DeBra’s Insights

Bra vs free boobs? That is the question. There are good points on either side of the debate, so let's get abreast of some of these. What is better, bra or no bra? Not Wearing A Bra While we all dream of being unconstricted, going without a bra is only an option for women with tiny boobs. For those with larger breasts, being braless can cause permanent damage to the cooper's ligament and give you neck and back aches. Wearing A Bra What are the pros of wearing a well-fitted bra? Firstly, unsupported breasts are heavy and can negatively impact your posture, putting stress on your upper back. When they're free n' easy, braless boobs, move around, especially when you're active. Keeping them secure in a quality bra protects your breast tissue from tearing when you use your body to move and groove. The Truth It's your body, and you know what works for you. It comes down to comfort and what makes you feel confident and fabulous in the clothes you love. Variety Is The Spice Whether you are anti or pro bras, one thing is for sure – A single type of bra is not your breasts' friend in every situation. Like you, your boobs experience different aspects of life: lounging around binge-watching your favourite series, walking with purpose as you get on with your day and exercising and moving with vigour. Your best bet is to own multiple bras, purpose-designed for every part of life. No matter your size or shape, there's a bra for all life's doings. Let's Talk Cup Size If you're a woman with a smaller cup size, you'll know that choosing to either wear or bar the bra isn't that big a deal. It's more of a preference, and you may feel you can ditch the bra without feeling too uncomfortable. But for those with larger breasts, opting to go braless may not be an option. Keeping your girls in place is a significant consideration, and feeling secure, poised, and positive can be closely linked to a great bra. Active Life Here's a massive stat: Approximately 75% of women wear the wrong sports bra. Being indoors most of the time, you've probably carved out dedicated time for moving. And when you do, you want to be rocking a bra that supports you while you're sporting. Our Endurance Non Padded Wired Sports Bra and Power Moulded Sports Bra are all built to brave high activity levels. Keep your breast tissue buttressed while you get your exercise. It's important. Maternity Fit When you're expecting, one of your priorities is a properly fitting bra. At a time when your breasts may be tender, you need our specialised Cotton Candy Nursing Bra, which will carry you through the changes in your breasts from the first trimester to six months postnatal. And postpartum, the last thing you want is to be fiddling with uncomfortable cups and annoying clips. With our clip-down nursing bras, you can feed at need – wherever, whenever. For smooth, sleek support, our no-stitch Rock Candy Seamless Bra is all kinds of comfy. Home Comfort When it's all about comfort, our no-feel options will support you without resorting to bland beige versions. These are your favourites, the ones you hope are clean and ready to go whenever you open your draw. Why not start with neutrals, then throw in a couple of wow pieces? Try our selection of crop tops, smooth-cut t-shirt bras, and bralettes. Get Fitted Too many women out there are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra's has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about bras and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

A correctly fitted bra will make your life so much easier. You deserve to forget that you are wearing one, look incredible and feel comfortable all day. That’s what DeBra’s fitting consultants do day in and day out. They work hard to boost customer confidence and comfort regardless of the occasion. A wrongly fitted bra can create havoc. Imagine constantly having to adjust your boobs into the cups, pull your straps up, the raising back band from wearing the wrong band size, or it could be from neglect and the ever-famous ouch from the wire digging into your ribs. Ahhhh! The issues women unnecessarily tolerate daily. In this blog we will identify and address some of the most common bra problems to help you make better choices in the future. What Are Some Common Bra Problems? The Rising Back Band A common problem that many women choose to accept. A rising back band indicates that you could be wearing the incorrect band size (sizes 6-36), or the fabric may have stretched over time. The band provides 80% of the support, and we must get this right. We recommend adjusting the band to a tighter hook-and-eye setting in the first instance. If the problem continues, you may need to buy a larger band size, but remember, if you go up a band size, you may need a smaller cup size. It is also known as sister sizing and is a common practice amongst professional fitters. Breast Spillage Let’s face it, we have all been there at some time or another. If your breasts spill over the top or sides of your bra, it’s time to go up a size (or two or three) in the cup. Another option is to consider a full cup bra for better encapsulation of breast tissue and coverage. Empty Cups The opposite of breast spillage. Your breasts should feel perfectly