Bra Shopping Archives - Beyond The Cups

The Best Bras for Side Support: Every Body’s BFF

Emily — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:30:23 +0000

Hey there, gorgeous! If you’re like me you know the struggle of finding the perfect bra that not only looks fantastic but also provides the side support your lovely curves deserve. We’re jumping into the world of women’s lingerie, exploring the importance of side support and discovering the best bras for side support and your own personal needs. Why Side Support Matters Picture this: you’re rocking your favorite outfit, feeling confident and ready to conquer the world. But, alas, your bra isn’t offering the support your sides desperately crave. Side support is crucial because it helps contain breast tissue, preventing side spillage and offering additional support for larger breasts. It’s like having your own personal cheerleader, keeping everything in place while you slay the day. Different Styles for Different Sizes Not all bras are created equal, especially when it comes to side support. Let’s break down some styles that cater to various body types and breast sizes. The Side Support Essentials: Features to Look For When embarking on your quest for the perfect bra, keep an eye out for the following features: Shopping for Your Side Support BFF Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – bra shopping. Finding the right fit is like discovering your best friend; it takes time, but once you do, life becomes a whole lot better. Top Picks: Side Support Bras You’ll Love Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. Here’s a curated collection of side support bras that tick all the boxes: Embrace Your Perfect Fit Finding the best bras for side support is a celebration of your unique body. Embrace your curves, know your size, and explore different styles until you find the one that feels like a second skin. Remember, a supportive bra is not just an undergarment; it’s your daily confidence booster, your sidekick in conquering the world. Happy bra shopping, beautiful! May you find the perfect side support that makes you feel unstoppable.

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A Guide to Finding The Best Bras for Older Women

