Push-Up Bikini Vs Non-Padded Bikini: Which is Best?

To wear a push-up bikini or not to wear a push-up bikini? That’s the million-dollar question. While traditionally women with larger busts would go for non-padded bikini tops and smaller-busted women would prefer to wear a push-up bikini top (or a padded one), this has started to change. Maybe this has changed because of the the ‘body positivity’ movement. Or maybe is the fact that swimwear brands are caring more for designing size-inclusive swimwear.

Before, you’d simply go for whatever cup style was available. Nowadays, though, women have to decide between a push-up bikini or a non-padded bikini. Hopefully, our post will make it easier for you.

The perks of wearing a Push-Up Bikini

It’s not a secret that push-up bikini tops are absolutely flattering, especially when the pushing-up effect feels natural. It’s vital that you wear the right size here. Many women go for a slightly small push up bikini with the misconception that a smaller cup size will boost the uplifting effect of push-up bikini tops. This isn’t the most flattering look.

Push up bikini tops look good on small boobs, as they lift and centre your bust, creating a cleavage effect. They are a great alternative to breast augmentation surgery or removable bikini insert s. What about the fuller cups? It also offers great support for large busts, because it enhances body posture.

Are push-up bikini tops always underwired?

Most push-up bikinis also have underwired cups, but some brands have created alternative push-up bikini tops without any wires. This is the case of Watercult or Maryan Mehlhorn bikinis. You can shop some supportive underwired bikinis here.

Differences between a moulded bikini top and a padded bikini top

Moulded bikinis have a light padding, a sort of thick lining, which holds its shape. Just like moulded bras, these need to be stored carefully to avoid any creases or misshapen cups.

Moulded bikinis are amazing for all breast types and sizes. A moulded bikini with push-up padding can significantly improve your look if you have saggy or tuberous breast shapes. If you have uneven cup sizes and one of the cups always feels loose, we’d suggest you get some padded cup bikinis with removable padding. While in the past moulded cups weren’t the first choice for DD+ busts, some brands, like PrimaDonna or Roidal, have amazing padded bikinis for larger cup sizes.

Padded cups also hold their shape, like moulded cups, but the padding is thicker. While padded cups also make your breast look rounder and enhances your cleavage, they often come with some perks: they add a cup size, removable or non-removable push-ups pads, etc.

When is it OK to wear a non-padded bikini?

Always! Non-padded bikinis are suitable for any women, regardless of their size or style. Traditionally, soft cup bikini tops had always been considered unflattering for athletic body shapes and smaller busts, but, guess what? There is nothing wrong with wearing non-padded bikini tops. All bodies are beautiful, no matter their cup size.

For smaller cup sizes, try non-wired soft cups
For larger cup sizes, it’s best to shop underwired bikinis with non-padded cups, as they’ll offer greater support.

Whatever option you decide to go for this summer, you should always double-check our New arrivals section for inspiration.