Let's Talk Support

I have a confession to make: I used to hate wearing a bra.  For years I had no idea that I was wearing the wrong size and I thought all bras dug in and hurt and the underwire was the worst.  When I was young it didn't pose a problem because...well, I was YOUNG (like young Miley above) and I didn't need as much support as I need now that I am not so young. Although bras are just the tip of the iceberg as far as undergarments are concerned, let's focus on bras for this post; I will talk Spanx and the perfect thong in other installments.

Let's face it, if you are larger than a B cup, you need to wear a bra.  Sorry ladies, as much as even I hate it, it's not optional unless you are totally cool with the saggy look.  Even if you look like Miley, there is nothing classy about letting the girls swing loose around town. I used to always wear Victoria's Secret bras, but in the last couple of years I've branched out and found several brands at different price points that work well.  The key is to get a  bra that fits.  I used to think I was a 36C, and I was, ten years ago! I've gained weight and when I finally got fitted two years ago I was a 38C, this past winter I noticed they fit weird and I got measured again and I am now a 36D.  It is important to be fitted after any major changes in weight and especially during and after pregnancy.  The band of your bra should be snug but comfortable on the FIRST set of hooks - the other hooks are there so that you can tighten the band as the bra loses elasticity.  The straps should be snug when the cup of your bra is halfway between your shoulder and your elbow, but should not dig into your shoulder.  Your breasts should never be closer to your elbow than your shoulder and your band should lay flat all around your torso.  If your band rides up, you should replace your bra with one that fits.

1. On Gossamer Mesh Bra - Nordstrom $40

2. La Perla Belle de Jour Lace Underwire Bra - Net-A-Porter $240

3. Cosabella Aria Bra - Anthropologie $67.50

4. Eberjay Ruby Bralette - ShopBop $42

There will always be times that you can't wear a regular bra.  I own a convertible bra, a strapless one and my favorite for plunging necklines, a U-Shaped bra!  In my younger years, I would simply forgo the bra when wearing strapless, one-shouldered or very low cut dresses.  As I try to age gracefully, I realize that I have to accept that I need much more support than I used to.  And let's not forget the sports bra because the older I get, the more painful it is to even try to work out with anything that doesn't smush my boobs as close to my chest as possible.

1. NATORI Sheer Scroll Convertible Bra - Lord & Taylor $58

2. Le Mystere Lolita Strapless - 6PM.com $24.99

3. Fashion Forms Convertible U-Plunge Bra - Bloomingdales $28

4. Nike Solid Racerback Sports Bra - Macy's $23.99

What bras and brands do you find fit best for your needs?
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The first two images were found via Google Images.