Nursing bras are one of the many investments mothers make during and after their pregnancies — and they’re well worth it. After all, nursing bras ensure that moms get adequate support during this stage and can comfortably and conveniently breastfeed their babies.

Once an infant has moved beyond the breastfeeding stage, though, mothers often wonder what to do with old nursing bras. Of course, if you plan to have additional children, you can hang on to your nursing bras for future pregnancies.

But what if you don’t plan to? There are several options to choose from, all of which we’ll cover in this handy guide.

Contact your local nurse-midwife clinic

Occasionally, midwife clinics will run drives seeking post-partum items like nursing bras to serve local women in need. Contact clinics near you to see if they’re looking for these kinds of items, which they then will pass off to women who deliver their babies there. Some of these women can’t afford the products needed to care for their babies after giving birth, so offering up nursing bras that are still in good condition could have a positive impact.

Related: Bra Shopping Guide: Tips For Buying New Bras

Donate them to a nonprofit

There are a number of organizations that accept new or gently used bras.

For example, Bras2Moms exists so that “no mom becomes discouraged with or stops breastfeeding because she cannot afford a nursing bra” — that’s quite the honorable mission! You can mail your bras to their address in Vancouver, Washington (or stop by in person if you’re in the are). On announced days and times, the shop offers bra fittings to mamas in need. Your gently used nursing bra (or tank) could make a big difference in another mother’s life.

Bras for a Cause is another organization worth checking out. They take all kinds of bras that are still in good condition and then share them with a number of shelters and charities. Even your well-worn nursing bras could prove helpful — underthings that are unable to be fixed can be turned into art that’s then sold to raise money for breast cancer survivors.

The Bra Recyclers, which was launched by an Arizona textile recycling company, is also doing amazing things with used bras. Any new or gently used bras that are donated are then distributed to organizations specifically serving homeless or domestic violence victims across the globe. You can either mail in your bras, hold your own bra collection event, or drop them off any one of the many drop-off locations in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.

The unique thing about Breast Oasis, another non-profit providing women in need with gently used bras, is that they assign a special identification number to each bra that allows donors and recipients to send private messages to each other. There are multiple donation locations in 13 states to drop off any nursing bras you don’t need anymore.

Are your nursing bras in less-than-great condition? You can still donate them to the Bra Recycling Agency, which pulverizes donated bras and turns them into special event carpeting. Any profit made from selling the wire and metal from the bras is then donated to breast cancer research.

Remember

Ultimately, it’s up to you what you’d like to do with your nursing bras — but rest assured that they don’t have to go to waste! Remember: No matter the condition of those bras, they still may be able to help someone, somewhere. With so many nonprofits and causes to choose from, you’re sure to find the right place to ship off your gently worn nursing bra.

Related: How Long Should I Wait To Get A Bra Fitting After Breast Feeding?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

When choosing a bra, we have countless options at our fingertips. But one of the key decisions we have to make is: molded or non-molded? Of course, there are advantages to each. Selecting which is right for you will depend on your expectations for what the bra should do.

Luckily, we’ve broken down not only the differences between molded bras and non-molded bras, but also the unique benefits each style offers.

Next time you find yourself which type to wear, refer to this handy guide.

Molded bras

First, let’s define what a molded bra is. The cups on this type of bra are actually heated over a mold to give them a distinct form that sculpts the breasts into a particular shape.

One of the main advantages to molded bras is that they have a thicker lining, which means extra coverage. As such, you won’t have to worry about your nipples showing through. Not only that, but the cups are almost always seamless, so they offer a smooth line. That means they’re less likely to be visible underneath knits and other thin or clingy tops.

A key reason why many women love molded bras is that the breasts conform to the shape of the cups, which is helpful if you’re looking for a rounded, lifted shape (especially if you have pendulous or sagging breasts).

It’s a common misconception that all molded bras will make your bust line look bigger. If that’s your goal, some styles may certainly add a little volume to the bust, such as push-up bras. For the most part, though, molded bras won’t add much volume.

There are also a wide variety of molded bras to choose from, including T-shirt bras, plunge bras, sports bras, and strapless bras. They are also available in both underwire and wire-free styles.

