Reddit mentions: The best clothing for women

>Well before I even started thinking about trying to get pregnant, I read /u/yeah_iloveit’s maternity wear guide. It’s fantastic and helpful and I am currently using her postpartum guide to help me prepare for life after baby. So what I’m sharing here is basically a personal application of the guide to show how well it worked for me, and to include a few of my personal insights.
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>First a note on pregnancy and your changing body. No one’s pregnancy is the same. I kept comparing my belly to other women’s and was really disappointed that I wasn’t showing in the same ways. I didn’t look really pregnant until about 20 weeks, and even then it could have been chalked up to bloating. Don’t even try comparing yourself to others. You probably knew this already, but sometimes a reminder is a good thing.
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>Second, a note on quality. Normally, I lean more quality-over-quantity, with a tendency to buy fewer, more expensive items. For maternity-wear, I’ve kind of changed my tune. Sure, I’ll be wearing some of these things for over a year, but then, that’s kind of it. So for me, it was not worth investing in nicer, more expensive clothes that I’ll just donate next year. Even if I get pregnant again, I’ll probably want at least a few new things anyway as styles will have changed.
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>FIRST TRIMESTER – things escalate quickly
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>My boobs grew so big, so fast. By 8 weeks pregnant, most of my non-stretchy tops no longer fit. By 10 weeks, very few of my tops fit and I was wearing my belly band nearly every day. By 12 weeks, not a single one of my old dresses fit (even the stretchy ones) and it was holiday season. At my office party, I had to keep my cardigan on the whole time because my dress wouldn’t zip up, mostly because of my boobs. I had to rush to find a dress for the wedding we attended a week later (thank you Amazon Prime with free returns). At around this time I desperately needed maternity clothes, so I went to the mall and picked up what I needed to make it to the end of the week. Then I went online to fill out my wardrobe a bit more.
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>Quick tip: As my boobs grew, I first moved to those coobie-style bralettes, but soon found that I needed actual support. I just went to Nordstrom Rack and got some pretty inexpensive but properly fitting bras that fit on the tightest hook. About 2 months later, these were all too small again, so I just moved on to stretchy but supportive wireless nursing bras.
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>SECOND TRIMESTER – small work capsule
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>After the mad shopping dash, I had created a little work-wear capsule, and I didn’t buy anything else for over 2 months. My work wardrobe consisted of:
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> 2 pairs pants
> 6 T-shirts
> 2 blouses
> 2 dresses
> Plus, my regular blazers and cardigan – the longer, looser ones
> Plus, all my “comfy” shoes – my nice shoes were already a bit too tight
>
>Quick tip: I used an elastic belt a bit like this to hold up my under-belly maternity pants before my belly got big enough. With the big panel ones, I folded the panel down halfway. The elastic belt also helps to cinch looser tops & dresses between your bust and belly making you look more pregnant and less stocky.
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>Once it started getting warmer, this capsule got boring really fast because I couldn’t create variety with cardigans/blazers. Also, by the end of my second trimester, my feet were starting to swell, and I was down to 2 pairs of shoes that fit, plus an old pair of my husband’s loafers. So here’s what I ended up with in addition to the first 4 lines above:
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> 1 skirt
> 2 more tops
> 5 pairs shoes (2 new)
>
>This made for a 20-item work capsule.
>My casual wardrobe was also pretty limited, being basically my work top options with the one pair of maternity jeans I’d bought in the first trimester. So during the second trimester I also picked up a second pair of jeans, and some leggings. This worked well for me until the weather warmed up.
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>Quick tip: At some point, I bought some under-belly maternity underwear. And then I bought more and wore these exclusively. Because I live in a warm climate, I avoid excess fabric as much as possible, so underbelly works better for me than full panel. You might feel differently, so try before buying a bunch.
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>THIRD TRIMESTER – I’m getting hot
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>With my teaching semester drawing to a close, the weather heating up, and my growing body running very warm, I needed some casual, summer options. Currently, my casual summer capsule consists of:
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> 2 pairs of shorts
> 1 skirt
> 6 T-shirts
> 3 loose tank tops
> 2 blouses
> 5 sundresses
> 2 pairs of sandals
>
>Quick tip: Not everything I bought, even in my 3rd trimester, is maternity sized. I bought a very stretchy foldover waist skirt, some drapey tanks (2 sizes larger than my usual) and a pleated swing dress that all provide plenty of room.
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>CONCLUSIONS
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>I’ve found that capsule wardrobes by occasion/season were the way to go for me. Despite being more of a maximalist than a minimalist (ahem), I found that I was perfectly satisfied with 20 items at a time, especially since I knew it would be temporary. And for reference, here is a sampling of what I have been wearing for the past month or so: album.
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>So far and excluding undergarments, I have spent less than $750 on clothes, and have acquired about 35 new items. Note that this is over the course of 6 months, and about $300 less than I spent on clothes over the same time period last year. I bought everything from:
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> Amazon
> Old Navy
> Target
> Motherhood
>* Goodwill
>
>I’m happy to answer any questions about my experience buying and wearing maternity clothes. I’d also love to hear others’ experiences and tips for maternity shopping.
>

Most bras use the UK sizing when you are in the post DD size. There are a few exceptions.

Bravissimo has huge selection, as well as figleaves and amazon carries a lot of them. If you want to try on IRL nordstrom will carry your size in most stores.

If memory serves (see i dont even remember because UK sizing is king) 32K = 32H which is one band and cupsize larger than me. You have a lot of options but for me i prefer panache (particularly cleo which is a sister brand) bras mainly because they cater to smaller bands and deep (vs wide) cups.

Next step is figuring out you breast shape and trying on bras. Fyi after 20yrs of cramming myself into too small bras my initial size worked until i had the mythical “tissue migration” and went up like an extra cup size so i would warn you about buying a ton of bras initially because boobs can sometimes inflate after years of being compressed ;)

I really like the panache cleo marcie, its been my goto for several years (and sizes) now. But i probably tried on tons of sizes and styles over the years. But if you are full on top its a great place to start and has come in a rainbow of colors over the years.

Amazon isnt a bad place to start ordering bras because of free ship and returns and there are lots of shapes and styles.

Try a few and post fit results here (you dont have to post pics, just this fit great in this way but didnt work because of this...)

Odds are good you will need a deep cup vs a shallow one because generally H cups are. So panache is a good place to start. Freya is another brand (i found the bands were not firm enough when i tried them, but this was years ago) bravissimo has their own line of bras, curvy kate makes bras in your size (ive never tried them as ive heard they run wide and shallower, but i cant say for sure)

You can literally search 32H bras on amazon and scroll through options.

Goddess comes in US sizing, and a couple other brands but UK tends to be the popular big boob bras. The brits definitely have us beat bigtime on better bras ;)


https://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwire-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O

These can be pretty compressing so i preferred going up a size ie 32H when i wear a 30H in other bras, but id start with your size and go up if you need to. Just be aware of sister sizing. Ie 30H = 32GG = 28HH. Go up a band go down a cup, and down a band go up a cup.
So 32H = 34GG is one band bigger but same cup. Confusing but bras can be ;)


https://www.amazon.com/Panache-Cleo-Marcie-Balconnet-Bra/dp/B00BKZXPZ6


https://www.amazon.com/Panache-6951-Jasmine-Underwire-Bra/dp/B01N9DCFV7

Id highly recommend using a unlined cup bra like marcie or jasmine to find correct fit. Lots of girls want/are used to foam cup bras but they dont mold to you like a “cut and sew” bra and make it hard to diagnose fitting issues. There are some foam cup and spacer options out there in your size but id start with the inlined for fitting purposes first.

Check out bravissimo’s site too and filter by your size. The options will for sure blow your mind ;)

Thanks for the tag /u/crazymusicalgenius96 !
I am feeling you girl! Our shape is a pain and a half. I am going to be totally honest with you. I tried a crap ton of bras before I found what I wanted. Wanna know what I found? Victoria Secret. Its the weirdest thing to me that it it what fits best (still not perfect but literally fits very well when put on well). I also fit well in a self expression by maidenform racerback. I am trying to remember if they run to a 32D/DD but I would not suggest the raceback if you get a 34C/D as you likely will need a rixie clip to help keep it tighter (because the bands are pretty stretchy). I would suggest getting this first and trying this (http://www.amazon.com/Cleo-Womens-Marcie-Balconette-Bra/dp/B00BKZXPZ6/ref=cts_ap_1_fbt) on (suggest 34C/D as their bands are stiffer). It is the only of the UK bras I have had actually fit me, second best was the Freya Lauren padded halfcup. It fit for awhile but as it shifted it was bad for me but it could be good for you (would go for a 32D/DD for sure in that). If you wanna talk bras with me feel free to PM me as I don't want to rant here lol. :)


PS: Padded bras rarely work for us. I am trying to find one now that will work but it isn't healthy to wear them daily anyways so it works out :). I would also like to say that the calculator size is a starting point and you likely will be closer to a 32D than the DD as it overestimates often for our shape.

>If there are still problems, please let me know.

I am not sure how to adress this, since this is a sensitive topic with plush women. But part of your fitting problems are caused by your chub.

It is especially visible on the Elomi Maria. Look at the gore and the center piece connecting the wires. See how it sits on the upper end of your stomach? Your stomach pushes the bra away from your body there, making the cup tilt. This is one of the reasons the Elomi Maria feels so tight. Ok, it is also a strapless, but it has to stretch extra around the tissue you got sitting in your upper stomach area.

A potential solution to this might be a bandless bra. Some women like this construction, some don't. Advantage of a bandless construction is more space for the stomach if you are chubby or pregnant, downside is that there is no padding from the band between the wires and the stomach and thus the wires tend to dig in more. I do better in banded bras, others have found that they love bandless bras. It is something you just got to try.

Elomi Eva and Elomi Abi are two bandless bras that you might like shape-wise and design-wise. They are pretty similar. Cleo Lucy is another very popular bandless bra.

You also seem to be of a short statue, so maybe look at some bras that are made by Elomi particularly for a short built. The Elomi Rita is one and Elomi Megan another. Both have a banded cut though. The upcoming Etta (release in June/July) is the first bandless bra made for a short figure.

Panache Evie is simply a bad fit, not surprising with a strapless bra. They are notoriously tricky to fit. Considering this the Elomi Maria is not half bad. If you really want or need a strapless bra, Elomi Maria is your best bet.

You could try the Elomi Maria again in 40G or use an non-stretchy extender on the 38GG like this one.

Fantasie Jana - the gaping at the side is caused by the tilted cup as I explained above.

The band might also have a tendency to settle into a natural skin fold on the back. I get this too. This makes the band ride up a bit and the gapping at the side worse.

