bra alternatives for large breasts


Now I can't even wear sport bras as they hurt me, breasts hurts, I'm very petite don't have much fat around my ribs and the pain I am suffering wear any bras as it feels like rubber bands around my ribs or someone squeezing me. Thinking this is the main cause of any types of bras I wear.

IslandBites from Puerto Rico on May 02, 2013: I'm only 16 and already my ribs are deformed beneath my chest thanks to being DD+ since I was 13. popmap I'm glad it works for you. The nice thing is that during hot weather I can wear just the tank top. Voted up for useful!

There comes a time for many women when comfort starts to outweigh society's ideals of fashion. Thanks for an interesting hub. Alecia Murphy from Wilmington, North Carolina on October 12, 2012: I'm glad I saw this. Luckily, there are quite a number ofbra alternativesto consider that offer considerable support and coverage. But under a loose, baggy shirt or a floral or other busy print tops, it won't be as obvious. Tube bras give support and coverage without any wires or straps that dig or poke. The minute I walk in the door the bra is unhooked. An adhesive bra, also known as a stick-on bra, is a great alternative to an underwire bra that still offers shape and definition. It's infuriating. If it is a comfortable option for you, it could be less annoying. The wrapping applies pressure evenly so one spot isn't carrying the brunt of the support. it doesn't matter what your chest looks like for a few days/weeks while you are healing. just embrace the fact that you survived both cancer and this accident, and if no one else, I support you the whole way :). It's all about finding what is comfortable. Hopefully you can find ones that fit for you. See How to Find Your Real Bra Size for pro tips on measuring properly. put one on for two 10 hour days. Glad you have found a way to deal with the bra problem. I feel my bra is highly uncomfortable.. They are basically like short tube topsjust a tube of material made to fit around your chest area. It's so painful but I got used to it. Finding the right bra that fits and looks right is like finding the right pair of shoes. I don't mind wearing a bra, but sometimes it really digs into my ribs and also hurt my stomach. When you do wear a bra, getting the correct fit is an absolute must for comfort. As my name eludes to, I am a man with rather large breasts, even by female standards. I used to wear Le Mystere because they met my needs the best, but they made finding tops that fit even harder to find. Being small-breasted the bandeaus and tubes flatten what I've got. It also gives a flatter look to the chest. I tend to have issues with my bras and wouldn't mind doing the strapless or tube versions. But what if your current bra isn't working for you? Underwire bras are absolute hell for me. Hate the idea of having to wear something so constricting. And I'm scared to show the real me to the world, because I'm a nearly flat chested girl. Maybe the women who are so uncomfortable need to wear a different size. I say to men in my life, "Just imagine having to strap a tight piece of fabric around you all the time." my only down side is that I have very large areolas and on the dark side. I'm a 40 or 42H and mainly go without. Bras can hurt the back, ribs, and neck, chafe the skin, and can even cause the cartilage of the ribcage to become inflamed. Over the years I have struggled to find bras that do not irritate my scars or ribs. Full body shape wear has been the most comfortable, but tends to be very warm. As a kid i hit puperty very early. what about the women that kind stand all that elastic. Oh, the things women have been forced to wear. The best thing to do is to try on all the options. But some are very flexible and move with you, with adjustable ribbons to loosen and tighten as needed. Not to work , church, socal events .never. When I feel like I really need something due to the top I'm wearing, I like wearing a wool sports bra (Icebreaker Siren, especially, but others from Icebreaker and Smartwool are good). I've been fitted for bras, but just can't stand them. The image of boobs choking you while driving really cracked me up. Hope you find something that fits you better. And each type does seem to come with its own set of perils. I wear a bra every day. Wearing a bra is excruciatingly painful period but going without one and when I'm out in public is not an option.