encased within the cups. Empty cups, also known as cup gaping, means you have too much room in the cups. Firstly, try to tighten the straps to see if this helps. If the cups are still not full, you will need a smaller size in the cup (A – K). If you are wearing a full-cup bra and have lost fullness in your breast (which does happen with age), you might want to consider a different style of bra, such as a balconette / padded half cup bra, for extra lift and support. Back Bulge If you are getting back bulging when you wear your bra, it’s safe to say your bra band is too tight. The dreaded bulge is usually a symptom of a band that is too tight or narrow to accommodate your shape. Your bra should not be creating rolls that aren’t usually there. We recommend changing to a bra with smooth stretch fabrics that are less likely to dig in. Check out DeBra's range of Back Smoothing Bra Styles. Another option may be to wear a longer-lined bra, so the support extends down the body to refrain strain on the chest and pressure on the back. Falling Straps Bra straps can stretch over time due to overwear and overuse, so keeping your favourite garments clean, laundered and stored correctly is crucial. First of all, try tightening the straps. DeBra’s recommends tightening the straps every few days to maintain good support; however, if your straps are still slipping, you could try switching to a bra with silicone straps or a racerback style for enhanced comfort. Straps Digging Into Your Shoulder Are you ripping your bra off as soon as you walk through the door? The most common reason women feel uncomfortable at the end of the day is that their bra straps dig in and, in some cases, lacerate the skin. There are a few reasons this may happen, the first being that the straps are too tight. Try loosening the straps to see if that makes a difference - usually, it can ease chafing and swelling dramatically. If the problem continues, DeBra’s recommends checking the sizing of the band. A band that is too big can shift the support that the band is meant to have to the straps, causing them to dig in and do the heavy lifting. You should only fit two fingers underneath the band. Any more than that, the band size is either too big or stretched, and it’s time for you to go bra shopping. Centre Gore Is Not Flat If it looks like the panel at the centre of the cups is rising away from your torso, you either need a larger cup size (A – K) or a smaller band size (6 – 36). If you can slide more than two fingers underneath the band, you may need to go down a band size. If you are spilling out the cups, you must go up a cup size. If neither of the above work, the best option would be to try a different bra shape, perhaps a demi or plunge bra, that has a narrower, shorter centre gore and works well for women with a close set of breasts. Chafing And Sweating Your bra should be your best buddy, and best buddies don’t hurt each other. Something is wrong if yours starts to cause you pain or chafe. Most of the time, this is a symptom of your breasts rubbing against the skin, meaning that your bra may not fully encapsulate your breasts and leaves them somewhat unsupported. Our fitters at DeBra’s recommend opting for a light, breathable fabric like cotton that will reduce sweating and not irritate sensitive skin. Have you tried any of these fixes? Let us know how they went in the comments below! Get Fitted Too many women out there are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra’s has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about bras and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years and counting.  Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

We know and love our SPANX shapewear. When it comes to shaping technology that seeks to solve everyday outfit dilemmas, Spanx is DeBra’s go-to brand. Available in different shapes, styles, and sizes, Spanx has become so famous that it is a market leader among women around the world. Believe it or not, Spanx was founded by Sara Blakely as she was getting ready for a party, and she realised she needed the correct undergarment to provide a smooth look under her clothing. She began the Spanx revolution by cutting off the feet of her control top pantyhose, and that’s where the Spanx brand came to a realisation. Debra's Spanx Shapewear Guide Key Features Of Spanx Shapewear Spanx shapewear is made from luxurious and soft yarns, making it easy to wear. The Spanx waistband is soft and does not curl in or dig into your skin, and this provides a streamlined look and is not visible through clothing. Spanx does not consist of leg bands, meaning it tapers off smoothly along the leg to reduce bulges and unflattering lines when worn under your outfits. Spanx shapewear is designed to give the wearer a slimmer natural look, engineered to target different shapes and specific problem areas while smoothing other regions. Benefits Of Wearing Spanx Wearing Spanx will undoubtedly build your confidence when heading on a date or a reunion. Squeeze into some Spanx or shapewear, and you will be ready to show off your assets. Wearing the correct size Spanx for your shape and size will make you look and feel pounds lighter. Spanx is proven to smooth out your body, and it’s a kind of