Essentially, if you’re looking for a sculpted shape, a smooth line, and ample coverage, molded bras are a wonderful choice. Note: If your breasts are fuller on the bottom and looser or deflated on the top, make sure you get a molded bra in the proper size that doesn’t have too much coverage. A molded demi-cup bra or balconette bra may be ideal, because you won’t have to worry about not filling out the top of the cups.

Related: How Does Bra Sizing Work?

Emma Plunge Molded Bra P5490 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Bare

Non-molded bras

Clearly, molded cup bras come with plenty of perks. That said, there are still reasons why you might opt for non-molded bras.

Maybe you don’t want to wear bras that give your breasts a particular shape — and instead, prefer to flaunt your natural shape. More power to you! And that’s where non-molded bras come in. Since these bras do not have molded cups, they won’t sculpt your bust line in the same way. Many women who have self-supporting, projected breasts with even fullness may find they like non-molded bras because they embrace their shape. Remember: Anyone can wear non-molded bras, no matter their shape or size.

One reason why some prefer non-molded bras is that they’re very lightweight, which makes them ideal for summer since they’re sometimes more breathable than bras with molded cups.

Some non-molded bras still offer plenty of coverage — look for lined bras that don’t have molded cups, as unlined bras will be the thinnest (and thus most likely to cause the nipples to show through).

Just like molded bras, non-molded bras come in a wide range of styles, materials, and colors. From full-cup bras to longline bras and bralettes, you’re sure to find a non-molded bra that meets your needs.

Many women like to have both molded bras and non-molded bras in their collections as different outfits and occasions may require different styles. Ultimately, molded cup bras are your best bet if you’re looking for superior coverage and shaping, but if you’re just seeking a supportive bra that shows off your natural shape, non-molded bras will do the trick.

Related: Should I Try A Wireless Bra?

Emma Wire-Free Soft Padded Bra P5491 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Black

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Jeanie T-Shirt Bra 4812 in Black

There’s an occasion for every bra. Those seamless, smooth T-shirt bras are perfect for your casual, everyday outfits you wear to go shopping or grab a quick lunch with a friend. Your sports bras, of course, are a must for that 5K, dance class, or strength training sweat session at the gym.

You reach for your plunge bras and push-up bras to wear under formal dresses for special events, or to give you a little va-va-voom cleavage on date night. And then there are bralettes. Who could forget about these totally trendy undergarments?

If you feel like you’ve been seeing more and more bralettes lately, you’re not imagining things. This bra style has become increasingly popular due to its comfy, lightweight feel that still manages to be impossibly stylish. The best part? There are endless different options to choose from — bralettes can be lacy, sporty, leather, and a slew of other different looks.

Whether you already own a few bralettes or are thinking about buying your first one, here are a few ideas for how to wear bralettes:

To Sunday brunch

When you’re trying to strike a look that’s both chic yet casual, a bralette can be your best friend.

Try a bralette under a racerback dress with a denim jacket — this is a look that you can easily sport in the spring and summer, and then transition into fall with tights and boots.

The beauty of a bralette is that if it has ornate straps (such as lace or embroidery) that are meant to be seen, you can substitute it for a strapless one. Slip a lacy bralette on under an off-the-shoulder sweater with distressed jeans and you’ve got an ensemble that’s feminine yet laid-back at the same time.

To a dinner date

One of the most seductive and eye-catching ways to wear a bralette is to layer it under a lace or sheer blouse.  It may be daring, but it’s a surefire way to keep your date’s attention. Pair that with a pencil skirt and you’ll look sophisticated as well as sultry.

You can also sport a bralette under a sleeveless maxi dress. It adds a touch of bohemian appeal to those floral maxis in the summer. In the fall and winter, a lacy bralette gives a soft, romantic touch to a black maxi with leather ankle booties.

Related: Do You Wear A Bra Under A Bralette?

On girls’ night

Feeling bold? If you can find a bralette that’s long enough to double as a top (think longline or bustier length), you can wear it solo underneath a blazer or cardigan. This is an edgy look that works perfectly for grabbing drinks or going to a concert with the girls.

