https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:56:21 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work/page/2#post-2331503 Fri, 21 Jul 2023 09:34:08 +0000 Vildy 2331503@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>not classed as minimizer but take a look at Warners 01056, a smooth t shirt bra.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work/page/2#post-2331486 Fri, 21 Jul 2023 04:24:16 +0000 BrieN 2331486@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I wear minimizer for the reason you stated - the top is close but a smidge tight with a regular bra. </p> <p>Had luck recently with this from Wacoal - sorry on my phone or I would make a find </p> <p><a href="http://www.barenecessities.com/wacoal-back-appeal-minimizer-bra-857303_product.htm?pf_id=Wacoal857303" rel="nofollow">http://www.barenecessities.com.....coal857303</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2331261 Thu, 20 Jul 2023 01:28:07 +0000 Lily Anderson 2331261@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love wearing these bras that I think are minimizers, or at least have really thin cups that separate well. They do a great job of making my boobs look smaller and make it so much easier to wear button-down shirts. I got them from HSIA for around 35 dollars or even less. You should totally give them a try! Oh, and Wacoal's minimizer bras are pretty good too.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311577 Fri, 03 Mar 2023 17:38:49 +0000 Jenava 2311577@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Tanya, I know this might sound distasteful, but have you considered replacing your shirts, instead?</p> <p>I am a 34HH or 32HH-I in UK sizing, depending on the brand. I had completely given up on button ups other than ones I sewed for myself with the proper full bust adjustment. But recently got the universal standard shirt in denim and white cotton. They have snaps on either side of the button at the bust apex so the do not gape at all. The downside is that you can't leave it unbuttoned too far down or the top snap shoes. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311182 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 00:37:42 +0000 Anonymous 2311182@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kinda concerned cause I often sleep in sports bras!<br /> Personally I'd be fine to pay 100$ for a minimizer bra-but haven't felt like making the effort to try bras lately :p </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311127 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:46:49 +0000 Tanya 2311127@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you all for additional advice.&nbsp; I agree that it would be useful to have one minimizer in the bra wardrobe.</p> <p>I think I will go for a proper minimizer, and not a sports bra.&nbsp; I own a single sports bra that it took me forever to find as I was looking for one that was supporting the natural shape and not flattening it, so that one is not going to work.&nbsp; &nbsp;If I am going to buy a new bra, I may as well get the real thing.</p> <p>Joy, that is an interesting thought, but I am personally not comfortable going braless in public.&nbsp; &nbsp;I don't mind nor notice when other women do it, but not in my personal comfort zone.</p> <p>Sarah, I have tried the two-sided tape, but it hasn't worked for me.&nbsp; I found that mid-way through the day the tape became less sticky and starting moving around and needing readjustment, so it was more fuss than it was worth.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311056 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 04:22:10 +0000 Aquamarine 2311056@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a lot of bras but only 2 minimizers (department store brand). I’m a busty IT and I have some sleeveless summer dresses that just fit better when my breasts are squished :-)</p> <p>I think it’s useful to have at least one minimizer in your bra arsenal!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311035 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 02:31:33 +0000 sarah 2311035@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I tried the Chantelle minimizer bra years ago, but ended up going back to my favorite Natori bra, which I like much better. Have you tried <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.amazon.com/Hollywood-Fashion-Secrets-Medical-Double-Stick/dp/B00AR4BLWA/ref=sr_1_5?gclid=Cj0KCQiA6fafBhC1ARIsAIJjL8lpWFVTBmIjqt6uqTVo4PJCBSqngoApkf4MsKXXqIdw5Ec5ilSgX8waApTNEALw_wcB&amp;hvadid=616863325377&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9019536&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=12821464396778940539&amp;hvtargid=kwd-1790129981&amp;hydadcr=24661_13611822&amp;keywords=hollywood+tape&amp;qid=1677637843&amp;sr=8-5http://">two-sided tape</a> for taping up the placket where it gaps? That's been a game-changer for me. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2311026 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 01:28:38 +0000 Anonymous 2311026@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Have you tried going braless? &nbsp;I am a 30 DD according to the Nordstrom fitter. &nbsp;Like Angie, I pay a lot for bras because there is very little in my size. &nbsp;My smaller tops fit better if I do not wear a bra. &nbsp;It may be worth a try. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310983 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 19:21:42 +0000 DonnaF 2310983@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>@ophelia: It was one of those articles I read while scrolling -- never to be found again. I could (and should) kick myself because I know quite a few pre top surgery trans male young adults who probably bind their breasts so are a much higher risk. IIRC, sports bras are not a problem if you wear them only for sports but this woman wore one 24/7 (so even to bed) and hers may have been tighter than most. I also wonder about tight underwire bras. . .Sorry I can't be more helpful. I read the article this month. I don't recall that it cited any scientific research since it wasn't that type of article but was merely anecdotal and said to check with your doctor. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310889 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 14:19:38 +0000 ophelia 2310889@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sorry to sidetrack, but Donna F if you pop back in here could you please share your source for sports bras interfering w/ lymph drainage? I’m trying to gather as much info as possible &amp; everything is so contradictory. I now have lymphedema (question ALL your doctors say &amp; do, ladies) &amp; am getting conflicting answers—when I can get answers at all—&amp; *** am SO frustrated.*** I was told to wear them—the miserable high impact ones then found info online that said don’t wear anything not professionally fitted (medical grade?) or condition will worsen.<br /> Mmmm compression garments in a subtropical summer, sounds like a formula for madness… </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310827 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 04:45:28 +0000 Carol 2310827@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have never heard of this, but want to try it, as I have about a million shirts that bunch up across the chest.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310811 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 03:14:57 +0000 Jaime 2310811@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I agree that a sports bra would be a good easy test for this idea. I have yet to find a minimizer that does what I would want it to, but have not tried very hard. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310782 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 01:19:30 +0000 Janet 2310782@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lulu seems to make good bras, just unfortunately not in a size I can wear. I laugh at the idea of paying less than $75 for a bra — all the manufacturers who actually make my size seem expensive! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310777 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 01:00:39 +0000 LJP 2310777@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I use my fav sports bra ( also from Lulu) under sweaters once in awhile for a hood minimizing effect . Of course I love it so much it’s been discontinued . </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310753 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 23:46:34 +0000 April 2310753@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>No experience but I think the medical community has some concerns about applying this amount of constant pressure to the breast?&nbsp; Again, I do not know, I'm repeating something a friend told me decades ago.&nbsp; Also, it sounds like you're not planning to wear one all day every day, so unlikely to be an issue. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310750 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 23:26:58 +0000 elpgal 2310750@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Like DonnaF recommends, I use a low-support sports bra to achieve the minimizing effect in some button-downs. It works well as do minimizer bras.</p> <p>This is the bra one I use. It comes in B/C and D cup sizes.<br /> <a href="https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-sports-bras/Like-a-Cloud-Longline-Bra/_/prod10850248?color=55138" rel="nofollow">https://shop.lululemon.com/p/w.....olor=55138</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310745 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:56:59 +0000 Tanya 2310745@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you all so much for the input!</p> <p>On the price point, I actually am in Angie's camp and generally don't mind spending money on bras.&nbsp; I had to get all new ones once my size changed 1.5 years ago, and the majority are Chantelle and Simone Perele, which are in ~$100 range.&nbsp;</p> <p>However, this minimizer bra wouldn't be worn that much, considering it is for very specific purpose, at most two dozens times a year.&nbsp; So If I can get away with $50 price range, I would be happy, but if not possible, then I'll pay the higher/usual price.</p> <p>RobinF, I checked out&nbsp;Lilyette online, but as Chris987 warned me, it turns out they start from 34D so that is not going to work.</p> <p>Roberta, that is a good suggestion and I will likely try that one, as Chantelle generally fits me well, and it comes in my size.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>I will probably stop at my local Nordstrom first to see if any chance they have any minimizer bras in my size, and try some on if they do.&nbsp; I will bring the tightest fitting shirt from that group with me.&nbsp; If not, I will order the Chantelle one online and see how it works. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310732 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:31:51 +0000 Sloper 2310732@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm willing and glad to "pay up" for a good bra - it really does make a difference in comfort and how clothes look.</p> <p>It's all relative of course.&nbsp; Good suggestions above for various brands.&nbsp; I'd also suggest taking the shirts to the best lingerie shop/department in town and invest some time in trying on different bras, if you can.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310715 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 20:25:37 +0000 DonnaF 2310715@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So I was wondering. . .would a sports bra work? Never tried it but just read an article that wearing a sports bra all the time with a lot of compression can interfere with lymph drainage so 24/7 is not the way to go with them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310664 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:57:35 +0000 Roberta 2310664@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have two of the <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/chantelle-intimates-c-magnifique-underwire-minimizer-bra/3317226?