You might have to do a wrap or make something, but it's way better than nothing.. Linen is almost as good. I think Angela_Michelle wrote it. You might be able to find other camis or tanks that could serve your purpose better. Especially when it is 90 degrees. Why can't someone design women's bra's to fit men with out losing any of its style and still look like a sexy bra. (Read 10 Ways to Wear a Dress Without a Bra for more ideas.). Alecia Murphy - The key really is in finding the right bra, which can take trial and error. Some of these ideas are really handy! i was in an accident and 15 percent of my body was badly burned (right around my torso where a bra goes) In addition to this i am a cancer survivor and have only one breast. Some corsets can even be worn as tops without anything over them, alone or under a jacket or sweater. Do not use ace bandages or other overly constrictive material that might cut off circulation and cause blood clots, broken ribs, breathing problems, and other dangers. I've been wearing tight-fitting Lycra tanks but need something better.

I was doing fine with them, but now have the extremely fired red rash under my breasts and pain again around my ribs. The drawbacks of wearing a cami are that it can get hot and steamy in summer, since it adds an extra layer of fabric over your torso. I prefer to wear soft tank tops under my clothes. @ Kumholtz - Sports bras are pretty much always more comfortable than regular bras. I'm small chested, so I go without a bra most of the time. Thanks! in pain for two days now as my chest feels like someone beat me with a stick around my ribs. The wire could protrude out of the fabric if your bra is worn out, thereby poking your sides and cutting or scraping the skin. Only problem with the camisole tank top when it gets warmer out you are going to be hot in them. Stop living in bra-induced discomfort. Regardingundergarments for women, we all have different tastes and preferences. I tried BreastNest and haven't looked back. I was a34B, but lose so much weight around my rib (don't have the body fat). A corset or torsolette might be something for you to try. Silk will have you in seventh heaven 24 hours a day. For the most comfort, look for ones with separate cups or stitching down the middle to separate the breasts more (and give them air!) Boob tapes were made famous by celebrities; they offer considerable support, coverage, and lift while enhancing your breasts' overall shape and dcolletage. I have finally decided that a bra that holds up the boobs just isn't worth the hassle anymore. Another option not mentioned that I will be trying (because of a painful bout of shingles in the under breast area) is a silicone stick on type bra. For anyone who's looking for a more comfortable bra, VS's Incredible bra is definitely my top choice. Barbara Badder from USA on June 08, 2013: I can't stand underwire bras. The good news is there are several traditionalbra alternativesto forgo your underwire or even get a minimum coverage for a backless dress. I started having these exact problems not long ago, and I can't wear any of my bras. Since I was professionally fitted, I love my bras. Are there other options? I think I have a high rib cage or something. Keep on changing the world. I almost cried when I read Tiffany Marshall's comments. Candace has a broad range of interests that keep her head filled with strange facts, such as experimental cooking, games, and mad science. I suppose I should say I'm lucky in that I've never really had a set to worry about, but with time, even they will sag. Totally jealous of exposed male breasts in the summertime! i always feel uncomfortable wearing it. I know that there are a lot of women who hate to wear a bra. Not even sports bras are comfortable. But there are times when it might be the right choice, for example if you can't wear sports bras. wonderdawn - Glad to hear that nipple covers have worked so well for you. Most sarashi available today are about a foot wide by 10-15 feet long.

Nothing like some irritating piece of lint or hair in your bra to itch or poke you all day. You can wear these nipple stickers underneath strapless dresses, low-neck tops, swimwear, and gowns with thinner and flimsier fabrics or sophisticated designs. I'll look for those nipple covers. They are suitable for strapless, one-shoulder, backless, or deep V-neck outfits. This is where 30 & 32 comes into play now.

Keep reading for more information on the bestalternatives to wearing a bra. I'm not in any sort of situation similar to yours, but perhaps you could try attaching cooling pads to the burned area underneath the bra? You are right, bra is one thing i wish not to wear on a daily basis. You may feel nervous and self-conscious initially, but after a while of easing into it, you'll feel more confident, comfortable, and free than ever. The downside to tube bras is that they are more prone to shifting because there isn't much to hold them up. Candace Bacon (author) from Far, far away on August 11, 2013: vibesites - I saw that same study when it was in the news. I have a pinched nerve in my neck and my shoulder. Our society is just used to only seeing breasts that are shaped and lifted by bras.