magic! No more muffin tops or extra skin below your bra line. What Material Is Spanx Shapewear Made Of? The material of Spanx shapewear is a mixture of Nylon and Elastane. This mix of these two fabrics depends on the compression level of each garment, and Spanx has three different compression levels. Level 1 - To provide a light hug-like feeling with an everyday flawless finish under clothing. Think of it like a primer or a second skin. Level 2 - A firm hug that provides moderate all-over shaping with extra compression to maintain control. A perfect base layer with a boost of targeted support. Level 3 - Now we are getting to the super firm hug to provide a body transformation and give you the best results. Level 3 offers maximum compression with the flattest tummy with maximum slimming reduction. Should You Size Up Or Down In Spanx Shapewear? Buy the right size for your body shape and size. This is an area where people need to improve when buying Spanx. Trying to squeeze into a smaller size will not make you look any smaller, and it will likely give you bulges and bumps where they shouldn’t be, and we guess you will want to rip it off the first chance you get. Spanx should make an occasion comfortable with increased confidence, not miserable. Wear YOUR size and let the shapewear do the work for you. Choosing The Right Shapewear For You You are on your way to unlocking the magic of shapewear. When we think of shapewear, we think of having an iron that smooths out every lump - a bit like photoshop for living human beings. Sara Blakely (the founder of Spanx) didn’t become the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire without good reason. So, when considering your next shapewear purchase, here are a few tips from DeBra’s team. If you are looking for a complete bodysuit where your shape is small at the waist with a bigger bust, we recommend you look at the open-bust range of bodysuits. These bodysuits incorporate your bra into style and are the better choice for your body type. DeBra’s recommends the LaSculpte UnderBust Smooth Shaping Bodysuit. Available in two colours, Black or Nude and sizes range from 10 to 26. When it comes to comfortable shaping for your tummy and behind, the Spanx Everyday Shaping Thong will provide shaping and support to keep you in control and confident all day. Features seamless comfort with shaping compression, a targeted shaping waistband that stays in place without rolling or pinching breathable fabric, and minimal stitching; the Spanx Everyday Shaping Thong is invisible under clothing. Finally, the Spanx Oncore High Waisted Mid-Thigh Short is the answer if you are looking for a total transformation. This sculpting body shaper is robust and lightweight and features fully bonded front panels for a tabletop flat stomach. The edge-bonded side panels will keep you comfortable with a squeeze-free slimming effect. The booty-enhancing pockets ensure a smooth butt finish, the leg opening will stay invisible under your clothing, and the double gusset opening makes it a breeze when nature calls. As these sculpting shorts offer the most powerful compression, we recommend sizing up if you are in between sizes. Debra’s Has Helped Thousands Of Women Check out DeBra’s Shapewear collection. If you’re not confident about buying the right shapewear online, DeBra’s offers a Virtual (Zoom) Fitting service, phone consultations or support on live chat, so you can stay at home and still get the best shapewear for your body. Don’t let sizing uncertainty stop you from feeling confident next time you head to a special occasion. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

&As you mark your entrance into womanhood, events like buying your first bra should be a milestone and memorable occasion for you. With so many options and emotions at play, it can be challenging to get the right fit. So, where do you start? Training bras? What cup sizes? Band sizes? Soft cups? Do you need a professional bra fitting service? There are many things to consider when wearing bras for the first time. Here are a few handy tips to help! Debra's Guide For First Bra Buying Your Age The average age when girls get their first supportive bra is when their chest starts to develop, generally between the ages of 10 and 14. But that’s not a hard and fast rule - there’s no specific age for developing breasts and when you’ll need to make an appearance at a bra store. Everyone develops at different times, and it’s important to remember that if you’re an early or late bloomer, everyone will eventually get a bra. It can be embarrassing and scary, but you’ll thank yourself later! It’s essential to consider your readiness and how you feel. Your Physicality Being emotionally ready for a bra is a big part of buying your first one; the other part is being physically ready. Bras can be uncomfortable for young girls who have never worn them before, so we advise waiting until your breast tissue starts to develop (also known as “budding”). This will help make choosing your first bra easier and more comfortable. Type Of Bra You don’t have to own Victoria’s Secret underwired push-up bra straight away. Most girls looking to buy their first bra don’t have anything too fancy. Instead, they are best suited to