Freya Gem is known to have a stretchier band, but I think it might be beneficial in your case.

All in all you got similar fit issues to somebody who has got a flared ribcage that widens towards the waist.

A potential solution might be to hook the bra uneven, tighter on top and looser on the bottom. Again, a non-stretchy extender might help to achieve this. Also a stretchier band like on the Freya Gem helps since they take better to this kind of abuse.

It's a bit harder to get diagnose fit and for some people to get the best possible fit in a moulded bra, but if you're not at all open to wearing a non-moulded bra, that's totally your choice. Your measurements put you between band sizes as well as between cup sizes, so you're likely to wear a 32 band in some bras and a 34 in others (in addition to being between cup sizes).

I'm putting only amazon links in here for ease of shipping/returns. Everything I've linked is available on Prime, but it might default to another seller if the size you choose is out of stock or they have a lower price so just pay attention when you're adding stuff to your cart as other sellers will have their own return policies.

For absolute basic, 'everyday' bras, your best choice to start would probably be Freya Deco. This bra runs bigger in the band, so you'll probably do fine in a 32 band here.

Personally I prefer the fit of the Parfait Jeanie to the Deco, I find the cups/straps are a little closer together so it's much more comfortable for me. (Also it's $20 cheaper, though, I'd still pay the extra money for something that fit better).

Strapless bras are fairly difficult to come by in larger sizes, the Deco Strapless is what I would consider the most useful one, it also comes in a longline version which may be more supportive if you don't find this sufficient. It is tighter in the band than the regular Deco, so you may take a 34 in this.

Panache Sport is probably the most consistently recommended bra on this sub, it comes in underwired and non-wired versions. It's not moulded, the cups are seamed and made of flexible foam. The underwires in the wired version are padded, so it's pretty comfy. You'll probably take a larger band in this based on the fact that you're lifting and doing yoga, and not running.

However, since the Panache sport is an encapsulation bra, it's really not my first choice for yoga. I prefer this Shock Absorber which is a strong compression bra, to just flatten my boobs as much as possible to get them as much out of the way as they can get. This runs tight in the band, so I might suggest trying a 36 band. The sizing is kind of weird on this as well, the boob section never gets any wider, it just gets taller (I own this in a FF and H cup in the same band size), so if you try it and think it doesn't provide enough coverage and is showing too much very squished cleavage, just size up even if it's a cup size much larger than you would normally wear.

$250 is a bit of a tight budget for the number of bras you want, but really not impossible once you've narrowed down your size. Even based on Amazon-pricing, if you like the Parfait Jeanie, you can get 3 of those, the Deco Strapless, and a sports bra for $260.....but you can also get 3 Decos, the Deco Strapless, and a Panache Sport from here for £161 which converts to $213USD. You can also often find new with tags bras on ebay from UK sellers that are selling off previous seasons' printed or fashion colour bras.

I didn't have a c-section, but I studied to be a nurse and spent time in post-surgical rehab, know a few friends who have had a c-section, and my mom's best friend had something like 30-35 abdominal surgeries because her intestines are awful, so maybe some of these secondhand tips will help...

I let my friend borrow some foldover-waist lounge pants for her recovery. I think they were George brand sold at Walmart for $12. Wouldn't be surprised if the exact pants are no longer sold, but look for something in a super stretchy fabric that doesn't compress whatsoever. These hug very very gently. Favorite pants on earth!! I'm on the lookout for another pair, if I find some, I'll try and find your post and tell you where I saw more.

Have little stations set up in at least two places you expect to spend a lot of time. You could get something like one of the carts from IKEA or set up book shelves with lots of baskets lined up. Find somewhere to stock diapers, wipes, diaper cream, new onesies, at least 10 burp cloths, batteries (or chargers) for remotes to whatever TV or entertainment consoles you'll be using to keep yourself occupied, swaddle blankets, a throw blanket for you, a gallon ziploc bag full of granola bars, fruit snacks, single-serving bags of crackers, trail mix, whatever you want to keep your energy up. If you plan to breastfeed, plan to be ravenously hungry. The last thing you want is to have to get out of bed and walk down or up a flight of stairs to be able to feed yourself. My husband has a 100oz mug that he fills with ice water. The bonus to those is it's literally more water than I could drink in an entire day. If you're breastfeeding, you will need a fuckton of water and the 32oz mug the hospital sends you home with will likely need refilled 3-4 times a day. Plan ahead and get at least a 64oz mug if you know you're going to be down for hours at a time. Or if room temperature bottled water works better for you, cool. We actually had a mini-fridge that I was gonna move from the office to our bedroom or the nursery, but it ended up being kinda noisy, and I wouldn't want it right next to my bed. You could always get a cooler and reusable ice packs, and have your spouse swap those out every morning and fill it with bottled water, Gatorade, or whatever else, so you do have a way to keep drinks cool. I just know I got real sick of room temperature drinks real fast, and the mug the hospital sent home didn't work for keeping my drinks cold for extended periods of time.

Have extra parts on hand for your breast pump, if you're going to use one. Have formula if that's what you're going to use. Have 5+ bottles on hand if you're going to pump or formula feed. Plan for spit-up and projectile barf. Clean sheets, a stack of clean shirts and extra pants or dresses to change into, when it happens. It will happen.

Have any pain medications split into two bottles, maybe just ask for an extra one or dump an old prescription and rip off the label, so you can split your pain meds to each of your survival stations. Few things suck like knowing it's going to hurt like a bitch to get up, but it's gonna hurt worse if you don't, because you left your meds in another room, and you're stuck in a lose-lose situation.

Words from another friend about her c-section recovery... "It wasn't fun. Can't lay down, can't stand, can't really walk. I had to be lifted off the couch, help sitting down, help up the stairs, help into bed." It took a solid week with lots of drugs before she could move without someone helping her. "What hurt the most, for me, was the jiggling. This new flabby belly bouncing around was was killed the most. And our house has 3 floors, so going up and down those damn stairs was very painful. I would hold onto the railing and drag myself up." We talked about belly bands: "3 in 1 Postpartum Support - Recovery Belly/waist/pelvis Belt Shapewear (Nude) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T2WBJJ8/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_9LWuyb9FP3Q3K This is the one I got. Lifesaver. I still wear it. It is great back support as well. Instant relief when I put it on. Only complaint is that it can be hard to wear and sit down without it riding up."

Will your husband be able to take off 7-10 days from work to be home with you? Do you have a sibling or parent or other close friend that can assist you if your husband can't take time off? Ask in advance for help. And not just "hold the baby so I can shower" help, but someone willing to do two loads of laundry because your baby has projectile vomited after multiple meals, and you need your clothes, their clothes, and your sheets cleaned.

I would also recommend keeping some hygiene items in your survival station. Deodorant, hair ties to pull your hair up, and maybe a travel size mouthwash. Lotion if you have dry skin. I avoid chapstick since I know it cakes layers of dead skin to my lips... you can use lanolin (nipple cream) as a lip balm, as well as coconut oil.

Have several options for entertainment. Adult coloring books and colored pencils, a bunch of apps on your phone to keep you entertained, maybe a Gameboy with a game you haven't played in 15 years, find a new YouTube channel with cool videos to queue up (may I recommend scishow?)

Do anything you can to have things within reach. If things need to be a few feet away, get a grabber. No shame. So many movements require your abdominal muscles, and you just don't comprehend how much your core muscles affect your entire body until you can't use them to even twist or pull something closer to you. You just avoid all movement possible for several days, and even going to the bathroom is exhausting and painful. Stool softeners were also a must with surgery recovery, a lot of pain meds will completely shut down your ability to poop.

Browse around and find some c-section recovery posts, I'm sure there are a bunch of super helpful tips and tricks that won't end up getting shared here!

And you will be ok. A common theme I saw was despair that the pain would never end. Especially with postpartum hormone crash, and exhaustion from no sleep, and having to be on a constant medication schedule so you don't feel like you're dying. Prepare yourself for possibly feeling doomed, and know that the pain goes away, and you learn your baby's cues, and you will sleep again, and everything will be fine. So many people focus so hard on preparing for the surgery and recovery that they forget that they also have to be a mom afterward, and that transition alone can be brutal. There are people who handle it just fine. I was not one of those people. I thought I would dive right in and just struggle with exhaustion, ya know? Told myself I could handle that. And I just didn't comprehend how things magnified each other... it wasn't just "sleep deprivation + breastfeeding pain + stitches and severely bruised tailbone + screaming baby" no, not for me. Change the plus signs to multiplication signs. The pain and exhaustion and crying was like torture for me. Have a plan for someone to call if it gets like that for you. A best friend, a neighbor, a parent, someone who can come be there to help you with short notice. They need to know that an SOS text means "I'm falling apart, I need you, are you able to come over?" I think that so often we read these birth stories on babybumps from moms 12-72 hours out from birth and they say their baby eats like a champ and it's so worth it, but then you don't see their posts on breastfeeding and beyondthebump when they feel like they're drowning, and we just get this false hope that if we can make it through birth, everything will be fine. Prepare for the worst, anything better is a tender mercy. It doesn't last forever, but it's really common and it can be really isolating. You will survive. Just know your limits and know who will be there for you if you need help.

Look up some tricks to keep supply up if you are exclusively pumping (if nursing is an option though do it as often as you can). I've been pumping 80% of the time since my daughter was born because of issues like you listed and EPing for the last two weeks after getting a bad friction blister and then mastitis. What's helped my supply:

-Pumping every three hours, every four overnight if she'll let me. Sometimes I need to get creative if she's awake and fussy and prop her in a boppy next to me, hold a bottle for her while I'm in the hands free pumping bra. Seems so silly to pump while bottle feeding her but it's just too painful to nurse sometimes!

-Pressing the let down button on the pump several times. Saw this from another redditor, and it does work. I usually wait until I no longer see streams of milk coming out, hit the let down button and increase suction a bit and get a second burst.

-Boob massage. If you don't have a hands free pumping bra yet get one, it's one of the best purchases I've made. I use this one. I've eaten most of my postpartum meals while pumping in this thing. ;) While my hands are free I can also massage my breasts, pushing slowly and firmly toward the nipple or in some cases just squeezing and holding to get more milk out. Over time I've noticed which ducts on each breast are "good performers" and benefit from being massaged.

-Power pumping sessions. Also picked up on this forum, every few days when my husband can watch the baby for an hour I'll do 20 mins pumping, 10 mins rest, 10 mins pumping, 10 mins rest, 10 mins pumping to simulate cluster feeding. Word of warning, check your nips for trauma during the breaks and don't overdo the suction. It really helped my supply (probably more than any other single technique) but the last time I did it I got a nasty friction blister because I didn't notice the flange was off center which didn't heal well and led to a case of mastitis.

