I came across this image on instagram the other day. I cringed.
The lady in the cream dress is actually the wife of the creator of one of the most identifiable American fashion brands. And this happened to her. Why, why did someone not help her find a good strapless bra???
Fashion socialite or not, at some point in your life you will probably find yourself needing a strapless bra. And in these situations, you should definitely take time and effort to find a GOOD one. One that doesn't make people around you nervous just waiting for a wardrobe malfunction!
Where to start? What makes a good strapless bra? How much should you fork over for one? Ideally, you’re looking for a combination of proper fit (that’s where good support comes from!), attractive shaping, and comfort (but I’ll be honest- beauty is sometimes painful). The best way to shop for a strapless is a place that carries as many brands and styles as possible- because you’ll likely need to try as many as possible ON your body. Online shopping is not advised here! If you’re not near a good department store, or even better a professional fit store, definitely go bra store-hopping. Alot less exciting than bar-hopping, I know, but worth it! And don't scrimp on the price. Find a good deal if you can, but if the one that's $69 feels more secure than the $49 one, trust me the peace of mind is worth it.
So, how does this thing work? What are you looking for it to do? Basically, the only way it stays on your body is through the band, meaning it MUST be snug. Additionally, the heavier the bust, the tighter it will need to be. Second, the cups must be full enough to contain the bust. If the bust spills over the top of the cup, the weight of the bust will push the bra down... and you’ll end up with either a bra around your midriff, or wires digging into your rib cage. Additionally, this kind of bra is made with stiffer wires, more power mush, and often silicone bands to help anchor it in place. All those extra support features can really hurt if anything pokes or digs into your skin. So you want to make sure the bra is working with your body, not against it!
So it’s very important that every detail of the bra fit your body nicely. And when the band and the cup all align beautifully with the your shape, you’ll have a lovely foundation to put underneath your cute outfit! Viola! If you find all this plus some measure of comfort, you have found something special!
I say this because, even as a fitter who probably has fitted thousands of strapless bras, this was the bra I dreaded fitting most. I prided myself on finding the right style and fit for a customer within the first few try-ons. But then the strapless bra would get requested. I’d maintain my confidence, but even sizes and shapes that seemed simple to fit seemed to enjoy challenging me. The fit has to be pretty much perfect. If it’s not, I’d be sending my lady out the door to enjoy a day or evening full of tugging on the bra. Or returning the next day telling me I tried to strangle her with it's uncomfortable wires and silicone sides. Neither is cute. And I have personally experienced both.
To be honest, I am still searching for my perfect strapless bra! Mine looks fantastic under clothes but the silicone kills me in the Texas summertime heat. But I have come to appreciate that I'm asking the bra to fight a lot of gravity. So I’ve accepted that in some ways, strapless bras are akin to my favorite pair of heels- beautiful and lovely, and worn only for very, very deserving cute outfits. :)