E Cup Friendly Wire Free Bras: a BFree Review
At B Free there are many women in our team who have different body shapes and are at different stages of life. We are encouraged to get involved in the brand and trial new and existing products to continue the growth and development of them. By having real women provide real experiences and reviews, it helps the business to design and develop up-to-date garments based on REAL consumer needs.
This blog is written by an insider at B Free Australia, one of their very own Customer Service team members who lives life with a full bust. The struggle is constant to find comfortable everyday plus size bras.
It is well known by women around the world that these magnificent and magical appendages on our torso come with their own array of pros and cons, but ultimately once you hit a certain point and size, having a big chest isn’t what it is cracked up to be – especially when it comes to finding a suitable plus size bra.
For myself, some of the most common problems I experience having a large chest are neck pain, back pain, tenderness, and soreness during that time of month, uncomfortable amounts of sweat during warm weather or at the gym, pain when exercising and many other small annoyances.
Naturally as we all age, regardless of gender, our bodies change, and we need to work with these changes to provide the best support. For women, wearing the correct bra for your shape and size can help decrease some of these problems.
As B Free are lingerie specialists, we encourage women and girls to be correctly fit by an expert to ensure you are supported and comfortable no matter what style bra you are wearing.
Pros and Cons of Bigger Busts
Many people around the world know what a pros and cons list is, and we are all guilty of using it at one stage or another. And right now I am going to use one to look at some of the pros and cons females with large busts can have. Although they may look glorious and serve an ultimate purpose, there is also an array of problems that come with them. Here are just some:
Pros |
Cons |
| They create body heat which keeps you warm in the colder months |
Back and neck aches and pain |
| They are big pillows comfortable enough for your partner or bubs to rest upon |
High Risk of developing Breast Cancer |
| They are vessels that help life thrive through the production of milk after pregnancy |
Exercising can be painful especially high intensity without the correct support |
| Your hugs are probably amazing |
It is almost impossible to NOT wear a bra |
| They enhance your appearance in the correct bra and outfit |
They get in the way of everything, including getting a restful night sleep |
| Bonus storage for hairclips or loose coins |
Breastfeeding or having a period can increase sensitivity, tenderness and possible pain |
| Apparently, there is science suggesting that women with bigger boobs will have higher IQ’s and a higher fertility rate |
You can get rashes due to excess sweating, particularly in warmer weather or when exercising |
These lists can be endless depending on your size, but there are many ways in which you can support and make your life easier, but the best way to do this is by having correct and supportive plus size bras.
Lingerie Sizing in Australia
In Australia the intimate apparel market is continually growing and evolving, but unfortunately many big brand stores do not offer extended size ranges for those seeking plus size bras. Those who work in the fashion sector know that Australian Sizing Standards are all over the place, this is because there is NO standard sizing for Australian adults. Having no standards for sizing makes it even more difficult for those who relate to being curvy or plus size that are seeking suitable and comfortable lingerie options.
Classically anyone from a size 8-14 with A-E cups may not experience too many issues whilst out bra shopping. For those with bigger breasts, finding a suitable and supportive plus size bra can be impossible in a physical store.
Have a look at this chart for comparison. Below I have selected 2 big brand bricks and mortar retailers and analysed their sizing chart against that of B Free Australia for sizes 18-26 D-H cup. Both are popular mid-priced retailers.
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SIZE 18 AUS/40 UK |
||||||
|
Company |
D cup |
DD cup |
E cup |
F cup |
G cup |
H cup |
|
Company A |
108-110 cm |
110-112 cm |
112-114 cm |
114-116 cm |
X |
X |
|
Company B |
108-110 cm |
110-112 cm |
112-114 cm |
114-116 cm |
116-118 cm |
118-120 cm |
|
BFREE |
108-110 cm |
110-112 cm |
112-114 cm |
114-116 cm |
116-118 cm |
120-122 cm |
|
SIZE 20 AUS/42 UK |
||||||
|
Company |
D cup |
DD cup |
E cup |
F cup |
G cup |
H cup |
|
Company A |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Company B |
113-115 cm |
115-117 cm |
117-119 cm |
119-121 cm |
121-123 cm |
123-125 cm |
|
BFREE |
113-115 cm |
115-117 cm |
117-119 cm |
119-121 cm |
121-123 cm |
125-127 cm |
|
SIZE 22 AUS /44 UK |
||||||
|
Company |
D cup |
DD cup |
E cup |
F cup |
G cup |
H cup |
|
Company A |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Company B |
118-120 cm |
120-122 cm |
122-124 cm |
124-126 cm |
126-128 cm |
128-130 cm |
|
BFREE |
118-120 cm |
120-122 cm |
122-124 cm |
124-126 cm |
126-128 cm |
130-132 cm |
|
SIZE 24 AUS/46 UK |
||||||
|
Company |
D cup |
DD cup |
E cup |
F cup |
G cup |
H cup |
|
Company A |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Company B |
123-125 cm |
125-127 cm |
127-129 cm |
129-131 cm |
131-133 cm |
133-135 cm |
|
BFREE |
123-125 cm |
125-127 cm |
127-129 cm |
129-131 cm |
131-133 cm |
133-135 cm |
|
SIZE 26 AUS/48 UK |
||||||
|
Company |
D cup |
DD cup |
E cup |
F cup |
G cup |
H cup |
|
Company A |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Company B |
128-130 cm |
130-132 cm |
132-134 cm |
134-136 cm |
136-138 cm |
138-140 cm |
|
BFREE |
128-130 cm |
130-132 cm |
132-134 cm |
134-136 cm |
136-138 cm |
138-140 cm |
As you can see from this comparison, Company A only offers up to an 18F in their line of lingerie which easily eliminates many bigger sized women/girls who are seeking plus size bra options. Whilst Company B offer support for women up to a size 26H. Their measurements may differ slightly in places against the B Free Australia range, but this does not factor in that they only offer these sizing’s in 2 of their core ranges thus limiting options for plus size customers.
