By Jenisha Jonchhe Researched and tested where possible Updated
Affiliate links: this guide links to Amazon UK. As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes the advice or the size we suggest.
What to search for on Amazon UK
Add your UK size to the search on Amazon (for example “34G”). Not sure of it? Use our bra size calculator first.
- 1
Gentle push-up (light graded padding)
A subtle lift that looks natural under everyday clothes and is easy to fit.
- 2
Maximum lift (two cup sizes of padding)
Thick padding for a dramatic cleavage under party clothes. Expect the cup to feel snug.
- 3
Strapless push-up
Lift and cleavage for strapless and off-the-shoulder outfits, with a gripping band.
- 4
Push-up for fuller cups
Fuller-bust push-up styles use lighter padding and deeper cups, giving lift without spilling.
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A push-up bra lifts your breasts upwards and inwards using padding that is thicker at the bottom and outer sides of each cup. Most push-up bras are also plunge bras, so they combine lift with a low centre for cleavage.
How does a push-up bra work?
The padding inside the cup is graded: thick near the wire, thinner towards the top. That pushes breast tissue up and towards the centre. The more padding, the bigger the lift. Makers often describe this as adding a cup size or two of volume.
Gentle, medium or maximum lift?
- Gentle push-up adds a little shape and is easy to wear daily.
- Medium push-up gives clear cleavage under party tops.
- Maximum or “super” push-up adds the most volume. It suits smaller cups best and feels snug.
If you want lift without much padding, a balconette bra lifts from underneath with seamed cups.
Which size should you buy?
Buy your usual UK size first. If you do not know it, our bra size calculator gives a starting size in under a minute. Then check the fit:
- The top of the cup lies flat with no spilling over. Thick padding fills part of the cup, so you may need one cup size up.
- The wires sit behind your breast tissue at the sides, not on it.
- The centre front touches your breastbone.
- The band stays level and firm on the loosest hook.
If the band feels loose but the cups fit, try a sister size: one band size down and one cup size up.
Brands to search for
Wonderbra and Ultimo are both known for push-up styles, and most high street brands make their own. For D cups and above, look for push-ups from fuller-bust brands, which use deeper cups.
Questions people ask
Should I size up in a push-up bra?
What is the difference between push-up and padded bras?
Do push-up bras work for small busts?
Why does my push-up bra dig in at the centre?
Written by
Jenisha Jonchhe
Jenisha Jonchhe is a New York-based fashion writer and designer with academic training in fashion design. She writes research-led bra sizing and fit guides for UK shoppers.
Researched from brand and retailer size guides, and tested hands-on where possible. Search results on Amazon change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. How we research and test