But there are ways to get the support without the discomfort. Voted up.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the authors knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional. My problem with bras is that the bottom portion tends to ride up & sit on bottom portion of my breasts, just below the nipples. Here are some bra fix-ups and hijacks, with tips for how to get the look of a bra without wearing anything underneath your top. @ Marcy Goodfleisch - Bad bras are the worst! There are countless ways to support your breasts without a bra, from bralettes to bandeaus, bodysuits, and even corsets. They might be exactly what I need. J Bamford-Love - Women's clothing manufacturers need to get the memo that not all women are shaped the same. Hope that helps your problem. Underwires can press into your chest and rub and pinch the breasts, thus causing breast pain and skin irritations.

Candace Bacon (author) from Far, far away on March 27, 2013: Tiffany Marshall - Bras that flip up on the bottom can definitely be annoying. It took a couple years, but I finally got comfortable going without (at least a the truck stops). Bras force the breasts into unnatural positions, so maybe that is the reason behind that. Bras with wider bands around the bottom are usually more comfortable. My problem is, I have to use padded bras all the time. I join the club of bra haters.

You probably know the struggles of wearing one all day, every day. It's good that you have figured out a type of bra that fits your needs. Be careful not to get it too tight: You don't want it to impede your breath or blood flow. If your bras hurt, it's likely that your true size is actually different than what you think it is. Candace Bacon (author) from Far, far away on October 20, 2012: WritingPrompts - Bras can definitely be a pain. There are many reasons your underwire may hurt, with the most common one being a bad fit.

At my wit's end with this search. Nice article. Barbara Kay - Thanks! and those with wider bands around the bottom, since thin bands tend to dig and chafe. otherwise, if you can't come up with anything, just rock who you are! So I'm very hopeful that this will be "enough" support for me to get away with. Mirta - Way to go!

Good luck! You can choose to wear a bodysuit and ditch the bra altogether as they come with built-in bras, allowing for coverage and breast support. However, I am small-breasted, without much need for support. I hate buying new sports bras because they are often so much tighter than the ones I've been wearing for a few years, even though I got a bigger size this time around. Ugh! I don't feel comfortable going bra less because of my size. .

Find a more comfortable way to support yourself! Candace Bacon (author) from Far, far away on March 10, 2013: Vivian - I understand your pain with bras. I am a 44 G/H. Whenever I feel that, I instinctively to pull them back down to my chest, even though doing so looks awkward. But the burn makes the bra HURT like hell.

Like any other type of chest support, you shouldn't wear it all the time to give your body a chance to relax.

Although you might want to avoid white and other light-colored and see-through materials if you aren't wearing anything underneath, and solid-colored and form-fitting shirts will make the lack of a bra more noticeable. You may feel more exposed to the world, but you will eventually get more used to it the more you go without a bra. No bra necessary, Elevate your coverage with increased support. Even a small meal makes my bra too tight. Great hub voted up. Thanks for this article about bras. If you ask women what their most uncomfortable item of clothing is, the majority would say their bra. As you move, it can poke and dig into your sides. They don't provide any support or lifting, but they will offer a layer in between your skin and your clothing to prevent chafing and make it less obvious that you aren't wearing a bra. totally allergic to latex/spandex ; causes blisters cannot find a suitable substitute and am not small chested. I have to have a bra and I want an underwire. I have wore 30B, 32A, 32B, 32C, 34B, and 36 all hurt so bad that I just rip them off. I just ordered 3 camis with a shelf bra inside. Whether you want something that doesn't nip, is more comfortable, or doesn't show straps, we've got you covered. HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. I want a cami with some boob coverage and will let my body breathe. Most women don't like the uncomfortable underwire bras. Elise70 - You might try looking for longer coverage like something that comes down the rib cage a bit more.

