Why I Go Bra Free
97Bras have become such an fundamental part of women's wardrobes that most women never even consider not wearing one. Many women are therefore very surprised to learn that the modern brassiere is quite a recent invention, dating only to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Originally developed as a replacement for the corset, the bra quickly became the dominant female undergarment, and the social pressure to wear one can begin as young as 6 or 8 for some girls, years before the breasts actually begin to develop. Women who go out in public without a bra are often subjected to ridicule, and in some cases may have disciplinary action taken against them at school or work.
In the face of such powerful social pressure to wear a bra, the only women who go bra free must be crazy feminists and rebellious teenagers, right?
Wrong.
The Comfort Issue
Although I do consider myself a feminist, I'm not a particularly radical one, and I didn't qualify as a rebellious teenager even when I was a teenager! I was a good girl who got good grades, dressed modestly, and married my college sweetheart, the first man I'd ever kissed, let alone %$@&@#$#.
For me, going bra free is first and foremost about comfort. I HATE bras. In my family, they're known as "trotting harnesses" and with considerable justification, in my opinion. All those straps and hooks and wires... They're worse than harnesses in fact - at least horses' harnesses are padded!
As a teenager, I conceded defeat enough to wear the lightest and most comfortable sport-type bras I could find when I left the house, but I was still irritated by the inevitable itchy, sweaty strap marks left behind on my shoulders and under my breasts when I actually attempted to use my "sports" bras for sports.
In college, I experienced my first lacy, padded, underwire bra when I needed one to go with a certain dress. It was hate at first wear. I still have the horrible thing buried somewhere in the bottom of my underwear drawer and take it out about twice a year to wear my dress to the opera, but it made me truly sympathize for the first time with the women who actually burned their bras back in the 60's and 70's. Every time I wear the thing I dream of ripping it off and setting it alight as soon as I get home!
In college, when some larger breasted friends (I'm a 36B) noticed my tendency to hang around the dorm bra free, they winced and clutched at their chests at the very idea. When I became pregnant a few years into my marriage, I understood the impulse for the first time. My breasts became tender and engorged enough that I really felt the need for a bra for the first time in my life. Still, I went to three different stores before I finally found a nursing bra I could stand - nearly all nursing bras, it turns out, have the dreaded underwire and there was no way I was going to wear underwire day in and day out for the more than two years total I spent pregnant and then nursing.
Within a month after weaning, I tossed those nursing bras in my underwear drawer and have scarcely worn a bra since. My breasts have never been happier, or felt better!
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Dressed To Kill: The Link between Breast Cancer and Bras
Price: $10.85
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- Connection between fibrocystic breast disease, breast cancer, and bras
Discussion of studies showing bra wearing can contribute to breast cancer and fibrocystic breast disease
The Health Issue
Which brings me to the second reason I choose to go bra free as often as respectably possible: I just don't quite trust bras to be the best choice for my boobs.
Although mainstream doctors generally poop-pooh supposed links between bras and breast cancer, it's also undeniably true that the same century that has seen an explosion in bra use has also seen an explosion in cancer rates. Now, correlation does not imply causation, but it does make you want to investigate a little more deeply.
What I found wasn't damning, but it was suspicious. Some studies have indeed found a correlation between bra use, breast cancer, and fibrocystic breast disease, a common precursor of breast cancer.
There are two main theories about why bras might lead to increased risk of breast cancer:
- Bras keep the breasts at artificially high temperatures. Tight pants are known to increase the risk of testicular cancer and other health problems in men because they raise the temperature of the testicles a few degrees higher than normal. Some scientists believe that bras might cause a similar effect for women's breasts.
- Bras can restrict lymph flow in your breasts. Lymph glands play an important role in draining toxins away from the breasts, and some scientists believe that bras interfere with this function, raising toxin levels in breast tissues and contributing to an increased risk of developing fibrocystic breast disease and breast cancer.
Both of these issues need to be studied in more depth before we will know for sure if bras play a role in breast cancer. However, as a bra-hater with breast cancer on both sides of my family, I did not feel the need to take chances.
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Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book:4th Edition 2005
Price: $2.24
List Price: $22.00 |
Two myths related to breast health:
But don't bras prevent sagging?
Actually, no. Sagging is caused by the proportion of fat in the breast and bras, at most, hide sagging breasts. They do not cure or prevent them.
In fact, in some cases they may actually make sagging worse! Breasts are supported by ligaments, which can atrophy from disuse. If you wear a bra constantly, you will probably find that your breasts sag when you take it off simply because the ligaments are too weak to hold them up without artificial assistance. Fortunately, however, this is not irreversible. If you stop wearing a bra, you will probably find that the ligaments will strengthen and your breasts will become naturally perkier again within a few weeks or months.
You said yourself that you're a puny little 36B. My DDs need a bra to support them!
Maybe, and maybe not. Some large-breasted women find that going without a bra is genuinely painful. Others find that they actually experience less breast pain when they make the switch to a bra free lifestyle. Many also find that back and shoulder pain is reduced when they stop trying to support their breasts with thin little straps digging into their shoulders.