-Mother's Milk tea I tried Milkmaid tea first, and then Mommy Knows Best lactation supplement, but this is more effective for me than both of those together. Start with just a cup or two a day as it can be seriously strong and lead to engorgement.

Good luck! I don't wish exclusively pumping on anyone as it's a pain in the butt, but I'm like you with one breastfeeding problem after another. I'm currently considering (for the millionth time) giving up because my mastitis was awful and serious and tanked my supply, but I keep reading the health benefits of making it to six months and am hoping to figure something out. This sub is great inspiration!

You and I are apparently boob twins. Same exact measurements and same fit from Lucy and Juna.

Unfortunately I have had little luck finding a molded bra that works perfectly but Freya Patsy half cup works well enough. It is not really padded but gives pretty good nip coverage by using thicker fabric. It is not the softest thing in the world but it might be worth checking out. If you have amazon prime, you'll get free returns just in case it is not to your liking.

Here is a link:
http://smile.amazon.com/Freya-Womens-Patsy-Padded-Black/dp/B00EM8LXMA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462776951&sr=8-1&keywords=freya+patsy

Btw, I was told that Freya bands run large but I got my regular 32 in this one and it worked for me. Just info to help you decide.

HTH and nice to find a twin!

ETA: The Patsy is a bit shallow so it will fit somewhere between Lucy and Juna. Again, it is not perfect for me but it is the best thing I've found short of my ill-fitting VS bras.

Yeah, the shape or size may just not be quite right for you, but I figured the strap thing was worth a shot. You definitely don't want the straps to be TOO tight, but adjusting the straps is one of those things I still sometimes forget to do with a new bra that it can make a difference in the fit especially in the top of the cup.

Re: extenders, I had never seen one before either, don't worry about it. :)

I got mine at Amazon, but they're often available at other stores like Target, Walmart, or - here's an interesting one - Joann Fabrics (remember to check for coupons!).

The reason I got mine on Amazon is that you get a lot more of them for the money, e.g. this set or this one, with prime shipping available, but if you want one immediately then you should be able to find one locally! I do not have any particular brand preferences or advice; I've never used one for an extended (ugh pun not intended) period of time so I don't know if one brand holds up to repeated use better than another, or anything. I just got a set with lots of pretty colors because I'm like a magpie or something O_o

I am not the person you replied to but I wear 28GG and by far my favorite sports bra and bra in general is the wired panache sports bra. It comes in bra sizes up to H cup from 28 to 40 band. It's completely amazing - it manages to be really comfortable with padded underwires that I wear it out dancing or casually. It provides support without strangling me and has a racerback clip for added support. It even gives a great shape under shirts. It really makes running a no longer a painful horrible experience. Can be bought at Amazon, Nordstroms usually has some as well.

Do make sure that you are wearing the right size though. Victoria Secret told me I was 32DDD, but I did not realize until later how badly that size fit me. VS and other similar places tend to use outdated measuring methods that fit women into larger bands and smaller cups to fit people into A - DD range. This method really does not work well for bigger busts and results in bras with not the best support or fit. I am much happier after switching to wearing a tigher band with cups that actually fit my boobs properly.

Hey there! Definitely not an expert here (I'm sure one of them will check in) but I used to have the same problems. Sports bras are the worst with a pendulous shape- I felt like I was always trying to escape out the bottom of a too-big band! I was jealous of my friends who could just buy a cheap one off the rack in some store labeled in "S, M, L" sizing and make it work. That was definitely not going to happen for me. Looking back, I think most of them had firmer tissue and were self-supporting, so they had a completely different shape than I did.

You'll definitely want to measure yourself according to the sidebar guidelines so that you have a better size to start with. Then, there are lots of sports bras that have adjustable bands and straps, and even different types of hold.

My favorite turned out to be the Panache Sports Bra (I like both the wired and non-wired for different activities). I get incredible lift and support, and absolutely no movement. It's on the expensive side, but I've never been more comfortable in a sports bra and I don't dread working out anymore. Plus, Amazon has lots of sales, so I've rarely paid full price. If it works with your measurements, I recommend trying it! If not, there's lots of other styles to try, and this sub was very helpful in making a few recommendations for me when I was looking. Hopefully you find something that works for you!

Welcome back!

Averaged MWB and the +4 sister size method both put your near a 38G and 36GG, and these are sister sizes to the 40FF Alegro you linked to which actually looked like a really good cup volume for you despite the loose upper panel.

I would recommend starting with:

• Cleo Marcie, which is on sale in 36GG on Amazon for $27 with free shipping and free returns in the blue color
  
  
• Cleo Lucy, which is on sale in 36GG on Amazon for $29 through Herrom in the purple color, or around $50 with free shipping and free returns in the other colors. ^(If you can afford to front the higher cost on this one, you have the flexibility to send it back for a full refund and buy it in the cheaper color once you know the size you need, if it works out and you're so inclined).
  
  Alternatively, you could also scour Bratabase. I currently have the Cleo Alexa in 36GG and Elomi Lara in 38G listed for sale, as well as a Cloe Juna in 34H which I think would fit you pretty decently based off the measurements and the photos you've provided.

The Panache underwired sports bra: http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O

I am a 30JJ and love Love LOVE this sports bra. The band is nice and firm, and the wires are very well padded and don't hurt or dig. I also love that it has a hook to convert the bra from normal to racerback straps (I find I need the extra holding power of converting to racerback after a while on a run!)

Have fun getting back into the gym! I'm just getting back into after the holidays too and it feels great to be sore (good sore!) after a workout!

Somethings about weight loss sucks, some not so much. I'll give you what advice I've got for the issues I've also dealt with or at least have and idea on how to solve.

The bra issue sucks. I have the same issue. u/HDavethoreauAway gave some good ideas. I would also recommend buying a band too small and using bra extenders.

The belly fat issue I've dealt a little with, but a good friend had a bigger issue with it. My recommendation from what she did is to buy some large spandex for the belly fat. Not with the intention of sucking it all in, but to keep it from hanging or jiggling. Make sure they are loose enough to be comfortable. Think of it as a body bra. One option would be a cheap bathing suit.

Clothing is an issue I can help the most with. First off, as long as you are actively losing weight, buy cheap clothes (if you can). Cheap clothes usually looks fine for only a short time then falls apart. By the time it falls apart you won't need it. Cheap clothes aren't always easy to come by in all sizes, this may or may not be an option.

The actual best option is to start visiting thrift stores. If people wear it, people donate it. Many people donate all clothes as they lose weight, but hold on to nice clothes that are too small. This means you will find more nicer clothes in larger sizes. Thrift stores sell clothes/sizes people donate, so sizing shouldn't be as big of an issue.

Last of all, dresses and skirts. Even if you are not the biggest fan of them, they tend to be more forgiving in how they look while you lose weight. Skirts tend to be cheaper to alter, and a fit flair style will allow you to use a belt even when they really are just too big.

My experience with sports bras and gymnastics (which has it's own 360 concerns) has led me to search for the elusive racerback encapsulation DD+ bra. Racerbacks are only style I get support, good distribution of pressure and full range of motion in, while encapsulation personally feels much more comfortable then compression. Both the Panache Sport and Freya Active (which are very popular, so give them a try too) have j-hooks which are completely inadequate and a bit flimsy.

I've temporarily settled on the Bendon Extreme Sport. It's a cup size small for me (only goes up to a G, alas!), but the best fit I've found: great top and side support, convertible straps for a true racerback and really strange wires (they have a sort of swoosh shape when worn) that somehow work. Worth a spot on your list for sure.

Hey, your massive quadboob looks like mine when I attempt to wear a 34C!

In all seriousness though, I think you'll do good in a 30F like others have said. Your breasts look firm compared to my pudding boobies, but I'm seeing that you have a similar shape that I do; but mine hang lower.

Try the Cleo Lucy! It gave me enough lift to where the shape I got in the bra is almost identical to your natural shape, I'm confident to say that it'll work for you nicely. Here's me in my Cleo Lucy for what it's worth.

Be aware this band is really snug, and going from a 34 band to a 30 band is going to feel too tight at first, until you break it in, so if you can I would for sure pick up a pack of 2 hook bra extenders to help with the adjustment period. (Feel free to buy other ones beside the listing that I just linked)

Hopefully it works for you! And of course, don't forget to scoop and swoop!

To me you look like the classic combination of FOB with tall, shallow roots. This makes it tough to get a good fit from bras like the Lucy, which have a rigid top section that won't cling and conform and/or wrinkles when it runs into taller tissue (which is what I think is going on with your strap issue). I have this problem too - you're not alone!

There's a two prong starter approach. First, stretch lace:

• Panache Idina and Idina Plunge - 4-part stretch lace styles similar to the FOB friendly Tango. Firm bands like Cleo, so try 32F.
  
• Panache Andorra and Clara - always forget these two. Can be a bit pointy in shape and not specifically FOB, but nice 4-part stretch lace cups. 32F
  
• Lepel Fiore, Fiore Balconette and Fiore Plunge - stretch lace styles from a brand similar to Cleo. Bands are stretchier according to Bratabase, so you'll probably be comfortable in a 30FF.
  
• Just Peachy Balconette - Figleaves.com house brand; an entirely stretch lace balconette. Bratabase says true to size, so 32F.
  
  Second, half cups:
  
  
• Freya Padded Half-Cups - numerous and dominating the market. The Patsy and Rapture are the classics, though. Freya runs stretchy; 30FF.
  
• Cleo Maddie and Juna - molded half cups are a tough fit, but these are two very popular styles.
  
  I don't think you should size down in the Lucy - it looks like you fill out the bottom well, and a 32E would probably be too small.
  
  Edit: Added the Andorra and Clara!

FF is a UK size. It's 1 full cup bigger than an F. UK sizing goes D, DD, E, F, FF, G, GG and so on. I checked bratabase and the Deco has very wide wires. 34FF actually has the same volume as a 32G, but with a looser band. The Cleo Lucy is a good bra to start with if you are full on bottom. Also, unlined bras are much better when you are trying to nail down your best fit/size. It has medium wires. Amazon often has the Lucy on sale for a good price, right now the 34FF is about $31. You might want to try it in the 34F and 34FF.

