By Shell Barker @shellfullerbust, founder of Shell Lingerie
If you have a fuller bust, you know the agony. Whether it is physical agony of your bras digging in or figuratively, attempting to go bra shopping in the shopping centre.
Put it simply the mainstream industry does not cater well for anyone above a D cup, never mind if paired with big boobies you also have a small back size. Did you know this was the definition of a ‘fuller bust”. A fuller bust is NOT a cup size, it references the relationship between your breast and back size, meaning there is a larger difference between the two. So, whether you are blessed with breasts and a curvy body or just the big boobies up front here is a guide to the best lingerie out there for women who’s boobs say hello before they do!
Step 1- Get a Professional Bra Fitting
I know…I know…it means forward planning. But HONESTLY this will change your life. Go to a small independent fitter who is going to actually explain how bra sizing works for you. You want to leave knowing EXACTLY your size, sister size and styles that suit you. But be warned if a tape measure comes out and you are left to try on alone, this is not a bra ‘fitting’ this is a boob ‘measuring’ service and is generally inaccurate and leaves you feeling crappy. However, it is a start. Stop guessing and go and get the help!
Step 2- Buy pieces that actually fit
This seems obvious right but its really key especially when ordering online that you try on the bras in advance of your shoot. Follow these three simple rules-
- The back band should be firm and parallel to the floor.
- The cup should encase all your breast tissue and there be no bulges.
- The wire under your arm pit should not dig into your breast tissue.
If in doubt, try one back size smaller and two/three cup sizes bigger than you are used to wearing- TRUST ME you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
Step 3- Try a Body suit
These are PERFECT for a shoot and are IYBP approved, here are some examples of fuller bust options, because the alphabet does go past a D cup contrary to popular belief!
SCANTILLY BY CURVY KATE
Indulgence Multiway Stretch Lace Body in Ivory/Cream (Supports DD-HH cup sizes S to XL) This non-wired bodysuit is cleverly cut to be surprisingly supportive and has an adjustable fastening underneath which suits a variety of body lengths. It really does suit every body!
PANACHE
Envy Bodysuit Sand Black (8-16 D-K Cups) This fits just as well as the amazing Envy Bra due to the stretch lace top cup and rigid bottom cups. It offers a firm yet accommodating fit for all bust types. The power mesh panels create a flattering, smooth silhouette for those who want to feel a little more ‘held in’.
PINSY SHAPEWEAR
Pink Smoothing Lace Shapewear Bodysuit Sizes XS- XL. Model wears XL. This bodysuit has strech lace, which is incredibly adjustable for different body shapes. It has a built-in, wire-free powermesh bra that lines the bust area and hourglass shaping and tummy smoothing panels.
Step 4- Invest in QUALITY BRAS that fit!
Here are some of my top picks- all fuller bust approved!
PLAYFUL PROMISES
Ramona Optic White Strap Detail Illusion Mesh Bra & High Waisted Brief (8-22, DD-H Cups) This is seriously sexy lingerie that is designed to show off your best assets and support you at the same time.
PANACHE LINGERIE
Allure Full Cup Bra & Allure Brazilian Briefs. Available in sizes 8-18 D-J Cups. Allure from Panache lives up to its name, flaunting ivory petal lace over a latte contrast liner- this bra is oh so classy and suits so many breast types.
MARVELL LANE
Evie Bra and Millie Brief- Sheer Pink. Available in sizes 8-16 DD-J Cups. This lingerie is just that beautiful, feminine and oh so luxurious. You’ll feel like a million bucks!
Lastly- its important to remember that the team at IYBP have ‘got you’, they are seriously the best in the business and know EXACTLY how to support you before, after and during your shoot. Remember to plan ahead, focus on the fit and how the lingerie makes you FEEL. Its super important that you feel comfortable in what you are wearing, because you’ll be guided into poses you never knew you could do, all in the craft of creating beautiful, luxurious and oh so sexy boudoir photos.
As an affiliate of IYBP I would like to extend and EXCLUSIVE offer to all IYBP clients. 10 % off a Bespoke Bra Fitting and any future purchases, both virtual and in person fittings eligible. Just use the code. IYBP10.
Here to support your boobies always,
Shell x
Shell Lingerie is an empowering Bespoke Bra Fitting Service on the Central Coast NSW. Offering virtual and in studio fittings by appointment. Shell stocks bras up to an M cup and offers a wide range of bras, swimwear and lingerie. Her service is designed to be everything a large department store is not, and she has a growing community of over 150 women on the Central Coast who have joined her bra revolution. She is an ‘embrace your body’ advocate and although doesn’t hate the term ‘body confidence’ acknowledges that our relationship with our bodies is ever changing. What she does know is that you deserve bras that fit you and hopes she can support you and your boobs soon! www.shelllingerie.com Insta- @shellfullerbust
