HI Carissa - yes, I went to Nordstrom's and spent quit a lot of time trying on various bras. I was really trying to pay attention to how the different bras shaped me, but after a while I became exhausted and I got confused toward the end. The woman who measured me this time told me I am now a DDD (up from a DD). I don't know if I've gained back some weight or was bloated or what, but the bras I tried on seemed to fit well, so I guess that's true. I'm trying not to freak out about the large numbers (letters, really) and just concentrate on what looks/feels good.
I ended up with Wacoal, again. I bought this one: http://tinyurl.com/d6w5tt - which seemed to give good support and shaping, although is not smooth, so doesn't look great under knits. But I like how it shapes me and I feel it holds me up well.
I also bought this one (the "Awareness" underwire: http://tinyurl.com/ag6mhb - which also felt good, and is better for wearing under knits. It's not totally smooth, but I like the support.
I also bought a Chantelle, which was insanely expensive and I'm disappointed with it. It does shape, but I don't feel it supports me very well. I feel I'm pulling up on the straps through the day. I am upset I paid that much money for it! It's this one: http://tinyurl.com/cwce57 (Interesting - it's on sale now online. Maybe I'll go back to the store and see if I can get a price adjustment.)
I am happy with the Wacoal bras. I don't know if there is really a huge difference in how I look compared to the minimizers, but I feel better knowing that I'm not smooshing my breast tissue now.
There are others I would like to try, to see how they shape, once I have some money again!
