Specialty Bra Shops for Full Figures

A bra is an essential part of every woman’s wardrobe It gives the body a pleasing silhouette while also offering support to the breasts. Finding a bra that fits well and is supportive needn’t be a difficult task. Choosing one that’s also as fashionable as it is functional isn’t hard, either, with the variety of shops that cater to the plus size woman.

Special Concerns for Full Figured Women

The most important consideration a woman of size should concern herself with is whether the bra offers adequate support. This will come from different areas of the bra. It is essential that the cups (and any underwire included) and the straps are well-designed to hold the breasts into place.

It isn’t enough to simply buy a bra in a large size from a retailer that doesn’t understand the specific needs of full figured women. It’s best to shop from stores that specialize in that market because they will have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you make the best selection.

Three areas of the bra you should pay attention to are:

• Straps - If the straps are wide and cushioned, the bra will be much more comfortable to wear.
• Cups – Some women are bothered by underwire; there are bras available that support without this feature.
• Band – This should be wide enough to feel secure and not cut into your back.

Specialty Bra Shops for Full Figures

These retailers are experienced in providing clothing or intimate wear to women of size.

• Bigger Bras.com carries bras in sizes up to 56K.
• Hips and Curves
• Avenue sells intimates along with its popular clothing line.
• Ashley Stewart
• Large Size Lingerie has been meeting the needs of plus size women since 1921.
• Just My Size
• Sheer and Sultry sells an array of sexy intimates, including bras.
• Lane Bryant carries bras along with their extensive clothing, lingerie and accessory line.
• Catherines
• Ann Murdock has been selling full figure bras since 1985.
• Underworks
• Woman Within

Brands of Plus Size Bras

Some bra makers are more experienced in meeting the intimate wear needs of the full figured woman. These are common names you will see in plus size lingerie:

• Goddess
• Aviana
• Fancy Free
• Profile
• Prima Donna
• Cacique

Pretty Bras for the Curvy Woman

Fortunately for women of size, the white, bullet shaped and dowdy bra of yesterday has been replaced with more appealing ones. Even the prettiest bras, if manufactured for full figured women and taking into consideration the special needs of large breasts, will give excellent support while still allowing you to feel sexy underneath.

You don’t ever have to wear a white bra if you don’t want to with these offerings from specialty bra shops for full figures:

• A lace underwire bra in soft colors is offered in sizes up to 42G.
• This floral lace comes in black, nude or white and was specifically designed for the woman of size.
• If you didn’t think you could get support without underwire, think again. Magic lift bras lift and shape without any wires, which can sometimes feel uncomfortable. This bra is available in a wide range of colors and features a “wide bottom band for comfort and security.”
• A polka dot bra is fun and flirty and definitely not your average underwear.
• Delicate patterns are a sexy take on this plunge bra, which is perfect to wear under those V-necks tops and dresses.
• An allover lace pattern makes this bra a pretty option.
• Sparkle in this rhinestone accented bra that features lacy ruffles.

Sizing for Bras

Even with all of the information available, it’s surprising that so many women aren’t wearing a bra that fits them properly. It pays to measure yourself well; if you need help knowing how to size yourself, consult a bra sizing guide. Ask a friend for help if it’s difficult for you to take measurements alone.