You know those button-downs you wear to the office? Well, they can be instantly transformed with one of these trendy bras — in fact, a bralette looks undeniably stunning peeking out from underneath a simple button-down blouse with black skinny jeans.

Running errands

While there are no doubt many dressy occasions to wear a bralette, you can also wear them on your most casual days. Whether you’re picking up the dry cleaning, grabbing groceries, getting the car washed, or picking the kids up from school, you can definitely make a bralette work under your low-key ensembles.

Consider pairing a bralette with a low-armhole tank, jeans, and slip-on sneakers when you want to look effortlessly put together.

A bralette also looks intriguing under a slouchy V-neck tee with colored denim and ballet flats.

Obviously, bralettes are pretty versatile little undergarments. In fact, you can find a bralette for nearly any occasion or outfit. Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to try incorporating bralettes into a range of different looks. But remember: the style possibilities are limitless, so don’t be afraid to make this trend your own.

Related: Bralette vs Bra: What’s The Difference Between A Bra and A Bralette?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 in Pearl White, Black, Sky Blue | Adriana Bikini P5483 in Pearl White, Black, Sky Blue

Ever since minimizer bras made their way onto the shelves of lingerie stores, women with full busts have been wondering if they should try them. After all, the name itself suggests that it can reduce your bust line, which may prove helpful when you’re wearing a button-down top that tends to gape, or if you simply have a hard time fitting your breasts into certain kinds of blouses or dresses. Women who are considering reduction surgery may even like to wear minimizer bras to “test drive” how it will look and feel before taking the plunge. But can a bra really achieve such a transformation on your bust line?

Do minimizer bras really work? We’ll break down the truth in this handy guide to one of the most popular bra styles.

What does a minimizer bra do?

With separated cups, firm material, and wide straps and underbands, minimizer bras are a super sturdy bra style. By pressing the breast tissue closer to the torso while spreading it more evenly across the chest, these bras can make your bust appear smaller.

Does a minimizer bra work?

Naturally, this depends on the specific bra. Quality and fit will obviously come into play here. But in a word, yes: minimizer bras do work. Minimizer bras reduce projection — or how much your breasts protrude from your torso. By redistributing the tissue across more of your chest, they make your boobs look smaller. In fact, some styles can take as much as 1.5 inches off your bust line.

The magnitude of the reduction depends on your cup size: The larger the cup size you wear, the greater of a reduction you’ll see. Whereas someone with a B or C cup might only see a ½-inch difference, someone with a DD cup or larger can experience a reduction of 1 inch or more.

Related: Is A Minimizer Bra Right For You? 6 Questions To Ask First

Should I try a minimizer bra?

If you struggle to fit into certain apparel because of your full your bust is, or simply want to reduce the appearance of your bust line, you can certainly benefit from adding a minimizer bra to your collection.

We advise looking for minimizer bras that feature extra features for support and shaping, such as underwire, wide adjustable shoulder straps, and three-part cups.

Women with full but pendulous breasts may also reap major rewards from the support and lift that a minimizer bra can provide.

Fortunately, there are a wide variety of minimizer bras to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that works for you whether you’re looking for an everyday full-cup bra, a strapless bra, or a plunge bra. Additionally, minimizer bras come in a range of colors and fabrics, so there’s basically one suited to any and every occasion, wardrobe, and personal style.

Remember

A minimizer bra doesn’t just make your bust line look smaller, it can also make your clothes hang better. If you’ve been wondering whether a minimizer bra works, the simple answer is that it does — as long as you buy one with that right features that fits you flawlessly.

Related: How To Make Your Boobs Look Smaller

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Enora Minimizer Bra P5272 | Parfait Enora Bikini P5273 in Whisper Blue

I’ll admit it: When I was single, I didn’t really bother to buy lingerie. I made sure I had a solid arsenal of basic bras and panties, of course. For me, the essentials meant a few T-shirt bras, a couple unlined wire bras, a nice balconette bra, and a plunge bra, plus several sports bras to rotate during my workouts throughout the week. I didn’t bother splurging on special underthings, though — like a bustier, a longline bra with romantic accents, or a lacy Brazilian thong. In my mind, those kinds of elaborate unmentionables were meant for women in relationships. After all, they had someone to show them off to. Why, I wondered, should I bother investing in exciting lingerie if there’s a chance no one will see it?

