Why do bras have to be so uncomfortable?

Question

I have a large chest, blessing and a curse, and I can never seem to find a comfortable bra but I do not feel comfortable without wearing one. Why are they so uncomfortable?

Lliam · Accepted Answer

From what I have learned, almost all bras are fitted incorrectly.

The band is supposed to be really close to your under-bust measurement, but most places recommend bands that are way to large. It those cases, most of the weight is supported by the straps, which dig into your shoulders and can cause all kinds of problems.

The band is supposed to provide the support, not the straps.

But proper fitting bands would mean that bra manufacturers would have to make many more cup sizes and they avoid that because of expense. It's cheaper to make different size bands.

I often look up celebrities' measurements. A hot celebrity might measure 36" bust and 25" waist and wear a 34C bra. Nothing about that makes sense.

A typical woman's under-bust measures 3" to 4" greater than her waist. If her waist was 25", her under-bust should be 28" or 29". How could her band size be 34?

She should be wearing more like a 30DDD. But DDD would be considered an oddity and C is considered perfection for some reason.

American cup sizing:
A = 1" diff between her bust and under-bust measurements.
B = 2" diff.
C = 3" diff. That is a very small bust but people think it is medium because of improper sizing.
D = 4" diff.
DD = 5" diff.
DDD = 6" diff. That's a medium-size bust but people think DDD is humongous.
F = 7" diff.
G = 8" diff. That's not even gigantic.
And so on.

See what I mean? They sell larger bands for larger breasts instead of selling larger cups. And C is considered the ideal cup size when actual C-size breasts are very small.

D is considered large even though DDD is medium.

There is a lady on GAG named @softlyautumnal. She is a professional bra fitter in the UK. Maybe she would be willing to chime in and recommend a couple of sites where you can submit your measurements and order properly fitting bras.

NamerOfStars · Accepted Answer

I wish I knew. Yes, I'm a guy, but I understand what a lot of women seem unable to, that when you feel comfortable, you're less unhappy and more pleasant to be around.

I'm told that the secret is to get a professional fitting; while it's probably kind of embarrassing, at least you'll know what size to look for (although given how inconsistent clothing sizes tend to be even for MEN, it may not be much more than a starting point).

Here is a sentence you'll probably never read again, but it's the truth: long term, the best bet is probably to encourage transvestism. Get enough men wearing bras and companies will HAVE to adapt, since there's only so much of that nonsense men will put up with, and everyone will benefit.

As an added bonus: pockets. Pockets like nothing you've ever dreamed of.

CindyRuns · Accepted Answer

While I'm not as big as you are, I found a solution...

First, I make sure I know my current size... almost every bra company's web site tells you how to measure yourself.

Then I go to a store with a large selection and keep on trying them on until I find the one that is comfortable and fits me perfectly... it often takes hours. My favorite store for this is Kohl's, but others stores are good too.

One I find the right one, I go online and buy a dozen !!!

MaddyJ · Accepted Answer

Mine are comfy. I get ones that fit correctly

Fashionista Amy · Accepted Answer

Bras can be uncomfortable for various reasons, like the wrong fit or unsuitable materials. With a larger chest, proper support and sizing are crucial. Ensuring the band sits snugly and straps aren't too tight can make a big difference. Fabrics that stretch and breathe, like cotton or bamboo, might also help. Trying different styles, such as full coverage or underwire-free, might lead to finding the one that makes you feel both supported and comfortable!

Anonymous · Answer

Not sure, but it really is unfortunate, eh?

It'd be the equivalent of guys having to wear ties and belts 24/7.

Though from what I've read sports bras, bralettes, and pasties are way more comfortable than regular bras.

From what I've read the regular traditional bras are the worst ones. That the other kinds are all way more comfortable.

SuchSightsToShowYou · Answer

It's a well-documented fact that the inventor of the bra, Dr. Werner von Bra, was married to a woman who was (A) large-breasted, and (B) a colossal bitch.

Dr. Bra purposefully designed bras to be uncomfortable, as a way of getting revenge on his horribly unpleasant wife.

ohsheeT · Answer

I was told because the way girls were taught to measure is all the wrong way look it up online and see if you're doing it right

paledreams · Answer

Uhhh I think in my 20s many women went for the free the nipple aka no bra movement :) at most the women my age (20-30) wear no bra or they wear a loose singlet/loose tshirt smaller underneath lol not as tight as a bra

ProbablyClueless · Answer

They don't. All of the women I've known who love their bras say that the secret is to get properly measured/fitted.

EnjoytheDay777 · Answer

If you're comfortable with it, feel fee to go braless. Lots of women do it, and good for them. Bras can be very uncomfortable

LiamJHayden · Answer

Make sure you are properly sized. After that if there is still a problem, consider a custom shop. Pricy, but might be worth it.

onedarkcloud · Answer

Did you ever think that they were designed by men with engineering degrees in suspension? What do we know about breasts besides the obvious?

DerekC321 · Answer

Are you more uncomfortable not wear a bra or wearing a bra?

Apple1996 · Answer

I've given up on wearing bras

Anonymous · Answer

It's obviously misogyny.

jahaims · Answer

Have you ever been fitted properly?

Tstrbrainer · Answer

What about the sports bra types?

Anonymous · Answer

Who knows I’m male

vj0090 · Answer

Don't wear... 😉

Why do bras have to be so uncomfortable?

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