common alternatives such as crop tops or body bras like the Smoothease Non-Wired Bralette & the Posie Racerback Wirefree T-Shirt Style Teen Bra. These bras are softer than traditional underwired bras, with minimal stitching, meaning no itchy bits! DeBra’s Fitting Consultants recommend a body bra or crop top with a firm supportive band under the breasts to enhance support. DeBra’s have a variety of suitable first bras. Choose Something You Love If you buy something you’re going to use every day; it might as well be something you love putting on and feel confident about each time you wear it. Some women say to keep your first colour neutral when they’re bra shopping. However, at DeBra’s, we believe that a bra should reflect who you are - if you want to wear that beautiful multi-coloured floral print, go for it, girl! Get Fitted Getting fitted for your first bra can be scary, but a professional fitting consultant can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate one. Getting correctly fitted can also help prevent future problems, like sore backs or an uncomfortable chest. The DeBra’s Fitting Consultants are passionate about bras and have been fitting women of all shapes, sizes and ages for 22 years and counting. With over one million success stories, look no further. DeBra’s is your answer. Debra’s Has Helped Thousands Of Women Check out Debra's bra collection. If you’re not confident about buying the right bra online, DeBra’s offers free In-store Fitting Services, Virtual (Zoom) Fitting, phone consultations or support on live chat, so you can stay at home and still get the best advice for your body. Don’t let sizing uncertainty stop you from feeling confident next time you head to a special occasion. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

Is there such a thing as a wire-free minimiser bra that supports a fuller bust? If it sounds too good to be true, this might be the guide you have been searching for. The key to finding a wire-free minimiser bra that works is to know precisely what to look for in a bra. Let’s begin by breaking it down. Wirefree Bras Wire-free bras look different from wired bras, which is a good thing! A supportive wire-free bra, especially for the fuller busted woman, can be identified by a range of features. We want to look for wider straps that offer comfort over the shoulders, broader bands that distribute the weight of the bust more evenly along the back, and a supportive cup. These features all work together to lift and support the breasts in place of a wire. Minimiser Bras Minimiser bras can visibly reduce the size of one’s bust through shape, support, and structure. Generally speaking, a minimiser bra holds your boobs closely against your chest, keeping each breast separated, offering firm support, and preventing the bust from accentuating. When it comes to wire-free minimiser bras, we see a range of features that work together to achieve this look without a wire. Let’s look at some wire-free, minimiser, plus-size bra styles that encompass the above. Glamorise Magic Lift Minimizer Bra - While boasting all the features of an excellent wire-free bra, the cups also have a stretch-lace panel that smooths and rounds to provide that trademark minimiser shape that reduces the visual size of the bust. It supports cup sizes C-G and is available in band sizes 14 – 26 (AU sizing). The Glamorise Magic Lift Minimizer is a good plus-size wire-free bra that still delivers style and is available in fun colours. For our Over G cup ladies, DeBra’s has you covered. While the Magic Lift Full Figure Support Bra isn’t labelled a minimiser bra, we have found it offers our customers a similar, minimised shape to the one mentioned above. This bra also features a crisscross cup design that keeps the breasts separated from the centre, held in from the top and lifted from below. The Glamorise Magic Lift Cotton Full Figure Support Bra is a cotton version for our over-G cup ladies, featuring full lace coverage that’s both beautiful and breathable. Available up to a J cup and covers band sizes 14 – 34 (AU sizing). From listening to our lovely customers, we have learned that there are so many varied ideas around what a wire-free minimiser bra should look and feel like. Some of our customers seeking a minimised shape, in a wire-free bra, with that extra hold have found our Glamorise Sport Cami Bra is just the solution for them. When we have fitted ladies that want something as close to a wire-free minimiser bra as possible but with fewer seams, they have fallen in love with our Magic Lift Seamless Support T-shirt Bra. Get Fitted Too many women out there are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra’s has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about bras and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years and counting.  Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

