Some time ago, Valerie commented on my post about Bras for Sagging Breasts. She wanted to know, "What about women with large breasts and a large stomach? I haven't found an underwire bra that doesn't leave huge bruises on my stomach when I bend forward, but I need underwire to support without hurting my shoulders and back."
Ouch! That sounds painful.
There are some solutions for Valerie (and other women like her). Because nobody wants to be uncomfortable all day, especially if you have to sit or bend a lot (which will make it all worse).
The first option is to look for a bra with an arched center panel. This means that the bra rises in the center, rather than going straight across; it looks a bit like this: ∩.
This design helps women with large (or high) stomachs because it won't dig into your skin. It's also great if you're short.
Another alternative is to look for a bandless bra. Bandless bras lack, well the band of fabric that usually goes underneath the cups. Since there's less material under the bust, it's less likely that the bra will dig into your stomach. This is also more comfortable if you are short, or have a short torso.
Of course, larger stomachs are not limited to women who are large all over. So, I've divided these up both by features (arched center panel, bandless) and by body type (large bust/large band, large bust/small band, small bust/small band, and small bust/large band). That way, you can find the right bra for your bust and ribcage size as well as your stomach size and shape.
The support doesn't end there though. It also has side panels to push you up and forward, as well as multi-part cups (seaming vertically and on an angle) to give you a great shape and extra lift. Since there's no extra lining or padding, it's still fairly light and easy to wear.
The bra has a band, but the middle arches up to keep the wires and the center of the bra away from your stomach.
And, it goes up to an N cup! In colors!
Comes in white, beige, chocolate, azalea, cinnamon, fawn, blue granite, titanium, ink, plum, emerald, sapphire, purple, and black.
UK sizes 34 I, J, K, L, M, N; 36 DDD, I, J, K, L, M, N; 38, 40, 42 DD-N; 44 DD-L; 46DD-K.
Seamless cups topped with pretty lace combine for a bra that's both pretty and supportive. The center is wide (best for wider-set breasts) and arched for better comfort. There's no band in front either, both of which make this style easier to wear if you have a high stomach.
It is padded enough for modesty, but not so much that it adds a lot of extra bulk or weight. If you're busty, the last thing you need is more weight on your chest.
Comes in black, champagne, white, lilac, hot pink, red, teal, pale gray, rose, and orchid. Sizes 34B, 34C-DD, 36, 38, and 40 B-DD.
This bra gives lots of lift and also has cleverly concealed support (there are slings on the sides and bottom under the petals). The straps are padded and adjust from the center (so they're much easier to reach). The arched center panel and bandless styling keeps the bra away from your stomach.
Available in a rainbow of colors, including white, taupe, berry, sky blue, amethyst, and black, some with floral scrolling, some with prints. US sizes 34C-DD; 36, 38, 40, and 42 B-DDD.
A bra that solves a whole lot of problems! No band and a high center make this bra comfortable if you have a high stomach (and/or a short torso). It's also got back smoothing and high sides to tamp down unsightly bumps and lumps under your arms and around your back.
The leotard back helps keeps the straps from slipping. There's a bit of padding, but just enough for modesty, rather than to add size.
And, finally it comes in 29 different colors, including greens, blues, purples, reds, pinks, black, and seven shades of "nude."
US sizes 36C-44DD.
A rare plus size bra with a front closure (no reaching around to try to close it "blind"). It's not just practical though, it also has sheer lace for glamor. Since it closes in front, it will naturally "arch" rather than run straight across your body (giving the same effect as an arched center panel) and no band to cut into your stomach.
The straps have padding for more comfort and the back is a leotard back (to stop slipping) and there are panels on the sides to push you forward and center your bustline.
Comes in black, cafe au lait, blue, cappuccino, leopard, mocha, navy, and white in EU sizes 36-46 B-F.
Valerie had both a large bust and a large stomach. But what about those of you who have a full bust (small ribcage, large breasts), but carry weight in your stomach (apple-shaped)? There are some options for you too.
