We women undergo bodily changes throughout our lives, but these changes often become more noticeable with age.
As we get older and experience the physical symptoms of aging, menopause, and other life changes, it becomes even more important to do what we can to keep our bodies strong and pain-free.
One of the most important changes you can make as a mature woman is to swap your old, uncomfortable bra for something more comfortable and supportive.
The right bra can minimize a plethora of issues, from back pain and poor posture to sagging breasts and even skin abrasions.
Today’s article will serve as a comprehensive guide to the most comfortable bras for older women.
We’ll start by reviewing the top 8 most comfortable bras on the market for mature women before walking you through the process of choosing your perfect bra. Finally, we’ll answer all of your frequently asked questions about buying comfortable bras as an older woman.
The 8 Most Comfortable Bras For Older Women
Most Comfortable Underwire Bra
Wacoal Women’s Basic Beauty Contour T-Shirt Bra
Underwire bras have a reputation for being uncomfortable, but if you know which features to prioritize, finding a comfortable underwire bra is definitely possible!
Our favorite comfortable underwire bra for older women is the Wacoal Women’s Basic Beauty Contour T-Shirt Bra.
This bra is full-coverage, so if you have larger breasts, it will prevent any spillage. With that being said, the bra comes in a wide range of sizes, so it’s suitable for everyone.
The Wacoal Women’s Basic Beauty Contour T-Shirt Bra is made from a blend of polyester and spandex, making it soft and comfortable as well as durable and wear-resistant.
In addition to the comfort of the material, the seamless design of the cups ensures that you won’t have to deal with any painful or annoying chafing.
This is an extremely supportive bra, with an inner sling and close-set straps that will hold your breasts up without slipping off your shoulders.
However, if you’re looking for a bra that you can simply throw into the washing machine every few wears, this might not be the right choice for you. That’s because this bra is hand wash only, so you’ll need to take the time to wash it manually.
Pros
- Polyester and spandex blend – Comfortable and wear-resistant
- Seamless cups – No chafing
- Inner sling – Additional support
- Close-set straps – Minimal risk of slipping
- Full-coverage – Prevents spillage
Cons
- Hand wash only – Not for machine washing
Most Comfortable Wireless Bra
Bali Women’s Comfort Revolution Shaping Wirefree Bra
If you’re looking for a comfortable bra as an older woman, one of the obvious choices is a wireless bra. However, this in itself presents the challenge of finding a wire-free bra that offers enough support, especially if you have a larger chest.
The Bali Women’s Comfort Revolution Shaping Wirefree Bra is, in our opinion, the most comfortable wireless bra on the market for older women.
The material used to make this bra is a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex. This fabric is extremely soft, durable, and elastic, allowing for 4-way stretching. Thanks to the stretchable nature of the fabric, enjoying a perfect, non-constricting band fit is easier than ever!
Bali’s Comfort Revolution bra design is U-shaped, ensuring a secure fit with no strap slippage. The design also features knit-in zones for additional, targeted support.
The foam material in the cups also helps to enhance support, while the seamless construction improves the overall comfort of the bra while preventing bra lines from showing through your clothes.
The only potential negative about this bra is the fact that it closes using a hook and eye fastening at the back. This is arguably the trickiest type of closure to navigate, especially if your mobility is limited. If this is the case for you, don’t worry – scroll down to the bottom of this section to see our most comfortable front-closing bra!
Pros
- Polyester, nylon, and spandex – Soft and durable
- Knit-in zones – Extra support
- Seamless – Comfortable and discreet
- U-shape design – Secure fit
- Foam cups – Supportive and not see-through
Cons
- Back hook and eye closure – May be difficult to fasten
Most Comfortable Bralette
Calvin Klein Women’s Invisibles Comfort Seamless V Neck Bralette Bra
Bralettes are often considered a flimsy, unsupportive choice of bra for older women, but the Invisibles Comfort Seamless V Neck Bralette from Calvin Klein proves that this isn’t necessarily true.
Calvin Klein’s Invisibles bralette is made from a combination of nylon and elastane, resulting in a very soft and stretchy bra that will feel like a second skin when you put it on.
Speaking of putting on this bra, there are no annoying closures in the back to struggle with. Instead, all you need to do is pull the bra over your head.
The Invisibles bra has a seamless waistband that won’t rub uncomfortably against your skin or show through your clothing.
Additionally, this bra features removable pads for extra coverage and support if you need it. You can always take out the pads if you prefer, so this is a versatile bra design that works for everyone!
