Cotton bras are not technically a fit issue, but finding one is a problem, especially if you have large breasts or are full-figured. Most of the bras that are available are limited to smaller sizes or nursing bras. It's extremely frustrating!
This has been a particular gripe of mine for years. I live in a place where summers are hot and sticky (we refer to the bad days as "3H" days: hazy, hot, and humid).
Wearing a standard non-breathable bra under these conditions is torturous. The new 3D and spacer bras do help quite a lot (and are certainly better than their non-breathable cousins), but in my opinion, the very best option is cool, comfortable cotton (if you can get it).
I've organized these by figure type, with options for larger women, bras with no underwire, front closure bras, and a few designed for women with sensitive skin. I've also added fit notes (of course). Don't want to stray too far away from the primary focus of this blog!
This style is n excellent choice for women with large breasts. It goes up to a J cup!
Glamorise specializes in full figure bras, so they know how to engineer support, while still supplying good looks (check out the pretty sheer lace on the cups).
The engineering part comes from three places. First, there's an inner sling hidden inside the cups for more support.
Secondly, it's constructed with control fabric on the back and sides. That helps minimize back fat and bulges and helps you look slimmer and smoother. No unsightly lumps!
Finally, there are inner bands that connect to the straps. The Magic Lift design gives you extra support and lift even though there aren't any wires because the cups and the straps are integrated together. The result is an exceptional level of support and lift (for a wirefree bra).
Since this bra is 54% cotton, it will be more comfortable on hot days than a standard bra.
This comes in pink, latte, lilac, or white in sizes 36B, C, D, DD, F; 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, I, J; 52, 54, 56 C-J.
Want comfort, no underwire, and pretty colors? This bra is made of 95% cotton, so you'll be cool and comfy, even in hot, sticky weather.
You don't have to settle for plain beige either (unless you want to). The lace detail is over the cups, so it won't touch or irritate your skin.
A wide back helps minimize bumps and the leotard shape keeps the straps on your shoulders.
And it's still supportive enough (and stable enough) to keep you in place, and stay there even if you are bending repeatedly. The fabric is super-soft and comfortable too. The lace is applied over the bra, so it won't rub or irritate your skin.
Some say it runs a bit small, so you may want to size up.
Sizes 36-48 B, C, D, DD, and E in black, blue, fuchsia, gray, purple, white, beige, and pink.
Made of 60% soft, comfortable cotton, this bra is a great choice on hot days, or just for a bit of support and coverage on days off or after work. Perfect as a sleep bra or as an "I'm not leaving home today and I just want to be comfy" bra.
The front is plain, but the back hides a surprise. It's got a lacy racerback for a bit of glam.
It's wirefree, so there's no underwire to rub against your skin or dig into your arms. It has a front closure, so it's easy to put on and take off without strain.
Note that the straps are not adjustable.
The sizes are grouped together (so b/c/d, dd/f, and g/h), with band sizes 34-48. Comes in white, pink, and beige.
Super soft comfort with no wires and no overheating. It's completely smooth with no lace or seams to show under summer t-shirts and clingy tops.
It's a plunge style, so the neckline won't show under low-cut shirts. The wide panel is best if you are wider-set. As a bonus, the sides and back are smoothing to keep back and side bulges under control.
The wide center panel is also arched so it won't dig into your stomach. There's also no band (which can also be a problem for larger tummies).
And, it's nearly entirely cotton (90%) with just a bit of elastene for stretch.
It's a push-up style (there's a padded bump in the bottom of the cup) so you will get more oomph and lift.
Note that the straps do not adjust.
Comes in dark gray, light gray, light cheetah, toasted almond, white/gray dots, and white/navy dots in US sizes 34A-C, 36A-D, 38B-D, and 40B-C.
No seams and no lace (unless you want it) make this bra soft, smooth and comfortable. It's nearly all cotton (90%) with just a bit of spandex for stretch and a better fit. No seams to show through your shirts, and only a bit of lace (in some colors), so it won't scratch.
Since it's also tagless (why or why do so many manufacturers make soft garments and then add itchy tags?), there's nothing to itch, scratch, or irritate your skin.