The only way to find out which group you belong to is to experiment. One study of large breasted women found that, after going bra free for two weeks, 79% decided to go bra free permanently because it rendered them symptom free!
Even Dr. Susan Love, who has publicly spoken out against the theory that bras cause breast cancer, states emphatically in her book, Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book, that "wearing a bra... has no medical necessity whatsoever."
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Arianne Women's Cotton Flora Camisole Corset
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Hanro Women's Simply Satin Built Up Shoulder Cotton Camisole
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Going Bra Free Without Feeling Like A National Geographic Model
There are a number of healthy, comfortable alternatives to bras.
Personally, I work at home and don't have to worry about a dress code, so I get by 90% of the time with loose fitting t-shirts or snug-fitting, dark colored tank tops. I wear bras only for more formal occasions.
My mother, who works at a garden center, likes to wear cotton camisoles under her uniform. I have also been known to steal my husband's sleeveless undershirts.
In more formal work environments, layering with jackets or vests can be a helpful option for those with stricter dress codes.
One More Reason To Go Bra Free
I said above that I'm not a radical feminist.
I'm not, but there is one radical notion that I do support.
I believe that women have the right to dress and groom their bodies in the way that makes themselves feel happiest, most comfortable, and most beautiful.
If you consider how strong and pervasive the social pressure on women to conform to society's standards of beauty is, it's hard not to see the choice to go bra free as radical. By going bra free, I am reclaiming my right to do what feels best and healthiest for MY body.
The Bra Free Community Online
- antibra.com
Reasons why women wear bras; considerations why not wear a bra. - Going Braless
Encouraging bralessness worldwide - Why women wear bras
Reasons why women wear bras and why some go bra-free.
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Comments
I go without a bra too, but my wife is recommending one to me lately.
I don't think going braless is for everyone. I would look ridiculous without a bra! If you can get away with it, I say go for it!
I so enjoyed this article! I could go braless and the world wouldn't notice, which is a sorry state of affairs for me, but oh well :-) On a more serious note, I didn't know of the possible connection between bras and breast cancer. Always learning something new!
Well said! It's nobody's business but the woman's whether she wears a bra or not.
I was reprimanded at my summer job once for not wearing a bra. When I was younger, I didn't really need one and didn't bother wearing them most of the time. I'm glad to know that the ligaments are capable of becoming stronger, as I'm tempted to try to go bra-less again. Thank you for this great article.
My hands are up for women that don't wear a bra ; )
On a serious note, really amazing hub !
I hate wearing a bra, I find them uncomfortable, always have. I wear a sports bra when doing vigorous exercise, jogging or similar. At home I prefer a snug fit singlet instead - it's so much more comfortable. Great article.
I must have the worst ligaments in the world. I go braless when I'm home, or going on a short errand. When I was home on disability for 10 weeks, I was braless. Yes, it's comfortable, but I do not see that my girls 'perked' up at all. In fact, if they continue at this rate, I may find them peeking out from under a skirt (which I never wear anyway), but you get the picture. So, I wear one to work, and it comes off the moment I get home. After 10 hours it's a great relief.
So, in my case, the jury is out. Cancer causing perhaps? I doubt it. If we were to listen to everything said about things that could cause cancer, I think it would be a sorry state of affairs.
I would strongly recommend topless if it is warm enough. I wish my wife would go bra less. One for looks and two because I hate doing laundry and having to put her stupid bras in these ridiculous bra bag things she insists on using. Then I need to hang them and sometimes I accidentally put them in the dryer and she gets very mad at me. My only concern is when it is cold out won't the nipples stick out and cause a fuss. I won't be fussing but, won't you feel self conscious about that. She always feels much better at night when she takes them off.
Sounds like Jim's wife has him trained pretty good. GT...may want to cut back on the beers or we'll have to get you one of those training bras or a sports bra. Kerryg....excellent hub....I hope you don't mind...I'm going to put a link to it on my hub http://hubpages.com/hub/Tittilating-Boobs
I also hate bras and only wear them when going out in public, like with a group of women on a tour. I don't even wear them doing errands or grocery shopping. I hate them and they are very restricting., I used to wear them all the time, but the last few years I have not been able to find one that really gits or that is comfortable. So I just go wthout, I liked your research into breast cancer.
People should put this off as nonsense--look at Sugar and what it does to your body and what DDT did and Agent Orange and Fabirc Softener and all those other chemicals that we put on our bodies way long ago and the effects that we are just seeing of them. Cancer galore!!
Love this article. I don't think I even owned a bra for several decades. No one ever complained about it then. Look forward to more of your free spirit.
kerry, i was recently looking at myself and thinking, you old bag, go out and get yourself a bra and be a proper lady. thanks for the anti bra hub. i hate bras and would go crazy if i had to wear one.
I vote bra-less. For the ladies, it is good for their ligaments and promotes necessary ventilation. For the guys, it makes the job simpler (the darned contraptions are impossible to unclasp behind her back) and we definitely appreciate the natural look.
Great hub :) I think I'll be keeping my bra though. And after being strapped in all day, it's such a great feeling to take it off when you get home & just relax - free and unencumbered.
