The average bra size among women in America—which is currently 34DD—has increased by more than two full cup sizes in the past 20 years. There are many reasons why the average bra size of women has increased exponentially over the past couple of decades. Regardless of the reasoning behind it, though, it is an undeniable reality that women are wearing larger bra sizes than ever before.
Despite the fact that the average bra size of American women has increased from a 34B in the mid-1990s to a 34DD in the 2010s, it is still way too challenging for extremely busty women to find bras on the market that fit and flatter their chests and offer the support and security they need to stay comfortable throughout the day.
So why aren’t mainstream lingerie retailers and designers reflecting the increasing demand for bigger bra sizes with more plus size options in their product lines? Unfortunately, curvy and plus size women are grossly underrepresented on the women’s fashion market. This unfair reality can be seen in all areas of the fashion market, from jeans to lingerie, but it is especially problematic in the lingerie industry.
Considering how many women have curvy body types and/or fit into plus sizes, it is ridiculous how few quality options these women have when shopping for lingerie. If you are a curvy, busty, and/or plus size woman and struggle with finding plus size lingerie and bras that are comfortable, supportive, and actually fit you well, these three bra styles might just offer the ultimate solution to your problems.
- Underwire Sports Bras
Finding everyday plus size bras or sexy lingerie bras that can keep your bust supported and secure is hard enough, but trying to find a sports bra as a busty woman presents a whole new set of problems. An effective sports bra needs to offer even more support than a standard everyday bra in order to keep your bust secure throughout a rigorous workout.
Many of the sports bras that are marketed to full-busted women are ultra-restrictive, uncomfortable compression sports bra that squeeze your rib cage but still doesn’t provide the support you need. Don’t settle for these uncomfortable, ineffective styles. Hold out for sports bras that are equipped with support features like underwire and extra wide padded straps—yes, they do exist. In fact, less mainstream brands like Panache and JustMySize offer collections that are filled exclusively with ultra-supportive sports bras for plus size women.
- Any Bra With Non-Stretch Straps
Non-stretch straps are a fairly uncommon and many women don’t even know they exist, but they can be a lifesaver—and money-saver—for busty women. Very large breasts can be very heavy, which leads to stretched out straps that destroy the functionality and supportiveness of your bra and force you to replace your everyday bras far more often than you should need to.
As their name suggests, non-stretch straps are designed specifically to resist the stress of heavy breasts and retain their length and elasticity for longer. These straps are made out of thick elastic and special non-stretch fabric. They are also often padded for extra comfort and anti-stretch protection. If you look hard enough, you can find virtually any bra style with non-stretch straps.
- Soft Cup Bras
On the days when your breasts just need a break from the restriction of classic underwire bras, soft cup bras provide an excellent supportive alternative for busty women.
Soft cup bras are wireless, but what they lack in underwire they make up for with a host of other support features. These support features include molded cups with multiple sections, support slings, extra wide straps, additional hook-and-eye closures, and more.