The Bra Fitter Diaries: When Fancy Underthings Aren’t Your Thing

I have to admit, some of my best days at Broad are delivery days. Unpacking an order of new bras can be such a thrill! I get a particular kick out of the lacier pieces – a bit of frill and fuss really brightens my day, and I know many of our clients share the feeling. I also know that a lot of our other clients (and bra-wearing folks in general) are happier to skip the frills and opt for something simpler and more streamlined. A more basic, functional kind of bra. If this describes your ideal, you have options too! And it doesn’t have to be all sports bras all the time. Here are a few of our favourites in this category:

Bijou, by Elomi

Ah, Bijou. Smooth cups that totally disappear under clothes, easily convertible straps, and a plunge fit for your favourite v-neck…what’s not to love? Well, if you’re looking for basic, the bows might put you off. Don’t let them! They’re easily removed, and we’re happy to do that for you before you even leave the store. (We can often do this with other embellishments too, so if there’s a bra you like except for that gem or ribbon or bell or whistle, let us know.)

Rebecca, by Fantasie

This is another great smooth bra, with fuller coverage and a bit of a lighter cup than Bijou. That’s thanks to the spacer foam, which has tiny air pockets that can make wearing Rebecca feel a little like wearing an extremely supportive cloud. This bra also offers a slightly minimized shape, if that’s your jam, making your chest appear smaller from the side. And the embroidery details are sort of a geometric pattern – a nice twist on the traditional floral.

Energise, by Elomi, & Momentum, by Anita

Okay, I know what I just said about sports bras, but these two had to make the list. They’re both super popular as everyday bras, so don’t read “sports” on the tag and write them off as gym wear. Energise (below, left) doesn’t even look like a sports bra! Just clean lines, fantastic support, and convertible straps. And Momentum’s a great choice if you’re more comfortable going wirefree – soft on your body, but serious when it comes to support.

Basic Beauty, by Wacoal

You might be looking at all those pictures and thinking, “Uh, Shavaun…these are great and all, but that sure is a lot of black and beige.” I hear you, and this fun purple number is just for you! The Basic Beauty is made of spacer foam, so you get the cloud-like effect of Rebecca with a little more pizazz. This colour is what’s called “fashion,” meaning that only a limited amount were made, but keep an eye out for other exciting shades in the future. And if the purple’s calling to you, come check it out sooner than later!

If you know Broad, you know that we believe that buying a big bra doesn’t have to be a big deal. Buying a basic bra shouldn’t be either! Everyone deserves a bra that fits their body and their style.