As a man I would'nt have a problem with women choosing to go bra-less. It has it good points and it's bad. All I request is if you know in your heart that is not for you...Please don't. I wear my pants a little baggy to let my nuts breath so I can't be mad at female that want to free there nuts too.
PS. after we work out this bra thing lets start on the shirt-less part. ;)))))
As a man I would'nt have a problem with women choosing to go bra-less. It has it good points and it's bad. All I request is if you know in your heart that is not for you...Please don't. I wear my pants a little baggy to let my nuts breath so I can't be mad at female that want to free there nuts too.
PS. after we work out this bra thing lets start on the shirt-less part. ;)))))
This was such a nice hub! I love that you say women should get to decide what to wear, based on comfort. I personaly, do push ups regularly in an attempt to strengthen muscles and hold the girls up a little better. People say that won't work, but I figure its worth a shot!! I kinda have larger boobs, so I can tell you...I need support. WIthout it, I get all sweaty and they hurt. I have a few bras that have wide cushiony straps and they arent too bad. I wish I could go without tho!!!
Yeah, wearing a bra is a quite aggrivating, especially in the summer time. Them things can burn you up as if you already have hot flashes or something?! But hey, wearing bras helps prevent them you-know-what from popping its head out. This reminds me of this funny video for the girls who are braless....or not?
Bouncing boobs on the price is right
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noggIParXOA
Hmmm
I hate bras. Rarely wear them. I'm a 34c; my husband jokes with me and says: "when you get to be 80, you'll have a face and body to match your age but 20 year old boobs". Awww...isn't he sweet. Seriously, My "little girls" haven't changed at all since I swore off the dreaded bra.
Funny though...I know of a few me who would benefit from wearing one.
I hate bras. Rarely wear them. I'm a 34c; my husband jokes with me and says: "when you get to be 80, you'll have a face and body to match your age but 20 year old boobs". Awww...isn't he sweet. Seriously, My "little girls" haven't changed at all since I swore off the dreaded bra.
Funny though...I know of a few me who would benefit from wearing one.
This is a good Hub.I must talk to my wife and get that out and save money on soap ,water and power for washing the unwanted.
*huge cheer* It took me a month to first start wearing bras, and I sstill Don't like them. the are tight, make me sweat, and I feel MUCh more comfy without them!
I want to go bra free..but I don't like the idea of nipples showing in public? I would like to go bra free because it's so comfortable, except what can I do to get rid of the nipples showing? Could you please suggest any brands of nipple cups or whatever u use to help get rid of the problem. Please be serious, I'm not looking for crtisizem.
Thanks, kerryg, very useful to know about the breast cancer studies.
Bra free is the best way! I love the free feeling and I go bra free at home but wear a bra out in public, not gutsy enough to go bra free in public.
mariamarc71, camisoles and layers can disguise nipples - these are what I use.
There is also a product called DEva you might find interesting, but I've never used it and can't vouch for it: http://www.asseenontv.com/prod-pages/deva_bra_a.ht
Wow. After reading this I'm tempted to throw my bra away today. Interesting stuff. Thanks for illuminating those of us stuck in society's "norm".
I know my sister has to wear a bra 24/7 or her back is going to kill her for weeks on end. The weight of her breasts are just too heavy to go unsupported. For me, I wear them to feel pretty. Sometimes leaving a little to the imagination is much sexier than baring it all. Of course, I enjoy going braless at times, but nothing is sexier than some gorgeous lingerie to perk up my, and my husbands mood :)
He-he, this hub loses a lot without pics of you going bra-free and possibly commando :)
I stopped halfway through and took mine off, I hate them as well.
Great Hub and Thumbs up
dori
When I was nursing (and I plan on doing it again soon) bras were imperative for keeping the nursing pads in. Otherwise I would have huge wet marks across the fronts of my shirts. http://breastfeedingchronicles.blogspot.com . The problem was that I couldn't actually find a nursing bra that was small enough for me. They don't make them for virtually flat-chested women. Fortunately, the nursing pad helped fill it up.
To hate wearing a bra is understandable if it is expected that you do it all the time. From a male point of view it should be optional. There is something alluring about a womans nipples showing through a shirt or blouse when there is no bra. Equally as alluring are the glimpses of lace or cleavage where there is one. And to get the full picture men should try wearing a bra that fits properly - if they don't have to wear it all the time they will probably enjoy the experience.
I stumbled across this hub after finding a "something" on the side of my breast...oddly enough, I found it right at the spot where the wire of my bra rubs. I love how informed you seem, and how you give options on things to consider...at this point I think I'd like to separate from my encasements for a few weeks or months and see how me and the girls fair without them. I like the cami idea...Im robust enough up top that Im not sure how comfy I'd be in public with my children..boucing around joyously..but nonetheless...today is a new day...a new braless less painful one. Thanks for sharing...Im sure many of us out here were looking for a choice beyond the one handed down from our mothers. Bless you!
Heh, I love wearing the bra...When I bought my first bra, I immediately started to feel great relief - less men commenting my breasts - plus I started to have more freedom in running etc.