Since the Calvin Klein Invisibles bralette is machine washable, you don’t need to worry about spending time and energy washing it by hand.
One thing to bear in mind, however, is the fact that the included pads can be quite visible through some of the lighter bra colors.
Pros
- Nylon and elastane – Stretchy and soft
- Pull-on – No tricky closures
- Seamless waistband – Smooth feel
- Removable pads – Versatile
- Machine washable – Easy cleaning
Cons
- Lighter colors are more revealing – Pads may show through the bra
Most Comfortable Sports Bra
MIRITY Women Racerback Sports Bra
Getting older doesn’t have to mean the end of your active lifestyle! However, as an older woman, you should definitely invest in a comfortable sports bra to help maintain your posture during your workouts.
Out of all the comfortable sports bras on the market for older women, our favorite is the MIRITY Women Racerback Sports Bra.
The nylon and spandex construction is ideal since it allows for a natural feel against the skin while offering an impressive amount of support. The racerback design and wide straps also contribute to the supportive nature of this bra.
A big aspect of comfort when it comes to sports bras is proper ventilation. The MIRITY Racerback Sports Bra features ventilation panels that allow air to circulate where it’s needed, preventing buildups of excess sweat.
Putting this bra on and taking it off is quick and easy thanks to the convenient pullover design.
You can purchase this bra in packs of 2, 3, 4, or 5, so if you have multiple workouts to complete each week or simply want to wear this bra around the house on a regular basis, you can buy several and reduce the number of washes you need to do per week.
With that being said, some of the darker colors (the red, for example) have been known to bleed in the wash, so we’d recommend washing the more vibrant colors separately.
Pros
- Nylon and spandex – Natural yet supportive feel
- Wide racerback straps – Heavy-duty support
- Ventilation panels – Moisture-wicking
- Pullover design – Easy to put on
- Multipacks available – Packs of 2 to 5
Cons
- Dyes may bleed while washing – Wash darker colors separately
Most Comfortable For Small Breasts
Hanes Women’s Oh So Light Foam ComfortFlex Fit Wirefree Bra
Finding comfortable bras for small breasts is generally easier than for large breasts (see the next review). However, as you get older, it’s important to prioritize comfort-enhancing and supportive features no matter what your cup size is.
Our top comfortable bra recommendation for older women with small breasts is the Oh So Light Foam ComfortFlex Fit Wirefree Bra by Hanes.
The fabric used to make this bra is a breathable, comfortable blend of soft nylon and spandex. This material feels amazing and light without compromising on proper support.
Part of the reason why this bra is so comfortable is the ComfortFlex fit, which enables 4-way stretch for minimal constriction. The comfort band is also soft and elasticated while remaining securely in place throughout the day.
This bra features foam cups that are both flexible and supportive, and because they’re wire-free, they won’t dig into your skin or look obvious through clothes.
Unfortunately, you will need to wash this bra by hand because it’s not machine-safe.
Pros
- Nylon and spandex – Breathable and soft
- ComfortFlex fit – 4-way stretch
- Wire-free – Does not dig into skin
- Comfort band – Secure fit
- Foam cups – Flexible and supportive
Cons
- Hand washing only – Not machine-safe
Most Comfortable For Large Breast
Playtex Women’s 18 Hour Original Comfort Strap Full Coverage Bra
Getting your hands on a bra that’s supportive enough for large breasts as well as comfortable and stylish can sometimes feel like an impossible task. For older women, this problem is exacerbated by the fact that proper support and comfort are even more crucial.
Luckily, the Playtex Women’s 18 Hour Original Comfort Strap bra is here to save the day!
The Playtex Original Comfort Strap bra is made from lightweight, durable polyester with a soft lining inside to make it as comfortable as possible.
This is one of the most supportive bras out there, which is why it’s ideal for older women with larger breasts. The TruSupport construction means that the bra can stretch in 4 directions and has extra support at the back. The M-frame around the cups also contributes to the heavy-duty support.
We also love that in addition to being wide for maximum support, the straps on this bra feature additional cushioning for the ultimate level of comfort. No more readjusting your straps constantly to stop them from digging in!
It’s also worth mentioning that this is a machine-safe bra, meaning that it’s easy to clean quickly and efficiently.
Due to the hook and eye closure system in the back of the bra, this isn’t the easiest bra to put on and take off, but in exchange for all the other support and comfort-enhancing features, we still definitely think it’s worth it.
