Bras

[EcclesCake]

I'm aware that as one ages it would seem that bras become increasingly uncomfortable for many women.

I am curious as to why though, the obvious conclusion is that it is menopause related, but is it the right conclusion?

Any thoughts, experiences etc?

[ubasses]

I have given up being measured, as what they bring in rarely fits, and eavesdropping in the changing rooms it seems quite common.
Just go in with several sizes. I have 34a 32a 32b and 1x32c in my drawer and they all fit, but I have found that the shape is as important, I do not suit a balcony so always go for plunge. My favourite at the moment is Lepel Fiore, they do several shapes, lovely and soft and so comfortable.

[Prudie]

I'm not so sure on the getting measured either, have read more than once that you could go to 5 different reputable shops for a fitting in an afternoon and get told you are 5 different sizes.

[Old_Geezer]

Has anyone ever tested that, or is it a commonly held myth ?

[Prudie]

There have been several articles in women's magazines/newspapers so you can believe that or not. if you want empirical data then yes my daughter had it happen in London only a month ago, mind you she only got 3 different sizes..

[woofgang]

There is a very useful website, whose link I will not post on here because they do not need the salacious invasion. They have load of hints about how to find something that will be both comfortable and flattering. The best suggestion I got from there is that nothing but nothing beats trying on at home under a variety of your own clothes. Basically what you do is sort out what size you think you might be...its a starting point and nothing more. You then choose your shop and mail order buy anything that looks remotely like it might fit. When they arrive, you have a mega try on, keep what fits and return what doesn’t AND MAKE NOTES. The first time I did this, I bought 30 bras and kept 4. I know know pretty much what designs will work for me and what won’t and what sizes I am in different designs...After the first time, you only need to do it if you change shape or they “improve” the designs you like.

[jourdain2]

To be more positive: I took up M&S on their Bra-fitting event last week and -although they came up with 2 different sizes - they did eventually find one that I wore on the way home and I'm picking up another one, same size, on Monday. Agree that everyone seems to have their own system of measuring.

The menopause seems to me to have a LOT to do with it, I've changed cup size unrecognisably over the last years.

[Smowball]

I'm a 36G and also struggling. In 40's and not gone thru menopause or had any symptoms

[jambutty]

The menopause affected me Eccles. My bras definitely became more uncomfortable from then on in. I take my bras off as soon as humanely possible now, and oh the relief! I have been measured for the correct size too.

[ubasses]

Jourdain, make sure you try it on, I bought a M&S bra a few weeks ago, went back last week to get another colour, tried it on and it did not fit.

[jourdain2]

Ta, ubasses, I'm off to collect an ordered one tomorrow. I'll insist on trying it on, thanks for the tip. :)

[Jackdaw33]

I'm unsure as to whether or not to report this thread as blatantly sexist. There is no mention of what certain men have to endure when choosing a comfortably fitting bra.

[DSJ]

I recently bought new bras from M & S after being measured and fitted. The lady told me that our shape changes frequently and that we should be professionally measured twice a year.

[woofgang]

Jackdaw, bra wearing men would have been welcome to join the discussion, just not the fnar fnar mob.

[Old_Geezer]

I don't believe my woman finds any of them comfortable. But there again she does ask a lot of them. Sooner her than me.

[jourdain2]

If you wish to accompany me on a bra-hunting trip, you are very welcome, jackdaw. OH bowed out gracefully some time ago. As a well-trained husband should, he merely murmurs approval when I return triumphant from the bra jungle! You can buy me a half-way house coffee. Now there's an offer....

[Jackdaw33]

Best I bow out of this thread before it all goes ***s up.