Thanks to the wearing bras, my breasts are on the same place where they were 30 years ago...and very healthy. No problems with circulation, because I choose comfortable models.
I wear it at home as well, most of the time, because I like it. And use various models for various purposes.
It is really the matter of personal choice...
What an interesting hub. Being a guy, it doesn't apply to me at all, but I definitely did not know 99% of the information here.
Amen! It's the first thing I take off when I walk in the door. Much to my husbands delight. My boobs are too big to go out in public without wearing a bra but if the world was nothing but women, I know most of my friends would go braless, including me. Great hub.
My girlfriend hasn't worn a bra for most of her life, she's 48. She's not flat-chested either, maybe small to average size. Her boobies are nice and perky. They look you right in the eye, not at your feet.
I do know some women though that really shouldn't be allowed outside without one,,, just joking. I never met a boobie I didn't like.
Nice hub, I'm sending my girlfriend a link.
voting for NO BRA!!!!
DITTO!!
I'm a dude originally from europe and used to ladies with no bra.
I know that women's body is the most beautiful creation of all no matter what age she is and I could talk about these amazing and perfect curves forever...
Thank you for sharing Kerryg,- looks like you're really cool dudette ;)
Wow! It looks lika a lot of people like taking about bras. I think going bra free is a great idea for the reasons you mentioned!
I would, but I am just developing, and I'm at the stage where my boobs are vewry pointy. That shape would be awkward. I wear bras mostly to make them look a little rounder.
I'm 23 years old and have worn a bra maybe once or twice. My mom always pestered me to wear one, but I just always refused. I found them uncomfortable right off the back and because my boobs are small (but not completely flat) I never thought it was necessary.
The downside is that this decision instantly made me 'different' from everyone at school and not wearing a bra was probably the biggest reason I was teased by other girls at school and even at times by my friends (they would somewhat persistantly ask, "Why don't you wear a bra?" I always just responded because my boobs were small and so it wasn't necessary).
The negative response to my choice still bothers me to this day. It really isn't a big deal for me to go bra-less. I do have to dress up a bit for my work and I do need to make a good impression on people because I work in sales, but the times when I need to wear something underneath, I just wear a camisole. Sometimes the cami has a 'built-in bra' which it's probably best to get a loose fitting one.
I just want people to know that I am NOT "disgusting" for not wearing a bra!!
I don't think so.
I am braless a lot at home or to run errands, but don't feel comfortable going to school or work without one. It's not that I feel uncomforable because of society, but because I feel physically uncomfortable - too much bouncing and moving around without the bra. What drives me super crazy, though, is how expensive good, comfortable bras are. It really sucks.
I think that women who feel comfortable not wearing bras (and I wish I was one of them) should not wear them. At the job I just left, they told one of the women that she HAS to wear a bra everyday. It pissed me off. I don't think that anyone has the right to tell you that you must wear a bra. I support dress codes and not allowing your employees to dress provocatively, but wearing a bra should not be part of a dress code (especially as there are men could be required to wear one, but that would NEVER happen).
I think it's up to the woman ,idont mine if you do or if you don't some women should were but some look great without so each to there on.
I don't like wearing bras either. They're very uncomfortable and hot in the summer. I love going out bra-less. It's like being set free. I love it and men don't seem to mind too much either especially my boss who gave me a really nice raise when I decided to let my 36C's breathe. Sometimes my nipples show through my blouse at work and I can tell because all of the men stop by and talk to me. You are definitely treated differently when bra-less.
It's FUN!!!
I loved this hub and I agree with everyone, as a woman, I don't like wearing bras either!
Will shimmying braless increase my ligament strength? *Hehe*
But this is very true. I personally think that people who purposely go against societies standards for the sake of health are attractive. =P
Very cool hub! I admire your bralessness :) I'm a little bigger up top and like you mentioned I don't like to not wear a bra. It hurts my back and neck :( But I totally support others not wearin' em!
I AM A 36DD AND HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY BRALESS SINCE APRIL.SINCE I HAVE STOPPED WEARING A BRA, I NO LONGER HAVE MUSCLE SPASMS IN MY SHOULDERS OR NECK PAIN.I GO EVERY WHERE BRALESS AND NO ONE CAN TELL UNLESS SOMEONE RUBS MY BACK.MY BREASTS DON'T HURT, NOR DO THEY MOVE AS MUCH AS THEY USED TO.IF ANYONE IS WORRIED ABOUT NIPPLES SHOWING(I HAVE THAT SAME PROBLEM), THERE ARE MANY SOLUTIONS.MY FAVORITES CAN BE FOUND AT BRINGITUP.COM.
I like this hub. Nice post
You've my full support, buddy... ^_^ I've never worn any of this "bra" things before... ***kee***
Wishing everyone a happy day ahead...
I, too, love the freedom of going braless, but I have issues with it. I consistently have somewhat sensitive nipples, so when I don't wear something to pad them, I'm uncomfortable all day. Does anyone know if this goes away in time? Do they become "calloused" (for lack of a better word?) I've tried that stick on bra and the nipple petals, but they are only effective if you don't perspire or move around too much. It's very embarrasing to lose a petal or the stick-on bras while at dinner on a date, believe me.