Oh, how I was wrong. After my last relationship ended, I made it a point to gradually build up my lingerie collection over time. And you know what? The benefits were mind-boggling.

Here’s why I decided to start buying lingerie for myself while I was single — and why you should, too.

Lingerie makes a solo night in more luxurious

Who says lacy undergarments are meant for date night only? There’s hardly a better way to spice a night in by yourself than donning some luxurious lingerie. Wearing some sultry underthings will make that night in by yourself feel far more special, no matter what you’re doing —  whether you’re just hanging around the house watching a Netflix movie, painting your nails, or having a solo dance party in your living room. Pour yourself a glass of wine (or your other cocktail or mocktail of choice), slip on some seductive lingerie, and take a minute to admire yourself in the mirror before going about your cozy night a home. I like to think of this as a spectacular form of self-care.

It gives you a saucy little secret

There’s something super thrilling about knowing you’re wearing a jaw-dropping bra and panty set under your work clothes. No one at the office will know, of course, but that fun little secret may actually give you a confidence boost. And that confidence could certainly come in handy while you’re negotiating your salary or running a meeting. So don’t bother to save your lingerie for a special occasion — wearing it under your clothes while working, running errands, or even on a girls night out may make you feel a tad more self-assured.

Related: 12 Reasons Why You Should Invest In Beautiful Lingerie

Lingerie reminds you that you don’t need to be in a relationship to be sexy

I don’t know where women get this notion, but some seem to believe that they need someone else in their life to tell them or prove to them that they’re desirable. This simply isn’t true — and in fact, lingerie can help to reinforce that this idea is merely a myth. Think about it: lingerie is designed to accentuate all of your assets. So if you’ve been feeling less than sexy lately, there’s a good chance that a well-fitting demi-cup bra or push-up bra that highlights your ample cleavage, or a pair of cheeky hipster panties that flaunts your derriere, could be just the ego-booster you need. Wearing lingerie simply for yourself can serve as an important reminder that another person doesn’t make you sexy or define your beauty — you do.

It can help you to see your body in a new way

There’s no doubt about it: Almost all women have some hangup(s) about their bodies. Whether it’s an insecurity about the width of their hips, their small or shallow breasts, their thighs, or their bodacious backsides, it seems we all struggle to accept some aspect of ourselves. The truth is, though, that most of us are our own worst critics. And wearing some flawlessly-fitting, high-quality lingerie can actually enable you to see your body in a new light. I’ll never forget the first teddy I purchased (for a boudoir photo shoot) — to this day, it makes me feel better about my body and more confident in my own skin than anything else in my closet. Sometimes I’ll slip it on while I’m home alone just to remind myself that even the things I don’t like about myself can be beautiful — it’s all about perspective.

If you’ve ever been hesitant to buy lingerie just because you’re single, I’m here to give you permission to treat yourself. Not only can wearing gorgeous undergarments help boost your body positivity and your overall confidence, but it’s a stellar way to pamper yourself as a single woman.

Related: 5 Tips For Feeling Your Best In Lingerie

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze

The word bustier stems from the word bust, which makes a lot of sense when you consider what it can do for your bustline. This classic piece of lingerie, which is often confused with a corset, is aimed at emphasizing a woman’s curves, lifting the breasts upward and inward while defining and drawing attention to a small waist.

In other words, the bustier can make anyone look like they have an hourglass figure. So it’s no surprise that the bustier has long been one of the most popular pieces of lingerie. There are many benefits to wearing a bustier, however, that go beyond showing off your curves.

If you’ve ever been curious about this iconic piece of lingerie, here are three reasons to consider adding one (or two or three) to your collection:

Bustiers are basically a bra and shapewear in one

There’s no denying that a bustier is quite the multitasker. Not only does it support, lift, and define your breasts, but it can also smooth out your midsection. The result? An uplifted, sculpted bust line as well as a striking silhouette. In other words, rather than having to wear both a bra and shapewear, you can wear a bustier and get the same effect: a sculpted torso and quite the eye-catching decolletage. This is why a bustier is a very common choice for brides to wear under their wedding gowns.

