If you are searching for the bra that is comfortable and keeps you looking your best, you've come to the right place. Here are my picks for the best bras for older women.
I've purchased and worn many types of bras over the years. When I was younger, the choices were so much easier. Almost all looked great under clothes and only the rare few were uncomfortable.
I could easily scoop up the latest styles from Victoria's Secret underwire collections.
But what about bras for women over 50? Do we really need different bras? My opinion is yes. Let's put aside the "need" and instead agree that we "want" different bras. It is a known fact that our breasts change as we age.
I would go braless 100% of the time if I could get away with it. I'm thinking there are others out there that feel just like me. To give you transparency, I am a 38D. At the end of this article, there is a refresher on measuring for bra size.
Below are a few of my favorites that have been tested in real life and make me feel confident and polished.
The best bras for older women
Bali Comfort Revolution (My #1 pick!)
My favorite by far is made by Bali. It is Bali Comfort Revolution Wireless T-Shirt Bra, Full-Coverage, Pullover T-Shirt Bra.
This is the lightest weight bra I have ever worn and provides great coverage and support. I believe it has something to do with the material containing almost 40% spandex. Comes with easily removable cup pads which I leave in as I like the shaping effect they have.
I do wash in machine on gentle cycle (even though recommended for hand wash) and I air dry flat. A nice surprise is that this comes in 22 colors. I don't think I've ever had a bra available in so many shades before.
If wearing a deeper V-neck top, you can let a peak of the bra show which adds a spark to your styling. I own the white, nude, dark blue, and black. Planning to order the cinnamon butter and the brown for fall season.
Check price on the Bali Comfort Revolution Bra here.
Playtex Secrets Underwire 4421
I like the lightly padded shoulder straps and the cup fit. This Playtex Secrets feels pretty and provides plenty of support. The underwire becomes a bit uncomfortable for me as the day progresses.
Soma Vanishing Back Unlined Front Closure Lace
I like the front closure and the back style which allows for more shoulder to show if wanted. This Soma Vanishing style with front closure feels excellent and modern to wear. The cup fit is excellent. For me, after 10 hours, the underwire becomes a bit uncomfortable.
Olga 35519 Shear Leaves Minimizer
This is pretty and comfortable. I like the slightly padded shoulder straps and mesh design of leaf overlay. The cup fit is excellent. This Olga Minimizer truly reduces and allows me to wear a few button down blouses that I thought were no longer wearable.
Go Braless!
For anyone lucky enough to go braless but wanting some concealment there are options such as the gel petals.
How do I measure for my bra size?
If it's been awhile since you measured for your bra size, it's time to do it again.
Step 1: Stand upright put on your most comfortable current bra, using a measuring tape, measure around your back and under your bust, where the band of a bra would usually sit. Assure the tape is in a steady, even line. You want it to feel snug, but not tight. Measure in inches. If the result is an even number, that is your band size. If it is an odd number, round up to the nearest inch and that is your band size.
Step 2: Using the measuring tape again, measure around the fullest part of your chest. Record this in inches.
Step 3: Subtract your band size from your bust measurement. The difference is what determines your cup size.
Note that there are still some department stores that will take your band measurement and add 3 to 4 inches to it for bra size.
The reasoning dates back to when the material bras were made from was much different than today's marketplace. Just a little insight for you.
Since the band should be doing most of the work for you (rather than have pulling on your straps), you want it to be a snug fit.
I recommend keeping your measurements either on your phone or in your wallet. While out shopping you can refer to them easily.
Have fun!
More Fashion Tips
For more wardrobe tips for older women, check out these other helpful articles:
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