We will never knock M&S as a go-to place for underwear; it does comfort, fit, affordability and, crucially, dependability, really well. Likewise, the expertise of Rigby And Peller’s fitters cannot be argued with, though its products tend to fall at the more expensive end of the spectrum, as one might expect from the royal’s favourite. But variety is the spice of life and, since many women do not fall into the standard sizing offered by many high street lingerie outlets, availability and inclusion are important too – not least because having a larger bust makes it all the more imperative that your bra should be supportive. Happily, both online retailers and those found on the high street are getting better at catering to women of all shapes and sizes.
Pretty and supportive, these are the ones we think are acing bras above a D cup.
Bravissimo
Bravissimo is one of the high street’s stalwarts when it comes to plus-sized lingerie, producing a dizzying array of underwear and swimwear in D+ cups. Mid-range price wise (most bras hit a £35ish price point), there are some 94 sizes available across 25 brands. Simply, Bravissimo’s quarter century of experience shows, empowering women to feel uplifted and included. We like the Nellie Bra (£42), which is available in cup sizes D to J. Explore the collection here.
Oola Lingerie
Some retailers that carry plus-sized lines can feel as a bit token. Not so Oola, which has a passion for creating pieces that flatter and fit larger bodies. Available in band sizes 38 to 46 and cup sizes D to G, everything the company looks lovely and is super supportive. We especially like the Lace And Logo Non Padded Bra (£42), which is classic and feminine. Explore the collection here.
Curvy Kate
Catering to sizes D to K, Curvy Kate’s mission is to make women feel good about their curves, while also delivering style and comfort. They say, ‘Curvy Kate is every one of us – she’s the girl next door, your sassy mate, your body-loving mum and your confident work colleague.’ Going to up to a 44K (the equivalent of a size 24), inclusion and the celebration of all bodies is the name of the game here. We like the Authority Balcony Black Bra (£41). Explore the collection here.
Pour Moi
Pour Moi made its first bra in 2005. Since then, it has grown exponentially, but its commitment to creating pieces that are made well, size inclusive and affordable has not changed. Tapping into a common issue when it comes to larger bras that are heavier on construction, it says, ‘We believe that no one should have to overpay for good-fitting lingerie, no matter their size.’ As such, it goes up to a 44 band and a J cup size. We like the Aura Side Support Underwired Bra - Black Floral (now £22.40). Explore the collection here.
Reign Studio
If you have a larger bust but prefer to steer away from the more structured and often lacy styles, Reign Studios is well worth an explore. Perfect for anyone looking for basics across lingerie, swimwear and loungewear, they say, ‘We stand for you, loving the skin you’re in, being unashamed and unapologetic and hope to empower women to feel comfortable and free whilst lounging at home, laying out on the beach or chilling in the pool.’ Its mission is to make larger women feel as though collections with their bodies in mind are not an afterthought or a specialist area, but that they are just as entitled to the fashionable styles as seen in ‘standard’ sized clothes. We love the bralettes – try the Maya Fuller Bust Bralette Top (£49). Explore the collection here.
What Katy Did
If you are beguiled by the retro styles of the 1950s, then What Katy Did will feel like it’s made for you. Channelling Marilyn Monroe, the beauty of these vintage styles is that, unlike *actual* vintage, they come in a range of inclusive sizes, catering up to a 38E and a size 22. We find ourselves unable to resist the Marilyn Pink Cotton Underwired Bra (£49.50). Explore the collection here.
By Nancy Alsop
August 2023