No seams, no lace, just smooth spacer fabric to keep you cool and comfortable. The spacer fabric on the outside also makes it lightweight. Inside, there's memory foam, so it will adjust to your shape for a perfect fit. The foam also prevents crushing and helps the bra keep its shape.
The low plunging neck is great for deep-v summer tops.
The center panel is arched for better comfort and there's no band.
Available in beige, hazelnut, and blush. Sizes 30C-H, 32-42 B, C, D, E, F, G, H and 44C-G.
Ouch! That sounds painful.
There are some solutions for Valerie (and other women like her). Because nobody wants to be uncomfortable all day, especially if you have to sit or bend a lot (which will make it all worse).
The first option is to look for a bra with an arched center panel. This means that the bra rises in the center, rather than going straight across; it looks a bit like this: ∩.
This design helps women with large (or high) stomachs because it won't dig into your skin. It's also great if you're short.
Another alternative is to look for a bandless bra. Bandless bras lack, well the band of fabric that usually goes underneath the cups. Since there's less material under the bust, it's less likely that the bra will dig into your stomach. This is also more comfortable if you are short, or have a short torso.
Of course, larger stomachs are not limited to women who are large all over. So, I've divided these up both by features (arched center panel, bandless) and by body type (large bust/large band, large bust/small band, small bust/small band, and small bust/large band). That way, you can find the right bra for your bust and ribcage size as well as your stomach size and shape.
Bras for Full Figure Women with Large Stomachs (Arched Center Panels)
Lots of support (side panels, slings, and shapewear fabric keep everything in place while still looking good. The cups are sheer on the top (for elegance), with opaque simplex material on the bottom for both modesty and extra support.
The support doesn't end there though. It also has side panels to push you up and forward, as well as multi-part cups (seaming vertically and on an angle) to give you a great shape and extra lift. Since there's no extra lining or padding, it's still fairly light and easy to wear.
The bra has a band, but the middle arches up to keep the wires and the center of the bra away from your stomach.
And, it goes up to an N cup! In colors!
Comes in white, beige, chocolate, azalea, cinnamon, fawn, blue granite, titanium, ink, plum, emerald, sapphire, purple, and black.
UK sizes 34 I, J, K, L, M, N; 36 DDD, I, J, K, L, M, N; 38, 40, 42 DD-N; 44 DD-L; 46DD-K.
Elomi Women's Plus-Size Cate Underwire Full Cup Banded Bra
This is a new version of the best-selling Elomi Caitlyn Bra. The lace has been updated (it's more modern looking, I think) and it's got flatter seams so it won't show through as much.
They've moved the straps closer together to reduce strap slippage. It also has a greater variety of colors to choose from, including cabernet, hot pink, and hazelnut so, yeah, you don't have to wear beige (unless you want to).
This is a new version of the best-selling Elomi Caitlyn Bra. The lace has been updated (it's more modern looking, I think) and it's got flatter seams so it won't show through as much.
They've moved the straps closer together to reduce strap slippage. It also has a greater variety of colors to choose from, including cabernet, hot pink, and hazelnut so, yeah, you don't have to wear beige (unless you want to).
The center is arched so if you have a large stomach, it won't dig into your body. The sides are tall and constructed of powermesh material (think control top hose, but in a bra). That keeps the bulges under control. It's also got side panels to push you to the front, and seaming for shape and lift.
UK sizes 34E-K, 36 E-K, 38 DD-K, 40 DD-K, 42 DD-K, 44 DD-H, 46 DD-HH in 25 colors, including aruba blue, white, hot pink, pecan, wine, latte, hazel, royal blue, guava, petrol, and black. Yes, you do not have to buy beige or black (unless you want to).
Seamless cups topped with pretty lace combine for a bra that's both pretty and supportive. The center is wide (best for wider-set breasts) and arched for better comfort. There's no band in front either, both of which make this style easier to wear if you have a high stomach.
