I read up on what bra fitters look for and do.

When I need a new bra, I go to a big department store and try on everything until I find a model that matches what bra fitters are supposedly looking for.

In my 40s, I had to shift to underwire bras. I hated them before. I did find a couple Bali models that fit well although I do think they exacerbate some skin problems I occasionally have (nothing makes the underwire curve "breathable" because it's metal). The family of Bali bras is called "One Smooth U". When I find the model that works, I buy about a dozen. Mail order from Hanes is as cheap or cheaper than department stores. So about $30 ea.

I am petite (5'2) and my biggest issue is finding bras designed so the shoulder straps are closer together so they don't slip off the curve of my shoulder.

None of the more expensive department store brands have ever fit (Natori, etc.).

Anonymous wrote:I purchase all mine when I am overseas in Europe. The quality and materials are superior than what is sold in the US. Chantal Thomas, La Perla, Hanrio, Agent Provocateur for fun (men can't handle it), Zimmerli are some of my favourite brands. Yes, I have easily spend $500 on a bra, $250 on panties and $300 on garters and stockings. Totally fun and worth it.

Go away dude. Just go away

Try Nordstrom Rack online a lot of the same bras in last season colors.

Anonymous wrote:I find one I like for full price in a store (between maybe $60 and $100) and then scour the internet for discontinued and discounted colors of the same bra and buy duplicates.

+1, although I have spent up to $200 for that first full price bra. 34G here. I can wear a $28 bra in a more standard size, but it won't look or feel good.

Look into impaired lymphatic drainage.

Why are underwires damaging?

Try to avoid the underwires. They’re the most damaging.

$80 - $100 is about normal for me, most recently about 5 weeks ago. I shop at Trousseau in VA, am 30DD, they have such variety, bought 5, all different brands.

I always spend around $80-$120 on my everyday bras. I'm smallish at a 32C (32C is one step off a 34A so smaller than it sounds). I like french brands like other posters. I also love lingerie. I will periodically splurge on some crazy stuff like a $300 bra because i love it and it makes me feel good to wear (and DH likes).

I used to buy stuff like natori on sale at TJ maxx or other random stuff on the sale rack for $30, and honestly it was always cheap and never fit well. Even when it was my size. Wearing a high end bra is just a nicer experience, if you can afford it. (I can! I make a lot of money and have few extravagances in life! spending $1500 on lingerie in paris this summer was one of them!)

Op have you tried lane Bryant?

I used to be a $10-$20 bra kinda gal when I was younger, but none ever fit right or were comfortable. I got married in 2017 and received a gift card for a fancy lingere store, and finally earlier this year I went and picked some out! I couldn't believe how expensive they were, like $200 (regular price, but had some discounts/promotions added after to discount it slightly). I got 4 and love them so so much.

I'd still rather go braless most days though lol.

Anonymous wrote:What!? $15-20 max!

34B

Me too. Starting to realize how lucky I am to have a modest chest.

The only bras that work for me and DD are the ones at The Little Bra Company. They sell petite bras that are proportional for shorter slimmer torsos. I try to get the sales but the retail price is $65 plus shipping.

Anonymous wrote:I purchase all mine when I am overseas in Europe. The quality and materials are superior than what is sold in the US. Chantal Thomas, La Perla, Hanrio, Agent Provocateur for fun (men can't handle it), Zimmerli are some of my favourite brands. Yes, I have easily spend $500 on a bra, $250 on panties and $300 on garters and stockings. Totally fun and worth it.

Eyeroll and I have some of those things. Get the f over yourself.

I am a 34B and purchase bras from TJ Max. I understand how a bigger cup side would require more engineering/structure, but I just don’t need it.