Bras, pain and where to go

[Quiescentdemon]

Hi
Gosh, long time lurker but... I need help/advice/an outlet
Bras - I cannot find one that is comfortable, and gives decent shape.
I am size 8-10 but have really small frame and v well cushioned. Measure, boob or bust as 29/36, thanks to MN
But keep ordering bras and they don’t fit. Or at least there is something significantly wrong - armpit boob, sore back
Went into an indie store, well recommended, and they said by sight I was a 34 back?!! Then brought me out a 34c, which I tried on dutifully- they said it fitted perfectly?? Despite the v obvious armpit bulges and the fact it was hanging off my nipples, well nearly.!
Tried panache Clara, looked ok initially but all moon fell in central bottom Quarter and gave me horrible back pain shortly after
Oh yes, indie woman, who shall be known as the bosomier from hell, was disgusted with me when I pointed out my concerns..and from then on was downright obstructive, claiming ‘we don’t sell that size...’
After a few kids, boobs have migrated to armpits, and although have some mass, are v v shallow and I just need something that stops the pain when I’m working etc
Anyway, sorry, tedious, I know. But if there is anyone with any suggestions, they would be sorely appreciated

Check Bravissimo. If you can go into a store and get fitted, best!

Do check their website either way. They have good images of how bras are supposed to fit. It is very important to get the band size right first. Snug on the loosest hoops! Look at yourself sideways in the mirror and your band must be horizontal, never riding up your back. It may leave indentations but not be uncomfortable. After that the cups need to fit well, no bulging and no gaping. As you put the straps on lean forward and shake the girls into place and adjust the straps. Oh! And the bit in the middle should be touching (or almost) your skin.

Try your bras on again and see it they fit these criteria.

Good luck!

What is it that's wrong with the clara? It's one I've tried myself so it's a useful benchmark.

Did you work out if you are top or bottom heavy?

Hey. I am quite bottom heavy. And I’m not sure woth the Clara - has some armpit bulge despite swooping and scooping and yet a little gapey on top and it didn’t seem to support the weight as I got quite intense back pain between shoulder blades after 10 mins. Thanks

Clara is quite tall, and I think may also be too narrow in the cup for you.

If you fancy a long line I'd have a look at cleo piper - www.belle-lingerie.co.uk/cleo-piper-midi-balconette/ or for a normal length the juna - www.belle-lingerie.co.uk/cleo-by-panache-juna-balcony-bra/ - or lexi might work.

I think you want something which doesn't have much fabric on the top half - so you don't get the empty at the top, puddle of boob in the bottom feeling. The best bras for this are half cups or proper balconettes - the sort which are relatively straight across the top, with a decent height central gore so you don't fall in to the middle. The bravissimo anais is a good shape which might give you an idea of what to look for.

Thank you! I will have a gander in between bedtimes. Makes much sense

Immediate thoughts are they both look good! Are Cleo different in shape of wires to panache then?? I had assumed similar and as you pointed out, thought maybe panache were too narrow so had not really looked at Cleo . Also definitely agree re the higher gore and perhaps higher at the sides??

I personally find Cleo just as high and narrow as panache, can't wear either of them. Freya and Curvy Kate have wider wires.

Anyone know anything about Maison lejaby, particularly size wise?? Few good deals

I'd defo recommend trying Bravissimo again. I've also recently had a WhatsApp video fitting with Attollo lingerie. Very small independent company, specialising in small band/large cup. The ladies are lovely and gave me many great tips. Bras are sexy which is what we need! Waiting for my bra to arrive now! They have insta and have really good reviews. I wish you all the best.

Thanks! Wow, they look fab!

After decades of ill fitting expensive bras I went and had a breast reduction and lift. That might sound extreme but no need for bras 99% of the time now.

Cleo and panache can vary quite significantly. I need quite narrow wires and whilst some work for me, others are a disaster. I think they have a couple of different wires. Bravissimo own brand likewise don't have a standard width/depth and vary a lot between styles so some work, some don't. I find freya and curcy kate more fixed. They are both wide imo and there will be options in their ranges but I'd be looking for the same straight across shape. Lots of their balcony and plunge bras have high fabric and so would feel empty.