THERE ARE NIPPLE COVERS THAT ARE NOT MADE OF SILICONE, BUT THEY CAN ONLY BE USED ONCE.THEY DO STAY ON WHEN YOU PERSPIRE.AS FAR AS NIPPLE SORENESS, MINE DID GO AWAY.BUT IT TOOK THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF GOING COMPLETELY BRALESS.MOST OF THE TIME NOW, I DON'T EVEN REALIZE OR THINK ABOUT THE FACT THAT I AM NOT WEARING A BRA.IT'S AS NATURAL AS NOT THINKING ABOUT THE FACT THAT YOU ARE WEARING A BRA.
Great hub! I agree that bras can cause lots of problems. I suspect that wearing some awful nursing bras after my pregnancy aggravated some severe back problems that I had. I'm all for going bra-free.
Interesting hub. I can't see why it's anyone's business but the wearer's whether she has a bra on or not - certainly not a school's or employer's.
Personally, I feel more comfortable wearing one, but if I didn't, I wouldn't.
LondonGirl, the problem is that if you don't wear one, it often shows. I used to try to hide it behind vests and jackets, but it ended up being such a hassle that eventually I gave in.
I think it is a personal choice. I am naturally in favor of a bra-less society—particularly in cold temperatures.
Dear Kerryg, Good job great hub! My wife is an out in public bra wearer. She sheds the garment as soon as possible. When we first got married I thought that was an invitation ,but after many poundings , I learned it had nothing to do with me.(I'm a slow learner). Peace.
I you look good without a bra, then great, but if you don't look good without a bra, you know it and so does the person next to you.
I can't say that I blame you, because even without all of the medical reasons you listed, they don't look like they would be all that comfortable, except perhaps when exercising...
I have a ton of friends who go bra free and I'm always jealous of them becase I simply can't, I find it extraordinarily uncomfortable. I'm a petite lady with a large chest and have always envied those who don't need to wear a bra.
Great hub!
i agree , there is not actual need for a bra :) with u sister x
I used to be a DDD. I had a reduction and am now a D. I never went braless when I was a trip D, and if I was around my house being too lazy to get dressed, eventually the discomfort would drive me to, at least put a bra on. After the reduction, I still prefer a bra to no bra. Occasionally I may wear a shirt with the built in bra, but not all too frequently. I find it uncomfortable and sweaty! I also don't find it attractive. I think a woman should be comfortable certainly, but I definitely notice when a woman is too buxom to be braless. It may not be fair, but I do.
Honestly I can not see that bras would be associated with Breast Cancer. As you said, causality is not evident in the timing especially since it coincides with the industrialization of the country and the spewing forth of thousands of chemical toxins from every source we encounter on a daily basis. Additionally, if you think a little wire is cutting off lymph circulation, imagine what the corset did for that. True, restrictions were placed in different areas, but it still would be affected. Primarily though, its unlikely to cause cancer because a change in DNA has to occur for cancer to occur. (the gene which causes apoptosis, cell death, has to be turned off, and a few other genetic foibles may contribute as well), and a bra is primarily a mechanical intrusion not a biochemical intrusion.
While my preference is the bra (the only time I don't wear one is when I sleep), and don't agree with your medical concerns (though I don't believe there is any medical need for bras except support if you need it for back pain and such as I did), I do believe you presented a great article on the subject and have convinced me to reconsider my automatic reaction to seeing a braless woman.
Bra's don't prevent sagging??? Oh.. that is such sad news to read!
Suppose I am also one that just doesn't feel comfortable without a bra... but yet, I not exactly comfortable 'in' one... its just the looks that I believe I might receive that would take me a while to be accepting of the idea- however this was really a fantastic article...made me re-think a few things for sure.
Great hub. Did you know that Howard Hughes had the first uplift bra designed for Jane Russell when she appeared in the movie he produced? I think it was "Outlaw".
Spent some time reading this. Intrigued by the title..
I am a great fan of bras, especially lace ones, and enjoy wearing bras whenever I can under my male clothing. I find the racerback style the most comfortable for my 38C size. A little padding in the bra also helps.
In Nepal, most of the old generation women use Blouse only. the blouse is not like the one use present day. The old blouse do not need bra. It fits body perfectly according to the body shape. It covers right from neck to lower waist on the body with full shelve. Front part is made with two 'flaps' round shape to support breasts. The blouse is also good for breast feeding taking off one flap of the blouse. It is fitted with short strings in 4 different places - two upper towards both armpits and two down both sides of the waist part. It is known as "Misa Lan" in Newari, the inhabitant of Kathmandu, and "Choli" in Nepal villages
LOL...I get a kcik out of the male interest for this hub!
