What size bra should I buy?

Finding your correct bra size is essential for comfort and support. Wear an unpadded bra or no bra, measure snugly under your bust (band size), and measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust. The difference between the two measurements determines your cup size (each inch = one cup size). For example, if your underbust is 32 inches and bust is 35 inches, you're a 32C. Bare Essentials bras run true to size and we carry sizes 30A to 42DD across our collection. Our best sellers are 34D, 36D, and 32D.

How do I care for my bras to make them last longer?

Proper care extends your bra's lifespan from 6 months to 2+ years. For hand washing (recommended), use lukewarm water and mild detergent, gently scrub without wringing, rinse thoroughly, and air dry flat or hang on a clothesline. For machine washing, use a mesh laundry bag, cold water on delicate cycle, and air dry only—never tumble dry. Store bras flat or in a drawer divider away from direct sunlight. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and high heat. Bare Essentials bras are made with durable cotton and quality elastic.

What's the difference between padded, unpadded, and lace bras?

Padded bras include light or full padding in cups, provide coverage and smoothness under fitted tops, and are ideal for t-shirts, office wear, and everyday use (₹349–₹899). Unpadded bras have no padding in cups, allow natural breast shape, are more breathable, and are ideal for lounging, sleeping, and layering (₹599–₹1,299). Lace bras feature sheer lace panels or full lace design and are ideal for special occasions (₹999–₹1,499). Most women benefit from having all three styles for different occasions.

How do Bare Essentials bras fit compared to other brands?

Bare Essentials is a curated lingerie boutique based in Trivandrum, Kerala. We hand-select every brand and style to ensure quality, fit, and value. We prioritize comfort over fashion, carry full size ranges (30A–42DD), and all bras are true to size with 10+ years of local fitting expertise across Kerala and India. We stock Prettysecrets (our in-house line optimized for Indian body types), Inner Sense (comfort-focused), and Clovia (trendy and affordable). We offer personal consultation, 30-day returns if fit isn't right, expert advice on band size and cup shape, and focus on quality over quantity.

What materials do you use in your bras?

Quality materials are everything. Cotton (most popular) is breathable, gentle on skin, durable, and best for everyday wear and sensitive skin (₹349–₹899). Synthetic blends (polyester, nylon, spandex) are stretchy, shape-retaining, and best for shape and special occasions (₹699–₹1,499). Lace (nylon + spandex) is delicate, elegant, and best for special occasions (₹999–₹1,499). We're expanding our organic cotton line with ethically sourced and dyed options. Always check individual product tags as material blends vary.

Do you ship to other cities/internationally?

Yes, we ship across India via standard (5–7 business days) and express (2–3 business days) delivery. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout. We currently do not ship outside India. For store pickup in Trivandrum, visit us at 6th Floor, Style PLUS, Keston Road, Kowdiar P.O., Thiruvananthapuram 695003. Call ahead at +91-7306-430452. Hours: 10.30 AM – 8.30 PM, Monday–Sunday. In-store fittings are available and free.

What's your return and exchange policy?

Check our return and exchange policy at https://www.bareessentials.in/policies/refund-policy for complete details on returns, exchanges, and refund timelines.

What bra should I wear under different clothing?

The right bra depends on what you're wearing. Under fitted t-shirts: padded t-shirt bras or seamless styles. Under sheer clothing: lace bras for intentional visibility or nude bras to disappear. For office wear: padded or unpadded in neutral colors with full coverage. For special occasions: lace or embellished styles, push-up for cleavage, or strapless/convertible for backless dresses. For comfort at home: wireless unpadded bras in soft cotton with minimal wires. Invest in 2–3 neutral styles, then add fun pieces for variety.

Why is sizing important? Aren't all bras the same?

No—sizing is everything. An ill-fitting bra causes discomfort, back pain, bulging, spillage, strap slippage, lack of support, and shorter lifespan. 80% of women wear the wrong size. Proper fitting increases comfort by 90%, extends bra lifespan to 2+ years, improves posture, and boosts confidence. Band size matters because tight bands cause circulation issues and loose bands provide no support—the band does 80% of the work. Cup size matters because too small causes spillage and too large causes gaping. Bare Essentials measures carefully and recommends the right size for your body.

Do you have bras for specific needs (sports, maternity, sensitive skin)?

Yes! We stock specialized bras for different life stages. Sports bras have high-impact support designed for workouts. Maternity bras are designed for pregnancy and nursing with expandable sizing and soft, non-wired comfort. For sensitive skin, we have 100% cotton with no synthetic materials, no lace or irritating seams, and hypoallergenic options. Plus sizes range from 32A to 42DD—we don't believe in standard sizing and all styles are available in extended sizes. For special requests, call +91-7306-430452 or email info@bareessentials.in.