It is padded enough for modesty, but not so much that it adds a lot of extra bulk or weight. If you're busty, the last thing you need is more weight on your chest.
Comes in black, champagne, white, lilac, hot pink, red, teal, pale gray, rose, and orchid. Sizes 34B, 34C-DD, 36, 38, and 40 B-DD.
Bandless Bras for Full Figure Women with Large Stomachs
This bra gives lots of lift and also has cleverly concealed support (there are slings on the sides and bottom under the petals). The straps are padded and adjust from the center (so they're much easier to reach). The arched center panel and bandless styling keeps the bra away from your stomach.
Available in a rainbow of colors, including white, taupe, berry, sky blue, amethyst, and black, some with floral scrolling, some with prints. US sizes 34C-DD; 36, 38, 40, and 42 B-DDD.
A bra that solves a whole lot of problems! No band and a high center make this bra comfortable if you have a high stomach (and/or a short torso). It's also got back smoothing and high sides to tamp down unsightly bumps and lumps under your arms and around your back.
The leotard back helps keeps the straps from slipping. There's a bit of padding, but just enough for modesty, rather than to add size.
And, finally it comes in 29 different colors, including greens, blues, purples, reds, pinks, black, and seven shades of "nude."
US sizes 36C-44DD.
A rare plus size bra with a front closure (no reaching around to try to close it "blind"). It's not just practical though, it also has sheer lace for glamor. Since it closes in front, it will naturally "arch" rather than run straight across your body (giving the same effect as an arched center panel) and no band to cut into your stomach.
The straps have padding for more comfort and the back is a leotard back (to stop slipping) and there are panels on the sides to push you forward and center your bustline.
Comes in black, cafe au lait, blue, cappuccino, leopard, mocha, navy, and white in EU sizes 36-46 B-F.
Full Bust Bras for Women with Large Stomachs
Valerie had both a large bust and a large stomach. But what about those of you who have a full bust (small ribcage, large breasts), but carry weight in your stomach (apple-shaped)? There are some options for you too.
No seams, no lace, just smooth spacer fabric to keep you cool and comfortable. The spacer fabric on the outside also makes it lightweight. Inside, there's memory foam, so it will adjust to your shape for a perfect fit. The foam also prevents crushing and helps the bra keep its shape.
The low plunging neck is great for deep-v summer tops.
The center panel is arched for better comfort and there's no band.
Available in beige, hazelnut, and blush. Sizes 30C-H, 32-42 B, C, D, E, F, G, H and 44C-G.
Smooth cups with no lace or decoration give you a great shape under your clothes, without anything showing through. No seams, no lace, and no fuss. It's a contour bra, so it's shaped (which may cause a bit of gapping if you are shallow).
A bra that's cottony soft even though it has no cotton. The material is lightweight and engineered to dry quickly (always a good thing).
This bra is more comfortable if you have a large stomach, as there is no band, and the center panel is wide and arched.
Comes in sizes 30A-D; 32, 34, and 36 A-DDD; and 38D-DD. I would stick with the smaller sizes as the single hook in back is likely not going to support a heavy bust too well. Natori tends to be a smidge small, so keep that in mind.
Available in beige, cafe, green, raspberry, bright blue, ceramic green, poppy, and black.
Sheer, sexy, and designed with floral lace that enhances your natural looks. No padding (or lining) and it's comfortable too. It's bandless and the center is arched, so it won't rub you the wrong way.
The lace lies flat so your t-shirts will look smooth, not bumpy. Plus, the straps are convertible, so you can wear it the standard way, or criss-crossed. And, there's more support than you might expect. It's got inner side support panels, and the larger cup sizes have extra slings underneath the cups.
Beige, black, red, hot pink, pale pink, yellow, bordeaux, teal and silver in UK sizes 30B-G, 32AA-G, and 34-38 A though G.
A bra that fits so well it's used by department stores as a baseline fitting bra. It's lightweight, with no padding, so it's not bulky. The front is low enough that you can wear it under lower cut tops, but high enough to keep everything contained and secure.