I am a 38 C, and I go without a bra as much as I can get away with. I hate wearing a bra! And then there are the push -up bras...for formal affairs no less! These are really instruments of torture, they do things that are "unnatural". I have to admit, I feel ridiculous with so much bosom pushed up and out for all the world to see. I have no idea how Pamela Anderson does it! However- I have to admit...I DO like the way I look, and I know that others feel the same too! LOL! OH! What we women have to go through...unbelievable....and then some women even go and get breast implants....are they insane???
That's really gross.
I'm going to go against what seems to be the norm on this, I love bras! Ya I know weirdo, but I'm a G and really enjoy the downsize i get with my minimizer(not just in size but in the attention they get). Actually I'm sad that not all women who can wear lacy, cute bras aren't, they dont make cute bras that far in the alphabet. In fact I cant even get a sports bra. I have one style the "bullet proof vest" as i like to call it, I WANT A LACY BRA.
I would never wear a bra if I was sure my breasts wouldn't sag.
Hienergybrain-I know this is a dumb question, but have you done an internet search for size G bras? They say you can find just about anything online, who knows,,,,there may even be a place that has size G lacy bras!
You know, you can make your own bras or have someone make them for you. There is always someone out there with a lot of talent when it comes to sewing. You could even take one of your regular bras and sew lace on it. I have done this to some of my bras that were too low cut. I put just a little black sheer lace on it and it transformed the entire thing.
Hi EnergyBrain- I found a beautiful sheer black lace bra that goes all the way up to size 42G!
Here is the link
I love these hubs on bras and pubic hair. Much more fun than boring stuff like Climate Change. Also keeps us informed about things non-hubbers know nothing about. Anyone can read up on CC. Keep 'em coming people
magnoiazz that is a very cute bra but I'm a 30G the wierdest cup:ribcage measurment i think is posible and like most bras online they are only offering sizes that sell a.k.a. not mine. O, and m\for any of you that don't know what the number before the letter is about it has nothing to do with the actual cup part of the bra, it is the measurement around your rib cage, that is how there can be big cupped bras for skinny little women and little cup bras for sturdier ones
i have no idea what bra size i am!
I rejected the bra in the teen years when my mother insisted i wore a trainer. she was embarrassed for me when my rosebuds were starting to bloom...i think she was embarrased for herself. she said she would buy me whatever bras i wanted no matter the cost just only that i wear them. i would put them on in the morning before school, and take them off on the bus. i went through that ritual everyday until she finally realised i just wasnt going to wear one. She bought be tight tanks, and camisoles, and sports bras.
when i got a drivers license, i finally just started buying my own... i find the semi-stretchy kinds work best. target and walmart have them a few times a year and i usually buy whatever is on the rack when i see them.
socially, im still embarrased to go out in public, i do have big boobs and i hate them. i hate them so much i wish i could get a reduction. i idolise women with small boobs, more flatchested the better im jealous. i try to hide them with large clothing, or hunching over and its ruining my posture. i hate teh social outcry of "wear a bra or we'll stare at you" they're even bigger than my moms and she doesnt even want to look at me and often makes a comment how after all these years im stillbeing a rebel. no mom, it hurts. bras not only put pressure into places, but they actually give me breathing problems. I have a corset for dresses, love it--need a new one though and actaully considering the $400 for a drop-dead custom fit.
funny story though...i bought a really beautiful dress two sizes too small cuz dammit it was beautiful...i figured with teh corset i could fit. heh... funny part is that i tried it on right after my period and i was "empty" y'know...post-bloat. Okay, so my borther's weedding comes up and im just before my period...super bloat. OMG... even that corset wasnt holding the girls back! Of course i didnt find this out til like an hour before we're leaving and im in the hotel. poke, tug, twist...ow ow ow. I took off the corset and used tape! I swear, i really did tape them back, crisscross and a bunch down the front. my mom said i fianlly looked good, wow, if she only knew!
yes, i have a few really hot and sexy bras...all super tight and perky like, but those are for being naughty and they're usually only on for 20 minutes.
i hate bras.
A big thank you from all the women at Goingbraless.net to kerryg for your support
Liberty, my pleasure! I hope I've given people some food for thought, and that you pick up a few new members as a result!
this is a terrific article, and i feel kinda bad being the only to coment with a different view, but i am a 34 C and i find it much more comfortable to wear a bra. On the weekends when I wake up a little later and really dont have a whole lot to do I walk around and tidy up a few things on my way to the kitchen to make breakfast. I sleep nude so I usually put on a long t-shirt and a pair of panties before I leave the room. By the time I finish breakfast I can barely stand to move with my boobs just bouncing around like they're about to fall off my body. It kinda hurts a little. So I have to go back upstairs to my room holding my breasts and put a bra on. Maybe it's just me, but it feels sooo wierd to not wear one. My mother doesn't and I tried to just be like her once, but again - I cant stand to not wear one. Nothing against those that done, cause like I said, my mom doesn't and she's my hero - so it's not bad, just not for me.
Again this was a great article.
