The Over-the-Shoulder-Boulder-HolderThe bra, brassiere, or as diva Bette Midler sang in the movie Beaches, "the first over your shoulder boulder holder", has been the savior and stressor of women for generations. A Bit of Boob History
This stitched together cloth and wire contraption has been around since the late 1800s.
Henry S. Lasher in Brooklyn, NY patented the first "breast holder" in 1859. In 1893, Marie Tucek patented the first "breast supporter." Many people contributed to the bra's evolution. Even today, styles are constantly changing to accommodate the curves of different body shapes.
The Bra: All Grown Up
Two hundred years later bras have come a long way in design, resources and comfort. Today bras are affordable and comfortable if you're wearing the correct one. Plus size women, in particular, often have difficulty finding a proper fit. Today though, believe it or not, a good bra fitting is always possible - for any size woman.
Hollywood Glam
Great examples of sexy plus size beauties are Sara Ramirez, the orthopedic surgeon, who plays Dr. Callie Torres, on the television drama, Grey's Anatomy, and the charismatic Queen Latifah. Both women exhibit the attitude that a confident, sexy woman should hold. Not to mention, both have great fitting bras. Have you seen the man-killing cleavage on these ladies? Wow.
If You Got It, Flaunt It
Interested in desirable, quality bras at affordable prices? Having larger assets is something to celebrate and we're here to help you do just that. Check out our range of products that will enhance your shape and provide great support and comfort. Shopping for a well-fitting, attractive bra can be stressful. Plus size women have an extra trouble because department stores carry limited sizing. Well, lucky for us the Internet has expanded our bra options. Once you figure out your size, you can check out the new shopping opportunities to find something sexy, sleek and comfortable.
Search For Sexy
Try searching the net for plus size lingerie, online you'll find there is plenty to choose from. In 2000, Rebecca Jennings founded Hips and Curves, a brand which caters to "curvy women" who "can be sensual, luscious and super sexy" in plus-size lingerie. This particular brand encourages women to highlight their assets with bras, baby doll tops, body stockings, bridal lingerie, camis, bustiers, chemises, sexy corsets, gowns, panties, thongs, and other accessories with bra cup sizes up to JJ. Other raved about brands are: Felina, Eezee, Dominique, Glamorize, Prima Donna, Warner, Goddess, Fredrick's of Hollywood, Lane Bryant's line, Large & Lovely, and others.
Tis Hunting Season
Keep in mind the above guidelines. Most likely, your first step is to get fitted by a professional bra-fitter. After you have a general idea of your bra range you can venture forth online and find the sexy, supportive, and body-enhancing gear you've been waiting for.
Remember if it doesn't fit, send it back.
You are under no obligation to keep or wear something that doesn't work. If you had the wrong prescription for your glasses, you'd take them back. The same thing goes for bras, the right fit is essential to your health. Straps should not cut into your sides or shoulders. The correct fitting bra should fit snugly and be supportive but not cut off your circulation. Persistence is key. Find what brands, sizes, and fabrics work for you. Bottom line ladies, the right bra is out there, you just need to find it and not let go.
Happy hunting!
Bra Fitting
Grab your soft tape measure. Make sure to look in the mirror to ensure that the tape is level. During all the measurements it's important to make sure the measuring tape doesn't droop in the back or cut into your skin.
Band Size
- Measure under your breasts. If the number is less than 33" then add four or five inches to give yourself an EVEN number.
Cup Size
- Measure under your arms.
- Measure at the fullest part of your breasts (usually at the nipple).
- Subtract the underarm total to the full breast total. This is your cup size.
Cup Size Chart
- 1" -A
- 2" -B
- 3" -C
- 4" -D
- 5" -E or DD
- 6" -F or DDD or EE
- 7" -G or FF or EEE
Size Variance
Did you notice the variance with the larger sizes? This is why we get into a grey area for sizing, because size depends on the manufacturer. The above guidelines are not perfect, but they are a good starting point for when you go bra shopping. Once you find a bra that works note the size and try various styles within that general range. Like anything that matters in your life, you need to find the right fit to make you happy.
Guide to perfect bra fitting |
