Just throwing this out there. Bras were designed by men, for men to see more. nothing was ever meant for our comfort.
I have been 36D when young to 36H pregnant and back to DD and droopy. As a rule, I only wear a bra if I have to be in permies, and only to keep others from starring.
I thought I would share, something that worked for me. I have found a way to have support ( long before sports bras) when I rode horses bareback. And back when the bra straps were elastic and gave no support only bounce.
And this may be an option for some of you. At least around the homestead.
I used a cotton bandana. ( or scarf). works for a small frame. or A larger scarf which works much better for larger frames ( you can test this at the store, to see if there is room to tie around your waist) or at least the smaller part of your ribcage.
Using opposite corners, like a triangle for the head. but when you put on to wear, one corner needs to point down, so the "give"doesn't let everything fall out the bottom. If it pulls up to high, past the center point of square, it will need to be tied tighter.
When you tie around the waist, you'll need to experiment on how tight. But will need to be tighter than you think. Use a half bow (one loop) until you know how tight you want it. and if you know, no one can pull on it, can be used all the time. but a square knot works for longer use. you can get any cotton material, cut into a 30" ( or larger) square and fold over and sew the edges, to eliminate raveling and tickling strings.
Using opposite corners. one corner up and one down. tie around waist, then pull up, squeeze into it. It gives a bit on the diagonal stretch. The support comes from tying up the top.
I just fold over the top corner ( sew or pin ) and used a shoe string to tie around neck, (or just together in front) as the top corner gathers, it pulls in on the sides. You can find wider flat bands at fabric centers if you want more than a string.
and the bottom corner can stay down or tucked up between, for sweat. Much of the extra material can be tucked under. Once you find where the fold works best for you, a simple needle and thread can make this more permanent. make sure you leave room for the string or band to move easily through, so it can gather.
It is very similar to wrapping, but more simple. They cant move and stay out of the way. And can even be worn alone, cotton is much nicer than the sports bra. Too much heat for me.
It might not be the best option, but great for some situations. And very inexpensive and easy to clean.
I, too, will be looking into the options that other have posted. As every time I find a bra that fits, they quit making it. Thanks for this thread
