What is a moulded-cup bra, and is that the same as a padded bra?

No, they’re two different things. Moulded describes how the cup is made, it’s been heat-shaped over a mould into a smooth, rounded shape with no visible seams. Padding, on the other hand, is an extra layer inside the cup. So a bra can be moulded without being padded, and vice versa, and it can have an underwire or be completely wire-free. A moulded cup gives an even, round silhouette and works especially well under thin or fitted clothing.

Updated on: 09/09/2026