What Role Does B Free Australia Play?
B Free Australia may be an online retailer, but with over 10 years’ experience in the industry and our owner’s extensive knowledge of the fashion industry we can confidently cater to females of all ages and sizes. Our range is extensive and continues to grow so we can continue to provide quality comfortable lingerie at affordable prices. Our pieces are developed based on customer feedback and reviews which keeps them up to date with the continuous growth of women in the Australian population.
Size inclusivity in Australia is presently minimal and women who have a curvier or larger body shape or sizes struggle to find clothing and lingerie that fit comfortably and beautifully. B Free wants to embrace the natural beauty of women/girls/those who identify as women so that every single one of them feels confident and beautiful enough to flaunt their bodies regardless of shape or size.
Being comfortable is a natural feeling, that is why we have a vast range of bamboo and cotton products that allow for comfort and breathability, as well as having products that can enhance our assets and encourage that feminine energy to soar.
For our bigger busted friends, our size range is inclusive as we offer large plus size bras that are comfortable and wire free. As seen above we cater to size 26H, which many other big-branded retailers do not.
Now here is the best bit – the reviews. I trialed a range of different plus size bras that B Free offers ranging from soft lounge about types, everyday wire free bras, to a plus size sports bra. The extensive size range is curvy friendly. Before I start the reviews, here are my measurements for reference.
My Bust Measurements
Here are my initial measurements before trying the products on for size.
Under bust circumference: 88cm
Full Bust circumference: 108cm
Bra Size: 16E/F
T-Shirt size: Large/16
I went with my gut feeling on sizing, but also re-sized myself with a tape measure to make sure I got the correct fit and then checked against the B Free size charts.
Full Bust Wire Free Bamboo Bra
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This was the first bra I initially tried on in the sizing stage and I was really impressed. It was soft and stretchy, and the band sat comfortably on my under bust. I had no gaping or spillage in the front, sides or back. My only small qualm is that compared to the softness of the bamboo the straps were a tad itchy. After washing the straps were softer, and the bamboo was too. I chose to wear the pads in this one for this review but I will give it a go without in the future as well to see how it is.
I decided to give this one two test runs as I usually wear crop tops for support, rather than a bra. On the first day I wore it for a slow day at home. It kept me comfortable and supported, but I did find that my breasts kept slipping into the band. This is why I gave it a second run.
The second wear was much better. Upon talking with my colleagues I decided to tighten both the straps and the clips to provide myself with a closer fit to my underbust. Making these small changes was the perfect fix to stop myself from moving around excessively.
All day I was comfortable and supported after these slight adjustments. I don’t really wear bras but this one is such a wonderful one to wear as nothing digs in, there is no underwire. It is ideal for anyone of any size at any stage of life. If I had multiple I would look at wearing it a few times a week or on days where I need to wear a bra but don’t want to.
For me, this is a BFree staple bra that everyone should have in their wardrobe. It is the ultimate comfort that we all need in our lives.
BONUS: The padding is completely removable, comes in a large range of colours AND also comes in a maternity/nursing style!
Click here for the breastfeeding version of the bamboo bra!
Size Bought: M/L: 14-16 (E-H cup)
Rating: ★★★★☆
Minimiser Wire Free Bra
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The minimiser bra was one of the ones I was interested in trying and upon putting it on for the initial sizing I was pleasantly surprised and happy at how soft and comfortable it is. It sits super comfortably on my body and smooths out my sides under my arms. It also sits low on the back, which immediately makes me feel like I am not being suffocated or restrained by it. It flattens off the chest ever so slightly, minimising my bust (as it is created to do). Everything sits naturally which is so wonderful!
Like the bamboo bra I wore this one twice, and well, it is my favourite everyday comfort bra.
Unlike the bamboo I did feel like this was a better comfort option for me. Yes, it is a soft cup and does not have padding BUT for myself this isn’t a big deal.
I wore it for 2 different days at work. My 1st day was sitting at my desk and the 2nd was working in the warehouse fulfilling customer orders. Regardless of the situation I was equally as comfortable! No cutting in, no digging in, no itching, no needing to readjust myself or make sure I wasn’t falling out anywhere. Super honestly, I don’t have any faults with this one.
Really really love this one! I definitely recommend it for someone wanting some soft everyday support without padding. There are so many sizes and colours to choose from as well.