The center panel is arched, and its bandless so it's a good option if you are short or have a larger stomach. It's lined for modesty but not extra size.
This comes in white, gray, black, red, pink, sand, and blue. There's also a white version with a bit of lace trim.
US sizes 34B-DD, 36B-DD, 38B-DD, 40C-DD, and 42C-DD.
So, I've settled for the next best thing for now (I will keep looking!), which is spacer bras. They aren't cotton, but they are designed to be lighter and more breathable than standard bras. Spacer fabric is specially knitted to create layers, with air pockets in-between. That makes the bra much lighter and less bulky than a standard t-shirt or contour bra, and it keeps you a lot cooler.
I have a few and they do help!
Light, delicate, but still tremendously supportive, this bra boasts a shape that beautifully frames your bustline. You can be comfortable and look fantastic at the same time. The bra is adorned with lace medallions on the straps and more lace between the cups and on the sides.
Since the cups are smooth, they won't show under thin shirts or tops. Slightly stretchy cups, combined with extra stretch along the top and elastic on the sides and back of the bra give you a more customized fit.
The arched center is more comfortable if you have a larger stomach.
EU sizes 30D-F, 32-36B-F, 38B-E, and 40B-F in white, pink, beige, chestnut, cloud gray, navy, and black.
Soft, comfortable, supportive, and pretty don't usually all appear together, especially for larger sizes, but this bra is an exception. An addition to the popular Rebecca collection, it's embellished with lace in the center, and all the way around the band for an elegant look.
The cups have no seams or overlay to show under your clothes, so it makes a great t-shirt bra.
Wide underwires fit better and are more comfortable for larger breasts (even up to an H cup). The larger cup sizes have an added sling inside, to give additional support and push you together and forward.
The straps are inset in the back and the bra has a U-shaped leotard back, to keep those straps in place. The band is higher in the back for smoothing and bulge control.
UK sizes 30--34D-H, 36D-GG, 38D-G, and 40D-FF in ivory, sand, red, pale green, and black.
Pared down, simple, but still comfortable, with no decorations to show under thin shirts. You get great support and a natural, rounded shape without having to wear a big, bulky bra.
It''s smooth, soft and slightly stretchy for a perfect fit. The sides and back are high to even out bumps and hide back fat.
No lace or frills, just a bit of picot trim around the cups and a small bow in the center.
Hidden slings in the cups push you forward and out from under your arms. That pushes extra tissue forward, for more projection and better support and lift.
The straps are inset on the band and the bra is constructed with a U-shaped leotard back (think ballet). That means they will not slip, even if you have sloping or rounded shoulders.
White, ivory, sand, taupe, lilac, clove, and black (plus some fashion colors like red, plum, and deep blue) in US sizes 30D-DDD, 32 through 40 D-G, and 42-46 C-DDD.
Made with 92% cotton to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days. Calvin Klein runs small and this bra is running even smaller than usual. Not so good if you are a D, but just fine for an A cup.
The band (under the cups) on this one is wide, which gives a little extra stability. However, it's lightweight fabric, with no wires, and more of a bralette than a full "bra." It's great for a bit of cover, but not super supportive. The straps are adjustable and can be worn standard or criss-crossed. Crossing the straps will also pull the bra up a little and sneak in a small extra bit of lift.
Comes in thirty two different colors and prints including red, black, burgundy, mint, navy, multi-color stripes, stars, and polka dots. All colors feature the Calvin Klein logo on the band.
Sizes are XS-XL ( (32-36A, 30-38B, 30-40C, 34 and 38D and 38DD). If you are at the upper end of the size range, you may want to size up, as this brand runs small.
Perfect for lounging around, this bra is 94% Pima cotton. Pima cotton has longer fibers than generic cotton, making it softer, smoother, and more durable than standard cotton fiber. There's no wires or boning to dig into your skin, so it's extremely comfortable. There is a self-lining (of the same cotton fabric as the rest of the bra) for extra coverage and softness.
Elastic along the bottom, sides, and straps help you get a better fit and stability (it helps the bra stay in place).