Pros
- 100% polyester – Lightweight and wear-resistant
- TruSupport construction – 4-way stretch and support
- M-frame cups – Heavy-duty
- Wide, cushioned straps – Supportive and comfortable
- Machine washable – No handwashing required
Cons
- Hook and eye back closure – Not the easiest to put on
Most Comfortable Post-Mastectomy
Amoena Women’s Rita Wire-Free Bra
After a surgical procedure such as a mastectomy, you will need a bra that prioritizes all the Cs: comfort, confidence, and convenience.
The Amoena Rita Wire-Free Bra ticks all of these boxes and will help you to feel supported and comfortable after your surgery.
This polyester, nylon, and spandex bra is stretchy, silky, and soft, making for a very comfortable wearing experience. There are no wires in the bra, so it won’t dig into you, and because the straps are wide and adjustable, the pressure is reduced while enhancing the level of support.
Speaking of support, the extra-wide underband ensures both comfort and security at all times.
What really makes this bra perfect for those who have undergone a mastectomy, however, is the coolmax pocket design. These pockets hold breast forms and partial shapers in a discreet way, maintaining your privacy and comfort.
Because the hook and eye closures for this bra are positioned at the back, you will still need to reach behind you to fasten it.
Pros
- Nylon, polyester, and spandex – Soft and elastic
- Coolmax pockets – Discreet form/shaper placement
- Wire-free – No digging or chafing
- Wide, adjustable straps – Secure and supportive
- Wide underband – Secure fit
Cons
- Hook closure – Fastens from the back
Most Comfortable For Limited Mobility
Fruit of the Loom Women’s Front Closure Cotton Bra
Decreased mobility is a frequent side-effect of getting less yourg, but with the right bra, getting dressed and undressed doesn’t have to be a struggle!
We’ve decided that the most comfortable bra for older women with limited mobility is the Front Closure Cotton Bra from Fruit of the Loom.
The bra is made of cotton and spandex, so it’s very soft and natural-feeling. The only part of the bra that isn’t super comfortable is the stitching around the closure, which is fairly stiff and may rub against the skin.
Despite this minor downside with the closure, the fastening is actually what makes this bra a great choice if your mobility is limited. The bra closes in the front using hook fastenings, so you don’t need to reach behind you or pull it over your head at any point.
Thanks to the wide straps, this bra will keep your breasts lifted and supported throughout the day without putting too much pressure on your shoulders.
Fruit of the Loom’s Front Closure Cotton Bra will look discreet under your clothing because of the unlined design.
When you’re done wearing it, you can put it in the washing machine for an effortless clean instead of handwashing, which might not be possible if certain movements are difficult or painful.
Pros
- Cotton and spandex – Extra soft
- Front closure – Easy to navigate
- Wide straps – Supportive
- Unlined – Discreet
- Machine washable – Effortless cleaning
Cons
- Stiff stitching around closure – May feel scratchy
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Comfortable Bras For Older Women
Having lots of options for comfortable bras available to you is amazing! However, we understand that the amount of choice can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re not sure how to make the best decision for your body type and daily needs, take some time to read through this buyer’s guide. It’s full of tips and tricks for choosing the most comfortable bra as an older woman.
Bra Style
Choosing a comfortable bra starts with deciding which style of bra you prefer.
Underwire bras have advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, they’re known for providing a secure fit and good support. At the same time, they have a reputation for poking you in the ribs and generally being uncomfortable. If you prefer to wear underwire bras, we strongly recommend following our recommendation for the most comfortable underwire bra so that you can be sure the wire won’t impact your comfort.
Alternatively, you could choose a wireless bra. If you choose this option, you’ll need to make sure that the material and construction are supportive enough to make up for the lack of wiring. More information on the best support-enhancing features is provided later in this guide.
If you’re fairly active throughout the day, you’ll probably be better off with a sports bra. Sports bras provide extra support to counteract the chest discomfort that comes with high-impact sports.
Contrary to popular belief, bralettes are definitely still an option as you get older! You just need to make sure that the material is high-quality and that the construction allows for proper support. Bralettes with cup inserts for extra support are usually the best option for older women.
Size
In order for a bra to be comfortable and supportive, it needs to be the right size for your body.
We won’t go into much detail here regarding measuring yourself for a bra since we have a whole section on this in our FAQs (see below). However, we do want to remind you that your breast size should play a significant role in your decision.
Generally speaking, if you have larger breasts, you’ll need to pay even more attention to the supportive features of a bra (although, of course, this is important for small breasts, too). Specifically, larger breasts may call for full-coverage cups to prevent spillage and wider straps for more heavy-duty support.
Material
Since our priority for today’s article is comfort, it also makes sense to pay attention to the material used to make your new bra.
