Front Closing Bras: The Pros and Cons You Need To Know
If you’ve ever wished you could fasten your bra without having it to reach behind your back or turn it around, rejoice: There is such a thing as front-close bras. Indeed, this is becoming an increasingly popular style for many reasons. But are front-closing bras right for you? There are a number of factors to take into account that can help you decide whether they’d work for your lifestyle, needs, and preferences. That’s why we rounded up some of the pros and cons to front-closing bras:
Pros
Comfort & Convenience
Let’s start with the obvious. Front-closing bras are super easy to put on and take off because they fasten right between your breasts. No more struggling to rotate your bra around or reach behind you, which saves some time when you’re rushing around before in the morning or while getting ready to go out at night. This is an especially beneficial feature for women who have difficulty reaching the hook-and-eye closures in the back due to an injury or overall limited arm/shoulder mobility issues.
A smoother look
Occasionally, the hook-and-eye closures in the back of a bra can cause visible bumps through a form-fitting top or clingy dress. This is another reason why a front-close bra can come in handy: it lends a smooth-looking back.
Plunge-friendly
Have a dress or top with a plunging neckline that you’re dying to wear? A front-close bra has a lower center panel, so it’s far less likely to peek out.
Versatility
There is a wide range of front-closing bras to choose from so you’re sure to find a style that suits you, whether you prefer a front closure racerback bra, T-shirt bra, or bralette. Front-close bras are available with molded cups or non-molded, and with underwire or wire-free. Women who are breastfeeding will no doubt appreciate the convenience of front-closing nursing bras. And front-close sports bras are also super popular as well. Moreover, front-closing bras come in a variety of colors and materials, from seductive lace-covered styles to basic seamless styles and playful patterned ones.
Related: Where To Find Front Fastening Bras
Cons
A narrow center panel
While women with close-set breasts will benefit from a narrow center panel, those with wide-set or splayed breasts may find that it’s a little too narrow and can’t provide enough separation. It’s worth noting that a taller, sturdier center gore, which a front-closing bra simply doesn’t have, can provide a little extra support for full-busted women.
No adjustability
Since there’s just one clasp in the front, it’s a lot harder to get a perfect fit with a front-closing bra. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible, of course. But this is a particularly important factor to keep in mind because the band provides the majority of the bra’s support, so it must fit flawlessly from the get-go as you won’t be able to tighten or loosen it as needed. And since bras stretch out over time due to wearing them and washing them, the lifespan of a front-closing bra is typically a bit shorter since you can’t adjust it.
The bottom line is this: A front-closing bra has a number of advantages and disadvantages, and deciding whether it’s right for you ultimately depends on your priorities. Still, we think it’s a solid staple — every woman can benefit from having one front-closing bra in her wardrobe, if only for the satisfaction of easily slipping it off at the end of a long workday.
Related: These 11 Bras Are Summer Must-Haves
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!