Emily — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 22:47:58 +0000

Ladies, let’s talk about a topic that’s near and dear to many of us – finding the best bras as we gracefully age. As the years go by, our bodies change, and so do our needs when it comes to support and comfort. In this post, we’ll delve into what happens to women’s breasts as we age, and how we can address these changes with the right styles of bras so that you can feel confident in finding the perfect bra for your breasts. Say goodbye to the days of ill-fitting and uncomfortable undergarments – it’s time to embrace a new level of confidence and comfort. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. Everything I recommend has been researched and approved by myself 😉 Your Body Changes… It’s Natural! It’s important to recognize that our bodies naturally undergo a big transformation as we age. Our skin loses elasticity, and breast tissue can become less firm. Factors like gravity, weight fluctuations, and hormonal shifts can all contribute to these changes. Here’s a closer look at some of the common issues older women face: Why Do Breasts Sag as Women Age? Gravity can be our best friend and our worst enemy. Over time, the Cooper’s ligaments that support breast tissue weaken, causing breasts to sag. The process of breast sagging, also known as ptosis, is influenced by several factors: Loss of Skin Elasticity Over time, our skin loses its natural elasticity due to a decrease in collagen and elastin production. These proteins are responsible for maintaining skin firmness and resilience. As we age, the skin’s ability to “snap back” diminishes, leading to sagging. Weakening of Cooper’s Ligaments The Cooper’s ligaments are fibrous bands of tissue that help support breast structure. As we age, these ligaments naturally weaken and stretch, causing the breasts to lose their youthful firmness and shape. Gravity The inexorable force of gravity takes its toll on the breast tissue. Breasts are made up of fatty and glandular tissue, which can be quite heavy. Over time, gravity exerts a downward force on the breast, leading to sagging. Hormonal Changes Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life, such as those that occur during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause, can affect breast tissue. These changes can lead to a loss of breast volume and firmness. Weight Fluctuations Significant weight gain and loss can cause the skin to stretch and contract repeatedly, which can contribute to sagging breasts. It’s important to maintain a stable weight to minimize this effect. Smoking and Sun Damage Smoking damages the skin’s collagen and elastin, accelerating the aging process. Prolonged sun exposure can also lead to premature skin aging and loss of elasticity. Genetics A person’s genetic makeup plays a role in breast sagging. If your family has a history of breast sagging, you may be genetically predisposed to experience it to some degree. Remember that breast sagging is a natural part of the aging process, and it affects every woman differently. While these factors contribute to sagging boobs, it’s not something that can be entirely prevented. However, you can take steps to reduce the severity of sagging by wearing supportive bras (as we will talk about!), maintaining a stable weight, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from sun damage. Reduced volume Hormonal changes, weight loss, and breastfeeding can lead to a decrease in breast volume, resulting in less fullness and a change in breast shape. Comfort issues As our skin becomes more delicate, underwires and tight bands can become sources of discomfort, especially if you’re experiencing issues like skin irritation or muscle pain. What Bras are Best for Older Women? The good news is that there are plenty of bra styles designed to cater to the specific needs of older women. Let’s explore some of the best options and then I’ll share some of my top bra picks: Wireless Bra Wire-free bras are some of the most comfortable bras and can provide support without the discomfort of an underwire bra. Look for ones with wide, cushioned straps for added comfort. Full Coverage Bra These bras are a lifesaver for sagging breasts. A full-coverage bra offers complete coverage and support to lift and shape your breasts while adding great support. Full coverage cups ensure that there will be no popping out and make for perfect everyday bras. Minimizer Bras If you’re looking for a more streamlined appearance, minimizer bras can help redistribute breast tissue and reduce the appearance of bulk. These are great for larger breasts for extra support. Front Closure Bras Fastening a bra from the front can be a lot easier for those mature women with limited mobility. These bras are convenient and can provide excellent support if you purchase the proper band size, as a front-closure bra generally does not allow for adjusting the band as an eye closure bra does. Soft Cup Bras or T-shirt Bras These are made with breathable fabrics and lightweight materials to offer a little lift without the bulk of a padded bra or push-up bras. Soft cup bras are perfect for women who want to avoid irritation and discomfort. Sports Bras Don’t underestimate the power of a sports bra for everyday wear. With the right fit, they can offer firm support and minimize movement, making them an excellent choice for those looking to reduce discomfort and sagging. Comfortable straps are a must and you can find styles that have removable pads for a little extra shape. Adjustable Shoulder Straps Opt for bras with adjustable straps to customize the fit according to your needs. This feature ensures maximum comfort and support. Depending on your body type, wide straps might offer more comfort and can be the perfect choice for plus sized women. Try Professional Fittings Consider getting a professional fitting, as the right size can make all the difference. Many stores have experienced staff and a bra expert who can help you find the perfect fit. Small boutiques and shops that cater to full size bras — as opposed to Victoria’s Secret or shops that only offer limited sizing — are going to be more beneficial and will be able to help you achieve a comfortable fit. Bras to Try for Aging Breasts Now that we’ve got the technical stuff out of the way, here are some of my top pick for comfortable bras for sagging and elderly boobs. When selecting these options, I kept in mind: mobility issues, support, and comfort. Since full coverage is the perfect option for many women, you’ll see many of those in this list. Glamorise Women’s MagicLift Cotton Support Bra Glamorise Women’s MagicLife Bra This unlined bra has a cushioned underwire so you barely even feel that there is a wire! It’s made of cotton for breathability and it provides plenty of lift and separation. A great choice for pendulous breasts. SHAPERMINT Compression Wirefree High Support Bra SHAPERMINT Compression Wirefree High Support Bra This bra is great for everyday wear if your goal is to stay comfortable. It is wireless and has extra wide straps that won’t dig in. Made with a soft nylon/spandex blend, it’s super soft and stretchy and the full coverage cups will keep everything in place. Annette Women’s Post-Surgical Softcup Wirefree Bra Annette Women’s Post-Surgical Softcup Wirefree Bra Technically, this is a post-surgery bra, but hear me out… It is excellent for those with limited mobility! The front closure is super handy and the adjustable straps ensure that you can still maintain a proper fit. It also has a soft moulded cup and is totally wire-free. Bali Women’s Comfort Revolution Bra Bali Women’s Comfort Revolution Bra This bra is known for its ultimate comfort for good reason. It has ultra thin smooth foam cups to give you a little shape and a comfort band that moves with you. It’s also made with a cooling fabric and has over 50,000 reviews from women with different body types. Exquisite Form FULLY Lace Wireless Back & Posture Support Bra Exquisite Form FULLY Lace Wireless Back & Posture Support Bra A wireless bra with back and posture support that looks lovely in lace! This is a full coverage bra with a front closure and a nice v-neck shape. It has wireless cups and padded straps for all day comfort. Bali Women’s Passion for Comfort Minimizer Bra Bali Women’s Passion for Comfort Minimizer Bra This minimizer bra has smooth t-shirt style cups that actually reduce volume and create space between your breasts. It has hidden underwires and side/back panels that keep everything smooth and free from bulging. I will continue to update this list as I review more picks. Remember… Finding the best bras for older women isn’t about defying age or unrealistic expectations; it’s about embracing comfort, confidence, and well-being. Our bodies are certain to change over time, and it’s important to adapt to those changes with what we wear and how we support our assets. With the right choice of bras, you can regain the support, comfort, and confidence you deserve. So, let’s celebrate the beauty of aging and the wisdom that comes with it, all while feeling comfortable and supported every day. Cheers to a new chapter of stylish, comfortable, and confidence-boosting lingerie!

