I posted an update on my style journey on this thread.
https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....evaluation
The conversation migrated to the need to get a good bra fitting. I agreed.
Comment from RunCarla:
FWIW, a well fitting bra shouldn't have any 'air' behind! I'm not big busted, and I HATE foam and padding. A good fitting bra doesn't necessarily make you look bigger, but it does 'lift' the girls up off the rib cage! The result is a higher bust line and a cleaner, more defined waist. Even 'little girls' can be 'locked and loaded'! Clothes fit better. Knits in particular look wonderfully better. The whole is a trimmer look that is honestly slimming and more youthful.
I was in 36A, until I got professionally fit into a 32C. It was shocking how much more comfortable and supported I felt. Part of the problem is that most stores in my little community didn't carry a band size smaller than 34! Once I got a proper fit and a couple of great but spendy bras, I kept my eyes open for sales on the same makes and models.
A wonderful SA at the Toronto Nordstroms gets most of my business these days and I check in from time to time for a fitting since weight loss and a change in my fitness regime has changed my upper body physique and thus my bra requirements.
Furthermore, you need a bra wardrobe. Different bras do different things! I actually prefer a minimizing bra under button downs and when I'm doing chores. My shoulders take up the shirt realestate and the buttons don't pull with the lower profile and everything is held firm. I have full coverage for under t-shirts and sweaters, and Demi's for tops with some exposed decoltage. Currently I'm liking Wacoal, Wonderbra, and Bali. Chanterelle is great, however my favourite has been discontinued and a Wacoal style fit the bill.
Stepping off my soapbox....
I sucked it up and went to Belks on Wednesday evening and reported back to RunCarla and Forum.
Hi RunCarla. Deep breath. Ok. Here it goes. I went to the mall today, was fit for a bra, and tried on a myriad of different iterations (all Wacoal) in slightly different sizes.
I went in wearing a 38C. She fit me into a 34D. I told her she was wasting her time, but she insisted I at least try it on. It was everything you said. It fit (I couldn't believe it). It look smooth.
Two problems. One, it felt so tight! She said it would "loosen up, but you don't want it too loose." I agree you don't want it too loose. But do I want to wear a bra that I want to tear off my body? Two, excess fat/skin squished out over the bra band. This was a new look. I kept pointing at it, telling her that this can't be right. She said that the squishiness happens to everyone. Everyone.
I bought it (and three matching underwear). I am going to wear the new bra for a couple of hours (with the tags on) and try it on with different sleeveless tops. The bra should make me look better in the tops. Don't you think that if the bra makes me look worse, it can't be the right size?
On the positive side, I didn't think I would be comfortable doing this. The woman was a professional. In no time at all, I honestly forget that I was standing there in my underwear with a stranger. It got easier and easier with each bra try-on.
I don't think I'm ready yet to buy a bra wardrobe. I understand the concept though. Your comment on bra minimizer for button downs was interesting though.
