Just like everyone else, women come in all shapes and sizes. Not every girl needs to be a slim, runway model with toned arms and a flat belly. Everyone’s body is unique and beautiful in its own way. So, buying clothes, especially underwear, is not the same experience for everybody. Curvy girls sometimes have trouble finding the right size and fit of bras. However, things are starting to change, and manufacturers pay more attention to their needs.
What are Plus-Size Bras?
You may think that plus-size bras are made for women with bigger cup sizes, but you’re wrong. They’re actually made for women with larger band sizes. These bras are different from the rest because of the additional closures, wider bra bands and wider straps. Sometimes they even have extra boning on each side. With all of these extra components, curvy girls can enjoy stylish and flattering lace bras in plus size.
But sometimes buying plus-size bras can be annoying. You’ll browse online shops, local stores and malls and come away emptyhanded. Oftentimes the band is too thin, the straps aren’t strong enough or you get spills where there isn’t supposed to be one. Spills mean discomfort and almost no support. Because of this, curvy girls end up with over-padded bras that make their bodies look even bigger than it is.
Who Should Wear Them?
If you’re having trouble finding a bra, you’re not the only one. Bras often begin with a D cup and a band size of 14+. Women with larger breasts should use plus-size bras. They offer the best protection and support. These women have a hard time finding a functional, practical and cute bra that feels comfortable while they wear it. But things are changing, and manufacturers are coming up with solutions and providing more options.
Types of Curvy-Girls Bras
Full-Coverage Bras
If you have a bigger bust, buying a full-coverage bra can be very beneficial. It has reinforced panelling in the lower part of the cup which gives you extra support. These cups also prevent spillage and minimise cleavage. The straps are thicker, the wires are more flexible to allow for more movement and the bone inserts on the sides make everything feel more comfortable. If you’re aiming for a more modest look, this is the right bra for you.
Contour Bras
You can find contour bras as underwired and wire-free. Their cups can be moulded or padded and made of soft lining materials like foam. These cups will hold their shape no matter if you’re wearing the bra or not. Their structure makes your breasts look smooth, have a symmetrical look and give you a natural feel.
Contour bras usually have lined straps. The lining prevents the straps from falling or slipping away. It holds them in place, lying down nicely on your shoulders. You should buy this type of bra if you want a rounded, lifted look without having to go up a size or two.
Unlined and Non-Padded Bras
Unlined and non-padded bras are among the favourites when it comes to curly and busty women. Just like the name suggests, they don’t have any padding inside. The thing that gives you the most support is the bra band, while the structure and shape are provided by the underwire. These underwires are semi-circles and are sown under the cup.
They can be made of metal, plastic or resin. Their job is to lift your breasts and separate them. You can get even more support if you combine them with an unlined cup. You can get your lace bras in plus size without worrying about support. Many plus-size girls say they’ll never let go of this bra because of how comfortable it is.
Sports Bras
Any kind of sports activity requires full breast support. If you don’t have that, there’s a risk of damaging some breast tissue. That’s why manufacturers make sports bras. They’re made of breathable fabrics, have wide straps for extra support and padded high cups.
All of these features make them perfect for exercising or running. As an additional feature, they have straps in the back that add more compression. So, if you’re into a sport, go to the gym or like to jog or run, get yourself a sports bra.
Wire-Free Bras
Nobody wants to sacrifice support, flexibility, or comfort. This is the reasoning behind the makers of wire-free bras. They have moulded cups that give you a weightless look and feel, provide enough support and help you with the shaping. If you’re on the hunt for something more resilient, go for a thicker and smoother material. Wire-free bras are also good for post-surgery, post-pregnancy and for sleeping.
How to Measure Properly
Getting a custom bra fitting is the best approach to determining your ideal bra size. However, this isn’t always possible, particularly in today’s world when everyone shops for sporty or lacey bras online. However, there’s a way you can measure yourself at home to get the right bra size and all you need is a soft measuring tape.
Measure your band size before putting on a bra. This is the area directly beneath the bust. Now go to the fullest part of your bust. You’ll find out the size of your bra by subtracting these numbers from each other. There are also online calculators and guides that can help you.
What to Consider When Buying
You always start with size, that’s the most important thing. If you can’t measure it on your own, ask a friend to help you out. The right size will improve the fit, make you feel comfortable and confident and change the way you look. Don’t settle for a size up or down, look for the right one.
Another thing to consider is the material. Cotton or microfibre can be great choices. They feel comfortable and will make you more structured. Finally, colour. Most women lean towards neutral colours like black, white, beige or brown shades. But not every bra in your drawer needs to be neutral. Don’t shy away from bold colours like red, green, blue, yellow or purple. Experiment with prints and lacy pieces. Buy things that make you happy and comfortable.
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