Can A Plus Size Bust Pull Off a Bralette?
If you have large breasts you may be wondering if a bralette will work for you. Let’s take a closer look at bralettes so that you can decide if this trendy accessory is right for you.
What is the difference between a bra and a bralette?
A bra is worn primarily to support the breasts and give shape. It is worn under the clothes and while many are pretty, their job is functional.
A bralette is an unstructured bra that’s more of a fashion piece. It’s designed more for looks than function. It can be made of lace, cotton blend material, or even leather, and it typically doesn’t have wires or much padding.
There are many different styles of bralettes and most are made to be seen. They may have decorative straps or a design on the back and come in a wide variety of colors.
Are Bralettes less supportive?
Yes, most bralettes offer light support, if any at all. Because of this, many women with large or heavy breasts shy away from bralettes.
Some companies are now making bralettes with a bit more structure for those who want more shape and support. Most bralettes have thin straps and cups that do not cover all of the breast tissue.
Can plus sizes wear Bralettes?
It doesn’t matter what size you are, if you’re comfortable in a bralette you can wear one. Bralettes are no longer only found in stores that cater to teens. Women of all ages, shapes, and sizes can wear a bralette.
If you have a larger bust look for a bralette with lightly padded cups or with a more supportive band for a bit of lift.
Pros and Cons of Bralettes
Like anything, there are pros and cons to bralettes.
Let’s start with the pros.
- Comfort: One of the most popular reasons for wearing a bralette is that it’s comfortable. There are no wires to poke and they usually have some stretch to them. They are also light and airy making them perfect for hot summer months.
- Style: Bralettes come in many different colors and so many different styles.
- Post-surgery: Since there aren’t any wires and they’re mostly unstructured, a bralette is great to wear post-surgery or post breast augmentation.
And here are the cons:
- Support: As mentioned, bralettes typically have no padding or underwire and are made of lightweight, stretchy material.
- Shape: If you’re looking for something that will contour your bust line, keep looking.
Do Bralettes cause sagging?
While bralettes themselves don’t cause sagging, women with heavy breasts may experience pain or stretching of the ligaments when going without the support of a bra. The ligaments that hold the breast tissue up are called Cooper’s ligaments.
If the breasts are heavy there is a constant pull on the ligaments that may cause them to stretch over time. If you’re worried about sagging and have heavy breasts, limit how often you wear a bralette.
Do you wear a bra under Bralettes?
Most women don’t wear a bra underneath a bralette, but that’s not to say that you can’t. If you want support and lift you can absolutely wear a bra underneath a bralette. Think of the bralette as part of your outfit. There aren’t any hard and fast rules.
Go by what makes you the most comfortable. Especially for women with large or heavy breasts, layering a bra underneath a bralette is a great way to achieve the look that you want without pain.
How do you wear a bralette?
This is where the bralette truly shines. There are so many styles and designs to choose from. Here are some ways that you can add a bralette to your wardrobe.
- Pair one that has decorative straps with an off-the-shoulder top. A slouchy oversized sweater that shows a bit of shoulder is perfect for showing off some lacy straps.
- Wear a bralette underneath a sheer top instead of a tank top or a camisole.
- Wear a high-neck bralette with a low cut top.
- Try a lace racerback bralette or a bralette with multiple back straps with a low back or open back top.
- Wear a bralette underneath a suit jacket.
No matter how you choose to wear one, bralettes can be a fun addition to your wardrobe. With so many options available, you’re sure to find some that match your own personal style.