female only Struggling to find right bra

[farmgirl04 231]

Hi All, I am basically at goal (actually 10 under my original goal), and am having fits finding the right bra. When I get measured and get the size they recommend once I put it on there is so much sag that there is extra fabric on top. My only solution so far has been a bra that is basically a workout style. If I knew where to go for a good fitting I'd do it, but up here they don't know anymore about measuring than I do! I'm thinking of trying a push up style just to solve the issue. Surgery isn't an option because I can't imagine insurance covering that! I'm 57, lost over 100 pounds, and my boobs were working models (three kids). Any suggestions?

[kimk1999 450]

It sounds like you've gone to the store to actually get measured. Have you actually had the lady look at you with the bra actually on with the sag / extra fabric issue? It's weird and uncomfortable for me to do that and it took many years before I'd do that (granted I was skinnier than I am now - but with your ticker at 138 you must be smoking hot )... anyways, let the lady look and make suggestions. Maybe you need a razor back bra. Maybe the straps need to be tightened. I know my mall has three official lingerie stores - Victoria Secret, Soma, and Fredricks. My preference is Soma. They go and pull all the difference sizes.

[farmgirl04 231]

I've always just gone to sears, kohls, Walmart type stores. I guess I need to up the class a little!

[kimk1999 450]

Haha - yeah maybe. At least go there for a proper fitting. The bras will be a lot more expensive but should last longer. Even if you get measured and try on a bunch of bras, you can "think about it" and have no obligation to buy .

[stephgfl 13]

I went to lane Bryant with the same issue and the cashier had actually had bariatric surgery

She suggested a Demi bra, which I guess you could say is a type of push up.

[lthueme 66]

My daughter used to work at L'Eggs/Hanes/Bali/Playtex and is a certified bra fitter. I will be taking her with me when I shop for bras. She measures, checks the fit and brings me several to try on. I know I was her worst customer when she was working there lol but it really makes a difference to have someone to tell you exactly what you need and know their product. Even though you have the measurements, different bras fit different depending on the style. You may wear one size in one style and another size in a different style.

[Leepers 1,195]

A department store like Macy's usually has knowledgeable staff.

[blondegal_ 1,028]

Get your tape measure. Measure your chest right under your breasts. This will be your band size and as it goes across your back make sure it lies where the band of your bra will be. Next slide the measuring tape up a little and then lean over so that you are parallel to the floor. Measure across your breasts as they hang down. Don't use the tape to mash them up. For every two inches greater than your band size count a cup size. B cup is 2 inches, C cup is 4, and so worth.

Sometimes you have to play around. Like 34DDD might fit much like a 36DD. Now when trying on a bra- put it on and lean forward and reach in and pull all boob tissue into to the cup. (Reach and grab that side boob tissue.) Your breast should rest in and fill the cup. Buy the size of band that is comfortable on the "biggest" hook. Then as it is washed and looses its elasticity you can move to the middle hook or the smallest one.

Your straps should not cut into you. If they do you need a different style. I have wide set boobs so bras where the straps are sown on the edge of the cups nearing the armpit do not work for me. If the strap starts to slide off your shoulder after a while then your band size is too big.

You may have to try on different styles. And remember if you go up in band size your might need to go down a cup size.

[kll724 3,055]

It sounds to me like you need an underwire with pushup! I can't use that myself, I am all skin and fall out! I tried wearing what the woman at Victoria Secrets measured me at, and I don't like the look at all, I was all squished up.( I went 1 size up after being measured for 34, I went to 36), I have since gone back to a full figure bra as these old girls fit better with more material around them! I feel much better and they don't fall out! Can't recommend those "ahhh bars"" they appear to be sport bras and are not for everyone as they say they are. But, you do need to go to someplace like VC to be measured properly! Best wishes, and happy hunting! Karen..aka..kll724

[farmgirl04 231]

Thanks for all the input! I know which way to go now. Now all I need is to heal from my panni/tummy tuck and get out of the binder and then I'm headed to probably to the Somas near here. Why Soma, it's right near JJill!

[HotButterFly 981]

Some insurance companies DO cover reconstructive breast surgery. Look into it.

[farmgirl04 231]

Hot butterfly, I'll be sure and ask. I don't want an increase just a pick-me-up!

[Srock 35]

Hi All, I am basically at goal (actually 10 under my original goal), and am having fits finding the right bra. When I get measured and get the size they recommend once I put it on there is so much sag that there is extra fabric on top. My only solution so far has been a bra that is basically a workout style. If I knew where to go for a good fitting I'd do it, but up here they don't know anymore about measuring than I do! I'm thinking of trying a push up style just to solve the issue. Surgery isn't an option because I can't imagine insurance covering that! I'm 57, lost over 100 pounds, and my boobs were working models (three kids). Any suggestions?

The best pace to be fitted for a bra is Victoria secret.

[punkinvine 227]

Bali is my best fit... I did get measured at Victoria Secret but their brands were not quite it. Of course I am over 60 so maybe it is not such a Secret as Victoria makes LOL

[DivergentRavenclaw 8]

I have some bras from when I was 200 lbs skinnier almost brand new. I'm wondering if it's worth it to save it because I had a baby and nursed for a year, does that make a bigger cup, or its it only the weight and once I lose it will fit?