Bra Glossary / Clothing Definitions
Structured Bras (Contour, Lined, Molded): Bra Glossary Definition
Definition
Structured bras, contour bras, lined bras and molded bras are all ways of describing styles of bras that are not padded, but do have a measure of foam or other material that mirrors the contour of the wearer's bust. This helps provide structure and a smooth, even finish under clothing.
Construction & Fit
How Structured Bras (Contour, Lined, Molded) Work in Practice
The four names emphasize different sides of the same construction. 'Molded' names the forming process, 'contour' the shaped foam layer, 'lined' the inner layer, and 'structured' the overall effect — a cup that holds a defined form instead of following only the body.
These styles are the standard choice under fitted and lightweight tops, where an unlined cup would show seams and texture. The individual glossary entries for contour cups, lined cups and molded cups define each construction in detail.
More to Explore
Related Bra & Clothing Guides
Common Questions
Common Questions
What is a structured bra?
A bra whose cups contain a measure of foam or similar material that mirrors the bust's contour, giving the cup structure — without the added thickness of a padded bra.
Are contour, lined and molded bras the same thing?
They describe closely related unpadded structured styles, each name emphasizing a different aspect: the shaped layer (contour), the inner layer (lined), or the forming process (molded).
When are structured bras worn?
Under fitted or lightweight clothing, where their smooth, defined cup shape gives an even finish.
Making Bras
Bra Manufacturing Directories
For the factories and component suppliers behind these constructions, see the Apparel Search manufacturing directories.
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