The arched center so it's good for larger tummies.
The back band is one piece, which makes it stronger and gives you better support and the underwire "floats" for a better, more adjustable fit to your body.
It does give a slightly pointed (rather than very round) shape, so keep that in mind.
Available in ivory, beige, and black in US sizes 32C, D; 34, 36, 38, and 40 B-DD.
Leading Lady specializes in full figure and large band/small cup bras. The arched center panel and bandless construction makes it a good option for women with larger stomachs. It also has a racerback, so the straps won't show under sleeveless tops or tank tops. The band is deliberately a bit tight, so that it can stretch and still fit as you wear it, so keep that in mind. The straps are not fully adjustable, so best if you are average height.
Comes in US sizes 36-44A-G, 46B-DDD and 48A-DDD in beige and black.
If you have struggled to find a pretty large band/small cup bra this one is for you. It's lavished with lace, while also providing lift and support. There are panels on the sides and back for bulge control, and the center is arched for better comfort.
The lace is soft and the straps are wide and comfy.
Comes in white, beige, blackberry, and black in US sizes 34, 36, 38 A-G; plus 40 , 42, 46, 48 A-DD.
There's no band to dig into your stomach and the center is arched. This makes it more comfortable when you sit down while wearing it. The sides have powermesh, making the bra more stable and supportive.
You can also change the straps to criss-cross, so it won't show under sleeveless tops.
UK sizes 28 through 38 DD, E, F, FF, G, GG, and H in taupe, chai, sage, pink, beige, and black.
Bras for Women with Average or Small Busts and Larger Stomachs
Then, of course, there are people who are small or average busted, but carry your weight in your middle. If that's you, these bras can help. Nobody should have to suffer to get dressed in the morning!
A bra that's cottony soft even though it has no cotton. The material is lightweight and engineered to dry quickly (always a good thing).
This bra is more comfortable if you have a large stomach, as there is no band, and the center panel is wide and arched.
Comes in sizes 30A-D; 32, 34, and 36 A-DDD; and 38D-DD. I would stick with the smaller sizes as the single hook in back is likely not going to support a heavy bust too well. Natori tends to be a smidge small, so keep that in mind.
Available in beige, cafe, green, raspberry, bright blue, ceramic green, poppy, and black.
Sheer, sexy, and designed with floral lace that enhances your natural looks. No padding (or lining) and it's comfortable too. It's bandless and the center is arched, so it won't rub you the wrong way.
The lace lies flat so your t-shirts will look smooth, not bumpy. Plus, the straps are convertible, so you can wear it the standard way, or criss-crossed. And, there's more support than you might expect. It's got inner side support panels, and the larger cup sizes have extra slings underneath the cups.
Beige, black, red, hot pink, pale pink, yellow, bordeaux, teal and silver in UK sizes 30B-G, 32AA-G, and 34-38 A though G.
A bra that fits so well it's used by department stores as a baseline fitting bra. It's lightweight, with no padding, so it's not bulky. The front is low enough that you can wear it under lower cut tops, but high enough to keep everything contained and secure.
The arched center so it's good for larger tummies.
The back band is one piece, which makes it stronger and gives you better support and the underwire "floats" for a better, more adjustable fit to your body.
It does give a slightly pointed (rather than very round) shape, so keep that in mind.
Available in ivory, beige, and black in US sizes 32C, D; 34, 36, 38, and 40 B-DD.
Bras for Women with Large Bands, Small Cups, and Large Stomachs
Leading Lady specializes in full figure and large band/small cup bras. The arched center panel and bandless construction makes it a good option for women with larger stomachs. It also has a racerback, so the straps won't show under sleeveless tops or tank tops. The band is deliberately a bit tight, so that it can stretch and still fit as you wear it, so keep that in mind. The straps are not fully adjustable, so best if you are average height.
Comes in US sizes 36-44A-G, 46B-DDD and 48A-DDD in beige and black.
