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Bra issues/tubular beasts

67 replies

Nobranothanks · 12/01/2021 07:46

I've name changed for this one as I feel a tiny bit exposed!

Can anyone recommend any bras for those of us with wide set tubular boobs where the "boob" so to speak spreads right round to under the arm pit. To make matters worse I also have dodgy joints so find narrow bands uncomfortable.

I have tried EVERY bra out there and have been Measured in every shop (except rigby) and done boob or bust all to no avail. Boob or bust suggests I'm a either 34 or 36 e to give some idea HOWEVER because of the shape of my boobs I do not ever fill the cup/boobs do not stay in.

I have had moderate success in the past with asda 2 sizes bigger bras however they do not "fit" so to speak.

This has been a problem for as long as I can remember and brings me down so so so much. I've recently had to give up bras altogether due to severe shoulder pain and am currently wearing unsupportive crop tops..... This means I am confined to hoodies/jumpers. I am a size 14-16. For reference, I used to be a 22 and got down to a 12 (slim for my frame) pre child.

I cannot wear sports bras as they give the appearance I have bound my chest.

Pre covid I have gone Into many department stores and hve tried on up to 50 at a time and still been unable to find one that fits. I'm honestly not exaggerating.

Please, any input is gratefully received. I'm in tears every morning because of this.

Thankyou in advance.

OP posts:
Nobranothanks · 19/01/2021 17:13

That's my theory at the minute too 😊

OP posts:
PickAChew · 19/01/2021 17:20

I have wide set spaniels ears and have the most success with curvy Kate balconettes and the occasional Freya style as the wires go right around the side and support me where I need it. I avoided moulded or padded bras as they don't fill up right and I find the padding pretty painful to wear.

MrsPnut · 19/01/2021 17:27

I have wide set very long breasts and I find the Panache Tango my go to bra for the wire coming far enough round under my armpit and also being quite high cut or the sides so it holds it all under control.
I do own a few Molke bras too for lazing around days.

StarlightLady · 19/01/2021 17:32

I don’t think Panache are what they used to be. I had 2 fairly new ones where the underwire has tried to “escape”. Once they go, you can’t sew them back in.

marriednotdead · 20/01/2021 07:23

@StarlightLady

I don’t think Panache are what they used to be. I had 2 fairly new ones where the underwire has tried to “escape”. Once they go, you can’t sew them back in.
Whilst Panache are not generally as hard wearing as Fantasie/Freya, I’ve not noticed a decline in quality. If wires are repeatedly coming out it may well be a style/shape issue.
Goodbye2020Hello2021 · 20/01/2021 07:38

Whilst Panache are not generally as hard wearing as Fantasie/Freya, I’ve not noticed a decline in quality. If wires are repeatedly coming out it may well be a style/shape issue.

I agree with starlight I have also noticed a decline in quality. Nothing to do with style or shape because I’ve bought the same style for years.

Nobranothanks · 20/01/2021 19:44

OK.... Update 2!!

Curvy kate boost me up - MY GOD. I ordered 4 sizes to get it right but the bra is amazing if anyone happens to be similar to me. Their lifestyle plunge is also good.

My mind is blown 😂

OP posts:
Goodbye2020Hello2021 · 21/01/2021 09:24

What size OP? Was it anything close to what you’d been told/thought you were?

Nobranothanks · 21/01/2021 10:40

Sort of - I've worn an e at times but it's never worked. I've narrowed it down now to a 38f or 36g depending on style/brand etc. It's hit and miss still whether things fit but it's sooooooo much better. The boost me up has blown my tiny mind!!

OP posts:
NotExactlyMrsCurrentAffairs · 21/01/2021 11:38

@Nobranothanks

OK.... Update 2!!

Curvy kate boost me up - MY GOD. I ordered 4 sizes to get it right but the bra is amazing if anyone happens to be similar to me. Their lifestyle plunge is also good.

My mind is blown 😂

That's brilliant!! I'm so pleased for you
Therealone · 21/01/2021 13:02

That's great news op! I'm pleased for you.

Nobranothanks · 21/01/2021 13:38

Thankyou :) I might keep updating this thread with others I find that work just in case it's interesting to anyone else with the same issue.

OP posts:
if1905 · 13/03/2021 17:36

I have tubular breasts and only measure at an A cup. I have always struggled to find bras because I want bras with lots of padding to make my boobs appear bigger, fuller and round but always found that bras gaped. My best advice is going for padded push up multiway bras!! Cups tend to be cut a little smaller (don't come up as high on chest so less space for boob to fit, which is great as my tiny boobs don't want all the normal space in a normal bra) and this reduces gaping because there isn't all the excess space at the top! And cups/straps tend to be closer to the skin, stylistically to accommodate the strapless ways you can wear the bra, but again amazing at maintaining the fuller, round shape with no gaping. Best affordable ones that I have found are ones from Primark, New Look and Boohoo. I also use to wear the Asda 2 size bigger bras but since finding these multiway bras I'm not going back. Never have to worry about outfit choices either (like sleeveless dresses) as they are multiway bras, so honestly perfect for every day and outfit! 😊

WaitroseAldi · 03/06/2021 22:45

This is me!!

I’m currently looking for a sports bra or something to wear to the gym as I’m currently wearing my “two sizes bigger” bra form asda! If I wear anything that’s not majorly padded I look like I have no breasts at all. I’m a size 18/20 and it looks ridiculous!! I can’t even wear a swimming costume or bikini.

It’s getting me down. Did you have any luck?

Nobranothanks · 04/06/2021 06:29

@WaitroseAldi I could have written your post there!! That is exactly what happens to me.
I measured myself a few times and got a rough idea of my size on boob or bust and used that ass starting point. I found the back size to be accurate but for me, I had to drop a couole of cup sizes as I have no volume at the top.

The winner in the bra stakes was from Victoria's secret believe it or not! It got bonus points for being so soft and comfy enough for me to wear all day without hurting my temperamental joints! this one I think

As for sports bras.... Well that's a realm I've never successfully managed lol.

OP posts:
WaitroseAldi · 04/06/2021 08:45

Thank you! It’s awful isn’t it. I’m so flat on my chest, like I have zero volume from my neck down lol and then just v v shape boobs lol.

I hate it! Plus I’m losing weight so it looks even worse!

Annageddon · 09/07/2023 23:04

I’ve been reading as I also have tubular breasts. I have PCOS, and I am in the same boat. Victoria Secret is the only place I have found bras that fit. This has been the case for 5 years. Either Body by Victoria or Tshirt non-wired bras, which I have just switched to. So for anyone reading, I recommend you try them. I travelled 1.5 hours today to get new fitting and bras, as my local store shut.

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