Here are a fewalternatives to wearing a brato get you started: Although a wireless bra is technically still a bra, it's a safer and healthier alternative to underwire. I'm so sorry to hear that, hope you are feeling better. Sometime , depending on my top, THEY show thru a little. Comfort is always the most important thing -- screw what society says about "beauty standards". Another idea is to wear a cami that has a built in bra shelf and put breast forms (also called breast pads or inserts) into it. Sorry you were forced to wear such torturous bras when you were younger. I always have had trouble wearing a bra since a teenage. They don't know the pain or are too preoccupied with looking good that they forget they'd look just fine if everyone would quit making perfectly round, perky breasts a fashion statement. There are tanks that dont ride up too called NO YANK TANK at Duluth Trading Company in Duluth Minnesota . Years ago I had major surgery which impacted my ribs. Wheelyclunky - Nipple covers are great when you want a bit a cover and protection when going braless. Go for those made with thicker fabric to provide better support and coverage. In Japan, chest wrapping is done with a special, extra-thin supportive cloth called a "sarashi." Sandy - That looks like a great product. They may not provide support but offer a layer between your skin and clothing, thus preventingnipple chafing, masking erect nipples, and making it less evident that you are going braless. There are also strap attachments that can make the strap longer. There are a wide variety of types; some are round, and others are shaped. There's no secret that we get tired of bras from time to time, not to mention the great sense of relief we get when we take them off at the end of the day. On the other hand, if the bra size is too large, the underwire may sit too low on your ribs and apply too much pressure on that area. If anyone has any suggestions, please help! There are many bra sewing patterns available online or in fabric stores. Never never put polyester or underwire on. I don't wear any now because of this only when I go out then it is nightmare for me to get into sport bras even stepping in as my left hand don't bend well as my right hand. Also because it looks just like a tank top, it can be worn by itself in summer and therefore even better for summer than a regular bra + shirt. I have heard other people mention the Incredible bra for its comfort. You may have to shop around to find a kind that fits you well, matches your skin color (if necessary), and looks right under clothing. Here's wishing someone could come up with some wireless support that is as soft on the rib cage as a sock. Typically, the thin, skimpy ones aren't as supportive or comfortable as the fuller ones made with lots of material. They are crafted using expandable, breathable fabric to fit snugly and help clean up any bulges to give you that hourglass figure. Plus size and hot flashes. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Basically you just want to look for a type of support with more length than a typical bra. I just purchase camisole tanktop w/build she'll bras. Ive always found bras to be very uncomfortable especially the ones with the underwire. Some women can get away with no bras, some don't look very attractive without them. At B-Six, we have a wide collection ofnipple covers, includingbra alternatives for seniors, large breasts, and even small breasts. Camisoles come with or without built-in shelf bras. It is possible to do away with all this and just let things hang loose. My Male 46B/46C Breasts hurt when I don't wear my Bras. I saw a picture of family members that never wore bras and I'm telling you that picture looked awful. Being an irregularly big chested girl, I wear sports bras with almost anything because of the comfort and it makes my chest area look flatter (which I like). Since there are no straps, they can be a good choice for some dressy tops. Glad other types of bras work for you. Feel sexy (and secure) with lingerie fabric, comfy adhesive, and classy styles.. Always pulling down on my bras & trying to "flatten" the band to keep it from folding over. I even reproached my sister when she had to sleep with her bra on. But it is a better choice than a bra for a lot of women. They are so painful. Which bras are the best choice to avoid pain and discomfort? Going without a bra does not lead to saggier breasts later in life: gravity alone is responsible for that. You would just have to try some out to see if they work for you or if they are too tight. But now that I know there are other methods to consider, I won't feel so confined to a bra. Being comfortable and feeling good about your appearance can happen at the same time: there are lots of options and alternatives. Stay with us for a quick rundown on more comfortable ways to support your breasts. And thats ok with me, cause I have been ask out a few times because of thatlol. Most of the problems with bras are that they try to force everyone's breasts to look a certain way. wonderdawn from Vanleer, Tennessee, USA, Earth on June 03, 2013: I use silicone nipple covers all the time and HIGHLY recommend. Still, most women feel better with some support and prefer the shaping a bra gives. Chest wrapping isn't always the best choice. whin my bra straps hurt me i use a pad on the sholders. The skin around the breasts will become sore to the touch, and generally, wearing a bra can be really uncomfortable. If bras annoy you, it will be worth the time it takes to find tops that look good without a bra. But you don't need them to achieve all these benefits. This makes them ideal for people with shoulder or neck pain. It is typically used by athletes. Maybe I don't have the right fit, but it seems like guidelines for a proper fit vary. Look for one that has longer straps and make sure the strap adjusters are at the full length. It is freedom without drawing attention to your chest. ways to go braless more comfortably (including how to wrap your breasts, instead). Women with thoracic back pain can't wear bras due to the pain. Thanks for all the help! Regular bras are uncomfortable, and move when I raise my arms or do almost anything. Can put them on over my head, they are not as tight around my chest and they have plenty of support. It can look strange under any tightly-fitted clothes because it can be a bit bulky. Bodysuits have become a fashion staple. Boob tapes come in various skin tones and shades and are suitable for backless and plunge or low-cut dresses. About 5 years ago I had a horse accident and they had to remove parts of my ribs and go figure it is right were the bra rides so most the time it hurts no matter what I wear I have tried them all any other Ideas to keep the presure of that side? While you can choose to go braless, many women are too familiar with the self-consciousness, nervousness, embarrassment, and boob-stares that come with attempting to be free even for a day. If you are wearing bottoms with a waist that fits low on your hips, the cami can come untucked and be annoying. As it is at home it is a tremendous burden to not be wearing a bra. I wear bras that are lightweight and have no underwires. Cool.