Unlike most bralettes, the straps are adjustable so you can get them the right length for your body.
Sizes S, M, and L in beige, white, blush, and black.
This has been a particular gripe of mine for years. I live in a place where summers are hot and sticky (we refer to the bad days as "3H" days: hazy, hot, and humid).
Wearing a standard non-breathable bra under these conditions is torturous. The new 3D and spacer bras do help quite a lot (and are certainly better than their non-breathable cousins), but in my opinion, the very best option is cool, comfortable cotton (if you can get it).
I've organized these by figure type, with options for larger women, bras with no underwire, front closure bras, and a few designed for women with sensitive skin. I've also added fit notes (of course). Don't want to stray too far away from the primary focus of this blog!
Cotton and Cotton Blend No Underwire Bras for Large Breasts and Full Figures
This style is n excellent choice for women with large breasts. It goes up to a J cup!
Glamorise specializes in full figure bras, so they know how to engineer support, while still supplying good looks (check out the pretty sheer lace on the cups).
The engineering part comes from three places. First, there's an inner sling hidden inside the cups for more support.
Secondly, it's constructed with control fabric on the back and sides. That helps minimize back fat and bulges and helps you look slimmer and smoother. No unsightly lumps!
Finally, there are inner bands that connect to the straps. The Magic Lift design gives you extra support and lift even though there aren't any wires because the cups and the straps are integrated together. The result is an exceptional level of support and lift (for a wirefree bra).
Since this bra is 54% cotton, it will be more comfortable on hot days than a standard bra.
This comes in pink, latte, lilac, or white in sizes 36B, C, D, DD, F; 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, I, J; 52, 54, 56 C-J.
Want comfort, no underwire, and pretty colors? This bra is made of 95% cotton, so you'll be cool and comfy, even in hot, sticky weather.
You don't have to settle for plain beige either (unless you want to). The lace detail is over the cups, so it won't touch or irritate your skin.
A wide back helps minimize bumps and the leotard shape keeps the straps on your shoulders.
And it's still supportive enough (and stable enough) to keep you in place, and stay there even if you are bending repeatedly. The fabric is super-soft and comfortable too. The lace is applied over the bra, so it won't rub or irritate your skin.
Some say it runs a bit small, so you may want to size up.
Sizes 36-48 B, C, D, DD, and E in black, blue, fuchsia, gray, purple, white, beige, and pink.
Made of 60% soft, comfortable cotton, this bra is a great choice on hot days, or just for a bit of support and coverage on days off or after work. Perfect as a sleep bra or as an "I'm not leaving home today and I just want to be comfy" bra.
The front is plain, but the back hides a surprise. It's got a lacy racerback for a bit of glam.
It's wirefree, so there's no underwire to rub against your skin or dig into your arms. It has a front closure, so it's easy to put on and take off without strain.
Note that the straps are not adjustable.
The sizes are grouped together (so b/c/d, dd/f, and g/h), with band sizes 34-48. Comes in white, pink, and beige.
Average Cup Cotton and Cotton Blend Bras
Super soft comfort with no wires and no overheating. It's completely smooth with no lace or seams to show under summer t-shirts and clingy tops.
It's a plunge style, so the neckline won't show under low-cut shirts. The wide panel is best if you are wider-set. As a bonus, the sides and back are smoothing to keep back and side bulges under control.
The wide center panel is also arched so it won't dig into your stomach. There's also no band (which can also be a problem for larger tummies).
And, it's nearly entirely cotton (90%) with just a bit of elastene for stretch.
It's a push-up style (there's a padded bump in the bottom of the cup) so you will get more oomph and lift.
Note that the straps do not adjust.
Comes in dark gray, light gray, light cheetah, toasted almond, white/gray dots, and white/navy dots in US sizes 34A-C, 36A-D, 38B-D, and 40B-C.
No seams and no lace (unless you want it) make this bra soft, smooth and comfortable. It's nearly all cotton (90%) with just a bit of spandex for stretch and a better fit. No seams to show through your shirts, and only a bit of lace (in some colors), so it won't scratch.
