Abstract: The bra comprises a breast containment zone defined by two breast cups engaged to a perimeter element. The perimeter element has a base and two peripheral sides extending from each side of the base, forming a “U” shape that extends about each breast cup. A chest band is engaged to and extends bilaterally away from each breast cup, to encompass the torso of a wearer. The chest band has a lower elongate zone to apply a first force to the perimeter element at the base of the perimeter element, and an upper elongate zone to apply a second force adjacent each breast cup to the perimeter element at the each peripheral side of the perimeter element and at a distance away from the base of the perimeter element.

Abstract: A bra with two breast cups, joined together at a mid region. A chest strap extends from each breast cup, to encompass the chest of the wearer. The chest straps are engaged to each breast cup at least two locations, a first location being above a second location. Each breast cup has a panel with a perimeter defining a neckline and a support line. The support line is of a continuously curved nature between its upper terminus where a shoulder support strap is located, and its inner terminus where the cups are joined. The breast cups each include a longitudinally extending line of inelasticity extending between the first location and the mid region.