Normal, non-constrictive cloth will work. It is so annoying and uncomfortable. Wont be doing this again anymore. haven't worn a bra in 3 years. A tightly-fitting cami may be a good option. I might try putting mine in the freezer this summer. There are so many great options for women of all bust sizes and shapes, from nipple covers like theNippies Skinto inserts, boob tapes, adhesive bras, and even bras with no underwire. Some type of bodysuit, corset, or torsolette might work. And there's no better feeling than removing your bra at the end of the day. Corsets (and other similar garments) may be the best option for going under dressier clothes, since they offer more support and shaping than the other bra alternatives. It might be a handy link. It often feels like something is hugging you tightly, making you feel constricted. They tell you not to wear silk. They might have them in specialty stores or online. There are many pasties to choose from as they come in different materials (lace, satin, and sequins), colors, designs (hearts, stars, or crosses), patches, and decorative. If you know how to sew, making a bra is a relatively easy project and if you don't know how to sew, ask a friend or an alterations shop to make one for you. I will have to search for that link. If you have never been sized for a bra by a professional, it's time. I'm sorry if it's a dumb suggestion. In Japan, chest wrapping was customarily worn under kimonos, and wrapping has gained a resurgence in recent years because of its use by female anime characters, many of whom are samurai or other types of fighters. You could also try some of the comfortable corsets or bustier bras that give support and lift but don't have the elastic bands that dig into the ribs. Hopefully you can find a solution that will work for you. I have to wear a bra because of my line of work riding horses at a higher rate of speed most of the time you need to tie them suckers down! They might be more comfortable than regular bras. Camis and tank tops may be the best choice if having anything tight around your ribs irritates you. A body suit would probably help that. Another concern is that bras don't provide my breasts much shape-- I need them to push the breasts inwards from the outside in order to make my breast look fuller. I look for shirts with pockets, patterned tops, tops with detail such as stitching, tucks, gathersthere's such a market for clothes that look fine without a bra - why isn't someone tapping it?