Since it's also tagless (why or why do so many manufacturers make soft garments and then add itchy tags?), there's nothing to itch, scratch, or irritate your skin.
The center panel is arched, and its bandless so it's a good option if you are short or have a larger stomach. It's lined for modesty but not extra size.
This comes in white, gray, black, red, pink, sand, and blue. There's also a white version with a bit of lace trim.
US sizes 34B-DD, 36B-DD, 38B-DD, 40C-DD, and 42C-DD.
If you prefer no wires, try this bra instead. It's 51% cool, comfortable cotton. There's a subtle shimmery jacquard pattern and a pretty bow for a touch of glamour. It's a contour style, so it's lightly padded to hide the headlights without adding a lot of bulk.
The center is wide, so it's best if you are wide-set.
Comes in pink or white in US sizes 34A to 40C.
Smooth, soft comfortable, and made with 71% cotton. This bra closes in front, making it much easier to put on. There's pretty eyelet lace along the sides and on the racerback. Contour cups won't show under clothing or thin shirts. And it's cut low, so you can easily wear it under plunging necklines.
Note: you may have noticed that I put this in average cup, even though it comes in up to DDD sizes. That's because it runs quite small. Think junior sizes vs. misses sizes in clothing. I had to size up both a band and a cup size to get the right fit. So keep that in mind when ordering.
Sizes 32-26 A, 32-38B, 32-38C, 32-38D, 32- 38 DD, and 34-38 DDD in white, peach, blue, black, and rose
Full Bust Spacer Bras
The bras I had in this section have been discontinued. I just spent ages looking. There are lots of cotton small cup bras, full figure bras, and nursing bras. But if you need a 32F or a 34G, there's a lot of nope. Grrr.So, I've settled for the next best thing for now (I will keep looking!), which is spacer bras. They aren't cotton, but they are designed to be lighter and more breathable than standard bras. Spacer fabric is specially knitted to create layers, with air pockets in-between. That makes the bra much lighter and less bulky than a standard t-shirt or contour bra, and it keeps you a lot cooler.
I have a few and they do help!
Light, delicate, but still tremendously supportive, this bra boasts a shape that beautifully frames your bustline. You can be comfortable and look fantastic at the same time. The bra is adorned with lace medallions on the straps and more lace between the cups and on the sides.
Since the cups are smooth, they won't show under thin shirts or tops. Slightly stretchy cups, combined with extra stretch along the top and elastic on the sides and back of the bra give you a more customized fit.
The arched center is more comfortable if you have a larger stomach.
EU sizes 30D-F, 32-36B-F, 38B-E, and 40B-F in white, pink, beige, chestnut, cloud gray, navy, and black.
Soft, comfortable, supportive, and pretty don't usually all appear together, especially for larger sizes, but this bra is an exception. An addition to the popular Rebecca collection, it's embellished with lace in the center, and all the way around the band for an elegant look.
The cups have no seams or overlay to show under your clothes, so it makes a great t-shirt bra.
Wide underwires fit better and are more comfortable for larger breasts (even up to an H cup). The larger cup sizes have an added sling inside, to give additional support and push you together and forward.
The straps are inset in the back and the bra has a U-shaped leotard back, to keep those straps in place. The band is higher in the back for smoothing and bulge control.
UK sizes 30--34D-H, 36D-GG, 38D-G, and 40D-FF in ivory, sand, red, pale green, and black.
Pared down, simple, but still comfortable, with no decorations to show under thin shirts. You get great support and a natural, rounded shape without having to wear a big, bulky bra.
It''s smooth, soft and slightly stretchy for a perfect fit. The sides and back are high to even out bumps and hide back fat.
No lace or frills, just a bit of picot trim around the cups and a small bow in the center.
Hidden slings in the cups push you forward and out from under your arms. That pushes extra tissue forward, for more projection and better support and lift.
The straps are inset on the band and the bra is constructed with a U-shaped leotard back (think ballet). That means they will not slip, even if you have sloping or rounded shoulders.
White, ivory, sand, taupe, lilac, clove, and black (plus some fashion colors like red, plum, and deep blue) in US sizes 30D-DDD, 32 through 40 D-G, and 42-46 C-DDD.