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Why You Shouldn’t Trust a Victoria’s Secret Bra Fitter

Emily — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 03:15:37 +0000

Hey there, ladies! Let’s talk bras again, shall we? Finding the perfect bra is like finding your soulmate – it should be supportive, comfortable, and make you feel amazing! While Victoria’s Secret is often the go-to for many of us, there are a few things you need to know before trusting their bra fitters. As a bra fitting expert who follows the UK sizing standards (because the Brits know a thing or two about tea and well-fitting bras!), I’m here to dish out the truth on why you should be a little skeptical. Buckle up, beautiful, because we’re about to spill the tea on Victoria’s Secret bra fitting! They Have Very Limited Sizing Options Who likes being put in a box? Certainly not us! Unfortunately, Victoria’s Secret has a limited range of sizes, which means you might end up feeling left out of the bra party. They mainly stick to US sizing, while the Brits and other brands have a more inclusive range with diverse band sizes and cup volumes. So, if you’re outside their size range, you might end up stuck with an ill-fitting bra that’s about as comfortable as wearing stilettos to the beach. If you’re a larger busted woman, check out our ultimate guide to bra fitting for larger busts before heading to the store. Inaccurate Measuring Techniques Picture this: you’re standing in a crowded Victoria’s Secret store, and a friendly bra fitter approaches you with a tape measure. Sounds legit, right? Well, not always. These measurements can be pretty hit or miss. You see, they often do the whole measurement thing over your clothes, which can lead to wonky results. Let’s face it, we all have our favorite bra and clothing quirks that can throw off those measurements. Plus, everyone’s posture is different! So, what might seem like an exact science can quickly turn into an “oops, that’s not quite right” situation. They also tend to use the manufacturer’s preferred method of measuring, which includes adding 3-4 inches to the bust measurement to get you into one of their limited sizing options. If a salesperson tries this tactic, just leave! Pushy Sales Tactics and Limited Training Now, I don’t want to spill too much shade, but it’s no secret that Victoria’s Secret has been accused of focusing more on making sales than giving you the perfect fit. Sometimes their bra fitters might be a little too eager to push you towards specific styles or sizes just to boost their numbers. Yikes! On top of that, some say their training could use a little more love. We all deserve a bra fitter who knows their stuff inside out, right? There is no formal training that takes place besides sales associates show other sales associates how to measure. If you’ve been reading this blog, you’ll know that there are MANY factors that contribute to your bust size, including breast shape, root width, and breast tissue type. Their Own Models Aren’t Even Fitted Properly As a former bra fitter, simply browsing the website leaves a negative taste in my mouth. Some of their models are clearly wearing improperly fitted bras, which should be an indication of these poor women not fitting into their limited sizing properly. In this first image, for example, the width of the cups aren’t containing the entirety of this beautiful woman’s breasts, causing side spillage because the underwire isn’t encasing the breast tissue as it should. a larger size cup and smaller band could have likely fixed this issue. In the second image, you can see this woman is having the same problem, with the underwire cutting into her side breast tissue. Remember: often times that “bulge” under your armpit is actually migrated breast tissue! Different Sizing Systems Brace yourself, babes, because here comes the plot twist! Victoria’s Secret uses US sizing, while those lovely Brits love their UK sizing system. And let’s be honest, switching between the two can be as confusing as trying to follow a recipe in a foreign language. If you’ve been fitted using UK sizing and then hop over to Victoria’s Secret, you might find yourself swimming in cups that are too big or squeezing into bands that are too tight. They also seem to forget to take into consideration the fact that every woman has a unique breast shape and certain styles of bras fit different breast shapes differently! Talk about a rollercoaster ride for your girls! When it comes to finding your perfect bra fit, you deserve the absolute best. Trusting a Victoria’s Secret bra fitter might leave you feeling a bit frustrated and uncomfortable, and that’s definitely not the vibe we’re going for! Remember, we’re all unique and fabulous, and finding the right bra should be an experience that celebrates that. So, be a savvy shopper and consider seeking out experts who follow UK sizing standards. Your girls will thank you for it, and you’ll feel like the fierce, confident queen you are! Cheers to finding the bra that makes you say, “Yasss, I look amazing!” Pin this:

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The Best Bras for Everyday Wear