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&amp;breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&amp;color=218http://">Chantelle C Magnifique</a> minimizers and like them a lot. They don't have extra padding, they don't overly squeeze me, but they definitely flatten me out a bit (38G here). You can sometimes find them on sale, but are normally priced at $78. Very high quality, and since I own a lot of bras and rotate wears, they last several years.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310657 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:42:48 +0000 Angie 2310657@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b></b>Sweet <b>Tanya</b>, every one of my clients who is in a minimizer bra swears by them! I think it's worth a try. It does take a while to find a good fit - like most bras though ;)&nbsp;</p> <p>I'm in the opposite campy when it comes to bra and knickers shopping - I will pay what it takes to be comfortable, and feel good in my clothing. I also want the bra to look pretty with a bit of bace! It makes a huge difference to my quality of life! $100 to $120 price tag for a bra is what I pay, and I wish it was different. My bras never go on sale. It is what it is.... &nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310655 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:40:28 +0000 Janet 2310655@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I find they *can* work but I’m not wild about the shape they create on me — they smush everything in and to the side a bit, which is not to my liking. But I currently wear a 32G so the struggle is really real over here. I am better off sometimes simply choosing a thinner, seamed bra rather than the thicker unseamed ones that often employ a little padding. I’ve gotten pickier about gaping buttons and will either add a snap or fashion tape, or size up and alter if possible. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310636 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:44:30 +0000 Toban 2310636@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It’s worth trying in person to see if you feel comfortable and like the effect. I’ve had very limited success with them as I’ve not like how they redistribute my chest… while it reduces outward projection, it often spreads vertically (which makes me look even more short torso than I am) or wider. I’ve generally found them less flattering than working closer to natural shape. It’s highly personal and chest- and body shape-specific. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310625 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:56:08 +0000 Carla 2310625@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A few years back my favourite bra was a Warner’s minimizer bra (since discontinued). &nbsp;I liked it for the very reason you are considering one,&nbsp;<b>Tanya. &nbsp;</b>My back/shoulders take up a lot of space and ‘reducing projection’ manages the fit of button downs so buttons don’t pull over the bust. &nbsp;Reducing projection helps the drape of oversized sweaters as well. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>I’ve always believed a woman needs a bra wardrobe with some variety, since different styles and cuts do different things. &nbsp;I’ve never discovered one bra style that does it all. &nbsp;My current collection of bras ranges from $98 &nbsp;Wacoal to $15 George!<br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310622 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:30:06 +0000 Chris987 2310622@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I too have wanted to try a minimizer bra, not because I want to minimize the overall silhouette but because they claim to to a better job of "managing" underarm body fat. I'm a 34C and find that most of the sizing starts at a 36D so I've stopped looking.&nbsp; For example the one<b> ljp</b> mentioned starts at 36D. So you may find limited options but that should not stop you from looking :-)&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310612 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:54:12 +0000 RobinF 2310612@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think they work pretty well, they kind of pull you in a little bit. I always like feeling a bit more compressed and they do that. Not a huge amount but might be enough to make your shirts wearable. I used to find Lilyette made a nice minimizer for a reasonable price, before I needed more heavy duty ones :)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310608 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:49:04 +0000 LJP 2310608@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Irina - I'm with you. Lingerie prices just kill me. &nbsp;I'm a little at my wit's end though and decided to pull the plug on a better one. I think it's worth it . </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310607 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:44:07 +0000 Irina 2310607@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I can spend money on clothes, bags, shoes but can’t bring myself to pay $100 for a bra. And I know it’s wrong! I’m 32DD and struggle to find &nbsp;anything decent in $50 range. I tried so many sport bras and bralettes to get a minimizing effect but without any real success.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/minimizer-bras---do-they-work#post-2310600 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:28:06 +0000 Tanya 2310600@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you Lisa, that is super useful info!&nbsp; &nbsp;I would prefer to stay away from the $100 price tag here as this would not be a bra that is regularly worn, so typical department store brands sound like a good solution. </p>