The Elomi Collection is an all-time fitter’s favourite at DeBra’s. Despite the many bras available today, the Elomi range offers unprecedented support for our fuller bust and curvy customers. Elomi’s fantastic fit and bold styles make you feel feminine and robust enough to take on anything. Whether you are looking for a Strapless Bra, Full Cup Bra, or Plunge bra, Elomi has our curvy ladies covered. The Elomi brand was first launched in 2008 by Wacoal Europe. Elomi offers a variety of quality brands with individual personalities and years of knowledge. The Elomi mission is to help encourage and empower women to live without limitations. Elomi teams unparalleled comfort with bold designs inspired by beauty, strength, and confidence. DeBra’s Fitting Consultants are passionate about the many options the Elomi Bra Collection has opened for our curvy customers, who no longer need to sacrifice fit for sexy lingerie. Types of Bras from Elomi Full Cup Bra We interviewed DeBra’s Fitting Consultants for this article to reveal their most recommended and best-selling Elomi products. Starting with the full cup range, we are now pleased to share the results with you. Elomi Morgan Underwired Banded Bra is an innovative design that loves to change things up. It provides all-day comfort and support with its three-section cup featuring a powerful stretch lace and elasticated neck edge for easy fit. Finished with stylish bow detail at the centre front and apexes, the Morgan Full Cup Bra proves that everyday basics need not be boring. Available up to a K cup in selected bandwidth sizes. Elomi Cate Full Cup Bra is one you can always count on. Underwired with a sheer embroidered top cup with a stylish intersecting arc design, the Cate full cup frame offers all-day comfort and support. The embroidery has a unique flattened finish to minimise show-through, and the strap positioning has been adjusted to prevent strap slippage. Available up to a K cup in selected bandwidth sizes. Plunge Bra Regarding Plunge-style bras, the Matilda Plunge Bra was the winner, followed by a close second place the Charley Plunge Bra. Elomi Matilda Underwired Plunge Bra is a must-have for our fuller bust and curvy customers. Crafted from a rich tulle, it offers an exceptional fit and support without sacrificing style. The new flexible back sweep construction allows a more effortless adjustment to the racerback style, and the low centre front promises plunge without push-up. With the three-section cup plus side panel for forwarding shape, good uplift, and separation, the Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra will not disappoint. Available up to a K cup in selected bandwidth sizes. Elomi Charley Stretch Plunge Bra is perfect for everyday wear as it teams a diamond mesh fabric with stretch lace. The low centre front gives a plunge without push-up, and the three-section cup plus side frame ensures good uplift and separation. The bow detail at the centre front and apexes do not compromise style over support, and best of all, it’s available up to JJ cup sizes in a range of band width sizes. Spacer / T-Shirt Bra Lastly, we asked our Fitting Consultants to vote for their favourite T-shirt style bra, and the results spoke for themselves. Elomi Charley Spacer Bra is perfect for everyday wear and ideal for transitioning your wardrobe into a new season. With a breathable ultra-light seamless spacer fabric, the seamless cups offer a beautiful round profile, whilst the bandless frame works well for shorter upper torsos. DeBra’s Fitting Consultants love the concealed side frame as it minimises sideways bulging. Finished with bow detail at the centre front and apexes and availability up to HH cup sizes (depending on bandwidth), the Charley Underwired Moulded Spacer Bra is perfect for all occasions. Elomi Smooth Moulded Non Padded Bra is Elomi’s securest shape yet and a best-seller loved for its unbeatable combination of comfort and support. Designed with non-stretch moulded cups crafted from ultra-light Aerocool fabric, this bra provides a breathable, moisture-wicking fit that keeps you cool and dry all day.  It’s no secret that Elomi’s stunning lingerie collection is expertly crafted for our fuller-figure customers’, and they have done so with complete confidence. Out with the old, in with the new. As we enter each season, you can always rely on Elomi to introduce new lingerie. With luxurious lace and captivating prints, you can enjoy every day with the Elomi collection. Get Fitted Too many women out there are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra’s has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about bras and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years and counting. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

You're flying out tomorrow, and if you're organised enough to have packed your bag, it's probably bulging at the seams. The question you need to ask isn't how much stuff do I need to take? But instead – have I packed the right stuff? Most of the time, the bras we take on our travels are an afterthought; we pile them without consideration. How Many Bras Do I Need? Your best bet is to pack three. Whether you're going away for a long or a short trip, remember you'll be doing laundry. Handwashing with gentle soap is best, but if you use a machine, make sure your bra goes in a garment bag; always air-dry, never tumble dry. If you panic at the thought of only packing three bras, make it five at most or even two if you're a streamliner. Packing smart when it comes to bras eliminates the need for quantity. Colour Me Happy Versatility should be top of mind when making bra decisions for travel, and nude is the king of adaptability. Choosing a tone close to your skin means your bras will go primarily unnoticed under your outfits. Need Help With Swimsuit Or Bra Fitting? Wearing a well-fitted bra or swimwear can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra's has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra and swimwear for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about what we do and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

