I am in search of a good 40DDD bra comfortable for travel and everyday wear but still very supportive. I don’t know that comfort and an underwire go together, but that is probably what I need. A sports bra would be okay, if it were styled appropriately for everyday wear and had a seamless cup. A plus would be breathable fabric. Does anyone know if such a thing exists? Many thanks for any suggestions!
This is the only bra I wear anymore.
I wear it all day long, every day, and while traveling. The only (minor) drawback is that the center front in on the high side. Only a problem with some v-neck tops.
https://www.wacoal-america.com/sport-underwire-bra-855170
My suggestion is that you go to Nordstrom or another top department store and get a personal fitting.
None of us here, I think, could possibly know what might fit you since we are all so individual.
I also looked at Walcoal but I don't use their underwire brands. Not all designs fit a plus size senior torso, so I would also second a proper bra fitting and trying them on in person.
All that being said, here is an article that may give some brand insight https://journeywoman.com/travel-tips/best-bras-for-travel-recommended-by-women/
I have worn Wacoal’s Awareness bra for many years and have found it very comfortable. It comes both with and without wire. I’ve worn both. Not cheap - but so worth it. With careful washing, these will last a long time.
If you live near Nordstrom’s, I highly recommend you go in and have them measure you. They have specialists who do this. Many women wear the wrong size. Once I got the right size, it was much more comfortable, and looked better too.
Here is the wireless version:
Here is the underwire version:
Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the suggestions! While I agree that a bra fitting would be ideal (and I love Nordstrom), I have a medical issue right now that prevents me from doing that. I did order a couple of different sizes of this Wacoal bra today https://www.wacoal-america.com/sport-contour-underwire-bra-wacoal-853302
But I remained curious about what others may have found.
I only wear Champion Sport Bras. Supremely comfortable and supportive. Many styles come in Plus sizes.
https://www.champion.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=sports%20bra
Beth, before my recent breast reduction surgery, I was the same size as you and wore these Chantelle bras. I used to wear Wacoal but these were more comfortable for me, especially with the underwire.
Of course, now I have about 7-8 bras that I need to do something with. I'm thinking Goodwill but not sure if they take stuff like that.
Mardee, there’s probably a “clothes closet” in your community that would take the donation.
Jane, great idea! I just searched and found several in the area - thank you!
I wear Underoutfit bras and they are by far the most comfortable bras I've ever worn. The one I like is the Comfort Shaping Bra with Adjustable Straps, https://underoutfit.com/products/everyday-u-bra-with-adjustable-straps-sand
but I see they have just come out with a full coverage bra as well - https://underoutfit.com/products/full-coverage-comfort-bra. They have an amazing return policy and often have good sales.
Many Wacoal fans here, and I am one of them! I wear the same size as you. The "Retro Chic" is the only style I've worn for many years:
https://www.wacoal-america.com/retro-chic-full-figure-underwire-bra-855186
It is lovely, lacy, and flattering. However, the cup is not seamless. Another plus is that the lighter, lacy fabric means shorter line drying time, especially helpful while traveling.
The sports bra you chose looks good and has a seamless cup, so that may be the winner for you. In general, Wacoal bras have good support, but some are better than others. I wore the Wacoal "Awareness" bra (the one Renee mentioned) years ago, but it was not right for me (too buxom, and the wide straps were often visible depending on what shirt I wore). After another fitting at Macy's, they introduced me to the Retro Chic style, and I was sold. They have a long life span. The first one I bought nearly 9 years ago is still functional.
People who are familiar with the forum understand that it's best to start a new post if you have an even slightly different question.
Many people only read/answer the original post, and the original poster is contacted when there is an answer. It's annoying.
Mike, I’ve not been around long enough to know if there’s a backstory to your question, but I truly don’t mind if you posted it innocently. However, I get the point that you would garner more helpful advice if you posted your own topic. I wish I had suggestions for you, and I hope you find what you’re looking for. Peace, all.
I too have had good luck with some Wacoal bras and one brand I don't see here called Elomi. I've mostly bought them thru Amazon but recently learned that Dillards carries them so I'm going to go check them out.
Generally I'm more comfortable, have better support and shape with a seamed underwire bra but would love to find a wire-free for airline travel. I've worn underwires for 30 yrs without a problem at security but ever since I had my total knee replacement TSA has taken to patting down my chest. They don't even care about the knee.
And for any guys who feel left out of this discussion, feel free to google "bras for men". I did and found a whole new world of retail.
I like Cacique bras. The wireless cotton bras are very comfortable, in my opinion.
Product update/review:
I ended up LOVING the Wacoal sports bra https://www.wacoal-america.com/sport-contour-underwire-bra-wacoal-853302. Excellent comfortable support, even with the underwire. If you get your true size, it might feel a bit tight at first, but stick with it. Very quickly it adjusted to my body and now is amazing. I can even wear it with my lower scoop neck t-shirts without it peeking out. The style of an everyday seamless t-shirt bra with the support of a sports bra!
Beth, that's great that you found something - it's a beautiful bra, too, and nice that some colors are on sale!