Side note: many people mistakenly assume that bustiers will feel restrictive and confining because they’re often associated with corsets. However, whereas corsets are made with stiffer fabrics, bustiers are made with more flexible materials — so you’ll probably be shocked at just how comfortable they can be!

Bustiers are actually super supportive

As you likely know, a bustier can seriously amp up your cleavage. On top of that, they are also surprisingly supportive — more than many might think. Bustiers vary in length, with some extending just a few inches under the cups and others extending all the way down at the bottom of the hips.

Regardless of the length, though, the extra material on a bustier underneath the cups helps to provide additional support (just like with a longline bra). So if you’ve ever wondered if you’re too full-busted for a bustier, rest assured that this style can actually be super advantageous for you. Look for bustiers with underwire cups, adjustable straps and at least a couple rows of adjustable hook-and-eye closures in the back to ensure you get maximum support (and a flawless fit overall).

Related: What Is A Longline Bustier?

Bustiers can be worn out

The beauty of a bustier is that you don’t necessarily need to hide it underneath clothing — in fact, it’s one of the few unmentionables you can wear out. Of course, not all bustiers are designed to be worn as clothing, but styles that have ornate details, lace overlays, and other accents that look meant to be seen can certainly be shown off.

There are a number of ways to wear a bustier, too. For example, you could pair one with a flared knee length skirt and a denim jacket for a casual yet flirty ensemble. Or, you could wear a bustier with a floor-length skirt and heels for an elegant yet sultry vibe.

When you wear a bustier with a blazer and skinny black jeans or a pencil skirt and pumps you instantly look polished yet sexy at the same time. Hitting the cocktail bar for girls’ night out? Try a bustier with skinny jeans, ankle booties, and a leather jacket for an edgy, eye-catching look. You could also try donning a bustier underneath a sheer blouse to give your layering some intrigue.

Pro tips

The bottom line is this: Bustiers are actually incredibly versatile undergarments. Not only do they provide amazing support, but they can double as shapewear and even give your wardrobe a seductive twist. It may take some time to find the right bustier for you, but trust us, when you do, you’ll wonder how you went so long without having one in your lingerie collection.

Related: 8 Rules Every Woman Should Know About Bustiers

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Elissa Low Back Bustier P5017 in Pearl White

Most of us are well aware of how comfy T-shirt bras are, how eye-catching push-up bras are, and how stylish bralettes are. But plunge bras are one of the most underrated bra style.

In fact, the plunge bra is one of the most versatile options you can add to your collection. Not only is it almost universally flattering, but it can be helpful for a wide range of ensembles. Moreover, it’s an ideal style for particular breast shapes and can solve a variety of fit issues.

If you’re considering adding a plunge bra to your collection, you may want to learn about all the perks that come with this style.

Here are some of the major rewards you can reap while wearing this beloved lingerie staple:

Plunge bras vanish under low-cut tops

One of the more obvious benefits of plunge bras is that they are perfect for all your dresses and tops with deeper necklines. Thanks to the way the cups are angled and the low center gore, you can wear this style with low-cut garments like formalwear or even simply V-neck tee shirts without worrying that it’ll show.

They work for different breast shapes

Without a doubt, gaping is up there as one of the peskiest bra fit problems that women have to deal with. If you’ve ever noticed that you tend to have extra room at the top or sides of your bra cups that your breasts simply don’t fill out, you may find that plunge bras solve this problem.

Since the cups on the plunge style are a little more narrow and angled significantly, they’re ideal for women who have breasts that are shallow either at the top or all over. Also, if your breasts are set closer together, a plunge bra can help solve any gaping you notice on the outer edges of the cups.

Plunge bras enhance cleavage

The way that plunge bras are constructed enables them to push the breast tissue slightly inward and upward. Some plunge bras even have some artful padding or contouring in the cups for a more dramatic effect. However, the cleavage you achieve with a plunge bra can be a tad subtler than what you’d get with a push-up bra.

A plunge bra provides a va-va-voom look that’s still surprisingly natural. Moreover, depending on the features of the bra, this style can make your bust line look bigger since it has a lifting effect and less coverage in the cups.