If you’re thinking about life post-mastectomy surgery, you’re probably wondering where to go from here and what your options are regarding bras. After the healing process, packing a mastectomy bra in your bag will provide you with the comfort you need. Before you buy one of these specialty bras, there are some things to consider for peace of mind. You may elect to have breast reconstruction or to use a prosthesis, which can fill the space where your breast was. When it comes to after your surgery, a well-fitted bra will give you comfort with soft linings and pockets to secure your prosthesis. Always check with your doctor to ensure you’re not putting additional weight on your incisions, and wait until you’ve completely healed before wearing prosthesis. Do You Need A Special Bra After A Mastectomy? Yes, the answer is that you do need to purchase a special bra after a mastectomy, but it does not always have to be what is labelled a mastectomy bra. When shopping for a bra after having a mastectomy, traditionally, we are told to look for a non-wired, front-opening bra with wide shoulder bands and one with a wide band under your boobs. While this may sound good and well, in theory, it’s not always practical for everyone’s lifestyle. Many women have a perception that shopping for a mastectomy bra is going to be a daunting experience. After a mastectomy, you deserve to feel good and confident about yourself, and this is something DeBra’s Mastectomy Fitting Specialists take great pride in doing. Nowadays, women have many choices when looking for the right mastectomy bra, which highly depends on individual circumstances. What Is The Main Difference Between A Mastectomy Bra And A Normal Bra? A mastectomy bra has integrated pockets to hold a prosthesis or breast form into one or both cups. The one size fits all rule does not apply to everybody, as no two bodies are the same. The DeBra’s team highly recommend you take the time to be correctly fitted by a Mastectomy Fitting Specialist. Your body has been through a lot, and now is the time to give back, nurture yourself, be comfortable and regain your confidence. Even though DeBra’s Mastectomy Fitting Specialists are highly trained and very educated on Mastectomy bras, our approach to Mastectomy Bra Fittings is to carefully listen to what our customers want. Our philosophy is not to put you in a mastectomy bra if this is not the most comfortable option. We can take many other options and avenues, which we will determine and work through with you during your Mastectomy Bra Fitting Consultation. As well as mastectomy bras, we stock a wide variety of beautiful full-cup bras that will make you feel a million dollars with the same or similar offerings as our mastectomy bra range. The days of having wide straps for support are gone; the straps are not what adequate breast support should rely on. A correctly fitted bra will provide sufficient support without relying on the straps to do the work. We have fitted many women of all shapes, sizes, and ages post-mastectomy and much to their surprise, they leave the store feeling feminine and comfortable. Choosing A Front Closing Bra After Surgery DeBra’s recommends their range of Post Surgical Bras as a sensible, secure option after breast surgery. Breast surgery may influence your shoulder rotation, so you could struggle to reach bra hooks positioned at the back. Purpose-designed for susceptible skin, the collection of post surgical bras consist of latex-free fabrics, made from soft micro-fibre, and stretches over your surgical dressings to give you some compression on your incisions. How Long Should I Wear A Mastectomy Bra For? For a year after your mastectomy or lumpectomy, your best bet is to opt for a bra with soft seams, a wide under-band, deep front and side panels, full cups, cup separation, adjustable straps, minimal detailing, and no underwire. Phew – that’s a lot to look for in a bra. While your nerves mend, swelling subsides, and the effects of radiotherapy continue to heal, what you need from your bra will change with time. Be patient; it can take up to twelve months to fully recover, and during this time, steering clear of underwires is paramount. Choose a bra that fits on the last hook so you can tighten it when your swelling goes down. Look for a cotton-heavy material, so your bra is comfy and cool, and cushioned bra straps will help keep everything in place without irritation. Are Prostheses Products Expensive? We would be lying if we said they were not. Prosthesis products can range from $160 to $450, depending on factors such as brand, style, partial or complete. If you have had a mastectomy, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate of up to $400 per