Hi Lindy! I'm a first-time poster to this group because I don't normally feel I have anything to contribute, but I am a new mommy so I know a bit about nursing bras, which some people wear during pregnancy, although I personally preferred to just wear a regular bra in a larger size during pregnancy. Your rib cage, and, therefore, band size, will continue to expand as you progress through your pregnancy so I wouldn't put too much money into bras right now because you'll likely outgrow them. I'm a 36H while breastfeeding so I have a different build than you, but here are a few of recommendations based on my experience:

Supportive, going out of the house bra: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0011MUJUW/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Comfy bra for being at home or that you can wear out of the house if you don't need much support http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BKT31FG/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you plan to pump breastmilk, get yourself a pumping bra. They look crazy, but it's really nice to be able to do hands-free pumping. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002968T5G/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I hope that helps, and congrats on the baby!

I'm half your mom's age, but the way you describe her breasts sounds pretty similar to mine - I'm a cup size smaller than she is at 38E, but I'm also 5'2" and overweight. I've had luck with Panache bras; my favorites are the Tango II balconette and the Jasmine. The Jasmine has stretch lace at the top of the cup, so it's pretty forgiving to full-on-top shapes. I like wearing my Jasmines because they make my boobs stick out further than my stomach, lol!

Finding the right sports bra can be tricky. My suggestions:

• Have you tried any encapsulation bras? Personally, I prefer them because I find them to be more supportive. Instead of compression bras (which work by squishing everything down), they encapsulate each breast individually to keep them from moving. I like the Panache Sport a lot.
  
  
• Sports bras that have regular bra sizes instead of bras that have the general S/M/L might work better for women who need a lot of support.
  
  
• Have you been fitted recently? A good fit is really important when you are depending on the bra to provide strong support, especially when you're doing high-impact stuff. /r/abrathatfits has fitting information as well as a specific sports bra guide if you just want info on other brands.
  
  

Okay, if you've tried flirtelle and you think you need narrow wires, and you're full on bottom, I'd say try Cleo Lucy or Marcie. Marcie is more for even breasts, while Lucy tends to work better on FOB breasts. You could also probably try Freya, which also has narrow wires, and most of their models are FOB compatible. The deco may work for you (it has narrow-ish wires), or one of their padded halfcups may do you well. For cleo, you'll probably want to stick to a 32 band, but you may need to go down to a 30 in some Freya's, as they tend to be stretchier.

You should be able to order these all (although, for some odd reason, I can't find the cleos on nordstrom's site even though I know they carry them) for free shipping and free returns (or maybe try them on in store at) Nordstrom. Also, amazon prime, if you've got it.

These other bras are also recommeded for FOB:

• Bravissimo Alana
  
• Freya Arabella
  
• Panache Tango II Balconette
  
• Goddess Kiera
  
  Depending on how FOB you are, the CK Entice may also work for you (although, it has been discontinued, tends to work better for even shapes), and you should probably go up one cup size for it, so 32FF.
  
  Do you live in Southern CA? I've heard good things about Jennette's bras as well as Nordstrom/Nordstrom Rack for fittings and bra shopping.
  
  

My wife almost never wears a bra. She loves "Nippies Skin Original". They have adhesive and non-adhesive versions. I've taken them off her many times; no complaints, flinching or any sign they are uncomfortable to take off. Seems to just peel off with not a lot of resistance. The adhesive is not very sticky and it's reusable. You can rejuvenate the adhesive by gently washing with warm water and letting them air dry (pick any hairs out =)

She recently tried the non-adhesive kind and they stay on very well too!

​

Highly recommend them... they aren't cheap but a set can last you a year, easy, if you take care of them. By 'take care of them' I mean just don't wantonly cover them in dirt / sand and when you aren't wearing them put them back on the little plastic cups. The adhesive should last at least 6 months before needing to be washed and rejuvenated. Trust me... if these things were high maintenance she wouldn't bother!

​

Here's a link to the specific thing I'm talking about.

https://www.amazon.com/Nippies-ORIGINAL-Hypoallergenic-Pasties-ADHESIVE/dp/B00CX547FE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1540583439&sr=8-3&keywords=nippies+skin

​

edit: changed link to a Prime version

I wore pasties! Will wear them at the wedding too. These are the best ones I've tried. There are similar for only like $5 but these really last, and I personally like them because they keep a perfect round shape, I wear them under tank tops and stuff too and even with C-Ds I feel good about it.

For those thinking about getting breast forms I thought I would post some information for you about these. Previously I had "breast form inserts" which are meant to enhance (add a cup size) to current breasts. Since I am a flat chested male they really didn't "enhance" much and were always a little small for my desire. They are size 7 (34DD/36D/38C) and I ordered them off Amazon for $45 from a seller named Envy Body Boutique. (http://amzn.com/B004GP05TQ)

First off, I am very impressed with the quality and feel of these. They have some weight to them and jiggle around nicely. I am very happy with them. Secondly, I am very happy with Envy Body Boutique. I contacted the seller asking if I could get priority shipping since I really wanted them for this coming weekend (make over and photo shoot is scheduled). She was very nice, made sure I had ordered the size that I wanted, and got them shipped out in under 14 hours! I received them in two days. I cannot recommend that seller enough.

TL;DR: New bewbs, they're great, if you're looking to buy some get them from Envy Body Boutique on Amazon.

Do you want a completely yellow sports bra? Panache has a great sports bra that comes in actual bra sizes, and the geo print has some yellow in it, but not an overwhelming amount. It's also just a fabulous sports bra in general, I highly recommend it.

The coral colorway (it's called Print Multi on amazon for whatever reason) has a nice bright but not neon yellow edging to it.

If you are in the USA, your best bet of trying on some bras in 38HH in a store is Nordstrom. Call your nearest Nordstrom store and have them order in a few bras in 38HH.

I would also phone any lingerie boutiques within 4 hours of you and see whether they have this size in stock. (Chances are high they have one bra, the Elomi Caitlyn in beige or the Goddess Keira in fawn. Or they have one sole bra in 42F and tell you to come in anyway, in the hope of making a sale. Been there, have fallen for that crap.)

I've been through all of this and in the end I just gave up. I order all my bras online. I don't have to drive several hours to a boutique with a shitty selection and pay full price for an ugly bra. Instead I look up the newest collections from Elomi, Goddess and Panache, make a list of what I like and then try to find a good price for those bras. I try the bras in the comfort of my own home without a sales assistant breathing down my neck and telling me how great it looks and I can think a few days whether I really want to keep the bra.

I can also try the new bra with all my shirts and see which shirts it works with. Does the lace show through? Is the beige pale enough to work for my pasty-white skin and not show through my work uniform white button-downs? Is the gore low enough to wear with that new gorgeous teal and silver shirt with the low plunging neckline?

The way I see it, you are not really buying the bra online, instead you are paying a deposit to the online shop so that you can try the bra in the comfort of your own home, maybe even giving it a test drive of around 30 min while you do some light chores around the house, simulating everyday wear.

You only really bought it when you decide to keep it, rip the tags off, give it a rinse to wash the starch out and then put it on for a 10+ hour day.

So maybe consider taking advantage of the amazon sales and order a few 38HH bras through amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003P9WFVU/

https://www.amazon.com/Elomi-Nina-Bra-38HH-Sand/dp/B018Y74DPI/

Since you wanted wire-free:

https://www.amazon.com/Royce-Womens-Sadie-Wire-Free-Comfort/dp/B00INRYP12/

https://www.amazon.com/Royce-Charlotte-Wire-Free-Cotton-Lined-Comfort/dp/B004EKMOCY/

The Elomi Smoothing that you got in 44FF is also available in 38H and might fit you in that size too because it runs large in the cup. It is sadly currently sold out on amazon, the only sizes that are available are 38GG and 40GG. If you want to try it in 38H, you'd need to order it elsewhere.

A properly fitting bra will support and separate your breasts without pressing them too tightly to your chest. It sounds like that's what you're looking for. What I would recommend is first to use the calculator and then post a measurement check with your measurements so the community here can help you find your ideal fit. I think it's likely that the bras you have been wearing are too large in the band and too small in the cup, which is just a recipe for discomfort.

Once you have found your ideal size, a bra with a nice snug band and soft underwires will be super comfortable. Personally my most comfortable bras are from Comexim, but there are other brands with pretty soft underwires too.

Another option is to go with an encapsulation-style sports bra. These bras are designed to completely surround your breasts and hold them snugly in place without compressing them. The gold standard for this type of bra is the Panache Sport. I get the "oozing" problem you describe with some compression-style sports bras, but the Panache keeps everything in place nicely.

Hey! 34H chiming in! This bra has a million sizes (including yours!) and I absolutely love it! Of course its a personal pref thing, but just in case you need something with good value and good quality-- http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Tango-Balconette-3251/dp/B002MAPJCA :)

It's one of these. They're AMAZING! Highly recommend. Great support, and really cute, too.

I recently picked up a couple of the Panache underwire sports bras that sound like they fit your criteria almost perfectly. I got them in 32DD, but they go up to at least DDD/E+. They have multicolored, but I grabbed a solid back and a solid white (on sale at my local running store!). They hook in back and also have a small hook on the straps to convert to racerback if you prefer it. They seem a bit more suited for FoT (which I'm not), but I've been quite happy with them regardless. I'm quite glad I found them!

It sounds like she might be something like a 34J or 36HH? If so, you should be able to help her to find something fairly easily. If she doesn't want them 'up here' in her face, look for something full coverage so she doesn't feel like they are all on show as she might with a plunge or balconnet.
When you've measured, how about trying the Panache Andorra - the lace is pretty stretchy so I think it works for a number of shapes, and comes up to a J cup. You could order it from Amazon or Nordstrom and get free returns - it's cheaper elsewhere but the free returns is wonderful when you are trying sizes.
http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Andorra-Full-Cup/dp/B003P9WFVU

On a similar note, I am also as bra-free as possible, but find myself using silicon nude-colored pasties (something like this) when I really want to wear a certain shirt and it's not socially/professionally appropriate to show my nipples. Highly recommend!! None of the constraint and looks entirely like you're wearing a bra. Stick incredibly well. A+

I've been there. I found that buying actual running shoes and workout clothes (rather than wearing old college tees and cotton leggings) was a great motivator. I told myself that I didn't buy these things just to have them go to waste (and a small part of me liked showing off my ~fabulous shoe and shirt combos~). As I started exercising more, my matching game became A++ and I invested in more expensive items (specifically, a good, supportive sports bra)

I would start off buying cheaper workout clothes rather than diving into "nicer" brands like Lululemon. Old Navy and Target (and apparently Forever21?) have great affordable options. I've also gotten great deals at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and outlet stores

So I had twins (and was bigger to begin with). They do get crazy big after your milk comes in, but that crazy level of engorgement doesn't last forever (it last about 2 months for me).

I would recommend soft stretchy bras for that period of time, and save any underwire purchases for when your size has stabilized. You're also super sensitive and need to sleep in them so it's also great for that.