Related: Lingerie We Love – Plunge Bras

They’re comfortable

Plunge bras feature much shorter wires — rather than wrapping all the way from the center of your chest to your underarm, they usually sit only under the most supportive part of the cups. That means that if you tend to struggle with wires that are too long and poke your sides, a plunge bra could be ideal for you because you’ll deal with less potential prodding.

Plunge bras are flattering

One of the biggest misconceptions about plunge bras is that they aren’t well suited to larger breasts because they’re likely to spill out. So if you’re worried that you may be too full busted to wear this style, consider that you’ll actually get ample coverage from a plunge bra.

Despite the fact that the plunge bra has a deep neckline and short center gore, the angled cups actually lend a lot of coverage on the outer edges, coming up higher on the chest than a lot of other bra styles. So if you choose the right plunge bra (and make sure it fits properly) you can definitely avoid the cup overflow that you might experience with a demi bra or balconette bra.

Looking for a way to show a little skin in your plunging necklines without sacrificing comfort or coverage? Then a plunge bra may very well be the perfect style to add to your ever-growing lingerie collection. Not only is a plunge bra a nice alternative to a push-up bra for flaunting your decolletage, but it can solve a variety of fit issues for certain breast shapes, and can work for basically any bra size as well.

Related: Why Do Bra Brands Fit Different?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra P5351 | Sandrine Hipster P5355 in Wild Pink

When it comes to workouts, there are a few essentials every woman shouldn’t go without: a can-do attitude, a full water bottle, a sturdy pair of sneakers, and, of course, a supportive sports bra. But did you know that choosing the right sports bra to wear depends on the kind of workout you’re engaging in? Think about it this way. You probably wouldn’t wear the same bra to run casual errands that you would wear to a formal event, right? Just as with your regular bras, there is a purpose for every sports bra, and knowing which ones are designed for which workouts will help to ensure you’re always getting the support you need.

Fortunately, in this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about buying sports bras for low-impact, medium-impact, and high-impact workouts.

Low-impact workouts

What they are

Any form of exercise where your feet aren’t making forcible contact with the ground can be considered low-impact. For example, yoga, barre, and Pilates. A rowing machine and an elliptical machine also provide low impact workouts. These kinds of physical activity are ideal for people with knee issues and are overall much easier on the joints.

What to buy

With low-impact workouts, you have the most flexibility in regards to selecting sports bras. Since you aren’t pounding the ground with your feet, your breasts won’t be exposed to nearly as much bouncing. As such, you’re free to wear slightly less structured sports bras. Depending on your breast size and shape, you could simply opt for a compression sports bra, which keeps the breasts contained by holding them closer to the chest. However, if you have large/heavy breasts, you’ll likely want to look for one that contains separated cups. Underwire is not typically necessary for these kinds of workouts — ultimately, it’s simply a matter of personal choice. Regardless of your breast size, though, we always recommend opting for sports bras that feature an adjustable band and straps to ensure you achieve a perfect fit (and get sufficient support as a result).

Medium-impact workouts

What they are

If your feet are making frequent contact with the ground, but you’re not making explosive movements, then you’re engaging in a medium-impact workout. Some examples include hiking, strength training, power walking, and the StairMaster.

What to buy

Your breasts are likely to move around more during these workouts than with low-impact exercises. As such, you should look for sports bras with slightly more structure. It’s a good idea to choose encapsulation sports bras — as they contain individual cups, they can separate your breasts and provide support for each of them. Again, it’s always advisable to choose sports bras with adjustable features. A sports bra that only comes in small, medium, or large is not recommended for workouts with medium to high impact — you’re far better off going for styles that come in standard bra sizes (band and cup) for a flawless fit that keeps your breasts secure from start to finish.

Related: Compression vs Encapsulation Sports Bras: What You Need To Know

High-impact workouts

What they are

Running, plyometrics, aerobics — what do all of these exercises have in common? They’re all high impact because they involve both feet leaving the ground at the same time. Dancing and HIIT are also considered high-impact exercises.

