20 Best Bras for Older Women: Comfortable, Supportive, and Stylish Choices for Every Body
At one point in time, the only option for finding a bra was to go to your local dept store, get measured by a harried worker, and hope they had a size and fit you like.
Now there are so many options it can make a person dizzy. Finding the perfect bra for you can seem overwhelming whether you are 50 or 85, but with more online traffic than ever, it doesn’t have to be.
Many online retailers offer helpful charts and size guides and even free chats with a sizing expert. These same companies have honest reviews directly on their site, some that even list the ages of the people reviewing them.
All this information can help take the guesswork out of finding your next perfect fit.
Best sports bra for older women:
The Absolute Sports Bra by Champion
Sports bras today are as numerous as any other type and is difficult to find a good and comfortable fit. The Absolute Sports Bra gives great support while you run jump or dance and is comfortable enough to sleep in. With patented double dry technology and a mesh racerback, this bra will help keep you cool in the most intense of activities.
Best bra for larger busts:
18 Hour Comfort Strap Wirefree by Playtex
Many bras were just not designed for anyone bigger than a D cup. That is not the case with this bra. With sizing that goes all the way to 54/H this bra will fit any breast size! It has full coverage and great support. Wide comfortable straps are a must when supporting large breasts and this bra does that right as well. As an added bonus it comes in 11 different colors!
Best bra for elderly sagging breasts:
Front Closure Zip Up Bra by Glamorise
We went outside the box for this one, it might be called a sports bra but the support and comfort it gives are unparalleled. This bra zips up the front so it’s extremely easy to get on and off, it also has a hook adjustment in the back so you can create your perfect fit!
Best bra for older women with limited mobility:
Woman’s Adaptive Front Closure Bra by Silverts
This bra is great for anyone suffering from mobility issues. The makers of this bra have developed a system with three large hooks and a patented Easy Touch tab to guide your fingers where they need to go. The hooks ensure the coverage you can count on while still being simple enough to put on without help.
Best seamless bra for older women:
One Smooth U by Bali
Posture support, moisture-wicking, and front closure make this the perfect near-invisible bra. This bra will provide all the support you could want while still being easy to get on and off. The no-slip straps mean it will stay in place no matter what you’re doing. Wear it under your favorite black dress and enjoy a night of dancing or wear it under a t-shirt for a day of lounging and relaxing.
Best supportive front-close bra:
Playtex 18 Hour Posture Boost Front Close Wireless Full Coverage Bra-E525 by JCPenney
A supportive bra with no wires? Can it be done? Yes, it can! This bra by JCPenney offers support 4 ways! Not only will this bra help your posture, but it will ensure no slip-ups or slip-offs. It provides full coverage and the wide comfort straps are sure to keep strain off your shoulders.
Best sleep bra for seniors:
BreastNest Wire Free Sleep & Lounge Bra by Silverts
A bra designed with better sleep in mind. This bra is easy on, and the lack of hooks or clasps keeps it comfortable while you are sleeping. The wide straps keep your shoulders pain-free, and the lack of wires allows your breasts to do what they do best while you sleep. This bra even has a patented strip to prevent painful chafing and rashes under your breast.
Best post-mastectomy bra for older women:
Estelle Recovery Bra with Pockets by Masthead
The last thing women going through a mastectomy need to think about is how to find a bra for afterward. Masthead made it simple, with bras and straps designed specifically for any pre or post-surgery need they make this difficult process just a little easier. The recovery bra with pockets is designed to hold prosthesis, padding, or icepacks for whatever you might need at the moment. It also gives gentle compression with soft material to keep you comfortable all day long.
Best front-close bra for large breasts:
Lace Wireless Posture Bra by Comfort Choice
With 12 colors to choose from and sizes up to 54/G, this bra has something for everyone. With no wires to poke through this bra is comfortable to wear again and again. Wide straps and a smoothing back support system will encourage good posture while offering effortless comfort.