You go Girl!! The truth prevails!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!! This is great!! I haven't worn a bra, except for special occasions, since I left home at 18. While living at home to get away with no bra, I wore men's flannel shirts or shirts with pockets to hide my girls. After I left home, and threw my bras in the bottom drawer, I rarely got sick. My lymph nodes never got hard after I quit wearing one and I rarely ever get sick any more. Hats off to you. And the rest of the world that goes braless. I never had to wear one when I was pregnant all three times. I never got any bigger than my regular 36AA so I opted out for t shirts and shirts with pockets. And yes I got reprimanded at work 2 years ago for not wearing a bra so I went and bought some men's undershirts with the scoop neck. I wear them to work, but as soon as I get home, off it comes. Love it. Thanks for posting such a great hub!
Burned my bra in 1967. The girls have been happy ever since. Nice work!
Personally, I feel that the whole "bra-less" look is becoming a sexy, trendy look for those smaller-breasted women women out there, like myself! It makes low-cut tanks and dresses, even v-neck t-shirts look stylish. I love that it's totally comfortable yet totally fashionable. I definitely think it's a hot look for anyone who can pull it off. They always say "if ya got it flaunt it", well I'm saying even if "ya don't got it... FLAUNT IT!"
I really love the push up that bra's give me. But the underwire can get annoying.
I really liked this hub and your blunt honesty about choice, and what makes you comfortable. I enjoy going without one on occasion, but sometimes I just need that lift with certain shirts. To bad there isn't others that could adopt this attitude, for I could not image going for a job interview without one, either they would kick me out or recommend me to the strip joint down the street.LOL
Great Hub. I have to wear a bra in public since I'm a 38DD but the first thing I do when I walk in the door is take of my bra!
Excellent hub. Being a man, I can't appreciate the challenges of wearing a bra so it's good to get this kind of insight!
American Apparel body suits might just become your new best friends! I wear them all the time (sans bra of course!). So sexy! Nipples show through for that little extra sex appear if you wear them as shirts or just wear them under stuff. Yaaa freedom!
I'm burning mine tonight. They are so uncomfortable. The only reason I wore them is because I thought it caused more sagging if you didn't. Glad you straightened that out for me. Thanks!!!
nice hub, I think it should be personal choice..I don't feel comfortable without one but I don't feel comfortable with one either so...You've definitely made some points worth giving thought to
This was a very interesting and enlightening read. With all the negatives caused by wearing bras, I'm suprised more women don't go bra free. I know I definitely would if I were a woman, lol.
I could NEVER got without a bra. Good Lord! I do however believe that bras should not have underwire. They are so uncomfortable by the end of the day!
What a great and educational hub! I rarely wear a bra unless my top is see through otherwise, no way! However, I am lucky with a size 32A (Don't laugh) they may be tiny but the freedom I have is fabulous!
Thanks for enlightening us!
i love sexy bras most expertsally poof bras but sometimes i get sick and tied of waring it so sometime i dn't ware
Where do I sign? Bra free America - our second independence day!
yeah i agree
@Michael Jayne, it's ok I'd probably be a 32B if I lost some weight :-)
Bra's are miserable, especially if you are top heavy and you keep falling out!
With larger ladies, this really is a health and safety issue.
No one in a workplace or in a busy street wants to look up and see a monstrous, out of control breast, careering towards them.
They should be well tied down at all times and very large ones should be clearly marked with flags (and at night flashing lights).
A very large lady who needs to remove her bra at any time, should inform the Fire Department and relevant air traffic control authorities. Passengers of a Peruvian charter flight crew were obliged to eat their own dead after being stranded on a double D breast side for many months before rescue.
If one of the super heavyweight class of ladies choses to swim in a scanty bikini, it is imperative to inform coast guards so that shipping might be diverted to safety in the event of an accidental escape.
This kind of worries me - my 16 yr old niece just had a breast reduction down to a size C. She was having neck and back trouble, way too much attention from boys and men. My aunt did this too a couple of years ago. Now I'm wondering, was all the trouble from the bra instead of the ridiculously oversized body parts?
I AM STARTING TO FEEL MORE COMFORTABLE WITH BEING BRALESS. I WENT TO WORK TODAY WITHOUT A JACKET. I USUALLY WEAR A JACKET BECAUSE MY RATHER LARGE NIPPLES TEND TO SHOW ALL OF THE TIME. I DID NOT FIND MYSELF FOLDING MY ARMS OR COVERING MY BREASTS. I WENT TO THE STORE A COUPLE OF DAYS AGO WITH A T-SHIRT ON, NO BRA, NIPPLES ERECT AND PROUD. I DID NOT COVER UP WHEN I WAS FACE TO FACE WITH ANYBODY. NO ONE SEEMED TO REALLY PAY ATTENTION TO THE FACT THAT I WAS NOT WEARING A BRA. I AM PROUD OF MYSELF. AS FOR LARGE BREAST(I HAVE A PAIR OF 36DD) THEY ARE JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AND PERKY(MINE ARE) AS SMALL ONES AND SHOULD NOT BE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST. THE SAME WITH LARGE, PROTRUDING, ERECT, HARD-MOST-OF-THE-TIME NIPPLES(I HAVE THOSE, TOO AND AM PROUD).
