The Right Bra Size

Shopping for bras is a difficult task for women with large breasts and even more so for those of average weight or a slender frame. Wanting support and not looking matronly should not be a great challenge though many retail outlets do not carry bras above a D or DD cup. Band size is another common issue when searching for a reasonably priced garment as most stores are limited in selection. For example finding a 32DD a 34G, even a 36E is near impossible at mid-range department stores. Victoria’s Secret does not stock anything above a DD at their shops, Kohl’s offers bra’s that would only suffice for an elderly nun and although Nordstrom’s has a varied selection, expect to pay upwards of $80 for anything larger than a D cup.

What is the average busty girl to do?

First off, get fitted by someone who knows what they are doing. Nordstrom has an excellent lingerie department and their Customer Service is generally top notch. Even if you are not in the market to spend the money, they will fit you free of charge. It doesn’t hurt to get a feel for some of the brand’s they offer as we can locate them at a lower price online later. Most high end department stores will have someone working who can properly size you.

Knowing your true bra size makes life a heck of a lot easier. Your main source of support should be in the band and not the shoulders. You should be able to fit one finger under the band on your side and by no means should you be spilling out the bottom or top of the bra (this means your band is too large or your cup is too small). If you are getting grooves in your shoulder, your straps are too tight or your band is too large. Straps are there to assist as secondary support.

Wearing the correct size bra will help your posture, lessen back and shoulder pain and make your figure smoother. We don’t want to see a bulge in the back or four lumps in the front. When your cup and band size is correct, you should be able to stand sideways in the mirror and the farthest protruding part of the breast should align with the middle of your upper arm.

Investing in several quality bras that fit also makes shopping for other clothes much easier. Making disapproving faces at yourself in the fitting room is discouraging, especially when something looked so perfect on the hanger.

For the top heavy ladies, there are several brands on the market that make stylish, pretty bras that offer comfort and much needed support. I recommend Freya, Chantelle and Fantasie.

I have tried others such a Wacoal and Le Mystere however, they do not hold up (literally and figuratively) over time. These two brands tend to fray, stretch and the elastic threads out after a few washes.

By all means, wash your bras in a mesh laundry bag and hang them to dry if you want them to last.

I have been lucky with Nordstrom Rack (their clearance chain) for finding these brands on sale in my size.  If you don’t have one in your area, Amazon and several other online ventures carry them. You just have to know your proper size and can find a bargain.

 Though some are pricey, they will last a few years if correctly cared for.