For now they also sell these to get you by with your old ones.

The first thing that immediately jumps out at me is the discrepancy between your measurements and the bra band size you went with. Sister sizes get gradually shallower and wider as you size up in the band, while having the same volume. Does that make sense? In other words, a 28D/DD or 26DD/E is going to have far more projection in the cup than a 30C is.


It seems like you're experiencing what a lot of us on here did, stuffing our 30DD busts into a 34C and ending up with a fit that sucks. I think a 30 band size is going to be much too large for you given your measurements, and even if CK runs 'small' in the band it's not going to change the mismatch in cup shape, which means the C cup is going to be much too shallow for you.

I'd highly recommend trying something in a 28 band size, if not a 26. I understand that 26 bands are quite hard to find. In my experience 28 is significantly easier to find. What is available to you is probably gonna depend on your geographic area, but ordering bras in your size online to try on isn't a bad idea. Amazon Prime, for example, does free exchanges/returns.

Edited to add: Here are a couple bras available in 28D/DD on Amazon Prime.

Parfait Charlotte, assorted colors

Skarlett Blue Petite Plus Balconnet (I have this bra and it's one of my favorites! I would get it in all the colors if I could.)

Freya Patsy

In my case I originally thought my boobs were shallow, but later found out they are projected, just thin. I'm sure the fact that I wear binders somewhat regularly doesn't help them in that department, heh.

This is gonna sound a little weird, but these panties are amazing. They are so comfy and super cute. I got them during my first pregnancy and still wear them 4 years later.

What she’s talking about are breast forms, like this (NSFW Amazon link because nipples). Typically used by either mastectomy patients and MTF crossdressers, so they should be very helpful to you.

Also, check out r/feminineboys and r/crossdressing, they should be able to help because there are plenty of guys who want to wear dresses but are flat chested

Hope you’re able to feel pretty :)

It might shift around during nursing. Thinking about that made me realize though that maybe the gore is too high? The wire doesn't seem too narrow like it doesn't contain all my breast tissue, more like the inner parts of the cup are too sloping. I don't really know how to describe it! Every time I think I know what a well fitted bra feels like it's like a new challenger appears haha.

Before pregnancy etc my favorite bra was the Freya Patsy which has a low gore since it's a half cup.

Hi! I like your username :3!!

Is it a red panda? I love them so much I took a picture of one at the zoo! <3

These always come in handy, good find! :)

An awesome CD of my wishlist :)!

I know this is r/AskMen, but I'd like to chime in as a woman who also generally goes braless (I'm a small B cup). My issue with going braless was the prominence of my nipples. They just seem to want everyone to look at them and that made me way too self conscious. I bought these and I love them! Now I can be braless and comfortable without it being obvious.

The Cleo Juna has some lace along the top of the cup and isn't too full coverage (but is otherwise boring).

The Deco Plunge is "boring" as far as decoration, but does give nice cleavage w/ less coverage.

The Tango II seems like a fun nude bra, but it's not. It's evil (in this size rage).

I don't think the Natori Feathers comes in your size, unfortunately, because I think it hits all of your points.

The Gossard Superboost lace plunge looks cute, but I haven't tried it (and I think I remember people saying Gossard is weird re shape/sizing?)

The Freya Carys is not beige as in nude color, but is a more neutral color and also comes in longline.

I recently purchased a Panache sports bra and love it! http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O

However, my breasts are full on bottom. But the shape of the bra seems like it would hold in the top fullness. Maybe someone else here will have experience with this one and full on top? Good luck!

Panache has some cute colors and they're great bras. I have mine in Geo Print and my fellow pole girls kept complimenting me on it. Just mouse through the colors, there's more than generic solids in there. :)

http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Black/dp/B005VNFFZ6

I know you said 30C, but in this brand, as a 28H I wear a 30FF. Amazon has a great return system anyways!

I would recommend trying out a wired sports bra if you can. Having a bra that encapsulates your breasts instead of compressing them really helps with comfort, support, and prevents uniboobing. I have this one by panache and I love it.

i used this one about an hour a day from weeks 4-12: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T2WBJJ8/ref=asc_df_B00T2WBJJ85388490/

i liked it well enough. i had a REALLY strong core prior to baby, and it has returned pretty evenly. can't say if its genes, nutrition, or the girdle, but everything went back pretty nicely.

It looks like you don't need a whole lot of support, just nipple coverage? If so, and if the cups are sewn on top of the lining, you could carefully remove them yourself and just use stick on covers like these.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PU9A9Q/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use them all the time, and they are SO comfortable, you won't even know they're there. I'll be using them on my wedding day (I have a similar neckline to yours, also backless).

Um. So yeah, I goofed up a little. It's actually not a Freya, it's a Panache. This one: http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Black/dp/B005VNFJFW/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1417130729&sr=1-1

Derp. Sorry. :P Back to square one, I guess.

Anyway, I do have pretty significant gapping at the top of the cups - maybe about an inch? Though maybe I should go down to a GG instead... a little gapping won't bother me too much.

Thanks for the input about the balcony/plunge bras. :D

Hi, a couple of things before you give up on that bra.

First, clasp it behind yourself, you're not supposed to be able to turn it around. It will eventually end up in either a stretched out bra or broken wires.

Second, bras need a little while to break in, like new shoes do. Give it a good wash in the sink, air dry it, and wear it around the house for smaller amounts of time. Mine usually take between 2 week and a month. Get yourself some bra extenders to make it feel more comfortable in the mean time. You can find them everwhere from department stores, Target, the dollar store, fabric stores, or online.

Third, I agree with the others that not all stores size properly. Give us a post with your measurements and we'll help you out. =)

Post ABTF, and my biggest go-tos are the Goddess Michelle in Sand and the Panache Andorra in Pearl. I don't really care about seams showing through my clothes, and honestly the specific seaming on Michelle is what makes it fit me so well. I'm more bothered about coloured bras showing through my clothes, so I don't wear some of my other bras as often, but I also love some of Freya's half cup bras--they have such cute patterns!

If your cup size is small, try Nippies. I also have a wide rib cage with small breasts and bra fitting is very challenging. I don’t need a bra for support, just to keep my nipples from poking through my shirt. Nippies take care of that. I LOVE not having a band around my chest.

I have two of these bras and they're my favorite for running:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005VNFFZ6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494425729&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=panache+sports+bra&dpPl=1&dpID=41z%2Bal%2Bc7yL&ref=plSrch

They have version without underwire too.

Edit: id like to clarify that i wear 28F and I'm very particular about having enough support while running. So this bra really does great

You say the straps are digging in. That's the problem. The support should come from the band, not the straps. The straps should be just tight enough not to slip off your shoulders.

Get a bra that has a band tight enough that it can't ride up your torso in the back. If you measure around your torso just under your breast tissue, keep the tape parallel with the ground, and the tape should be very tight. Tha is your true band number. Don't add or subtract. If it measures 38", you need to find a bra that's 38" (most bra sellers suggest adding inches. This makes bras easier to manufacture, but it's wrong. Yes, you've been lied to about how to fit a bra by everyone your whole life.)

Now that you know your size, there are two types of sports bras, bending or encapsulating. Binding is basically a giant elastic band that squashes your boobs into place. Encapsulating creates little pockets for your breasts that hold them in place. Binding bras are more common, and a lot cheaper. Encapsulating are better, and more expendsive.

Panache makes encapsulating ones with wire and no wire. amazon

/r/abrathatfits is a great resource.

I'm getting a 32F for you, my dear. If you do prefer the 34 band, the sister size would be a 34E (equivalent to a 34DDD in Victoria's Secret). But I do suggest trying the 32 to see how it feels.

For full on bottom/projected/average root, I'd recommend:

• Freya Arabella
  
• Bravissimo Alana
  
• Panache Tango II Balconette
  
• Cleo Lucy
  
  These are in order from very narrow and projected to average width and somewhat projected, so you may have to experiment to find the style that's right for you.
  
  If I were you, I'd try the Arabella and Cleo in a 32F, and the others in either a 32F or a 34EE depending on your preference.
  
  Hope this helps! Be sure to post a fit check when you get your bras so we can troubleshoot any potential problems. :)

The difference in size is probably not due to using inches instead of centimeters. It is probably because you pulled the tape more tightly on one occasion than the other, leading to smaller measurements and of course therefore a smaller predicted size.

Your measurements point more to 34G US (or 34F in UK sizing) than 34DDD, to me, especially since you say you're projected. The bras you bought were small in the cups for you, thus your breast tissue had to go somewhere and some of it went in the band which makes the band feel too tight. Meanwhile, your breasts are seeking more room in the cups, so they can push the cup away from your body, giving the appearance of gaping.

Since you say you appear projected, I have to say minimizers won't give you the best fit because they don't suit a projected shape--they're shallow and wide, and so the pull tissue a little closer to the chest and give a slightly minimized appearance. But this works best for fit if the wearer's shape is also shallow and wide, which does not sound like you.

Because you're leery of the 34 band, what I'll recommend you try is the Panache Andorra bra in 36E UK. This is a sister size up to the UK size of 34F (that would be equivalent to US 34G). The cups of 36E hold the same volume of breast tissue as 34F on a larger band, but the thing about the Andorra is that it runs snug in the band, so it's kind of a compromise between a 34 band and a TTS 36 band. Hopefully this explanation makes sense to you, but if you're confused by anything feel free to ask questions.

36J ish here (pregnant boobs currently, due in a few weeks with baby #2)

This one has terrible support, but great for around the house!

Gratlin Women's Cotton Wirefree... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDVTD4L?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


And this pumping bra worked really well for me!

Simple Wishes Hands Free... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002968T5G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Hey there! How YOU doin? I'm thinking you like monkeys. Monkeys are pretty cool right? I mean I know they get a bad rap for flinging their own poop, but hey, boys will be boys right?

[My linky] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00025H3S0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2Y7DBLRAYXU1T&coliid=IC9DQ8VQN00MB&psc=1)

[Your linky] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0083QLPY8/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2LEKBKE1W5ETM&coliid=IMYFBX04VZKCF&psc=1)

Cuz we'd both like to be comfortable.

http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O# this sports bra from panache was my saviour. So comfortable and comes in all sizes. Well worth the $70 cause it saved me from knocking myself out every time I jogged. Lol.

I am a 30G (measured over at /r/ABraThatFits). I finally broke down and ordered the sports bra from Panache. Assuming you're all measured and properly fitted into the correct bra size, this thing is a miracle!

It doesn't use compression, but more of an encapsulation technique.. if that makes sense? It's the most amazing invention in the world of large-breasted athletes. If you can spare the cash, I would highly recommend it.

