Which style of bra do I need?

[KittyB52]

I am looking for some new bras to replace my old faithfuls which a) no longer fit me due to weight gain and b) Debenhams have seen fit to discontinue. I was a 32FF before weight gain, so I am guessing I am looking at a 34 E or F as a starting point? The old faithfuls are too tight under my boobs.

I usually wear a balcony style bra which lifts 'em up but I am wondering if this is contributing to the appearance of lines/crepeyness in the décolletage area. I have what I suppose are 'bottom heavy' boobs and would like something that gives me a decent lift and shape - I am short with a smaller waist, so the boobs need to be lifted up out of the way.

Any refs for styles/brands appreciated - ideally available online as I don't have time to go to shops at the moment.

Thanks in advance.

I would strongly suggest you get a proper fitting, I've recently just bought some Playtex bras after being fitted and I feel great in them. I too thought I was fatter but my back measurement was smaller. Please get measured ( not in M&S thought).

Ah...sorry just reread that you don't have the time. Do the bra intervention that MNetters swear by!

Thanks, Buster. I suppose I could find the time, but I have a 4 month old daughter and feel that spending an hour or two of my precious free time being prodded and twanged by a nice woman in Bravissimo is just not a good use of resources at the moment.

Will seek out the bra intervention thread(s) and have a read, ta.

Just measured myself (albeit with a metric only tape measure as my trusted one has gone walkabout) and I come out as a 32FF. That is what my old bras are, but they feel uncomfortable which could be due to the fact that the underwire keeps making a bid for freedom.

Will have a look around at some different styles and get some ordered to try at home.

If your wires are popping out I honestly think it's the wrong size!!! I think a few hours being measured would honestly be well spent! There is no feeling like a properly fitted bra!

Your body/boobs will also look so much better in clothes.

Buster, wires are popping out because the bras are much loved ready for the bin.

I am not too far from a Bravissimo shop, will see if I can get there in a few weeks (usual babysitters are selfishly off on holiday for two weeks ).

Good luck op.

I was desperate so nipped into town to Debenhams yesterday. Ended up with a replacement for my sad old balconette bras so I at least have something to wear until I can get to Bravissimo.

there is a fab facebook page called Boob or Bust - works on same principle as bra intervention. Loads of advice and fit check too.

I have wide, bottom heavy boobs and measure 32ff and I'm wearing a new Curvy Kate smoothie bra which is amazing and the perfect shape for me. I used to think balconette suited me best but this is much better.

Heavenly, will check it out - thanks!

Will have a look for that Curvy Kate bra - thanks, Dangling

Just looking on Bra stop and there are several 'smoothie' bras, including a balconette style. Which is the 'new' one? Please and thank you.

It's this one, the deluxe: www.houseoffraser.co.uk/women/curvy-kate-smoothie-deluxe-bra/d697217.pd#258248743

Available in other stores I think in more sizes, but I always use House of Fraser!