Emily — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:09:42 +0000

If you’re like me, finding the perfect bra for everyday wear can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! As an experienced bra fitter, I’m here to share my knowledge and help you discover the best bras that combine comfort, support, and style. Whether you’re petite or full busted, I’ve got you covered! So, let’s dive in and find the ideal bra that will make you feel confident and fabulous all day long. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. Everything I recommend has been researched and approved by myself 😉 T-Shirt Bras Let’s start with a classic favorite – the T-shirt bra. These bras are designed with seamless cups and smooth fabrics, making them virtually invisible under your favorite tops. For smaller cup sizes, the Calvin Klein Perfectly Fit T-Shirt Bra offers a sleek and comfortable fit. This Cari Spacer Bra from Panache is also a great choice! If you have a fuller bust, brands like Elomi and Wacoal offer T-shirt bras with larger cup sizes and wider bands for maximum support. Wireless Bras If you’re seeking all-day comfort without sacrificing support, wireless bras or un-wired bralettes are your best friend. Although these types of bras may not offer the same support as wired bras do, these bras can be perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed fit. Leading the way in popularity for wireless comfort is the Warner’s Easy Does It Bra, available in a wide range of sizes. Another one to consider is the Wacoal How Perfect wireless bra. If you’re looking for something more like a bralette, try this Cleo by Panache Freedom Lounge bra. Full Coverage Bras For those looking for maximum support and coverage, full coverage bras are a must-have. These bras offer a higher center front and wider side wings, ensuring a secure and lifted fit. The Bali Passion for Comfort Minimizer Bra is a top pick for its minimizing effect and full coverage cups. Another fantastic option is the Chantelle Rive Gauche Full Coverage T-Shirt Bra, which provides a seamless look under clothing while supporting larger cup sizes. Sports Bras Don’t forget about the importance of a great sports bra! Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a jog, a sports bra is essential to minimize bounce and provide the necessary support. Brands like Panache (try the High Impact Sports Bra) and Freya (try the Active Underwire Molded Sports Bra) specialize in sports bras that cater to a wide range of cup sizes, while also offering trendy designs and breathable fabrics. Plunge Bras For those low-cut tops and dresses, plunge bras are a game-changer. These bras have a deep V-shaped neckline, making them ideal for outfits that show a little more skin. The Natori Feathers Plunge Bra is a popular choice, known for its comfortable fit and delicate lace details. For larger cup sizes, brands like Curvy Kate (try the Daily Plunge Bra) and Panache (try the Tango Plunge Bra) offer plunge bras with added support and uplift. Conclusion Finding the best bra for everyday wear is no longer an impossible task. With the right knowledge and a little trial and error, you’ll discover the perfect bra that will enhance your comfort, confidence, and style. Remember to consider your unique breast shape and size when choosing a bra, and don’t be afraid to explore different brands and bra styles until you find your holy grail! Now go out there, rock your day, and enjoy the blissful feeling of a well-fitted bra. So, ladies, did you find this guide helpful? Let me know in the comments below and don’t hesitate to share your favorite bra brands and styles. Until next time, stay fabulous and stay supported!

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The Best True Size T-Shirt Bras

Emily — Sat, 25 Jun 2022 17:30:00 +0000

When you need a comfy bra, a t-shirt bra is the only way to go! They can be worn seamlessly underneath clothing and have a softness that feels great on your skin. T-shirt bras are designed to be smooth and to not show any lines or bumps under your clothing. Even in your most form-fitting top, a t-shirt bra should be nearly invisible underneath. What to look for in a T-shirt bra Different manufacturers can sometimes label a bra as a t-shirt bra when it doesn’t possess all of the necessary qualities of the true style. The absolute main thing to look for are totally smooth, seamless cups. Depending on the style of bra you prefer, t-shirt bras don’t always have to be padded. You can choose from lightly lined all the way to push-up… just make sure that those cups are smooth under your tops! A slightly molded or lined cup will offer a bit of shape while still keeping your girls secure. T-shirt bras make excellent everyday bras. There are also other styles that might suit your needs better, so be sure to also check out my post all about the best bras for everyday wear. Big or small? The size of your breasts doesn’t matter as a t-shirt bra is not a cup style, but rather the way the bra is made. You should be able to find a t-shirt bra in a style that will suit your breast size and shape. For example, if you are smaller breasted, a demi style might work better, whereas a full coverage style might be best for a fuller bust. If you need help figuring out which breast shape you have, be sure to read my post about understanding breast shapes first. What size should you try? If you haven’t yet measured for your TRUE and most accurate bra size, visit our quick Bra Size Calculator to get your perfect size. Before you go shopping you should make sure that you’re not wearing the wrong bra size. Favorite t-shirt bras Below are some of my favorite t-shirt bras that are available in TRUE bra sizes and fit amazingly well. (I am updating this list, please check back or check this post for more suggestions!)

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