Best wireless bra for older women:
Comfort Evolution Wire-free Bra by Hanes
When comfort is your top priority, you look for a bra without wires and when support is second on your list you buy this bra. Designed with fabric that stretches and fits you this is the bra you forget you even have on. No tag so you won’t be itchy and several color choices so you can wear it every day of the week.
BEST BUDGET BRA FOR OLDER WOMEN
Maidenform One Fab Fit Underwire Bra
The Maidenform One Fab Fit Underwire Bra is a fantastic budget-friendly option that caters to the needs of older women. Crafted from ultra-soft microfiber, this bra offers a delicate touch against the skin, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Its lightly lined design provides a flattering shape while offering gentle support.
One of its standout features is the adjustable straps, allowing for a customizable fit. Whether you prefer traditional straight straps or crisscross style, this bra accommodates various outfit choices and provides the support you need.
The underwire construction of the Maidenform One Fab Fit Bra ensures excellent lift and contouring, enhancing your natural curves. This feature is particularly beneficial for women with larger bust sizes, as it provides ample coverage and prevents sagging.
Despite its budget-friendly price, this bra doesn’t compromise on quality. It offers both style and functionality, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear. Whether you’re going about your daily activities or simply relaxing at home, the Maidenform Bra keeps you feeling supported and comfortable.
BEST BRA FOR THOSE WITH ARTHRITIS
Spanx Bra-Llelujah! Lightly Lined Full-Coverage Bra
For those dealing with arthritis, the “Spanx Bra-Llelujah! Lightly Lined Full-Coverage Bra” is a heaven-sent solution. This bra is thoughtfully designed with comfort and ease of wear in mind.
Featuring a smart lifting design, the “Spanx Bra-Llelujah!” provides shape and cleavage without causing any discomfort. The bra’s ultra-soft cups offer a smoothing effect similar to the brand’s trusted shapewear, providing a flattering fit without any pinching or digging.
The wide cushioned straps are adjustable, allowing for a customized fit that won’t put strain on arthritic shoulders. The best part is that this bra boasts a convenient front clasp, making it easy to put on and take off, alleviating the need for complex maneuvers that might be challenging for those with arthritis.
With the Spanx Bra-Llelujah you get a perfect blend of support, comfort, and easy wear, making it an ideal choice for women dealing with arthritis. Say goodbye to the struggles of putting on and removing bras, and embrace the relief and confidence this bra brings to your daily routine.
BEST STRAPLESS BRA FOR OLDER WOMEN
Sculptresse by Panache Dana Strapless Bra
The Sculptresse Bra is the ultimate choice for older women seeking the best strapless bra. This bra stands out for its exceptional support and comfort, making it perfect for various occasions.
Designed by Sculptresse, a brand known for catering to larger cup sizes, this strapless bra features a four-part construction that offers ample support and side control. It provides confidence and security, even for those with larger busts.
The Sculptresse Dana Strapless Bra is praised for its versatility. Its convertible, adjustable, and removable straps allow for different wearing styles, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
What sets this strapless bra apart is its tight-knit, scalloped lace construction, which adds to its overall support and containment. Unlike many strapless bras, this one ensures a secure and comfortable fit without slipping or digging into the skin.
Best Bras for Large Sagging Breasts
Bali Comfort Revolution Bralette
The “Bali Comfort Revolution Bralette” is hailed as the best bra for large sagging breasts. This bralette is specially designed to offer exceptional comfort and support to women with larger busts, ensuring a flattering fit without constricting bands or uncomfortable wires.
One of the standout features of the “Bali Comfort Revolution Bralette” is its lightweight construction. It provides coverage and support without the bulk, making it a comfortable option for everyday wear. The bralette’s seamless design ensures a smooth appearance under clothing, creating a polished and natural look.
For women with sagging breasts, the “Bali Comfort Revolution Bralette” provides a gentle lift and support without sacrificing comfort. Its flexible and stretchy fabric conforms to the body’s natural shape, allowing for a customized fit that adapts to your movements.
