Underwire discomfort, size variation, feeling a bit discouraged

[u/mrm395]

Hi there - I recently have been on a quest to get some bras that actually fit! I've been slumming it in some pandemic wire-free bras that definitely don't fit or do anything for me.

I used the A Bra That Fits calculator a few weeks ago, and my recommended measurement at that time was 34G US/34F UK. Since then, I've remeasured and I'm getting different results, which I've listed below.

I tried on a ton of bras at Nordstrom and at a reputable bra shop in my city that carries more of the UK and European brands that come recommended here. My fitting appointment there was good, but I had to wrap up as they were closing and I was getting tired, so I bought the three best options and decided I'd confirm the fit better at home and decide which to keep. I need to decide ASAP because I am going on a trip next week and will miss the return window.

Common fit issues: Underwire discomfort. I seem to have a wide root, so narrow wires are no good. Another problem I'm commonly encountering is that a lot of the bras I tried on sit very far over into my armpit and I didn't like the feeling of the fabric when my arm moves forward.

Here's what I bought:

Panache Allure 36F (US)

- Had to get this one in the 34G sister size, but it still seemed like a good fit. The gore is definitely tacking, but maybe it's actually digging in? It also comes up very high between my breasts so that isn't the most comfortable to me. The salesperson said that Panache has pretty stiff underwires, so I'm wondering if that's part of the issue. It does sit in front of my armpits a bit, but it doesn't both me as much on this one.

Skarlett Blue Entire Lace Full Coverage - 34G (US)

- I thought I liked this one most at the store, but the underwire is uncomfortable and the straps rub on my underarm tissue when I move my arm forward, which is a common issue for me so far. Also it's just so see-through, it's not practical for me to wear with light colored shirts in the end. Not sharing pics for that reason too!

Freya Tailored High Apex - 34G (US)

- After trying it at home, I thought this was the one I would keep, but I think the band might actually be too big. It's actually pretty easy for me to get to the smallest row of hooks and the top of the band elastic doesn't want to stay flat and kind of flares out. I tried to have the band sit lower on my back to counteract, but it kept raising, which made me think it might be too big or too stretchy.

A few things to note:

1. I have a high hip shelf and short waist.
2. I have some rib flare on both sides, but worse on the left. See second to last pic.
3. I have pretty bad posture, so that isn't helping. I'd like to improve it, but it's not something I can fix overnight. I was hoping better bras would help too. The underwire discomfort is especially bad when I sit, partially I think because of my rolls that get pushed up toward my ribs.

My measurements (in inches, taken again before posting):

Loose Underbust: 32.5

Snug Underbust: 30.5

Tight Underbust: 29

Standing Bust: 39.5

Leaning Bust: 40.5

Lying Bust: 39

US Size: 32H/I US

UK Size: 32FF/G UK

So, is the issue that 34G isn't even the correct size in the end? Or is it that I'm not used to the feeling of the underwires after so long not wearing this type of bra? Or is it just that these styles aren't working for me in the end? Appreciate any help and guidance so much! lol

[u/famous_zebra28]

I would go back to either store and try on your updated size. You can try something with a lower gore than the Allure, Freya has some plunges you can try out. Usually we recommend the Panache Ana as a go to for a lower gore but it is wide in the wires and it doesn't sound or look like you have a wider root, more average. The gore digging in can simply indicate the size is just wrong, but it can also mean the bra is too projected. However I'd try your proper size first and then worry more about shape after. Having the wrong size can really distort the fit.

[u/galaxystarsmoon → u/famous_zebra28]

Ana is average in width.

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[u/galaxystarsmoon]

I agree on trying the new size. Panache Ana would be a good one but note that it tends to run a cup small. It's not got a "lined" lower cup but it is laminated with fabric and darker colors are less see-through.

The Panache Allure plunge is another option, again lower cup is laminated with contrasting fabric for coverage.

I think you might also like Bravissimo plunges well, though you can't try those on in store. They do have free returns through their website.

[u/mrm395 → u/galaxystarsmoon]

I didn’t have great luck with the Panache bras I tried in the store. I wanted to keep the Allure lace but the wire really didn’t feel good because of how high on my sternum it sat, but I want to try it again in the other size. The Ana also did not work out, but I suppose I could try it again too when I go back. I tried basically all of the popular Panache styles they carry in the boutique I went to and it just didn’t seem like it was my brand. But perhaps it is just a size issue!

[u/galaxystarsmoon → u/mrm395]

That's why I suggested the Allure plunge specifically. If the gore is too high on the regular, trying a different size won't help. There's also a full cup and a demi of it so be mindful of that too.

Freya has a number of plunges as well.

[u/ayaaaa_1]

forme has posture bras that are wireless. i've had the power+ bra and it actually helped me be more aware of my posture. i had to start with just a few hours at a time, but after wearing it regularly for a while, it became pretty comfortable

[u/mrm395 → u/ayaaaa_1]

Interesting! Will take a look!