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.
It seems that I have’ known you ‘ all my life
And I am sooo grateful for your ‘presence’
You are a wonder to us girls
Thank you
At last the ops are on the horizon and despite lack of family backing (I no moan it’s Ok) I am glad that from across the ‘pond’ you wish success : thankyou, love,hugs and + blessings for you and all my sisters
I have 10 bras in different styles and colors . Kinda learned the hard way that size is NOT consistant between manufacturers.
Julie…You are “SO PRETTY”, I think I love you !!!
I love the insights and tips about becoming a woman, someday I hope to make my dream come true and finally become a woman.
I posted before, but here’s a tip: For washing, a net bra bag is a great idea, as stated, but whether you use one or not, if you hook the band ends together in the regular way, they will be less likely to snag everything else and end up in a mess. They sometimes come loose, but all in all it’s hugely neater.
Coming on Honey, be blessed and know so many of us are together in spirit this time of year, if we were all together, we would have a gay ole time ha ha Lov ya Rachele
Hi Lucille, I have 10 assorted bras from seamless, full cup, wirefree and padded bras. Today I purchased an invisible (adhesive) B cup bra, and also pantyhose at a department store. I was in male mode. NO looks from the female checkout operator. A positive visit. When I got home, I put the bra on, and put a seamless crop-top bra over them. The adhesiveness of the invisible bra feels part of me & gives a look like I have developed small breasts. (Just the right size). Feels & looks very feminine. Looks better than my homemade bra fillers. I could wear them separate or clipped together to give me cleavage.
Wishing everyone a Happy and Safe Christmas, and all the Best for 2017.
I really thank you for all the insight. About becoming a girl.
Lucille I like the post and I have more than 10 bras and enjoy wearing them all, Your post is very insightful.