, beautiful gathers and other stylish details, fashion bras can be worn outside as replacements for blouses under sarees, lehengas, or jackets.

Formal and Special Occasions

Fashion bras are ideal when you want a defined silhouette and maximum support under structured outfits for formal and special occasions.

Bralette Vs Fashion Bra: The Face-Off

In this “face-off” between bralettes and fashion bras, we’ll compare their features side by side. Whether you’re after comfort, support, or style, this table will help you decide which one is right for you!

It’s Not Either-Or

In the end, you don’t have to pick one over the other. The choice between a bralette and a fashion bra is all about your comfort and the occasion. Whether you’re opting for the ease of a bralette or the structure of a fashion bra, each has its own unique benefits. To enjoy the advantages of both, have one from both categories in your lingerie wardrobe!

FAQs

1. Can I wear a bralette instead of a regular bra every day?

Yes! Bralettes are super comfortable and perfect for daily wear, especially under casual clothes. They’re also great for lounging or days when you don’t need extra support.

2. Can fashion bras be worn under ethnic wear like sarees and lehengas?

Absolutely! Fashion bras, with their stylish designs and support, can be worn under sarees or lehengas as blouse replacements. It adds a modern touch to your traditional outfit.

3. Are bralettes suitable for women with larger busts?

While bralettes are typically best for smaller busts, certain bralettes designed with broad underbands, wide straps and padding can offer enough support for larger busts. They’re ideal for casual wear, but might not provide the same level of support as a fashion bra for high-impact activities.

4. Can I wear a fashion bra for a casual day?

Yes! Although fashion bras are often more structured, you can definitely wear them casually. Opt for softer, non-padded styles or bras with minimal lace details for a more relaxed vibe while still feeling supported.

5. How do I choose between a bralette and a fashion bra?

It all comes down to your needs! If comfort is your priority and you’re looking for something soft and casual, a bralette is perfect. If you need more support, want to enhance your shape, or are styling an outfit for a formal event, a fashion bra is your go-to choice.

Does the fabric of your shapewear matter? Have you ever wondered what magic it does? Here you go! It gives a streamlined look to your outfits so that you feel comfy and confident. What makes the best shapewear for you? It is the fabric that gives you sheer comfort in the outfits you wear. The kind of fabric plays a huge role in giving you the quality of comfort to wear underneath. 

So, what are the materials or fabrics that are used to make shapewear, and how does each serve its purpose? Let’s find out the answer by delving into this blog. 

1. Nylon Spandex

Nylon and spandex are the most commonly used materials for shapewear. This blend of fabrics is used due to its unique combination of strength, stretch and comfort. Nylon gives you the necessary structure and support for shaping the body, while spandex provides you with the elasticity for you to feel comfortable and move around. 

Nylon Spandex is resistant to shrinkage, wrinkles and fading, making it a durable option for long-term use. Shapewear made of nylon spandex are available in various styles and designs, from full-body shapers, butt shapers, thigh shapers and even saree shapers to enhance your look. They give you the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility to move freely without any constraints. 

2. Polyester Spandex

Polyester Spandex is widely used in shapewear due to its blend of benefits. Spandex provides the elasticity and stretch needed for a comfortable and form fitting outfit, while polyester offers durability, resistance to wrinkles and abrasion and vibrancy in colour. 

Key Benefits

• Ability to stretch significantly
• Adapt to body shapes
• Resistant to wear and tear
• Retains shape even after multiple washes
• Can hold vibrant colours and patterns

3. Polycotton

Polycotton blends are used in shapewear for their combination of durability, breathability and cost-effectiveness. Polyester in the blend contributes to the fabric’s strength and wrinkle resistance, while cotton adds to the softness and breathability of the fabric. 

This type of fabric is more suitable for shapewear as the garment needs to hold its compression and maintain its effectiveness over time. 

Key Benefits

• Cost-effective
• Easy to care for
• Durable
• Breathable 

4. Viscose

Viscose is a type of fabric that is often misunderstood. It is used in shapewear due to its luxurious softness, excellent draping ability, breathability and moisture-wicking properties. This makes it comfortable and flattering for extended wear. 

Viscose can be easily combined with other types of fabrics like spandex to create shapewear that feels comfortable and soft on your skin. 

Key Benefits

• Comfortable
• Highly breathable
• Absorbs moisture
• Prevents irritation
• Drapes well
• Gives a smooth silhouette

Key Takeaway

Overall, materials like nylon and spandex provide smoothness and stretch, giving comfort and support. The weight and thickness of the fabric also contribute to how it feels and performs throughout the day. By choosing high-quality fabrics, you can ensure your shapewear is comfortable, durable and effective, meeting your personal preferences and needs.