You should check the sidebar and measure yourself with the ABTF calculator. I don't know what kind of measuring guide JCPenney's provides, but a lot of mainstream stores use the +4 method, which is more likely to give you an uncomfortable bra size.

I noticed in another comment of yours that you mention wires poking out of your bras from stress. When I had this happen with my old bras, it was before I started wearing my correct size. Since switching from 34C to 30E/F, I haven't had similar issues.

If you have a Nordstrom Rack nearby, I strongly recommend checking it. Nonstandard sizes can be found on their clearance racks, although like all clearance items, YMMV for finding what you want. But it's a good way to find cheap bras. If you don't have one nearby but are in the US, Amazon, Bare Necessities and Bravissimo are good places to look online. Bare Necessities currently has a sale going on.

As for sports bras that have bra sizes, I personally wear Panache's underwire sports bra, and I like it. However, from my normal 30E/F, I went up a band size to 32E. If I tried my regular size in their sports bra it would be uncomfortably tight.

Make sure you fit yourself properly first. Once you find your size, figure out your shape - different bra shapes will support different boob shapes, surprisingly. I've heard really good things about this bra though: http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O/ref=cts_ap_1_fbt

It sounds like you might want to invest in some bra extenders, which basically just increase the band size. It might be that you only need a little bit more length in the band, but not a full band size. Bras also do stretch, so an extender can help until the 40 band stretches to a comfortable length.

Yes! I would highly recommend silicone ones that you can continuously reuse. I bought these from Amazon and they've been amazing.

No show throughs, quick cleaning, no movements, hassle free!

Projected, seamed bras don't have to make your boobs look like cones or cylinders. They can look pretty round (most of my bras are very projected, unlined cups, and give a nice shape). The main problem is that they don't make many bras like that in your size range.

I just looked though, and it seems that they make Panache Andorra in 40D. It is a bra with medium-width wires and medium projection (though I'm not 100% sure how it scales in your size) that suits even top- and bottom-fullness, so it should be a lot more projected than your current bras, but without a lot of danger of being pointy. If you try it, I would suggest not getting the black, because black bras tend to run a bit smaller (something about black dye sometimes makes them less stretchy). Panache bands are typically pretty firm/true-to-size, and since they don't make C-cups, getting a 42 isn't an option.

These nipple covers are the best. I can wear them with a really tight top and they don't show at all. Just make sure you get the right color. I have both the adhesive and non-adhesive versions, but I like the adhesive version better for when I'm wearing a loose top.

[These] (http://www.amazon.com/Nippies-Reusable-Silicone-Pasties-ADHESIVE/dp/B001PU9A9Q?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00) are super sticky. The smaller size will be fine for you (I have both). If you want to make sure they stick, wear a bra with them for a little while before you leave so they can get squished on. Honestly, they're so sticky, even after washing, I can't imagine they'll fall off.

Nordstrom Rack can be quite hit or miss for sizes out of the matrix (aka the sizes that are most easily/readily found at most if not all stores).

UK brands are what you want to look at - not only are the sizes you're measuring at not available in any US brand, but boring/plain styles and neutral colors are actually quite rare in UK brands.

As for cleavage, most people only get buttcrack cleavage in poorly fitting bras. The cleavage you see Victoria's Secret models have is a combination of their natural breast shape and the fact that they are all wearing bras that are too small.

For projected with even fullness, I'd recommend checking out any of these: Cleo Hettie, Panache Andorra, and Fantasie Rebecca

u/xuenylom u/noys Do you have any recs for spacer or molded cup bras that are good for even fullness that come in 32G and 32GG?

I hear you on the necessity to invest in a good running bra! A few years ago, I decided to get the one that Oprah always recommends and it is THE BEST. In case anyone is looking for suggestions: http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O/

36E is the same as 36DDD!

Are you wearing sports bras that are sized like S, M, L (like this: http://blog.dealrocker.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Nike-Pro-Racerback-Bra.jpg ) or that are sized according to your bra size? If it's the former, that's probably your issue.

I do a lot of HIIT which requires bouncing around a LOT and I really like Panache Sport: http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O and Shock Absorber bras including the Ultimate Run bra: http://www.amazon.com/Shock-Absorber-Womens-Ultimate-Sports/dp/B00IABYO9E/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1420749921&sr=1-2&keywords=shock+absorber (Note: If you happen to buy the Ultimate Gym bra... it sizes really small, so adjust accordingly. The Ultimate Run bra sizes true to size).

At 36DDD, though, you can totally buy sports bras from Victoria's Secret that will be sized according to your actual bra size and they are much more widely available. Be sure to jump around a ton in the dressing room! I can't speak to them much because I am not in the size range that Victoria's Secret serves, but I am sure that they are totally adequate.

I've been wearing these fleece-lined leggings for a few weeks now. Not sure that they'll last forever, but hard to beat $5 a pop, and super comfortable with an extra wide and stretchy waistband.

I love Panache! I bought their regular sports bra and while I liked it for most workouts, on my long runs (10+ miles), the underwire would poke into me and rub me raw. I was disappointed, and continued to search for the perfect bra.

Eventually, I decided to try their non-wired sports bra and it's absolutely the best sports bra I've ever put on. No bounce, no chaffing, just awesomeness.

http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Non-Wired-Sports-Bra/dp/B00MGTNTB0

I got one on Amazon here for the same reason, I didn't want to spend tons of money on something that may or may not work. It has 658 reviews and people seem to like it, so it may be worth looking into. It seems to be pretty solidly constructed, decent quality, and it's got a hip belt, waist belt, and something else or other that's supposed to help.

I wear a Panache underwire sports bra. I'm a 30GG, so I need the support. And it does a pretty good job. I had to size down to a 30G in the sports bra because of shape issues, though.

Eta: I got mine from Amazon here http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Black/dp/B005VNFJFW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451699304&sr=8-1&keywords=panache+sports+bra

Nippies!

Literally my favorite sticky pasty. Its the BEST thing I've ever had. I get really sweaty boobs, and these things just let the sweat roll off without losing the adhesive. HIGHLY suggest it

Extenders! I'm trying my best to hold up on buying bras because I started as a DD, and I can just wait and see how big my boobs get and buy nursing bras. I've noticed that having extenders like these are budget-friendly and can help you get a little more time out of your bras.

I can understand the desire to buy something for your SO, even if there's a likelihood that they may not like it. My husband isn't a fan of shopping so he won't even bother looking until his current clothes rip or become threadbare, so I've always just bought a bunch of options for him to try at home without the pressure and discomfort of a dressing room and returned things that he didn't like. I've returned entire orders of clothes to Nordstrom because he didn't like any of it. I think it's the sentiment of doing something considerate to make them feel comfortable vs. what you actually end up buying.

As for your question, I think the Panache underwired sports bra is pretty popular among very busty women. Compression-only bras may not provide enough support for women with a lot of volume. I'd also try one with molded cups and no underwire like the Moving Comfort one another girl suggested because depending on how her breasts are spaced, some underwires go up too high and can cause discomfort where the center gore will dig into the breast tissue.

Try here... I tried to link to it but it didn't work the other way. Looks like only pink is available right now.


Simple Wishes Signature Hands Free Pumping Bra, Patented, Soft Pink, Large/Plus https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002968T5G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rINZDbMFY0DHQ

I'm a HUGE (no pun intended) fan of the Panache Sports Bra. I'm a 38FF and wear the non-wired version, and find it contains and supports the girls quite well!

Aerie has some nice cotton ones that I don't find to be sheer at all. I've had them about a year and they've held up great.

For fleece lined ones, I got this pack off amazon a few years ago and they've been great. A few of my more worn pairs are just starting to pill a bit, but that's an easy fix.

I bought these but I'm not thrilled with them. The quality is fine, but the spacing doesn't really work and I can sometimes feel them scratching against my back - not on every bra, but some, just depends on how it lines up. I'm not really looking to extend my bra bands so much as reinforce the hooks. The way the spacing is on these, they invariably add about 1/4 of an inch which is fine when a bra is brand new, not so much on my older bras.

These Maidenform extenders are my favorite, but they're not as affordable to buy in bulk.

Sometimes I like the silicone nipple pasties(pros: reusable, comfortable, smooth, skin like. cons: expensive, sometimes thick and visible): one, the petals tend to blend better

But then other times I want something simpler, so I go for the paper-y, one use ones. You can find these with all adhesive and with no adhesive in the middle if your nips are sensitive. one two

I only go braless in really loose tops, or really snug ones that help shape my boobs a little. Or in clothing where a bra would show(fancy dresses, hellooo).



As far as nipples in our culture, I don't really want to see your whole entire boob hanging out of your shirt in public, but I won't die if I do see it. I don't take a stance, really, on the whole "men can walk around shirtless but women can't and that's wrong" debate.

Wear your shirt, don't wear your shirt, wear a bra, don't wear a bra--unless you're trying to be sexual to my toddler, it doesn't bother me.

I wore these all winter. They're super warm, and have held up surprisingly well considering how cheap they are.

If you want to get this look with a properly fitting bra, I must say the Freya Deco did wonders for me! I have very large, pendulous breasts with what I consider an average root. The Deco keeps them lifted up and creates that rounded look on top without them touching.

I also recently purchased the Cleo Lilly and Cleo Lucy
, and they give me a great rounded look that isn't as intense.

Geez, I didn't even know I was essentially buying the same bra over and over again. No wonder nothing was working. My ignorance of this topic is a little embarrassing! But you're all very sweet and helpful around here, so I'm going to pursue this li'l project. It would really take a surprising amount of stress off my life and add confidence if I could just get it straightened out.

Just to be clear, first try:

1. Panache CLEO Lucy Balconnet Bra 5851
   and
   
2. Panache Cleo Marcie Balconnet Bra (6831)
   in which size, exactly?
   Also, which Freya unmoulded would you recommend?
   
   It seems silly that there aren't companies cashing in on tapered torsos. To be honest, I didn't even know I had such a thing, but it explains why a LOT of clothes I try on fit weird! :P

I really like these from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCA3NPU/ They've been super comfy so far!

I'm also in NEPA and a 30FF !! Ok, sorry, I get excited when I see other fellow NEPA'ers here. Anyway! There are absolutely no specialty stores here and it makes me sad =/. My method so far (I have amazon prime) is ordering a bunch online in different brands and styles, then shipping back what doesn't work. It seems like a huge pain to most people, but I don't think it was that bad. Plus with amazon, you can schedule the UPS people to pick up returns at your house. Nordstrom.com also has free shipping, I just found that amazon is cheaper.

Another option is making a trip to NYC or Philly for a day, finding a specialty store and trying a bunch on then either buying there or ordering online when you get home. I'm sort of an even shape with avg. projection and my favorite so far is my panache andorra.

