I had such good responses for my last post for narrow walking shoes that I will try again regarding another hard to find item - a travel bra. Last time I went to Europe, I found a great travel bra at MEC (like REI, but in Canada). It had wide padded straps and mesh, quick-dry side panels. It was supportive and seamless. The wide straps were great for not sliding off the shoulder when carrying a tote, and not hurting under the weight of a shoulder bag. Of course, they don't carry it any more, and everything in the lingerie department of a department store seems to have dainty straps. Most stores in Canada carry the same brands as in US, so brands and model suggestions would be great, and also ideas for what stores to try in Western Canada.
Posted by
BC, Canada
345 posts
I was heading out this weekend bra shopping myself! I have one underwire bra that I'm taking, since it's all I normally wear anymore. I still need to find more of a sports bra - no wire or clasps of any kind.
I'm hoping Winners or Walmart will reveal something.
Posted by
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3207 posts
I would suggest going to an undergarment shop, Lady Grace, for example that is local to me, for an actual fitting and for the numerous choices available. You will pay a little more, perhaps, but the comfort will be worth it. I also would suggest bringing at least two different styles/support of bras. In addition, there are different types/materials of strap wideners (I'm sure they have a specific name, but I don't know it, and the women at the shop will be familiar with them.) I find the strap widener allows me to worry about the fit rather than the width of the strap. I assume you are asking this question because you are large breasted, as am I. Otherwise, I can't imagine it really matters...but then I wouldn't really know about that!
Posted by
New Harmony, Utah, USA
53 posts
I perspire so much, especially when I travel, so I was glad I took three bras on our trip. I rinsed them out often but was glad I could put on a fresh one when changing to go out for the evening. Also, just a suggestion (hope it's not too gross), you may consider wearing panty liners so your pants/shorts last longer between washes.
Posted by
San Francisco, California, USA
199 posts
I like the Olga #30589. It was very comfortable on long plane rides. Wireless (my #1 priority for a travel bra) so no gouging and faster drying. Soft cups but still rather supportive. Found it at Sears. Smooth, soft fabric.
Also try Lands' End. I saw some possibilities there.
Good luck! Most annoying to have uncomfortable underwear on a trip!
Posted by
Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
57 posts
Robin,
About a month ago I got new bras from J C Penneys. The ones I got have nice wide straps. I got them from a sale catalog but even if you use the regular one I believe the catalog clerks give you the best price if there is a sale on that item. I know the ones here do. Thecatalog has a good selection of bras so if you get fitted at the expensive store you could get the majority of your bras elsewhere.
I use Penneys so I can get the number of bras I want and have them all be the same. Stores don't always have the number I want.
Good luck finding the bras you want.
Posted by
Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
57 posts
Robin,
About a month ago I got new bras from J C Penneys. The ones I got have nice wide straps. I got them from a sale catalog but even if you use the regular one I believe the catalog clerks give you the best price if there is a sale on that item. I know the ones here do. The catalog has a good selection of bras so if you get fitted at the expensive store you could get the majority of your bras elsewhere.
I use Penneys so I can get the number of bras I want and have them all be the same. Stores don't always have the number I want.
Good luck finding the bras you want.
Posted by
Sherborn, MA
73 posts
Athleta.com carries a wide selection of bras for all sizes. They are mainly athletic bras, but they have some that can easily be used as everyday or travel bras.
Posted by
Everett, WA, USA
15 posts
Robin:
There is a great clothing travel store called Ex-Officio. You can find them online at www.exofficio.com. Most of my travel clothes come from here since they're lightweight and quick drying, this includes underwear and sports bras. Perfect for sink washing in a hotel room - HTH! Happy travels!
Posted by
Seattle, WA
689 posts
I'm confused as to why someone would need a "travel bra." No matter where you are, you're wearing it all day and want it to be comfortable, and most likely you're carrying some kind of bag (laptop/messanger/purse) every day for work. I don't put my bras in the dryer at home and they easily dry overnight. So what am I missing?