PICK THE PERFECT BRA FOR YOUR SHAPE

A good bra can not only boost your bust, it can lift your spirits, alleviating back pain, evenly distributing the weight of your breasts and improving your posture. Knowing your breast shape is as important as knowing your bra size — and recognising your shape will have the most impact on whether a bra will flatter your body . . . Full on top MOST of your volume is in the upper half of your breast, above the nipple. Balcony bras — open at the top of the cup — are ideal for this shape, or try full-coverage bras that have a lace upper panel. Bra, £65, Chantelle at net-a-porter.com Full underneath MOST of your breast mass or weight is located in the lower half of the breast, beneath the nipple. Plunge-style bras work especially well for achieving a good shape, as do demi-cups. £57, Chantelle at selfridges.com

Full all round

HERE, there is evenly distributed fullness around the top and bottom of the breasts, so they appear round or spherical. This is usually the shape of the breast after augmentation surgery. Most bra styles will suit you, including balconette and full-coverage. £25, debenhams.com

Pendulous

THIS is the term for softer breasts, where most of the tissue hangs below the breast root. They can be full on the bottom or top, but usually lack volume. Full coverage bras and bras made from several pieces of fabric — rather than moulded cups — will help give lift. £54, Chantelle at harrods.com

Elongated

BREASTS of this shape have very little tissue and are characterised by a narrow and cylindrical look. Moulded push- up or plunge styles, such as T-shirt bras, help to give a more even and projected shape. £12.99, hm.com

Narrowly spaced

THE breasts are very close together and may even touch at the top of your chest. Bras with low, short or narrow centre panels (demi and plunge styles) are most comfortable. £39, Passionata at johnlewis.com

Widely spaced

THESE are usually wider apart than two or three fingerwidths. Plunge bras work well because they push breasts closer together. Balconette bras are also a good choice. £70, Chantelle at net-a-porter.com