Being a girl comes with some pretty great perks… high heels, lipstick, lingerie, and let’s not forget – BRAS!
Bras offer endless options for expressing your femininity. And that’s where things can get tricky! With so many sizes and styles to choose from, it’s easy to go wrong.
Do you know what to do and what NOT to do when it comes to bras for crossdressers and MTF trans women? Here are 6 do’s and don’ts of wearing a bra!
1. DO Wear The Right Size
Did you know that there’s an 80% chance you’re wearing the wrong size bra? A bra that doesn’t fit right is uncomfortable and unflattering – and who needs that?
Bra sizing is complicated, so I suggest getting professionally fitted if at all possible. (Many shops are happy to provide this service to their transgender and crossdresser clientele.)
If you prefer to do it yourself, check out my previous article on how to find your MTF bra size.
2. DON’T Let Back Bulge Ruin Your Look
One of the dreaded side effects of wearing a bra is back bulge. This is especially common if you carry extra weight in your upper body. Here are 3 tips for minimizing back bulge:
- Wear a larger band size. A band that’s too tight will cause bulging, so go up a size. For example, from a size 42 to a size 44 band.
- Look for a bra with extra stretch. Bras made with smooth, stretchy fabrics don’t dig in as much as stiffer bras.
- Try a longline bra. Longline bras have a wider band that extends down the torso to help eliminate back bulge.
3. DO Choose The Right Style
While choosing the right bra size is important, so too is the style. The options are nearly endless! Some of the style details to consider include:
- Padded vs. unpadded
- Underwire vs. wireless
- Cut of the bra cups (low cut, full cut, balconette, etc.)
- Front clasp vs. back clasp
- Straps (strapless, racerback, convertible, etc.)
- Fabric (cotton, satin, lace, etc.)
- Color
Which style is best depends on what you’ll be wearing, as well as your natural breast shape and body type.
For a breakdown of suitable styles, see my article on the Top 7 Bra Styles Every Crossdresser and MTF Transgender Woman Should Own.
4. DON’T Be Boring
While you should definitely own some basic bras, why stop there?
Bras offer endless options for expressing your style, so have fun and experiment with different colors, fabrics, and trimmings! (Just be careful what you wear them with as frilly details can show through clothes.)
5. DON’T Ruin Your Bra In The Wash
Bras are delicate objects, so they need to be properly cared for. You shouldn’t simply toss your bra in the wash with the rest of your clothes. Here are some tips to ensure that your bra stays in good shape for as long as possible:
- Hand wash your bra if possible. This is the best way to extend the life of your bra.
- Use a bra wash bag. This keeps the hooks from snagging and prevents your bra from getting tangled in the washing machine.
- Air dry your bra. Bras should never be put in the dryer, so hang them to dry instead.
6. DO Replace Your Bra When It’s Time
You take care of your bra, it should last a good while. However, keep in mind that bras do have a limited life span. (Expect an average of 6-12 months if you wear it regularly.)
Here are signs that your bra needs to be replaced:
- The bra straps are stretched out.
- The bra no longer fits as well as it used to.
- The bra has lost its shape.
- The bra feels uncomfortable.
Bras! We just can’t get enough
Now that we’ve got the dos and don’ts worked out, the only thing left to do is enjoy your beautiful bra… And maybe go out and buy some new ones!
Since a girl can never have too many bras, I’d love to know…
How many bras do you own? Are you a basic one-bra kinda gal? Or do you have a bra to match your every mood?
Take my poll and tell me about your favorite bra below!
Love,
Lucille
P.S. If you liked this article, you will love my FREE Male to Female Transformation Mini Course.
I love all your tips. The picture of Jenn was fab. Maybe when I’m brave enough i’ll post a pic of myself and get some feedback from you gals? X
I love all your tips. The picture of Jenn was fab. Maybe when I’m brave enough i’ll Post a pic of myself and get some feedback fro you gals?
I wear a bra, panties, suspender/garter belt and stockings everyday and I simply love it. It is an excellent idea to put the bra in a net bag when washing it……it prolongs the life of the bra
I have over 500 gorgeous and sexy bras and paintie sets I always buy new bras when I see super sexy ones that I don’t own my fav place to get them is Victoria’s secret
I have 150+bras and panties too match . Bras and Panties really make the the Girls Shanna
No one mentioned that MTF transgendered women can avoid a bra & wear a camisole. Also for those that use “breast” inserts, buying a bra in both black & white, and you won’t flap & the inserts stay in place so you keep your feminity and having it these 2 colors gives you choice. I have small (about 42) I just ordered a bra so I used a “bra extender” so no back fat! LOL!! Thanks Lucille
Luv ya all Ms Robin Jenn.
For me, a bra is the most intimate and feminine item of women’s clothing. I just love wearing one and do so at every opportunity. The advice, as ever, is great especially about the net bag – it does work. And, the professional fitting is a must – x to all.
Wish I had your breast
Diane,
I agree, my bras are my most intimate and feminine items I wear along with matching panties. I have developed natural breasts, now wearing Vanity Fair Beauty Back in a D cup and their Illumination Bikini Panties. I do use the bra wash bags, they work well. Also agree with you getting a professional bra fitting is a must.
Kristin
Lovely photo Diane, obviously good quality forms. I agree wholeheartedly that a professional fitting is a must. After explaining my needs over the telephone, the woman who owned my local lingerie shop had no hesitation in offering me a fitting. What a professional she was and has advised me on bra’s ever since. And, like you, I love wearing a bra.
Nice bosoms I like the way it looks in your tank top. Very nice Good work!
A couple nice suggestions from Martha Stewart:
Never wear the same bra two days in a row. “When you let your bra sit for one day, it allows the elasticity to shoot back into the band, prolonging the life. So, having more bras has it’s advantages!
She mentions a ‘bra wash bag’ like you state – but to hook the band of each bra so it doesn’t tangle or get twisted.
Anyway, this has helped me extend ‘bra’ life.