Buying bras when you need help with dressing

LameWolf

Anyone else been in this situation?

I'm going to some time have to bite the bullet and buy some new bras - the ones I have are ancient, I have to use an extender across the back, and not to put too fine a point on it, I'm falling out of the front. (Sorry if TMI).

I've found a website that gives instructions on how to measure, so I can get Mr LW to help with that, but I'm aware that different styles will fit differently, even if they're the same size.

I'd like to go to the shops ideally, but I need help with putting on/taking off my bra - and Mr LW is my carer, so I can't see any shop letting him in the ladies' fitting room (in any case, I'd be horribly embarrassed). There's no-one else who can come with me to help.

I know there is the option of online shopping, but there seem to be so many lingerie websites, I feel a bit overwhelmed and don't know where to start. Also I have no idea of what sort of style would be most comfortable now, other than that it must be underwired.

Can anyone help me get my thoughts in order/suggest a good place to start? I've been putting this off for at least a year.:o

TIA

Paparika

can you go to your local marks and sparks for a bra assessment?

Obviously Mr LW wouldn't be able to go in with you but you should be looked after if you explain your difficulties?

I did laugh... and wondered if Mr LW needs some warm spoons for you

newleaf

Measure yourself using the guidelines you've been given, then buy online from Figleaves, for example, or another supplier of your choice (Figleaves are on Quidco though, and I have found them to be brilliant ) and try them on at home, with help, and at your leisure. If they don't fit, send them back - I think returns are free, and order a different size. Simples
If you are large busted, I can also recommend Brastop and Bravissimo, both online. HTH.

LameWolf

Thanks, both of you.

Having someone else help isn't possible; I have a real phobia about physical contact with ANYONE other than Mr LW, and certainly couldn't have a shop employee help with such a personal thing.
LOL @ the warm spoons.:p

I'm not really very big - but I have gained weight. To put it in perspective, I'm wearing 32B with a 2" extender, and having to breathe in hard when Mr LW fastens it. I prob need 34 or 36, B or C, I'd guess. *SIGH* I was 32A when I first moved to MK in 2002.
The info about free returns is v useful - I was envisioning spending a fortune on postage to send stuff back! Cheers for that.:beer:

newleaf

Yes, just checked, Figleaves is £3.50 delivery and free returns.
They are currently offering 2% cashback on Quidco - I suspect this may increase during the run up to Xmas though, it usually does, it's worth keeping an eye on it as sometimes it goes up to 10 or 12%. (You just have to be careful with returns and Quidco cashback though, because they will decline it if you make even a partial return).
I would just order one for a start and when you find one that you like, and is a good fit, you can order some more - hopefully cashback rate may have increased by then.
I always buy my bras online. I prefer to try on at home under different items of clothing to make sure they are exactly right. I'm sure Mr LW will be happy to help you out with this! I have never had a problem with any of the companies I mentioned - although Bravissimo only do D cups and above. Brastop do smaller cup sizes and are offering 10% cashback on Quidco at the moment. Their delivery is only £2.50 but they don't offer free returns, so best to know what you are ordering before going to them.
Hope this is helpful

jenhug

if you are really falling out, then I would suggest going up to a 36d, and taking it from there.

dmg24

jenhug wrote: »

if you are really falling out, then I would suggest going up to a 36d, and taking it from there.

This was my thinking too - we always underestimate bra sizes!

If you did want to have a fitting I would avoid M&S, they are notorious for producing the most random results (they measured my mum as a 44E - she is more like a 38D!). I would go for Bravissimo if you think you could be a D cup, otherwise John Lewis. I have recently cried at/ with the staff in both these stores, and they were lovely both times!

vikki_louise

Hello, if I were you I would just phone or get mr lw to, and explain that he is your carer as your disabled. I can't see them having a problem with it as it doesn't take long and ladies can either go into another dressing room or just warn them and keep their curtains closed x

indiegirl_2

Hi LW, I've sent you a PM about Bravissimo in MK... not sure if you'd seen it or not.

Lorne

In my experience a phonecall to Marks and spencers sorts it all out. They are fantastic, just explain that it is because you physically need help from your husband and they'll let him go in with you and corden off a section of the changing rooms. My client had the entire place to herself and her male carer and they were very discrete and professional. I got the impression that it wasn't uncommon.

jennilb

Hi

Bravissimo is very good, they don't have to touch you to take the measurement - they do it by eye. This means they do need to see you in your bra in the changing room, I'm not sure how that'll be for you.

I have used them several times (I've got a wardrobe that ranges from dawn french to posh spice, so have had to be measured more than once, lol!) and they are really good. I actually would suggest going to them even if you think you may only be a B-C, because their measuring is so good

If you take a look at their website it has some good information about how to assess your own size and on 'trouble shooting' for when you know your bra is the wrong size but can't figure out which bit should be different or how.

I hope this helps
Jenni