A comfortable bra should feel soft, stretchy, and smooth. Materials such as cotton, nylon, spandex, polyester, and elastane (usually a combination of the above) are your best bet when it comes to finding a bra that feels comfortable.
Noticeable stitching and seams should also be kept to a minimum to prevent chafing, scratching, and bra lines.
Straps
Strong, well-designed straps are the key to a supportive bra, and good support is part of what makes a bra comfortable.
As a rule, the wider the strap, the more comfortable your bra will be because the pressure is distributed across a larger area of your shoulder. Plus, wider straps are usually stronger, providing more reliable support.
A U-shape design, where the straps lead into a scoop neck, is recommended because it’s one of the least likely designs to lead to strap slippage.
Moreover, racerback strap designs are excellent for support because the strap angles provide more lift.
Closure Type
Several of the bras featured in this article have hook and eye closures at the back. This is a fairly standard type of bra closure, and for many people, it works perfectly. However, for older women, it’s often not ideal.
If your mobility is restricted, or you just don’t feel like blindly fumbling to close your bra every day, a front-closing bra might be a better option.
Alternatively, some older women prefer pullover-style bras that lift over your head like a shirt.
The type of closure you choose is ultimately up to you and your individual needs.
Washing Process
Finally, remember to take the washing process into consideration.
Some women don’t mind handwashing their bras, and if this applies to you, you’ll have an easier time finding a bra that works for you.
However, if you don’t have time to wash your bras by hand, or if your level of mobility doesn’t allow you to do so, make sure to prioritize machine-safe bras.
This information should be found through the third-party retailer or directly from the manufacturer’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Measure For A Bra As An Older Woman?
As a mature woman, you might need to measure slightly differently for a bra now compared to when you were younger.
The best way to get fitted for a new bra is to be measured by a professional, but if this isn’t an option, there’s an easy step-by-step process to measuring for a bra after menopause.
First, measure around your ribcage, just underneath your breasts. This is how you measure for the bra band. Make sure to pull the measuring tape so that it’s snug – not tight.
Next, add either 4 or 5 inches to the number you get. If you got an odd number, such as 35, add 5. If your measurement was an even number, add 4 (so 32 turns into 36). You now have your band size.
Next, to find your ideal cup size, you’ll need to measure around the fullest area of your breasts, right across the nipples. If the tape measure doesn’t land on a whole number, round up or down to the nearest one.
Subtract your band size number from your most recent measurement to determine your cup size. A difference of less than one inch means you’re a AA, 1 inch equals an A cup, 2 inches for B, and so on.
Now, if your breasts have lost some of their skin elasticity, you may need to take that into account. If your breasts are sagging, it might be best to wear a bra while taking your measurements. Make sure you choose a bra that is unpadded, yet supportive so that your breasts fall as naturally as possible.
Should Older Women Wear A Bra To Bed?
There is no hard-and-fast rule as to whether any woman of any age should wear a bra to bed.
However, the post-50 woman may be more prone to back pain, both during the day and at night. If you find that wearing a bra to bed at night helps to reduce your back pain and allows you to get a better night’s sleep, go for it! Just make sure that the bra is the correct size and is comfortable enough not to disturb your sleep. A bra without an underwire would be the most comfortable for sleep.
How Can I Prevent My Breasts From Sagging With Age?
Although comfort is the focus of today’s bra articles, many women find that one of the most frustrating aspects of aging is sagging in the breast area.
While it’s totally natural and okay for your breasts not to be as perky as they once were, it’s also natural to want to prevent or at least slow down this process.
There are plenty of things that can help to stop your breasts from sagging as you get older. Potential preventative measures include staying in a healthy weight range and not smoking (to improve skin elasticity). There are even certain exercises you can do to improve the appearance of your breasts.
However, one of the best things you can do to deter your breasts from sagging is wearing a comfortable, supportive bra.
It’s important to note that a comfortable bra won’t prevent your breasts from sagging altogether, but it will help to improve your posture and reduce the strain on your breast tissue, both of which can help to minimize the appearance of sagging. Also, holding “the girls” up with a bra fights gravity.
Final Thoughts
No matter your age, you deserve to feel comfortable in your body and clothing.
Hopefully, this article has shown you that it’s possible to find comfortable, supportive, and affordable bras as an older woman.
Remember, before you purchase a bra, take into consideration the material, style, size, construction, closure type, and wash safety status. Follow our buyer’s guide to the letter and you should be able to find your perfect, comfortable bra in no time!
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