Thank you.
I will have to head over to nordstroms to try them out.

You said "depending on your shape". Can you elaborate please?

EDIT: I was reading the reviews for one of them on Amazon and people were saying that they are sized to small. Is that just because they ahvne measured themselves properly? Does Cleo's sizing match the number we cam up with here?
http://www.amazon.com/product-reviews/B00BKZXPZ6/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?showViewpoints=1

EDIT2: Which one of the brands at nordstrom have sizing that matches the numbers here? And which has the 3-part unpadded that you recommended?

I love these ones that you can order on amazon. They are reusable and work really well!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001PU9A9Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WkkPCbBKBFWV3

This is totally extra, but what about fabric pasties for see-through coverage under the larger silicone pasties? So these under these. Nippies brand is absolutely the best either way.

My friend wore some like these before she grew her own http://amzn.to/2IaeicA They're also sold at places like Walmart, Victoria's Secret, etc.

These are great. I got a name brand version for closer to $20, but in retrospect I think they're probably exactly the same as the less expensive ones. They last for years, cover the nips even when it gets cold, and are super comfy! For me, band-aids always hurt too much to take off, and these peel off really easily.

For blouses that are particularly thin/shear, I like to add a lightweight camisole. (Personally love the airism ones from Uniqlo) If I'm not wearing a camisole but am otherwise nervous about my nipples showing, I'll use [these bad boys] (https://www.amazon.com/Nippies-ORIGINAL-Hypoallergenic-Pasties-ADHESIVE/dp/B00CX547FE/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1502732956&sr=1-2&nodeID=1040660&psd=1&keywords=nipple+petals) which are pretty awesome.

Thank you. After reading all the sites, I've decided on Cleo Lucy. It should fit me better since I'm FoB.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0096R11TW/ref=s9_hps_bw_g193_ir02?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-9&pf_rd_r=18AA09P28FNR294X8C20&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1865589702&pf_rd_i=2587384011

Try panache underwire sports bra.
It comes in so many sizes and is great for high impact. I couldn’t recommend it more! I think they also make a non wired one if that’s what you are looking for, I’ve never tries that though.
https://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Black/dp/B005VNFJFW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1538923190&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=panache+underwire+sports+bra&dpPl=1&dpID=41z%2Bal%2Bc7yL&ref=plSrch

I wore some high waisted PJ pants and a nursing tank to the hospital. And slip on sneakers. They had me change into a hospital gown prior to getting ready for the surgery. For the actual procedure they pushed the gown way up on to my side of the drape. I'm not sure if wearing my.own gown would have been an option, it definitely would have gotten pretty bloody while recovering afterwards. I was basically laying in bed with a giant pad under me for the first few hours as after the procedure until I was allowed to get up and walk around.

This is the support belt I bought: TiRain 3 in 1 Postpartum Support... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T2WBJJ8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

32F here (UK sizing) and Lululemon didn't cut it. It was painful to run. Now I wear Panache and it's awesome!

Edit: This bra is THE SHIT for busty ladies https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005VNFFZ6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478242843&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=panache+sports+bra

I wear these. I like them the best out of everything i've seen. They have not sticky version too.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PU9A9Q/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I love this thing. It 1) fits like iron, 2) converts to a racer back, 3) Comes in all sorts of sizes for those of us with big boobs and a small band size.

Totally! I use them on a regular basis. They are awesome unless you will be sweating, then they slip. Lots of people sell them, but here is an easy link: Undercover Silicone Nipple Covers Gel Petals Pasties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00428ZHRC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fjw5xbEKRZX6C

Oh noooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!! I forgot my underwear a few weeks ago so now I keep a spare pair my gym bag JIC.

PS - Say goodbye to uniboob! Check out Panache Sport. I've also heard great things about Wacoal and Chantelle's sports bras but so far my Panache sport's bras are my favs. I have two with wires and two without and they are seriously the best sports bras I've ever worn.

I got these and really like them - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GCA3NPU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01

They go under your bump so I think they'll last me the whole pregnancy. Super breathable and comfy. I'm actually about to order another pack because I'm a laundry slacker.

also on amazon :) with free shipping/returns with prime!

I'm 32DD and I adore this panache sports bra. Pricier than target, but makes workouts a ton better. Read the comments for sizing recommendatiosn!

It's for this bodysuit I just bought online! :) and yeah I definitely prefer nipple covers, my fav is this kind (highly recommend them by the way!!) but I can't help but try and find a strapless bra anyway, because "you never know" and all.

I think you'll be fine in a 34. The extender is for just in case and while you transition to a smaller band. You can get something like this. Personally, I went from a 36 band down to a 30 band! The difference in firmness definitely takes a little while to get used to, so even if the 34 seems really tight I urge you to try it out for a week or so before writing it off.

I’m getting this one because I’d like to get my hips back together too ;)

3 in 1 Postpartum Support - Recovery Belly/waist/pelvis Belt Shapewear (Nude) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T2WBJJ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hHI-AbS8T35GC

I use these! They work and wash great, and usually last me about a year before the adhesive is just too worn to work and I have to re-buy. They have a pair for dark skin tones as well. They also have a non-adhesive version but I can't speak for those; the adhesive doesn't bother my skin and doesn't hurt to take off at all though (and I literally cry when I take off bandaids).

edit: they also have a plastic case to store them in which is a bonus

Hey! Is the Panache Sport in the color that Amazon calls turquoise/lime?

Any chance you'd be interested in a beige 28DD Panache Porcelain?

I just bought this for post partum and I've actually been wearing it loosely at 28 weeks because it helps my hips and back so much. It seems worth the 20.00. I like that it's velcro so you can choose how tight it will be.
https://www.amazon.com/Postpartum-Support-Recovery-pelvis-Shapewear/dp/B00T2WBJJ8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474476029&sr=8-1&keywords=post+partum+support

I love leggings so much. You can get several pairs in a set on Amazon. They're fleece-lined and extremely comfy.

• If you haven't already, please check your measurements according to the side bar. I can't emphasize this enough and if I sound rude about this I don't mean to, it's just important to finding a properly fitted bra of any type!
  
• How backless are we talking? They make low back converter straps that hook up directly to your bra and depending on how the back of the dress looks that could be an option for you. Typically you wear them so that it hooks directly in the back, loops around your stomach and then hooks to the other side. You can also wear them in such a way that you hook it to the back, bring the wing forward, wrap it around your back, and then hook it up to the other wing (also brought forward). The low-back converter strap method would probably give you the most support, though if it is also a strapless dress I don't recommend using one of these with the "bring it forward first" method because I imagine that it would fall down.
  
• Depending on your size the stick on backless bras may or may not work for you. There are a few different types of these, but keep in mind none of them will give you the same support as an actual bra (at least as far as the information I've gathered so far suggests). There's the silicone chicken cutlet type, the cloth chicken cutlet type, the underwire type, the U-plunge type, the disposable adhesive type, and then there's this type which encapsulates each breast, just to name a few. The problem with many of them (though not all of them) is that they label their sizes as "a-cup," "b-cup," "c-cup", etc. They assume that all a-cups (etc.) hold the same volume. This is completely inaccurate so trying to gauge your actual size is very difficult. Mostly you just have to buy it and try it multiple times until you find your size.
  
• For example: I wear a UK 30G and in a Nubra Original I found the c-cup to be just slightly too large and I ended up going with a b-cup. Though I've also heard from someone else who was about the same size as me that the c-cup and even the d-cup was way too small for them. I think I might be shallow shaped and I don't believe the other person was so breast shape may be an issue when finding one that fits as well.
  
• The Maidenform underwire one that I linked to does list sister sizes, so if you have been sized by the methods on the size bar and if a sister size is available then it could possibly fit. A possible fit issue I could see with these is that the wires could be too wide or too narrow depending. The very last adhesive bra that I listed to is probably the most accurate in terms of sizing, but from what I understand they aren't very low-cut if that is a concern.
  
• Another option you could try if you aren't concerned about support in the least is to use nipple covers and fashion tape to keep the dress stuck down to your skin.
  
  Having gotten through saying all of that, if you have been sized by the methods used here in r/abrathatfits and you end up getting one of these bras, I am currently working on collecting data in a survey so that a more accurate sizing guide could be created. Please fill it out and let us know how it goes for you, but again, only if you've been sized by our methods (and again if my repetitive nature about this is coming off as rude it's not intended to be - I just want to get the most accurate information out there for other people). And if anyone else is reading this, the survey is still going on. I've only had 2 responses to it so far.

I am a 32F and I got a great Panache underwire sports bra via Amazon. Kind of looks like a tank top under your clothes but I don't move or spill out at all!

https://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwire-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O

Bandaids work! You could also try these! A friend of mine has smaller boobs and she wears these instead of a bra most days and says it's crazy comfortable.

Based on the pictures, 30E/F seems too small. I think your original measurements of 30FF/G sound about right. And I'm actually leaning more towards 30G since I'm 28FF and you seem more than one size bigger than me. Don't worry, it's not as huge as it seems! There was a survey done on this subreddit where we found out that 30F is about average.

As far as brands go, if you really think you're full-on-bottom, Cleo Lucy is a good starting bra.

My nips could cut through diamond (all day everyday; I hate it), but my boobs are so laughably small that bras are just decorative. I use these reusable pasties, and I love them.

Yasss! Get yourself this bra. It's in UK sizing though so make sure you aren't using US sizing. And it runs a little tight so you might have to sister size up for comfort. But it's true, it keeps those things in their place.

You might want to try the Panache sports bra if you haven’t already. Zero movement, very comfy, breathes well, no uniboob, looks good. Definitely use the r/abrathatfits measurement and sizing guide if you haven't worn Panache before. It’s not cheap and it’ll probably take a few tries to find the perfect size but it’s so worth it.

Get nipple covers. They are simple and usually pretty cheap and will act as a barrier between you and the elements. I don't know if you're particularly hairy but if you are I do suggest removing the hair around your nipples as they usually attach with a mild adhesive and that doesn't bode well for fuzzy people. You could probably wear a bra but it would need to be pretty padded and fit flush against your skin to lessen the irritation. If possible let them heal first if there is any visible chafing/bleeding.

Here are some cheap silicone ones on Amazon; they're only 2.99.
https://www.amazon.com/Undercover-Silicone-Nipple-Covers-Pasties/dp/B00428ZHRC

We have similar stats, so just chiming in with some anecdotal experience!

