It's a curse. I can't walk down the street without noticing how many women, tragically, are wearing bras that just aren't working. The result is unfortunate -- sagging bosoms that add pounds and distort the silhouette.
This issue wasn't always on my radar screen. I wore a nursing bra for a long time, one without underwire.
Eventually, my guardian angel at Saks set me straight. She told me, and she's completely right, that without the proper bra, even the nicest clothes won't look that good. She sent me to a nearby lingerie boutique to get fitted, and I've looked and felt much better (and more comfortable) ever since. These days I swear by my balconette bras (also sometimes known as
balcony bras). They're cut with the strap a little far out on the
shoulder, and they're sexy and keep the bosom up, which is the whole point. They're also cut low in front, which makes them useful for deeply plunging necklines.
Calvin Klein F2762 Push-up Balconette Bra ($42)
You've read this before, and it's true: It's imperative to get a bra that fits. One thing to look for is that when the bra fits and is doing its job, the breasts will be halfway between the shoulder and the elbow. Anything lower, and your silhouette will be distorted. (A digression: Empire waists? The breasts must be above the seam. I can't stress this enough. Otherwise the whole look is just a disaster.) A few other pointers: Nothing should overflow the top (or side) of the bra cup. The strap around the back must not ride up -- if it does, get a smaller size. It should feel quite snug on the loosest hook, as all bras stretch a little over time. The front center of the bra between the cups should lie flat against your chest; if it doesn't, you probably need a smaller size.
And if you're thinking you're a little more well endowed than you like, that's all the more reason to get a good bra. Otherwise, those breasts look like you've randomly stuffed old throw pillows under your shirt. The right bra will lift and define them and also make your torso longer and more sleek.
Yes, a little lacy nothing is pretty and fetching and all that. But how do you look once you've put your clothes on? If your current bra can't do the job, you may be better off with something more sturdy, and this holds true for both small- and large-chested women.
So here's what to do. Go to a big department store and experiment with different styles, brands, and sizes of bras. Notice how different they can make you look. Get a couple and see how you like them -- and only then buy more than one of each kind. You'll be amazed at how much better you look!
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