A best seller, because it's so soft and comfortable (while still being pretty). There's just a bit of padding (to hide the headlights) and the tops of the cups stretch a little for a more custom fit. It's sleek, understated and uncluttered, while still being pretty. Check out the embroidery on the straps.
Since there's no band, and the center is arched, it will be more comfortable against your ribs and stomach.
US sizes 30C-G, 32B0G, 34B-G 36B-G, and 38B-DDD in black, cafe, plum, raspberry, mocha, umber, purple, and peach with contrasting scroll embroidery on the straps.
If you have struggled to find a pretty large band/small cup bra this one is for you. It's lavished with lace, while also providing lift and support. There are panels on the sides and back for bulge control, and the center is arched for better comfort.
The lace is soft and the straps are wide and comfy.
Comes in white, beige, blackberry, and black in US sizes 34, 36, 38 A-G; plus 40 , 42, 46, 48 A-DD.
What bra do you recommend for a large band small cup with a large stomach? The problem I have is when I sit my stomach pushes up on the bra causing my straps to appear loose or stick up.
ReplyDeleteHi Angel,
DeleteOuch, that sounds uncomfortable. You didn't say what size you were, but I've added some bras designed for women like you. They are the Bali 3P66, Leading Lady 5028, and Leding Lady 5044. You might also try the Leading Lady 5415, which is a racerback.
Leading Lady is generally a good source, particularly if you have an A cup and need a 40 or larger band. Look for styles that have that arched center and/or no band in the front.
My bra drives me crazy! I have a big gut and my bra rolls up u Dar my bust. Soon uncomfortable. I hate wearing s bra
ReplyDeleteFaye
Hi Faye,
DeleteWell that's annoying! One of the options on this page might help you. Or, if you tell me your size, I can try to make some suggestions for you.
I have large breasts and sag band size 43 cup size 45 1/2 my ribs stick out so underwire are very uncomfortable. I am measuring with unpadded bra on .I have been buying a 40 DD
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteHi Elizabeth,
DeleteA two inch difference is a B cup. Also, once you pass a 38 band size, you use the next whole even numbered size closest to your measurement, rather than sizing down.
I think your problem may be that you need a 44 band, not a 40, which is why the underwires are so uncomfortable. The important thing for the best fit is to get the band size right first, and then go up and down in cup size until you get a good fit.
The volume of a larger cup/smaller band is the same as the volume of a smaller band/larger cup. So 44C is the same cup volume as a 40DD and 44B is the same as a 40D.
So start with the bigger band, 44Bs and 44Cs and then adjust to see which fits you better.
The Vanity Fair Beauty Back Smoother 76380 comes in both sizes. It’s bandless, and has an arched center panel, so it won’t dig into your stomach. As the name says, it will also help smooth out back bulges. It’s contoured (for modesty, but not bulk) and seamless so it won’t show under clothes. Comes in lots of colors too.
There’s also the Leading Lady Front Close 5415. This also comes in both sizes. It has a racerback so it’s good for sleeveless tops. The front closure is a bit snug at first, but it will stretch. There’s no band to rub against your stomach and the center closure is up between the cups instead of against your ribs. It’s seamless and comes in basic colors plus a leopard print.
If you’d rather have something lacier, try the Playtex Embroidered Bra 4513. This has a lace overlay and scalloped edges on the cups. It also has no band and an arched center. The cups are slightly padded for shaping and modesty. The straps are inset so they are less likely to fall off your shoulders and they adjust in the middle which makes it easier to get them the right length (since you can adjust them while you are wearing it). It’s also got “control top” material on the sides to stop underarm bulges.
I hope this helps!
Thank you I will try the bras you talked about . Very helpful
DeleteWhat about women with rolls of flab under their boobs?
ReplyDeleteThe roll of flab pushes the bra upwards and when I move the flab moves the bra and it's so annoying. I have small boobs but a flabby torso. I've tried a bralet type thing instead but the flab rolls make it roll up so nothing works for me.
