Easier Ways To Put On A Bra

I’ve written before about how to put on a bra – catch that post here if you missed it – but what if those methods don’t quite work for you? There are lots of reasons you might have trouble putting on or doing up your bra. Whether you’re struggling with flexibility or dexterity issues, arthritis, chronic pain, or an injury, here are some easier ways to put on a bra.

The Meggie Magnetic Front Closure bra, by Anita

Choose new bras strategically.

Buying a slightly different size than what’s technically “correct” can give you the wiggle room you might need to do up your bra at the back, or to spin it around your body after doing it up at the front. (Remember, the right bra size is really just whatever size works for you.) You might also keep an eye out for bras with fewer hooks at the back, if getting them all clasped is tough for you. This can be tricky in very full sizes, since a wider band with more hooks is usually there for extra support, but ask your fitter about it anyway!

Another option is a front-closure bra. Most bras do up at the back because the fit is more customizable that way: as the band stretches out, you can fasten it on a tighter set of hooks. But front closure bras definitely have their place! There’s no twisting and reaching, and no missing hooks because you can’t see what you’re doing. Some front closure bras, like Anita’s Meggie, even ditch hooks altogether in favour of magnets. This is especially great if tiny hook-and-eye clasps are a challenge for your fingers.

Try extenders.

Extenders are just what they sound like: an extension of the bra band. You can get these extra pieces in pretty much any hook configuration, and they’re reliably available in black or beige to keep the basics covered. Extenders are handy for bras you already own that just need a slight tweak to be comfy and functional. (For example, if the cups fit well but the band is a smidge snug for you to fasten it comfortably.)

There are also magnetic extenders. These are cool because they come with two pieces: one to attach to each side of your bra band, with a magnet on each. These are less for lengthening the band and more for ease of use. Instead of fiddling with hooks, all you have to do is get the magnets close enough to *snap* into place and you’re good to go! We heard about these from one of our lovely Broads, who gets her magnetic extenders at Fabricland. Note that these seem to be easiest to find with 2 or 3 hooks, so they’ll work best with those types of bra bands.

It’s all about finding what works for your body. If you’re not sure where to start, tell your fitter what’s up! You’re never the first or the only one to need help.