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What to wear under strappy sundress?

8 replies

WonderWine · 15/06/2022 13:55

I don't really 'do' dresses, but we're going somewhere hot and I've bought a couple of sundresses on impulse.
Not exactly this, but the same style/ lightweight cotton etc

Having tried them on I have no idea what to wear underneath!
I'm a size 12/14 with a 36C bra size so can't go braless, but anything else is going to show under the thin straps etc?
Do I go for a strapless bra, or a visible bralette/ crop top thingie?
Or some sort of 'secret support' slip thing (does this even exist?)

I'm not used to the idea of having just such a thin layer of fabric over me! 😧
Also feels really weird having such exposed legs. Do I need long chub-rub pants?

Advice and suggestions please!

OP posts:
Giveitall · 15/06/2022 14:03

Strapless bra might be best.
You might find chin rub pants hot or sweaty/restrictive? You’ll soon gets used to the thin fabric and might be glad of it in the heat, unless of course you can see your thong through it? LoL 🙄
Whatever you decide, you’ll look great. That style dress is so feminine and pretty.

Talipesmum · 15/06/2022 14:09

Strapless bra or just normal bra and don’t worry about your straps showing (eg if the dress is dark use a bra with dark straps).

(I feel compelled to add that at a 12-14, you’re not likely to actually be 36C - have you tried a smaller back size and larger cup size a la “boob or bust” method? Likely to be worth trying especially if you are looking at strapless for good support).

Wouldn’t bother with shorts unless you get rubbing thighs - try wearing it around the house for a bit before holidays to work out what you need.

WonderWine · 15/06/2022 14:15

I feel compelled to add that at a 12-14, you’re not likely to actually be 36C - have you tried a smaller back size and larger cup size a la “boob or bust” method?

Funny you mention this as a few years ago I was measured and the assistant told me I was a 32DD and convinced me to buy a couple of bras in this size. They were honestly the worst fitting, most uncomfortable, tight bras I've ever had and I ditched them after a couple of wearings. Maybe I'm a 34D or something though?

OP posts:
ClinicallyProven · 15/06/2022 14:20

l've given up with strapless bras, I've never found one comfortable that gives a nice shape. I now wear an ordinary bra with a pretty strap, in a contrasting colour to the dress and make an accessory of it 😆

If you're not used to wearing dresses in the heat, do try them out over the next few days. I suffer terribly with chubb rub and I'm not particularly chubby. I find the M&S shorts the best to wear.

PS. I also hate the 30D that is apparently my correct size.

garlictwist · 15/06/2022 14:35

I would just go bra less. I think it would look fine.

WonderWine · 15/06/2022 14:48

Braless definitely not an option - my breasts would hurt after a day of jiggling about.

I looked at the M&S shorts but they didn’t seem to be cotton-based and I can’t imagine having something synthetic in a hot temperature!

OP posts:
BigWoollyJumpers · 15/06/2022 14:54

I am a 32H - so have to wear a bra, but also have lots and lots of strappy summer dresses. Just match or contrast your bra straps, it doesn't matter if they show. I do have a couple of dresses, even I can wear braless, but they have good support in of themselves.

No advice about chub rub though, not something I have ever had. But I wouldn't wear anything extra under a dress, the whole point is that you get extra air and waft up the skirt, so shouldn't be an issue??

Cocobeau · 15/06/2022 15:02

The Rosie range in M&S does some lovely strapless bras and I've just bought one that actually does hold me really nicely. (38c). But to be honest I would probably just wear a normal bra with this sort of dress and just try to pick a colour that doesn't clash or have really thick straps.
I envy the posters above who think fresh air rules out the need for chub rub shorts. I can't wear dresses for any decent period of time without them and I've never found any of the creams, etc actually stop chafing. I would definitely get a pair of them and at worst, just keep them in your bag. If you feel you're starting to get chafing just pop them on in a loo.

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