breast, and the refund can be up to $800 for a double mastectomy every two years. Upon payment of your prosthesis purchase, DeBra’s will provide you with a Medicare Claim Form for you to take to Medicare to assess your rebate (if eligible). For more information on Medicare’s rebate criteria, you may go to https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/external-breast-prostheses-reimbursement-program/how-claim or contact Medicare to discuss your individual needs. The information we provide is general, and it is up to the individual to make inquiries before purchasing. Get Fitted Your boobs will shift in size and shape during and after your treatment, so getting a professional fitting to precisely measure your size will result in a better-fitted bra. DeBra’s stocks an incredible range of breast forms and prosthesis and mastectomy bras, and we also hold a variety of beautiful full-cup bras that can work for our mastectomy customers. Mastectomy and Prosthesis fittings are available through our Penrith store only.  Mastectomy and Prosthesis fittings are available through noth our Penrith & Broadbeach Stores. Book your In-Store Fitting Appointment, or if you have further questions, you can contact our customer service team during business hours using the Live Chat feature that can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

The benefits of exercise are well known, from enhancing mood and sleep to maintaining muscle mass and preventing osteoporosis. Yet ladies with a more considerable bust experience more barriers to exercise than their smaller-chested counterparts. From time to time, we all experience a lack of motivation to exercise, and the strains of modern life can sap our energy and time. For some women, their breasts are a barrier to exercise, ranking ahead of costs and access to facilities. Women with larger breasts experience increased breast motion, making them partake less in vigorous physical exercise. At DeBra’s, we believe women with fuller busts shouldn’t experience pain or embarrassment when exercising. We’ve pulled together some tips to help women feel strong and confident when exercising, regardless of shape and size. Always Wear A Sports Bra When Exercising Invest in a good sports bra. Something that might seem obvious, but a good sports bra specially constructed for larger busts is the first step to minimising discomfort when exercising. Below we have listed some of DeBra’s best-selling sports bras. Panache Power Moulded Sports Bra - It has to be one of our best-selling and award-winning sports bras. The moulded seam-free cups enclose your breasts to offer control and reduce bounce by up to 83%. Panache Endurance Non Padded Wired Sports Bra - A new game-changing, permanent addition to the Panache collection. Endurance is the solution for those who want the same lift and support as Power, only with a more lightweight feel. Elomi Energise Sports Bra With J-Hook - It comprises a unique construction where the wire finishes below the neck edge of the bra. It provides perfect bust separation, and the higher neckline offers great control and minimises bounce. Glamorise Magic Lift Full Figure Sports Bra - The Glamorise offers seamless cup support. The magic lift design helps lift, shape and support without a wire. At the same time, the non-slip adjustable back straps provide comfort for all activity types. Sculptresse Activate Non-Padded Underwired Sports Bra - Same lightweight and streamlined sports bra one would expect from Scuptresse. It has foam straps that help decrease pressure on the shoulders. It also features a high neckline for added coverage, and the straps can be converted from over the shoulders to a racer back for increased support. Opt For Low-impact Exercise Go for the classes and exercises that are low impact. Lower impact means less jumping around and feeling the tug and pain of your breasts bopping around. Classes like body step, barre and spin cycle are all excellent options. Also, go for an incline walk rather than running on the treadmill. Why not jump on the bike, cross trainer or stepper for cardio options? Lastly, and most importantly - lift some weights! An excellent low-impact option that you can progressively make harder as your body adapts. When done correctly, it strengthens your glutes, hamstrings, core and back, which will help with any lower back pain you might experience from having a larger bust. Despite the myth, weight training will not make you look like the hulk ladies! You will get a nice little increase in tightness. You must eat and train purposefully to gain muscle to get anything more - it takes a lot of work! Doing weights a few times per week will have you feeling like a strong female warrior badass and is often the missing link in most women’s training regimes. Get Fitted Too many women out there are wearing the wrong size bra. Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game changer that improves your posture, comfort, and confidence. DeBra’s has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate bra for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about bras and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years and counting. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.

