Why do all women wear a bra, regardless of cup size?

Firstly, some women don't. As mentioned by others, a small cup size and nipples that are not noticeable, or a more brazen outlook regarding their visibility, makes this entirely practical.

Most women find them more comfortable than not wearing one.


Most bras improve the look of breasts, and the older you get the truer that is. Many women with smaller breasts wear padded bras to enhance the boobular appearance. There are these gel inserts you can get (I've heard them described as 'chicken fillets') and you need a bra to put them in.

I think there's an element of societal pressure that starts around puberty. Kids are wearing bras way before they actually 'need' to, to keep up with their peers. I know I did exactly that at age 13 or so. You don't want to be the last girl to get a bra, so you just get one and assume it will be filled at a later date.

Bras can be pretty and girly and that's reason enough to enjoy wearing them. It's another symbol of womanhood and a sexy item for your partner to look at. Of course, this is society's influence again, but we needn't always see that as a negative.

A bra is the underwear item of choice for western women, and it has practical and/or aesthetic value for those who wear it.