I hit puberty before many of the girls in my class and was known for having outrageously large boobs throughout middle and high school, so mine, too, have been the target of my frustrations for many years. After having children, they grew exponentially (nursing and weight gain), and haven't gone back to their previous size since. They're a nuisance and a pain, and I'd likely be really self-conscious of them if I were less comfortable with myself, because their mass means they hang low on my chest wall without a bra to lift them up. Personally, I've considered breast reduction, but not seriously, because, for better or worse, I experience a lot of anxiety with surgery and hospitals. In short, you're not alone in resenting something that other women get augmented to possess.

Here is a visual reference of the change in my own body since I lost 50 lbs. After my second kiddo, I was at my heaviest weight, 180 lbs (am 5'1"). I think I was a 36 J. After the weight loss, I was a 30 G. That's three band sizes and six cup sizes, and keep in mind that cup size also shrinks in proportion to band size.

I imagine your results will be largely influenced by genetics; but that being said, there's still hope. I think you absolutely need to get yourself a hardcore, proper sports bra after being properly fitted. I have a Panache, and I can do anything in it without pain. At my largest, I wore an Enell, and currently I wear a Panache and am size 32GG. I prefer the Panache over other styles and brands because it has a center spacer that separates the breasts. At my bust size, a traditional pull-on sports bra that creates the pressed-together-uniboob-look just means I'm in for lots of sweat and heat rash. Another well-regarded sports bra for busty ladies is the Freya, but I've found that the Freya brand, although superior quality, personally doesn't work for me because I'm a full-on-bottom breast shape and they're often too shallow for me. I've also had my Panache for three years and use it exclusively, and it looks and performs like new.

As an aside, I worry that your use of the word "disproportionate" to describe yourself indicates that you have some unhealthy feelings toward your body. Many of us have experienced body dysmorphia, but you need to understand that there's no such thing as a disproportionate body, unless you have Elephantiasis or a similar medical disease. I know you were probably just using it to describe how chesty you feel, but big busted or not, you're not unnaturally or wrongly shaped, and you need to know that. Keep eating well and moving your body, and hopefully your happiness in your own skin will follow!

NIPPLE COVERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go. Be free.

I really like the Panache sports bra. It's like a tactical boob holster.

I love my Panache Sport! I wear it for everything like biking, hiking, ballet, traveling, and horseback riding. It would be quite difficult to stock enough sizes for a small business though.

hands down, the best. they have diff colors, i believe, to best suit your skin tone.

I have these ones, and I love them.

That is a interesting question... I think there's places like this like.... this.

Ah, this is more complex than I realized it would be!

I will purchase a 28FF this weekend and see how that fits and if I can get used to it.

I've seen a lot of people raving about the Panache sports bra. Do you have any experience with this brand, and if you do, do I keep the 28FF as well?

Thanks so much!
I'm already intimidated because I just looked up VS bras, and they don't even list band size 28. Or bigger cup sizes for smaller bands. This will need some shopping around, yeah shopping!

I wear nippies on my braless days. https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-NippleCovers-Nippies-Adhesive-Pasties/dp/B001PU9A9Q
Love them so far.
I have a few bralettes and sports bras I cycle through, I feel like alternating styles helps, but maybe I just haven’t found the right one.

You could wear nipple covers, since in the US cops mostly care about the nip being exposed.

They are also known as pasties, they are silicone, self-adhesive and brand new they are pretty damn sticky. Prices range on amazon from 8-15 bux for a single pair. I bought these and they stayed on for 12 hours without any inclination of a hint that they might unstick themselves.

I bought this one...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00T2WBJJ8/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It was recommended here on BabyBumps awhile back and I figured I'd give it a try! :)

I just got these. Fleece lined leggings are amazing!

The Panache Wired Sports Bra has saved my running life! I bought mine on Amazon LINK
PRO TIP: This ran a cup size big for me. I'm a 32GG and the 32G is perfect for me.

edit: I'm just now realizing this isn't in K on Amazon. Sorry :(

Agree with all the r/abrathatfits recommendations, but wanted to add a suggestion she try 2toms SportShield swiped along where the band will sit and under where the clasps will be if she’s going to be exercising in humid or rainy conditions or doing cardio for over an hour. Even the best fitting sports bra (my pick is Panache Underwire over Freya or Shock Absorber) still has the potential to chafe!

What type of bra are you wearing? Most sports bras are compression type, which rely on stretchy fabrics to squish you into your ribcage, and generally don't provide much support for bounce.


Try an encapsulation bra like the Panache Sport or Freya Active. Encapsulation bras are fitted to your ribcage measurement where the band rests, usually have wires to surround your whole breast, and provide higher rise for protection against upward movement. You might also like Enell, Shock Absorber, or Moving Comfort.


Panache and Freya use UK sizing, so head here to figure out what size to get: http://www.brasizecalculator.tk

I absolutely adore these. They're reusable and I never see them through clothing.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001PU9A9Q/

Sure, it’s this one. I usually buy them when the less popular colors go on sale.

These just cover your nips, which I find more comfortable than a whole silicone bra thing. They're great for all but the sheerest of shirts.

Have you thought about trying different styles of bras? I have a little mini wardrobe of bras to wear with different things based on how in-your-face I want my boobs to be. In particular I think unlined bras (I like [Panache Andorra](http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Andorra-Balconette-Bra/dp/B003P9WFVU but ABTF can give you lots of shape-specific recommendations) give me a nice shape which is uplifted and contained but still soft so I don't feel like I've got two coconuts on my chest.

The sausage feels are real! I bought these leggings from Amazon to try to eek out my time. The relaxin is really working on my body.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X6CYBGI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ALDOIYGSIR99N

Here's the amazon link if people want to get in on this amazingness. They're about 2.5 inches and comfortable enough to sleep in.

Definitely try a 30 band, I'd say. But if you're worried that it would be too tight, you can get a bra extender to give you a little bit of wiggle room as the band stretches out or your tissue settles back into place. (They're available online and in fabric stores like Joann's, if you have one near you. Just be careful and order the right hook spacing.) If you buy a bra with a borderline-too-big band to begin with, the bra will wear out much faster and you'll have to spend money buying bras sooner. Also you should read this guide to see if you might have shallow breasts, and if so take the bra advice accordingly.

Giftpocket Women's Under the Bump Maternity Panties Underwear, Pack of 5, Assorted Random Designs and Colors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCA3NPU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_jn8VyXwXICZdS

Follow the size chart. They're crazy sizes and while I felt grumpy about ordering a size with a bunch of X's... they fit like a dream.

If you want something super supportive that doesn't hide things and won't give you the squashed-down uniboob look, check out the Panache underwired sports bra -- but only once you've been properly fitted!

Panache Andorra Full Cup

Cleo Maddie Balconnet

I did notice that some sizes were cheaper than others. I guess it depends what they've got in stock? Hopefully your size is as cheap! If not, shop around the other styles. I looked for quite a while.

Amazon! I'm on the smaller end of plus size and these work for me. These look like a decent buy too, and are labeled as plus-size.

Thumbs up to the people recommending Wal-mart too though, because I'm not sure if Amazon.ca has the same leggings selection as the US site and I'm gonna need more 'cuz it's supposed to get coooold here.

Yes! It’s this one: https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Wishes-Signature-Pumping-Patented/dp/B002968T5G

It’s definitely not cute and it’s a little bondage-y, lol, but I don’t wear it as a regular bra. I just wear my nursing bra and then I unclip the nursing bra and put the pumping bra over it right before I pump, and take it off again as soon as I’m done - it’s just on to hold the flanges in place.

Silicone, mildly adhesive nipple covers for when you want to go braless. They’re reusable and apparently pretty comfortable. I don’t know the different brands, but here’s a link. Nippies on Amazon

Oh, I have a three-piece binder on my amazon wish list to buy later on this summer . . . this one

try this one. trust.

None. There's at least one benefit to having tiny tatas!
ETA: I actually technically wear these all the time, and they've changed my life.

Thanks for this! The Marcie (well, at least the one I found on amazon ) looks a little pinky.

If you're comfortable not having tight fabric to keep your boobs in place, but you're concerned about showing nipples, there are reusable silicone things that stick to the nipples and keep them smooth. This way, you have the appearance of not showing your nipples, and the protection of your nipples from fabric rubbing them, and none of the wires and straps that bras have. like this

Of course with those sticky things, your boobs will still be able to move, but maybe they'll look more "professional". I think that your breasts are going to move unless you wear something very tight to keep them in place, which is going to basically be a bra or a binder. (maybe by another name. But you'll end up with a strap around your ribs and straps over your shoulders, or just an overall super-tight top anytime you're trying to keep your boobs in place. Loose fitting tops are not going to prevent your fat from jiggling no matter what.)

Since the problem seems to be about the constriction imposed by bras and how they both trap fluid in the breast and weaken your breast muscles, I can’t imagine wearing sports bras all day long is better. The most important thing if you choose to wear a bra is not wearing it too long and ensuring it’s not very tight (no marks in the skin). Personally I use Nippies by Bristols 6, which are basically super high quality pasties that can last over a year with daily use. They’re so comfy and I haven’t had to wear a bra for 3 years!

Panache! It is ah-mazing. I do go down a band and a cup size in this one, normally wear a 30F, took a 28F in white. I don't know if that holds true across the board tho, it might just be because I have in-betweeny sized breasts.

With the Panache brand bras (including Cleo and Sculptresse) that I've tried so far, I've needed to go up a cup size, so you might want to try a 38F in the Cleo Minnie. How did you find the band on the Minnie, out of interest?

You could perhaps try the Panache Andorra or Andorra Plunge. There's also the Panache Jasmine and Scupltresse Chi Chi/Flirtini/Paradise. I get a little wrinkling at the top of the Scupltresse bras but it doesn't show under bras.

Gap has cotton bralettes that are sort of like 1/2 a tank top with the shelf bra in it. Just go to their website and search bralette and they'll pop right up. For me these are just enough to keep perky nips at bay.

If you're still concerned about showing too much maybe try silicone nipple petals. Like these: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00428ZHRC?pc_redir=1410942488&robot_redir=1

Sorry for the full link, on mobile.

Nippies are my favorite, and are reusable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001PU9A9Q

Amazon. :)

I've heard good things about this one, if you know your UK size (you'll need to measure yourself).

Have you tried a cross back encapsulation bra, like this one? http://www.amazon.com/Le-Mystere-Womens-Energie-Sports/dp/B0038JENO4 or this one http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Underwired-Sports-Bra/dp/B005X5FG2O?

I have two of these and they're literally the best things ever. Unfortunately I'm shrinking out and they're hella expensive.

Thisncouod help if you don't find any thick shirts: https://www.amazon.com/Undercover-Silicone-Nipple-Covers-Pasties/dp/B00428ZHRC

A completely different option is nipple covers. They do help minimize nipples being pointy.