Cotton Bras for Small Cups
Made with 92% cotton to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days. Calvin Klein runs small and this bra is running even smaller than usual. Not so good if you are a D, but just fine for an A cup.
The band (under the cups) on this one is wide, which gives a little extra stability. However, it's lightweight fabric, with no wires, and more of a bralette than a full "bra." It's great for a bit of cover, but not super supportive. The straps are adjustable and can be worn standard or criss-crossed. Crossing the straps will also pull the bra up a little and sneak in a small extra bit of lift.
Comes in thirty two different colors and prints including red, black, burgundy, mint, navy, multi-color stripes, stars, and polka dots. All colors feature the Calvin Klein logo on the band.
Sizes are XS-XL ( (32-36A, 30-38B, 30-40C, 34 and 38D and 38DD). If you are at the upper end of the size range, you may want to size up, as this brand runs small.
Perfect for lounging around, this bra is 94% Pima cotton. Pima cotton has longer fibers than generic cotton, making it softer, smoother, and more durable than standard cotton fiber. There's no wires or boning to dig into your skin, so it's extremely comfortable. There is a self-lining (of the same cotton fabric as the rest of the bra) for extra coverage and softness.
Elastic along the bottom, sides, and straps help you get a better fit and stability (it helps the bra stay in place).
Unlike most bralettes, the straps are adjustable so you can get them the right length for your body.
Sizes S, M, and L in beige, white, blush, and black.
A whopping 95% cotton, with just a little bit of spandex for better fit and stretch. No wires, no lace, no clasps, and no fuss, just smooth and cool. It's got a T-racerback so you can wear it under tank tops and sleeveless shirts with ease. That said, this is a bralette, so great support it is not.
Available in XS to XL (32-36A, 30-38B, 30-40C, 34 and 38D and 38DD) in black, dark gray, light gray, denim, white and fashion colors. Calvin Klein runs small, so you may want to size up.
Available in XS to XL (32-36A, 30-38B, 30-40C, 34 and 38D and 38DD) in black, dark gray, light gray, denim, white and fashion colors. Calvin Klein runs small, so you may want to size up.
Hi love your knowledge and comments, i lost over 100 pds so my breast really sag and lost all filling i had so their like prunes, what bra would u recommend for shape and lift up, Thank You
ReplyDeleteHi Omaira,
DeleteWow, that’s a lot of weight to lose!
Weight loss, particularly if it’s a lot of weight, can often mean you end up with saggy, pendulous breasts. Since you’ve lost shape and firmness, your tissue will tend to conform to the bra you put on, so it’s important to get the right shape.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, avoid plunge bras, because you’ll spill out of them. You’ll have the same problem with demi-cups. You want to look for something that’s got fuller coverage (to stop the spill), along with underwires and seams for lift and shaping. Vertical seams are particularly good for lift and angled seams (often meeting the strap) will give you shaping and support.
The fabric should be fairly firm, so you get the shape you want. If you are still busty, you may want side slings or boning to give you more forward projection and centering.
Hope this helps!
Hi Jodi. I could really use your help. I am 4' 11", short waisted, I have a short torso and sagging breasts. I also am a little overweight. I have been properly fitted to a 34 H (US) size, so I guess that would be a UK 34FF.
ReplyDeleteI can't wear any kind of lace due to having very sensitive skin.
I having a hard time finding a bra that provides me with good support without digging into my armpits or stomach and definitely no lace. I am a little overweight in the stomach so I having a hard time wearing an underwire bra without it hurting, but if there is one out there that you feel would work, I would definitely try it.
Any help that you can provide would be appreciated.
Chantelle C Magnifique 1897 comes in your size. It's not cotton, but it is a spacer bra, which means it breathes better and feels cooler. It does have an underwire, but there is no band, so it's more comfortable against your stomach.
DeleteFreya Idol AA1050 is also seamless and has an arched center panel, with only a minimal band. It will give you great support, and there's no lace or decoration (other than a small bow). Comes in fun colors too. Also, Freya wires tend to be shorter, so they are less likely to dig in.