Oh and it is also available in a non-lace version here!
Size Bought: L/XL: 14-16 (C-F cup)
Rating: ★★★★★
Double Racer Seamless Padded Sports Bra
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This was one of my first trial products after joining the team, being a larger bust within the company was something they didn’t have, so getting an opinion on a new product from someone with a larger bust really helped the decision on sizing.
I have worn this a few times now, in a few different settings: the gym, every day and to my weekly sport of choice: Tenpin Bowling. Each time I have worn the bra with the optional padding.
Upon initial sizing this was a perfect fit, and I was really surprised at the amount of support it provided immediately. It basically is two sports bras in one, providing seamless comfort.
For me personally, if I were to use this for high impact sports my trusty extreme sports bra will be adorned underneath, but on its lonesome it is fantastic for low to medium impact, like weights and walking, even yoga and pilates. The removable padded cups are a bonus, so if you choose to layer underneath like me you can take them out.
This bra moves with your body, I did find sometimes my breasts fall into the band as my body shifts during the day, but never so far as to completely fall out. I don’t mind the movement, but the smaller size may be too small for me in this style. Like the others I will continue to also wear this one.
Size Bought: L/XL: 16-18 (B-F cup)
Rating: ★★★★☆
Mesh Racer Long Line Padded Sports Bra
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I was really looking forward to this one and it did not disappoint on support during initial sizing. As the sizing for this one is different, I opted for the XL which is true to my measurements. The support is amazing, so much so it took a bit of effort to get on and off which I assume will decrease with general wear.
This has a fantastic amount of support for what it is. For larger sized busts I would say that this is medium support for low impact cardio like spin class, weightlifting etc. I wore this to the gym for a heavy arm session and honestly, I kind of loved it. It sits comfortably and holds everything in. Provides support and it barely shifted. BUT inevitably, as I have a bit of a belly it did roll up a little bit but most sports crop tops do that to me anyway, it isn’t a massive deal breaker. I wore it without the padding, and this is how I will continue to wear it.
This one will get a lot of wear in my books, as it is slick and smoothing, especially in black. I want to rate it perfect BUT as per any sports bra sometimes the effort of putting it on and taking it off can be a bit of a task.
It is available in 3 colours: black, blush and blue violet.
And a new maternity version has just been launched as well, check it out here!
Size Bought: XL: 14-16 (B-F cup)
Rating: ★★★★☆
High Back Pull on Crop Top
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Lastly on my list this is bad boy. Looks can be deceiving with this one. It doesn’t seem like much but if you order the correct size correlating to your measurements you will be surprised. It is tight, but really STRETCHY and once you get it on it let's everything just sit naturally and comfortably. I only have one of these so I can’t vouch for wearing multiple and upping the amount of support you can get, but the support I got was great for taking the edge off. Most of us bigger ladies know how heavy our breasts can get, this alleviates this enough to provide comfort and support.
I wore this at home on a lazy day around the house, doing some cleaning and relaxing, it was perfect for that. I would not wear this as a daily bra, but more of a lounging around support (as I did), and I think it would be great to wear to bed in the summer. As it is mostly seam free, has no tags or labels there is nothing to irk or irritate which is ideal for those who may have sensitive skin. It DOES roll a bit due to my belly, but once again, not a deal breaker.
This isn’t usually something I go for, but I generally liked it and it provided enough support and comfort. Will definitely be wearing this one again, and would look at opting for an additional one for even more support down the line.
Size Bought: XL: 14-16 (B-F cup)
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Cotton Pull On Sleep Bra
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This bra was a last minute addition to my collection. Typically I do not wear bras to bed, the only time I would wear anything remotely close to a bra to bed is either if I can’t be bothered to take it off OR it is stinking hot and a bra is better than nothing.
This bra is a mixture of cotton and nylon/elastane with a really pretty lace trim on the neckline. The lace for some can be a bit annoying or irritable but like the minimiser, for me I couldn’t feel it impacting my wear. It is super lightweight and the nude and white are on the sheer side due to this, but as it is a sleep bra this does not impact the wear too much. If you are a little conscious of this, I would opt for the black in this style.
I wore this to bed with a t-shirt and a jumper, so it wasn’t trialed alone. It was nice and light, didn’t move during the night and kept everything in its place. I am a bit of a wriggle worm in my sleep, so for this to stay in place is nothing short of a miracle. This may have been because I had additional layers on top, but it may differ between people.
I like this one, but I don’t love it! Only because it is something I wouldn’t gravitate toward.
Size Bought: L/XL: 16-18 (B-E Cup)
Rating: ★★★☆☆
My reviews are some of many that women from all over Australia write and post on our website, and whilst others may have completely different opinions and thoughts about any of the products above, I encourage you to give them a go yourself. Reviews are great for re-assurance but wearing the products and formulating your own opinion is what matters the most.
If you need any size or style advice, please feel free to contact our Customer Service team who are ready to find your perfect fit. You can call us on 03 9887 0471 or contact us via live chat on our website. Available from Monday to Friday 9am til 5pm AEST/AEDST.
WE are here to help YOU feel confident, beautiful and comfortable!