Hi Unknown,
DeleteI think a bralette will only make the situation worse. You need an underwired bra to lift everything up and away from your stomach. This will also reduce the appearance of the rolls of fat and make you look thinner.
Without knowing your size, I can't be more specific, but look for something with supportive underwire, angled or vertical seams, an arched center panel, and preferably no band. The underwire gives support, and the seams give support and lift. The arched center and the bandless style will prevent the bra from digging into your stomach. As an example, the Bali Lace Desire 6543 has both angled and vertical seams, no band, an arched center, and comes in B and C cup sizes with band sizes up to 42.
I wear a 44 DDD but only because most places don't carry E. So I'm probably a 44 E. I have a gut and large beasts that always bulge out on top, creating a bra muffin top. I always feel like I bulge in the back too. I'm always pulling my bra down under my breasts because they ride up creating a gap underneath. I've never ever found a comfortable everyday bra that holds its shape. Please help!
ReplyDeleteHi Jami,
ReplyDeleteAssuming you’re using US sizes, a DD is an E and a DDD is an F. From the symptoms you describe, it sounds like your cup size is too small. You need to go up at least one cup size and/or try a different style. So, that means you need a DDDD or G cup (in US sizes), which is an F in UK brands and back to a G in European brands.
You want to stick to full coverage styles (that cover nearly all your breast tissue) and stay away from balcony or demi cup styles.
Also make sure the band is right. The trick is to start with the band measurement first (since that’s a two inch change), and then get the cup right (which is a one inch change). The band should be parallel to the floor, and you should just be able to fit a finger inside while you’re wearing it. A band that’s too big can also cause your breasts to slide out from under the bra. If it’s too loose, start by going down a band size and up a cup size to get the same volume; go up two cup sizes to get more volume. The volume in a 42G equals 44F (or DDD, the size you have now) and 42H equals 44G (or DDDD, one cup size up).
As for the bulging, a wider band and powernet (think shapewear material) will help minimize the bulges and hide the back fat. You’ll also need an arched center panel and bandless styling to be more comfortable for your stomach.
Luckily, this can be fixed! Here are some options.
The Bali Satin Tracings 3562. This is a minimizer, which will also help if your shirts are popping open. The center is arched to be more comfortable for larger stomachs and there’s no band to dig into your ribs. It’s got a wide band in the back, which will help smooth you out. Plus there’s satin trim and a pretty floral design on the cups. US sizes, so try the 44G.
Another alternative is the Elomi Nina EL4100. This is also bandless and has an arched center. It’s got a multi-part cup, which will give you better shaping, lift, and support, as well as side support panels (which help push everything forward). The cups have a pretty leafy print. This bra is in UK sizes, so you will need the 44F.
Or, try the Elomi Etta EL8840. This has seamed cups (for shaping and lift) as well as support panels on the sides (like the Nina). It may be a better option if you are also short, as the underwires are shorter (less likely to poke you if you are short). It also has an arched center and no band. The cups are part mesh with embroidery on top and solid (and lined) on the bottom. And, you can wear it racerback if you want (there is a hook in the back). This style is a little shallow (particularly if you are fuller on top), so you might want to go up a size to the FF cup.
None of those would work for me. The point if pain is not the center of the bra, so the "u" shape does not help. The point of pain for us, is at the round part of the cups. It's the round part of the underwire that bruises. Not the center, although the band around is often too tight to keep large boovs from falling out the bottom. If we get it loose enough not to hurt the breasts don't stay in the bra. No good answers here. Thanks for trying though.
ReplyDeleteSounds like the wires in the bras you have been trying are the wrong shape, so they are digging into your chest. Ow! You might try a wire free style or try different brands (each brand, style has different shapes).
DeleteI wear a 54c and every bra i have tried rolls up. If move around too much, much boobs fall out. I live my life hoping my bra doesn't roll too far and I too have a large stomach and backfat. I was measured professionally and told I need a 52c, however, it rolls so tightly I can't adjust it without taking it off. I'm always pulling and tugging. It's embarrassing to have my hand up my shirt pulling the bra and adjusting my boobs all the time. I have only found the Elila 1301 to wear. Can you please help?
