The 46H Bra: Expert Fit, Comfort & Style for Full-Figure Support

Finding a bra that delivers both support and style is essential at any size—but for women who wear a 46H bra, it's absolutely non-negotiable. This size combines a full bust with a larger band, making structural support, weight distribution, and comfort key factors in choosing the right lingerie.

In this expert guide, we’ll cover what the 46H bra size really means, how to ensure a proper fit, what features to look for, and the best brands that serve this often-overlooked but important size category.

What Does a 46H Bra Size Mean?

A 46H bra size indicates:

• A band measurement of approximately 46 inches under the bust

• A cup size “H”, which corresponds to an 8-inch difference between the bust and underbust

This size is typically found in UK sizing, which differs from US standards. In US sizing, a UK 46H usually converts to a US 46K. Always check the sizing system when shopping online or internationally.

Sister Sizes for 46H Include:

• 44HH – Smaller band, same cup volume

• 48GG – Larger band, same cup volume

Understanding sister sizes is helpful if your preferred brand doesn't carry a 46H but offers alternatives with a comparable fit.

Common Challenges for 46H Wearers

Wearing a 46H bra presents a unique combination of needs:

✅ Limited Retail Availability

Mainstream stores rarely stock extended band and cup sizes, forcing many women to settle for ill-fitting bras or shop exclusively online.

✅ Support & Lift

With larger breasts, proper lift and anchoring are critical to prevent discomfort, back pain, and posture issues.

✅ Strap Digging

When bands are too loose or unsupportive, the weight shifts to the shoulders, leading to painful strap grooves.

✅ Style Options

Many bras in this size range sacrifice aesthetics for utility, offering minimal design variety.

What to Look For in a 46H Bra

To ensure a supportive, comfortable fit, prioritize these features:

✔ Wide, Firm Band

The band should provide 80–90% of the support, so it must be firm and broad enough to anchor the bust without riding up.

✔ Full Coverage Cups

Three-part or four-part cups offer better shape, lift, and containment than molded cups, which can collapse under heavy volume.

✔ Padded, Adjustable Straps

Wide, cushioned straps help distribute weight and relieve pressure on the shoulders—especially important for H+ cups.

✔ Underwire (Optional but Effective)

Underwires should be strong, flexible, and sit flat against the chest without poking or shifting.

✔ Strong Center Gore

A properly tacking center panel ensures the breasts are lifted and separated comfortably.

Best Bra Styles for 46H

Depending on your breast shape and daily needs, here are the best-performing styles for 46H:

• Full Coverage Bras – Maximize support and shape; ideal for daily wear

• Minimizer Bras – Redistribute tissue to create a sleeker profile under clothes

• Front-Closure Bras – Easier to fasten for women with limited shoulder mobility

• Wireless Support Bras – Ideal for lounge or casual wear (only if engineered for full bust support)

• T-shirt Bras – Seamless under clothing; make sure they include reinforced support in cups and band

• Sports Bras (Encapsulation Type) – Use individual support for each breast, not just compression

Top Brands That Offer 46H Bras

Not all brands extend their size range to 46H, but several specialize in full-figure lingerie:

• Elomi – A leader in plus-size lingerie, offering supportive, stylish bras in up to UK K cup

• Goddess – Focused on full-figure comfort and wire-free support options

• Ashley Stewart – Fashion-forward styles for curvy women, including extended bands

• Cacique by Lane Bryant – Affordable and stylish bras specifically for larger sizes

• Bravissimo (UK) – Offers band sizes up to 46 and cup sizes up to L

Tips for Getting the Right Fit

1. Get Professionally Fitted – Especially if your size has changed due to weight fluctuation, pregnancy, or aging.

2. Measure Yourself at Home – Use a soft tape measure and size calculators from specialty brands like Elomi or Bravissimo.

3. Try Before You Buy (If Possible) – Order multiple sizes when shopping online and return what doesn’t fit.

4. Monitor Wear and Tear – Replace bras every 6–12 months, especially when the band or straps lose elasticity.

Final Thoughts

The 46H bra isn’t just a size—it’s a signal that your lingerie needs to work harder to provide you with the support, comfort, and confidence you deserve. Thankfully, modern brands are catching up, creating beautiful, structurally sound options that celebrate full-figured bodies without compromise.

Invest in quality. Prioritize fit. And remember: the right bra should feel like a second skin—not a daily struggle.