Post-Recovery Bra Best post-surgery bra
Wanayou Zip Front Wireless
The Wanayou Zip Bra is the ultimate choice for the best post-surgery bra, providing optimal comfort and support during the recovery period. Its front zipper closure allows for easy wearing and removal, essential for those with limited mobility after surgery. The bra’s soft and lightweight blend of nylon and spandex ensures a chafe-free experience, promoting healing and comfort.
Designed with wireless construction, the Wanayou Zip Bra offers gentle support without causing any discomfort to sensitive areas. The removable cups add versatility, allowing for customization based on individual needs and preferences.
With the convenience of three bras in a pack, it ensures ample support throughout the recovery process without the need for frequent washing. Many satisfied customers have praised its comfort and functionality during breast reconstruction recovery.
Best supportive underwire bra for older women:
Underwire High Impact Sports Bra by Wacoal
Some activities require as little movement as possible from a place it’s hard to stop movement in. This bra keeps things in place. Highly supportive with breathable fabric it will keep you cool while you bounce and make sure that your breasts only bounce with you. Get the hold with the squishing with the High Impact bra by Wacoal.
BEST LACE BRA FOR OLDER WOMEN
Natori Avail Full-Figure Convertible Contour Underwire Bra
The Natori Avail Full-Figure Bra stands as the best lace bra for older women. This bra offers much more than just a flirty, feminine aesthetic—it delivers superior support, comfort, and style.
Designed by Natori, a brand renowned for its attention to detail and quality craftsmanship, the Avail bra features scalloped lace specially constructed in a tight knit for added control and containment. This ensures a secure and flattering fit, catering to the needs of older women with full figures.
The bra’s supportive stretch foam pads and underwire provide gentle lift and shaping, enhancing the natural curves while ensuring all-day comfort. The lace detailing adds a touch of elegance, making this bra a beautiful addition to any lingerie collection.
Versatility is another significant advantage of the Natori Avail Full-Figure Bra.” With its convertible straps, it adapts to various outfit styles, allowing you to wear it with confidence for different occasions.
comfortable bras for older women:
Enbliss Bralette by Soma
This super comfy bralette is everything you could want it to be. The soft material is just one reason it has so many positive reviews by people over 50. Women also love it for the supportive band under the boob and the wide supportive shoulder straps. A bralette that gives the same support as a bra, what’s not to love?
Best bra for small breasts:
Mesh All You Bra by Pepper
Often in business, everything is modeled around the average. When you fall either below or above the average it can be nearly impossible to find things made specifically for you. Pepper is fighting back by designing bras made specifically to fit smaller breasts. These bras are designed to fit snuggly close to the chest creating a perfect fit that never rides up.
What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Bras for Older Women:
When choosing bras for older women, several important factors should be kept in mind to ensure comfort, support, and a flattering fit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choices:
Cup Size: As women age, their breast size and shape can change due to various factors like hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations. It’s crucial to get an accurate measurement of your current cup size. You can do this by using a soft tape measure to measure the fullest part of your breasts (over the nipples) and the underbust area (just below the breasts). The difference between these two measurements will give you your cup size.
Avoid buying bras that are smaller than your current measurements, as ill-fitting bras can cause discomfort and inadequate support. Opt for bras that offer full coverage and proper cup size to ensure a flattering fit and enhanced comfort for older women.
Underband Fit: The underband of a bra provides essential support for the bust. It should fit snugly around your ribcage without being too tight or riding up in the back. To check if the underband fits correctly, try sliding two fingers under the band. If you can do so comfortably, it’s likely a good fit. If it’s too loose, consider adjusting to a smaller band size. If it feels too tight or digs into your skin, try a larger band size.
Over time, the elastic in bras may stretch out due to wear and washing. To improve the longevity of your bras, start with the bra on the loosest hook when it’s new. As the bra ages and the elastic stretches, move to the middle hooks and eventually the tightest hook to maintain the support and comfort.
