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.
