We believe that bra fit checks are the best way to get close to the reality of the consumer. In this report, the bra sizes we covered were 30D, 32C and 32E. We want to mainly address the best selling basic market, where the biggest volumes are traded are within band widths of UK 32-36 and cups UK B-D (EUR 70-80, cup B-D). 34D (75D) is the most popular size in the UK, and we find these sizes are often sold out. We explored the smaller end of fuller bust (DD+) options, as updated big bra sizes and assortment of choice remain a major issue for the industry, but the UK market has reduced their offer. One of the main hurdles worldwide with inclusive lingerie sizing is that size parameters differ from country to country.
The Concepts Paris team ventured out across lingerie high street stores in London and Paris in search of the best fitting everyday bra, in line with each of their personal tastes. Read more for their findings and personal remarks!
Olivia: The Chantelle Soft Stretch surprised me as it made its way into my top three bras; the delicate and buttery fabric allows for ultimate comfort and gentle support. I liked that the straps are thinner than the other Soft Stretch bras that Chantelle offer, as it feels daintier and less like a sports bra. The scoop neck cut allows this bra to be worn under low-cut tops and the embedded cups give a flattering round side profile.
Olivia: This bra felt like a second skin, the delicate soft cup provided a flattering lift and round side profile with generous coverage. The bonded seams were smoothing and invisible under clothing and I felt the gentle support provided by the imbedded silicone. The bright nude and interesting technology made this bra a modern solution to the everyday soft cup. If I had an unlimited budget, the Wolford Skin bralette and the Wolford 3W Skin bra would be total staples for my everyday wardrobe.
Olivia: This Uniqlo bra is the ultimate, affordable everyday bra. Despite the padding, the 3D technology used for the moulded cups offer cloud-like support without feeling too pushup. The lift is flattering and gives me the desired shape and cleavage that I expect from a bra. The smooth stretch jersey and flat back fastening definitely make this bra my high street winner.
Lauren: Freya were my go-to everyday brand years ago, I loved the designs and the fit was okay so I compromised even though the wires were a bit too shallow. I was happy to find that this bra had wires that fit me really well compared to my older styles, and the cups felt more comfortable and supportive. The elasticated edging was supersoft and created no bulging, while the mesh underneath was forgiving for people who have one breast slightly smaller/larger. This was the most modern looking bra in the Freya collection and a good price - I will probably buy this bra!
Lauren: This Passionata is what I would look for in an ‘everyday’ bra - lace, mesh, details in the strapping, a super lightweight feel and comfortable wires. It looked completely different on the hanger and gave a balconette feel once worn. The layered lace cup acted like a sling, uplifting the breast, which I feel wasn’t considered by other brands (especially in ‘sexy’ styles) that I tried on. I was surprised at how much support the straps gave as they were transparent and soft. I would have bought this bra if it wasn’t for the striped mesh - I loved the delicate cups but the striped mesh felt like it didn’t fit in with the rest of the design.
Lauren: Chantelle are my hero brand of the high street at the moment. I usually prefer lace/embroidery and more of a ‘sexy’ look as an everyday bra rather than a plain t-shirt bra. However, this bra was so lightweight and the bonded edges made it so comfortable, the wires came to the perfect height for me on the sides and the profile was round and lifted. The seamless cup design and branding breathed modernity into the design. I tried on several Chantelle bras in different shapes and found them all to be an amazing fit, including the Soft Stretch.
Ali: The hanger appeal of this Wacoal bra did not do it justice - I was surprised as it was much better when worn and was a comfy fit due to great stretch in the soft, brushed back lace and soft componentry. I have a petite frame and the apexes were high for me so, the bra became more covered than I would like unfortunately. I would like to have had more delicate less wide strapping for my size, but this was a good everyday overall and I can see why it is a best seller.
Ali: The stretch of the lace meant this Calvin Klein style was super comfy, giving a smooth look but dense enough to offer light shaping. The lace used was modern and definitely in line with my usual everyday bra design preference. The cup shape fit me well and was not too covering like other styles. Split super soft straps offered a more delicate look.
Ali: A great everyday comfy bra from Victoria's Secret that I still feel sexy in and a new favourite - I bought it! The straps were slightly cushioned so they felt luxurious but added comfort. The lace is in line with my personal everyday style, and the picot edging adds a feminine touch without being too fussy. The bra is also smooth underneath clothes.
Overall, the offer of great fit and modern design is there on the high street, but store experience in general was lacking. No attentive fit assistants or bra experts, an oversaturation of older styles and not enough stock of size options. The consumer experience must be improved by informative assistants and stores that restore pleasure in the sensitive lingerie and bra shopping experience for women.
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