Picking out what to wear for a special occasion can be daunting, especially when blessed with a bigger bust. Certain styles can enhance your curves, while others might make your bust appear larger or create an unflattering silhouette.
Fortunately, there are options out there, like sticky bras and breast tape, that can provide support while allowing you to explore more daring styles without compromising your comfort or appearance.
We're here to guide you through the maze of fashion do's and don'ts, offering tips and advice based on our years of experience understanding body shapes.
What Not to Wear If You Have a Big Bust
Boxy or Oversized Silhouettes
Boxy or oversized clothing can add unnecessary volume around your midsection, contributing to an imbalance in proportions. Instead, highlight your waist for definition, contrasting against layers like longline cardigans or blazers. Also, consider tailoring your clothes to ensure they fit correctly, especially around your bust area.
High Necklines and Turtlenecks
Steer clear of high-neckline tops and turtlenecks, as these styles emphasize your bust area. Drawing attention upward can disrupt body proportions, leading to an exaggerated bust. Opt for necklines that elongate your neck, creating a flattering silhouette.
Think lower, more open necklines like V-necks, scoop necks, or square necklines. These styles draw the eyes down and away from your chest, effectively elongating your frame. Avoid overly revealing necklines, however, as they can draw too much attention to your chest area.
Ruffled or Embellished Tops
Avoid tops with excessive ruffles or embellishments on your chest, as they can add vertical bulk, which could be more helpful with a large bust size. Choose tops with smaller printed patterns or no chest embellishments to accentuate your figure without overemphasizing your bust area.
Thick, Bulky Fabrics
Opting for thick, bulky fabrics can create unnecessary volume and draw unwanted attention to your bust. Instead, choose lightweight, flowing fabrics that drape comfortably over your shape without adding extra bulk.
Large, Bold Prints
Be mindful of your choice of patterns. Large, bold prints, particularly those with horizontal stripes, can visually emphasize your bust, creating an imbalance with the rest of your figure. Instead, choose smaller, more subtle prints or solid colors to create a balanced, streamlined look. Vertical lines or small printed patterns will direct the gaze down and create an illusion of length. Structured strapless tops with built-in support can also work well.
Tight Materials
Avoid garments made from tight stretch materials, as they can rely heavily on tight elastic bands, making them problematic for women with larger busts. Instead, choose materials that offer some stretch but ensure good support and a flattering fit. The clothing should lightly skim your body, accentuating your natural shape without clinging.
Thick Scarves
Thick, chunky scarves parallel to your bust, like high-neckline tops, may add unnecessary bulk. Opt for short neckerchiefs and necklaces that won't draw people's attention downward.
Poorly Placed Belts
The right belt can create the illusion of an hourglass figure. The trick is to place the belt at the narrowest point of your waist, accentuating your curves. Wide belts create a beautiful contrast with your bust and hips.
Double-Breasted Coats and Jackets
Double-breasted coats and jackets may add bulk to your chest area. Instead, opt for single-breasted styles to streamline your silhouette and avoid unnecessary attention to your bust. Opt for full-length coats or jackets with V-necklines and a single column of buttons. Avoid cropped tops and jackets, which are more flattering on smaller bust sizes.
More Style Tips for a Big Bust
Identify Your Body Type
Knowing your body type helps you dress according to your unique shape rather than following trends. The size and placement of your bust in proportions can significantly impact your overall silhouette. While body types may vary, they broadly fall into categories like pear-shaped, apple-shaped, or hourglass. Bodies can also be short-waisted or long-waisted. Understanding your body type will assist you in researching and choosing clothes that will suit you best.
Choose the Right Support
Your choice of undergarments will ensure you're comfortable and confident each time you step out in your chosen outfit, no matter what you're wearing. Non-supportive bras or overly padded ones can distort your natural shape, make it harder to find clothes that fit, and even cause physical discomfort, like back and neck pain.
Several factors can cause your breasts to fluctuate in size from month to month or even year to year. Consider getting professional bra fittings regularly to ensure your bra size is correct. A bra that's the right size will be supportive and comfortable. The material should be breathable and durable. And the style should complement your outfit without any visible straps (unless that's the look you're going for).
Alternatives to Traditional Bras
For outfits that are incompatible with traditional bras — such as backless dresses, halter tops, and other tricky clothing choices — consider using alternatives like boob tape or adhesive bras. Both are options for busts of all sizes, including large busts, when you want to be supported and perky-looking breasts.
Boob tape is fully customizable and can provide both support and lift, allowing you to wear low-cut, backless, or strapless styles with confidence. Meanwhile, an excellent sticky bra can offer a strapless, backless solution while still providing some coverage and support. Consider these for outfits where you want your bust to look smooth and natural without the distraction of visible bra straps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "large" bust size?
A "large" bust size typically refers to cups of D or above, although this can vary. Personal comfort and the proportion of your bust to the rest of your body are also significant factors to consider.
What is the best kind of bra for larger busts?
The best bra for a larger bust is one that fits correctly and offers ample support. Your choice of bra largely depends on the outfit you plan to wear and your personal needs regarding comfort and support. Wearing breast tape or an adhesive bra is also an option for women with larger busts when a traditional bra won't work. (Always wear nipple covers beneath the tape to protect your skin during wear and removal.)
How does one dress to flatter a larger bust?
Choose clothing that lightly skims your body, preferably in darker colors. V-necks and scoop necklines can draw attention away from your chest. Also, aim for vertical lines or small printed patterns, single-breasted jacket styles, and tops without bulky breast pockets.
Are there specific clothing styles or cuts to avoid if you have a larger bust?
Avoid oversized or boxy silhouettes, tops with high or too-deep necklines, and garments with horizontal stripes. Double-breasted jackets and shirts with bulky breast pockets can make your bust appear more significant.
Do certain necklines work better for those with larger busts?
Low and open necklines, such as V-necks, are often most flattering for larger busts, as these styles elongate your neck and make your bust look smaller.