Shoulder Straps: Pay attention to the shoulder straps of the bra. They should not dig into your shoulders or slip off frequently. Adjustable straps are essential, allowing you to customize the fit according to your shoulder width and body shape.
For those with narrow or sloping shoulders, consider bras with racerback or X-back styles to prevent straps from falling off. Asymmetrical shoulder height is common, so adjust the straps differently on each side to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Support and Comfort: As women age, breast tissue may become more delicate, making support and comfort even more critical. Look for bras with features like wider shoulder straps, side and back support panels, and wireless or cushioned underwire designs to provide gentle lift and support without causing discomfort.
Material and Construction: Choose bras made from soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials. Fabrics with a blend of polyester and elastane offer stretch and a comfortable feel. Seamless bras can prevent irritation and chafing, making them ideal for everyday wear.
Versatility: Consider versatile bras that can be worn with different outfit styles. Convertible bras with adjustable straps and removable padding provide flexibility for various necklines and dress types.
Personal Style: Don’t compromise on personal style. Many bras for older women come in a variety of designs, colors, and lace detailing, allowing you to feel confident and stylish in your choices.
Post-Surgery Bras: For those who have undergone surgery, look for bras with front closures or seamless designs to minimize discomfort and support the healing process.
By keeping these considerations in mind, older women can find bras that provide the right support, comfort, and fit, ensuring confidence and ease in their daily lives. Regularly reassessing your bra size and needs as your body changes will help you find the perfect bras for every stage of life.
FAQs
How often should I get measured for a bra as I age?
It’s recommended to get measured for a bra at least once a year or whenever you notice significant changes in your body, such as weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, or breast shape. Regular measurements help ensure you’re wearing the correct bra size for optimal comfort and support.
What types of bras are best for women with sensitive skin?
For women with sensitive skin, it’s advisable to choose bras made from soft, hypoallergenic, and breathable fabrics. Look for bras with minimal seams or consider seamless options to prevent irritation and chafing.
Can I wear underwire bras as I get older?
Yes, older women can wear underwire bras if they provide a comfortable and supportive fit. However, some women may prefer wireless bras to avoid potential discomfort caused by underwires. Opt for underwire bras with cushioned or padded wires for gentle support.
Are sports bras necessary for older women, even if they’re not engaged in high-impact activities?
Yes, sports bras can provide additional support and comfort, even for low-impact activities. They help reduce breast movement and minimize strain on the delicate breast tissue. Look for sports bras with wide straps and moisture-wicking properties for added comfort during exercise.
How can I find the right strap length for my shoulders?
Adjust the bra straps to ensure a comfortable fit that doesn’t dig into your shoulders. Straps that are too tight can cause discomfort, while loose straps won’t provide adequate support. Start with the straps adjusted evenly and make adjustments based on your individual shoulder width and slope.
What bras are suitable for larger busts and sagging breasts?
For larger busts and sagging breasts, look for bras with full coverage, strong side and back support, and wider shoulder straps. Bras with underwire or a supportive frame can offer lift and shaping. Consider options specifically designed for larger cup sizes and supportive materials like elastane-blend fabrics.
How do I care for my bras to maintain their shape and longevity? To maintain the shape and longevity of your bras, hand wash them in cold water using a gentle detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach. Alternatively, place them in a mesh laundry bag and use the delicate cycle on your washing machine. Air dry your bras to prevent damage from high heat.
Can I wear a bralette for everyday use as an older woman?
Yes, bralettes can be an excellent option for everyday use for older women. They offer a lightweight and comfortable alternative to traditional bras and can provide ample coverage and support, depending on the style and design. Choose bralettes with wide bands and adjustable straps for added comfort and a proper fit.
What should I do if my breasts are different sizes now?
If your breasts are different sizes, consider bras with stretchy lace or adjustable features to accommodate the difference. You can also use bra inserts or padding to balance out the appearance and provide a more symmetrical fit.
Remember that finding the right bra is a personal journey, and it’s essential to prioritize comfort, support, and a flattering fit that makes you feel confident and at ease throughout the day.