ReplyDeleteA wider band and/or a bra with boning in the sides can help fix the rolling problem. Stiffer fabric can also prevent folding (look for bras with powermesh or simplex). Or, try a band size down and increase the cup size, which would be 52D.
DeleteThe Elila has a wider band, side boning, and smoothing fabric, which is likely why it works for you.
They also make the Elila Full Coverage Stretch Lace Underwire Bra 2311 which is a similar style but in pretty allover lace. It's got a wide band, and tall sides and back which will stabilize the bra and smooth out the bulges and bumps.
Another option might be the Glamorise Magic Lift with Posture Back Support Bra 1265. It comes in both sizes and has a wide bottom band specifically designed not to roll. And the center is arched so it should be more comfortable against your stomach.
I’ve been trying- without success- to find a bra that fits since I gained weight five years ago. This is the most helpful advice! Thank you for writing this. I could hug you!
ReplyDeleteAwww thanks!!!
DeleteI am over 60 and breasts are sagging so I decided I need an underwire. I am also obese and when I sit, the wire cuts into my stomach and I seem to have an allergic reaction. The wires now are flat, which I guess was supposed to be better, but this just gives them a bigger surface. I'm about at wit's end. Where can I find a bra that works for aging, less-dense breasts that will lift them without having cups that seem molded for a perfectly round breast implant? The underwire I bought is sized correctly and is comfortable as long as I'm standing up. As soon as I sit down, it cuts in.
ReplyDeleteHi Unknown,
DeleteWhen you say allergic reaction, what is happening? A rash, or itching, or does it hurt?
Sounds like you would be more comfortable with a non-wired bra. The other thing is to make sure you get a bra that's got an arched center, and is bandless, meaning there's no band of fabric under the cups (like the Chantelle Spacer bra higher up on the page). It's hard to be more specific without knowing what size you are.
Can you reccommend a bra for me?
ReplyDeleteUS size 50 band and G cup with a large gut. Underwire usually digs in while I'm sitting. I really need support for these huge things but wearing underwire is always sooo painful.
Glamorise has a number of styles that might work for you. The 1000, 1001, and 1016 are all wireless, so there's nothing to dig into your stomach. But they still have great lift and support. There is a band, but the center is arched so that should be more comfortable.
DeleteOr, if you want something fancier, their 9845 style has lace, no band, and an arched center. It does have a wire, but it's in its own padded channel to keep it away from your skin.
When I was measured at Victoria secret I was told I was a 32d but it felt too tight and a lot of 32d bras indent into my boobs when I where clothes over it. So I tried a 34c but the under wire indents into my breast tissue. Then I tried I 34 dd and those tend to look the best and my cups are fully filled even when laying down but the underwire still looks like it indents the rib cage area. Is there anyway to avoid this? My under bust I’m pretty sure is 32 and my bust was 38 last I checked unless I was measured wrong.
ReplyDeleteHi Unknown,
DeleteVictoria's Secret is notorious for selling what they have, rather than what you really are.
I plugged the 32 underbust and 38 bust into a calculator and came up with 36B. It makes sense because you are having trouble with your band being too tight and the volume of a 36B cup is the same as the volume of a 32D. The key here is to get the band size right first, and then focus on the cup size.
Hi Corinnester,
ReplyDeleteI apologize for the late reply, something got messed up and I wasn't getting notified of new comments!
It could be any number of things causing the rash: rubbing from the material, or something in the fabric you are allergic to. You might try a cotton or latex free bra and see if that helps.