Dear Newly Braless: I hate to spoil your euphoria, but we're looking -- ALL men are looking: we can't help it -- we're programmed that way. But let me tell you, I know from what my wife and her friends say that THEY'RE looking too -- and they hate you for making their men look!
I do not wear a bra normally under my clothes when i am at home unless i know i would have guests. Even then i prefer not to wear bra but prefer camisoles instead.
of course we all hate bras! I wear one to please my fiance when he's around and tanks with built-in shelf bras the rest of the time. Since he proposed to me while I was pregnant with my fifth child [imagine the sagginess!] and has loved me through a bad previous marriage, about 60 lbs of weight gain, and a bunch of health issues, it's the least I can do to look somewhat like the hot young girl he met a few years ago. [Though he tells me I care more about my appearance than he does.]
I totally get what you mean. I physically feel no pain when i walk or run, so there really is no reason for me to wear one. However out of the house, when everyone is expecting women my age to have perfectly round, padded breasts, it's hard not to conform. I went braless out of the house once and felt completely self-conscious... i still agree with you though. Good article.
I hate bras myself because I'm not the right heigth and stuff for the size i wear so the straps are too big and i hate the under wire. But if i didn't wear one to school everyone would be able to tell and i would be made fun of. It's not like i care what other ppl think i just dont wanna be the girl everyone whispers beind my back," that's the girl who doesn't wear a bra." My 38D's would be kinda hard to hide. Especially when surrounded by a bunch of immature 9th graders.I still agree with you and i luv your hub.
Very interesting points. I haven't worn a bra since I stopped working five years ago, and back then the bra would come off the moment I got home and on weekends. I did wear a bra day and night for a few months when I was pregnant because any movement was painful and it did help. And like you I hunted high and low for one without the underwire. But towards the end of pregnancy I needed a bigger bra and just didn't get around to buying a new one. Breastfeeding is much easier without one.
I like your point about sagging - I expected to sag and have been surprised that I haven't.
AMEN!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for this wonderful article. Now I can show this article to all of my friends who insist that not wearing a bra will make your breasts sag..
Well I would have to say go for it! If you do not like it, don’t wear it. I have never thought women should or should not wear one, it is their choice and as a guy it really doesn’t matter to me, you just need to be comfortable. On the note of bras, I wear a 44B, I don’t like underwire, or strapless, but I do like the sheer with some lace and I love colors also!
I don't like wearing bra either, but when I don't my boobs hurt really bad because of gravity weighing them. And what you said about society enforcing this standard on women, I agree, but I wouldn't walk around offending people, or making them feel uncomfortable because I don't agree with society’s standards.
But as I was thinking these thoughts I read how you gave alternatives to wearing bras, and I was happy to see that. We all have or reasons for why we do the things we do, and I think that's fine, but I am defiantly pro-bra. I do not think they were designed to harm, but to help woman. But I doubt this one comment will sway your opinion on bras
@Concerned Aunt: Don't be concerned. I went from DD to C and found both causes to be the problem. I'm very careful how I buy my bras now, to be sure that they will not continue the problem.
I am still too bouncy to go free in the summer time. But it is soon autumn. I will break out my supercomfy overrsized hoodie to roll around town in. There will be a secret that only I know... for indeed, who could see under my special hoodie?
I'm FREEEEEEE :-)
Wow! This is the most radical thing I have read for a long time..In my line of work you do go bra fee regularly! BUT i think i iwll do it more often...It was good to know they dont sag without one
Thank you
I don't buy that bras cause cancer, but I do subscribe to the theory that your body becomes bra-dependant if you wear it often. The ligaments and muscles that support the breasts atrophy from lack of use. Nonetheless I hate the feeling of being confined, which is why I chose to go without the majority of time. The ONLY time I wear a bra is to work, THAT's IT. Thanks for the article, try brafreedom, You'll like it!
This hub gave the advantage of having "mini-muffins"
I don't wear bra at all when Im at home and I can even escape not wearing it at public (but I do wear one when Im outside) since nobody will hardly noticed as Im kinda flat chested ...
Great page! I go braless whenever possible, which is much of the time as I wear a size 32AA. It's not that easy to find a bra to fit me anyway. I do wear bras to work, mostly to help me fill out suit jackets and so forth... otherwise they gap all over the place. I may have the boobs of a pre-teen, but I'm an adult and the right bra can help me look more like one.
thanks for this information. I was not aware about cloths and healths issues such as cancer.
I would never go bra-less. Mine are not the same size as each other, plus mine grew in sagging from the very beginning. I'm a 40DD. Floppy, and uncomfortable, they get sweaty underneath if I don't wear a bra, plus running is out of the question. I think its cool that some women don't have to wear one and feel good about it. But I do think its gross and ugly when you see women with huge breasts that are all sloppy and don't even try the cami's and stuff you mentioned. It just looks ghetto, and not beautiful. Kudos to you for being knowledgeable and modest about the choice of wearing one or not.
DonnaCSmith says:
5 months ago
I am with you, sister! I wear camisoles when I go out in public. Bras hurt, and while there may be some like Oprah promotes that fit right and are comfortable I cannot afford them. I say burn'em baby!