You're trying to do everything and get on with your day, but all you can feel is your bra digging into your back, tight and uncomfortable. No matter how often you adjust the straps and pull at your underwire, you only want to get home and rip it off. How To Measure Bra Size? Fit First Poorly fitted or wrong-size bras are the worst. And if you've got big boobs, it's the pits. Breast and back pain is real, so investing in a quality, well-fitting bra in cut and size is a game-changer. From brand to brand, bra size is as changeable as the weather; a B-cup here is a C-cup there. Bear in mind, bras can also change in size after a wash or even after you've worn them for a full day. The good news is that DeBra's has fitted bras for over 22 years and has the best tips for measuring your bra size. DeBra's founder will talk you through a few suggestions. Be Your Breast Advocate For the best fit and maximum support, know your bra size. These numbers are hard to remember, so it's best to keep a record of them on your phone. That way, your size is at your fingertips when you're buying online. Remember, the letters relate to cup size, and the numbers are your bra's band size. The band size should be the same or one size smaller than your regular clothes size. What Does What? Odds are, you're wearing the wrong size bra. Sorry, annoying but true, roughly 80% of women are wearing the wrong size. Like most clothing items, bra sizing is a guide only, and different brands can fit differently. Your best bet is to go by feel. 80-90% of your bra's support comes from the band around your ribcage. It must be firm but not tight in an 'I can't breathe' way. Most of us think the shoulder straps are the star of the support operation, not so. They help keep the breasts in place but don't carry the weight. If you cast the straps in the lead role, your bra will be uncomfortable and ultimately damaging in the long term. The same goes for the underwire; it's there to shape and keep your boobs separated, not to act as suspension or support. Debra's Fit Tips Bend forward while you hook up your bra. Doing this will guarantee your boobs are in the cups correctly and the wire isn't sitting on your breast tissue. When you adjust the band, your bra should be at the same level front and back, no riding up your body. Next, an easy test for a loosey-goosey bra: you should be able to slide only one finger under the band. If you can fit two, tighten. If your straps start slipping down your shoulders, tighten the band first before shortening the straps. If your bra is relatively new, tighten only the bra straps. As a rule, the straps need tightening almost weekly; they tend to wriggle down over time. When you've had your way with all the hardware, it's time to look in the mirror. With a well-fitted t-shirt over your bra, you can see if the cups crumple or if there's bulging out the front. If so, your bra is the wrong size. Now turn sideways: your boobs should sit halfway between your shoulders and elbows. If they're too high or too low, that's a no-go. These red fit flags mean your bra isn't a good fit. Debra's Super Tip Your bra should be a top fit when on the outermost hook. That way, as your bra loosens over time, you can tighten the band using the inwards hooks. If you must go down a cup size, go up a band size. If you must go up a cup size, go down a band size. Now you're bra smart. Knowing and not guessing your size means no more sore boobs, shoulders, or back, and you can confidently adjust to changes in your body and breasts. Get Fitted At Debra's Wearing a well-fitted bra can be a game-changer to improve your comfort and confidence. DeBra's has a professional team of fitting consultants that can help you find the most comfortable and appropriate fit for your body size and shape. Our team is passionate about what we do and has fitted women of all shapes and sizes for 22 years and counting. Browse the Debra's Bra Collection. Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.