What to buy

It’s particularly important that you buy the proper sports bra for high-impact exercises, because these expose your breasts to far more potential strain. By buying an adequately supportive sports bra, you can ensure that you don’t put too much stress on the Cooper’s ligaments in your breasts, which are responsible for preventing sagging. You can also minimize any risk of discomfort or injury to your breasts. Look for bras that combine both compression and encapsulation technology. No matter your breast size, but especially if you’re large-busted, you will probably want to look for a sports bra with underwire for breast separation and extra support. A wide, sturdy elastic underband is crucial as well, as the band provides the majority of the support in any bra. All of these features will help to offer bounce control during high-impact activities.

Pro tips

Of course, the most important thing to consider when buying a sports bra is the fit. Regardless of whether you choose the optimal style for your workout, if the size is wrong, the bra won’t be able to provide the support your breasts need. So if you haven’t been fitted in the last six months, be sure to stop by your local department store or lingerie boutique to get measured before you invest in some fabulous new sports bras to wear during your sweat sessions.

Related: Where To Buy Sports Bras

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Active Sports Bra P5542 in Rabbit/White

There’s a lot of myths floating around about sagging breasts, and we’re here to clear them up. But first, let’s dive into the realities of this issue. All woman face breast sagging, no matter what — it’s simply a natural process that comes with aging. Over time, the connective tissue in our breasts that help them maintain their shape (called the Cooper’s ligaments) gradually begin to stretch, causing the breast tissue to slowly go south. Moreover, during and after menopause, breasts begin to have a gradually higher concentration of fat (as opposed to breast tissue) due to hormonal shifts, which can leave them looking a little deflated and less than perky over time. So one truth about sagging is this: it’s totally normal, and it happens to everyone, no matter how much we may try to fight it.

Still, while you can’t totally prevent sagging, it’s important to separate the many myths from the facts so you can understand the measures you can take to slow down the process. Without further ado, here are some very common misconceptions about breast sagging, debunked.

Myth #1: Only large breasts sag.

Indeed, larger breasts may visibly sag more because they contain more tissue to droop downward. However, smaller breasts are still subject to gravity and can sag at the same rate. It all comes down to the makeup and density of your breasts. For example, breasts that are slightly larger but have more tissue than fat are less likely to sag than smaller breasts that contain more fat compared to tissue. The bottom line: No matter your breast size, you are not immune to gravity and the effects of aging.

Myth #2: Breastfeeding causes sagging.

This is a super popular and persistent myth, but the reality is, it doesn’t matter whether you breastfeed or not. While pregnancy could put you at risk for sagging if you experience a dramatic/rapid weight gain and then weight loss after giving birth, breastfeeding hasn’t been proven to have an impact on whether your boobs droop or not. In fact, a 2008 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal revealed that breastfeeding cannot be considered a risk factor for breast ptosis (AKA sagging).

Again, pregnancy can potentially be to blame for some sagging, however. The more weight that is gained, the larger the breasts become, causing the ligaments and skin supporting them to stretch out — and that’s why they are more likely to droop when their size decreases.

Related: How To Buy The Right Nursing Bra Size

Myth #3: Exercises can prevent sagging.

This is a complicated one. Many women believe that if they engage in more chest exercises, they can strengthen those muscles enough to keep their breasts from sagging. Unfortunately, breasts don’t contain muscle. Therefore, no matter how many chest workouts you do, they will still inevitably droop somewhat over time (again, due to aging). That doesn’t mean those dumbbell flyes, chest presses, and pushup are for nothing, though! Strengthening those muscles in the chest, which are underneath the breasts, can potentially help to make them look a bit perkier and lifted.

Myth #4: There’s nothing you can do to stop it.

It may seem like since sagging is inevitable, there’s not much you can do. In reality, though, there are measures you can take to at least slow the process down.

For example, studies have shown that smoking is more likely to have a negative impact in regards to breast drooping. This makes sense when you consider that smoking can contribute to the breakdown of elastin (which is responsible for not only supporting the breast tissue but making skin look plump and firm). Other factors that can break down elastin and collagen, thus possibly accelerating the sagging process, include soaking up too much sun without protecting the skin on your breasts, as well as drinking excess alcohol. Avoiding all of these behaviors can certainly help you to prevent premature sagging. Additionally, keeping your weight stable will make sagging less likely, as weight fluctuation in your breasts stretches out the connective tissue and skin, which can be detrimental in the long run.