I had a professional fitting done and was told I am a 34 band and a DD/DDD cup. they had me try on 38 DD and 38DDD which fit well and looked nice. But after I left the store and came home, it digs into my stomach when I sit. While standing and moving around it is fine, but I am miserable here at work--I have stuff stuffed up under the underwires to cushion the underwire on my fat stomach. I am always reaching up too and adjusting the bra-lifting it up more or just moving it. Years ago I had the perfect fitting bra-it was a 42DD but that particular brand/style is not made anymore. I have tried on a good 30 bras in the last few weeks and nothing works. I have tried non wire and the bands roll up or the straps were so tight even on the loosest setting, that they created dents in my shoulders. I have tried underwire that the cups could hold 5 breasts even though it says D cup, or the cups looked like torpedos. I just want a good fit that is supportive and comfortable to where I don't even realize I have it on. I have tried Spanx brand, Wacoal, and others. Help!!!!
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DeleteHi Jeano,
DeleteThat sounds rather unpleasant!
You said you had a professional fitting and that your underbust was 34. It sounds like they added 4 to get a band of 38. You didn't say what the overbust measurement was, but 42 would be D, 43 DD, and 44, DDD.
The rolling band, dented shoulders, and overly large cups sound like classic symptoms of a band that is too big. A too-large band will slide, roll, and move around. It should be doing most of the work and giving you most of the support, but it can't do that if it's too big.
This will also cause the straps to dig in, because they were working too hard.
Another thing, the cup volume increases along with the band size. So, the cups in a 38DDD are bigger than the cups in a 36DDD, despite having the same letters in the size. This would also explain why you are finding that the cups in the bras you try are way too large.
I would suggest starting with a 36D or DD and trying one of the Bali, Vanity Fair, Chantal, or Panache bras in the first two sections of this page (Bandless and Arched Panel)
Avoid the Elomi, Goddess, and Glamorise as they tend to be generously sized. The important thing is to get the band right first, then go up or down to get a cup size that works. Sit down, move around, and bend over when you try the bra on to make sure it's comfortable, that you don't spill out of it, and it doesn't pucker.
What you want to do is get the band size right first. It should be snug against your chest, without digging in, and should be straight all around your back. If it rides up, it's too big.
Hi I know it has been many years since this. But do you have anything like this but for sports bras or bralettes? I wear ~36C, but have a short torso and carry fat on my rib cage so any band tends to roll up or elastic will kind of crimp uncomfortably. Whenever I try to search for this I just see strapless bras for some reason lol
ReplyDeleteHi Stefanie! Long time no "see"!
DeleteThe curling may be because the band is too big. You might try playing with sizing to see if you get a better fit from a 34D. Also switching brands might help (as some run smaller).
Another thing is to look for bras with powermesh and stiffer stronger fabrics (especially on the bottom of the cups) as this will pull everything up. For that, you want high impact support (in the sports bras). Vertical seams also help give you lift and raise your bust away from your stomach.
Now a few options. First the sports bra.
Panache 5021R has a slightly arched center panel and vertical seams. It also has a racerback (which helps with lift) and comes in lots of fun prints. It is an underwire bra with encapsulation (lots of support). There's also a wirefree style but that has a wider band.
Berlei Electrify YYN7 has a minimal band, an arched center, and low sides (which is good if you are short). There are angled seams for lift and shaping. This is also high impact.
Another option is the Berlei YYR9. This looks almost like a regular bra, but has tons of support. It's also bandless, with a high arched center. The cups are running small, so you may have to size up.
Or, try the Body by Wacoal 65115. No band, arched center, and it's another sports bra that doesn't look like one. Not as supportive as the other bras above, so best for lower impact sports.
The bralettes are hard. Most of them are either not your size, have wide bands (because otherwise there's no support), or are too flimsy for your needs.
However, there are some wirefree bras that might work.
First is Rosa Faia Havanna 5813, which has an arched center panel and vertical seams. There's also pretty lace on the cups.
Another option (not as supportive) is the Warner Cloud 9 RN2771A, which has an arched center, no wires, and built-in lift.
There's also the Leading Lady Charlene (no lace, and not a lot of support), but fine for around the house.
Hope this helps!
The leading lady Charlene is the perfect around the house bra I was looking for. Thanks so much!!!
DeleteYou're quite welcome!
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