Also, wearing a supportive sports bra is key to warding off early sagging — especially if you engage in high-impact workouts. Sports bras that combine encapsulation and compression, featuring an adjustable band and straps as well as separated cups and a sturdy underband will help to control bounce during your workouts and minimize any strain on the ligaments that keep your breasts perky.

In sum, sagging is not totally avoidable. However, there are some behaviors you can avoid to keep your breasts looking lifted for as long as possible. And if you’re noticing that your breasts are going south, don’t fret — there are bra styles designed specifically to lift the breast tissue upward, like push-up bras.

Related: A 3-Step Guide To Buying The Perfect Sports Bra

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Underwire versus wireless bras — it’s one of the most hotly debated topics in the world of undergarments. Wireless bras get a bad rap for having zero support, and underwire bras get a bad rap for being uncomfortable. But we’re here to tell you once and for all: Neither of those things is true.

There are pros and cons to each bra type, and deciding which is best for you depends on your specific needs (pertaining to your breast size and shape), lifestyle, and personal preferences. That said, it can be helpful to have both in your collection so that you have options to choose from.

So, if you’ve got an arsenal full of underwire bras, should you try going wireless? Here are some factors to consider:

Pros

There’s no doubt about it — non-underwire bras are super comfy. That’s not to say that underwire bras are uncomfortable. As long as they fit properly and are in good condition (as in, the underwire isn’t bent out of shape or poking you), they shouldn’t cause any pain or discomfort. But wireless bras inherently have less structure, meaning they kind of mold to your body in a highly inconspicuous way. That makes them phenomenal for lounging around at home, running casual errands on the weekend. If you’re a woman who prefers to sleep in a bra, wireless bras are obviously a great choice for this reason alone.

Speaking of comfort, wireless bras are great for women who have recently had surgery and are experiencing any breast tenderness or soreness. They also work super well for women late in their pregnancy or who have just given birth (when the breasts tend to be engorged or the size is fluctuating somewhat). Many nursing bras are wire-free, as some women find them to be a little more accommodating during this phase.

And if you thought there was just one style of wireless bra, think again. Wireless bras come in a bevy of options, from bralettes, padded bras, unlined bras, full cup bras, plunge bras, and molded bras. That means you’re bound to find a wireless bra that suits your needs.

Related: What Is A Wireless Bra?

Cons

Here’s the thing about wireless bras. With underwire bras, there’s a thin strip of sturdy metal lining the bottom and sides of the bustline. That wire is able to provide a lot of support for your breasts. It can also help to give them a more lifted appearance. Women with heavy, pendulous or sagging breasts will likely benefit the most from this aspect.

Of course, non-underwire bras can still offer some support. In particular, wire-free bras that contain seamed cups (such as three-part cups), a sturdy underband, and any kind of inner engineering can lend some extra definition, lift, and shaping. Still, it’s tough to beat underwire on those fronts, because the wire does a lot of the heavy lifting.

This is why it can be advisable to choose sports bras with underwire for high-impact exercises, such as running or aerobics — especially if you’re full busted. Moreover, underwire bras are more effective in terms of separation than wire-free bras. Still, you can opt for wireless bras with separated cups to avoid the dreaded “uniboob” look.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are far more pros than cons to wireless bras. The only real drawback to wire-free bras is that because they don’t have as much structure, they won’t be able to lift and shape your breasts quite as much. However, they are undeniably comfy, they can serve a variety of different purposes, and they come in a range of styles and sizes. In other words, there’s hardly any reason not to add one or two to your collection.

Believe us: on a lazy Sunday or a Friday night in, you’ll be happy to have the option to slip into a wire-free bra. That doesn’t mean you have to give up your beloved underwire bras — those certainly have their place (like on date night, for example).

While building a lingerie collection, you want to make sure you have a slew of styles to choose from so that no matter your mood, the occasion, or your ensemble, you have the perfect bra. And certainly, wireless bras have their own unique advantages that every woman, no matter her bra size, body type, or personal style, can enjoy.

Related: Where To Buy Wireless Bras

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Emma Wire-Free Soft Padded Bra P5491 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Black