The Best Bras For Women Over 50

Tell us a little bit about how ThirdLove was started.

Women are often given the choice between 2 terrible options when it comes to bras. Be sexy, or be comfortable. We created ThirdLove as a third option, where a woman wouldn’t need to choose and could have all that and more from a brand.

ThirdLove’s mission is to help women feel comfortable and confident in their everyday lives by offering high quality products that are built with their needs in mind. We have over 80 sizes, and invented half-cups so for many women this is the first time in their lives that they have a bra that actually fits.

Great products are one aspect, but taking the pain out of bra shopping is another. No one wants to go to the store and get measured in a cold dressing room (especially not during Covid!). Our online quiz helps women find their fit when it’s convenient for them and it only takes a few minutes.

How do you find the best fit and the best size?

There are 2 equally important factors that determine a great fit; finding the right size and the right style. Certain cup types are more flattering on some women than others, so finding the style that will flatter your shape is key. I recommend taking our Fit FinderⓇ Quiz, which over 18 million have used to date! Through a series of questions, we’re able to recreate the bra fitting experience virtually. In addition to recommending one of our 80 sizes, including half-cups, we’ll also recommend styles that will flatter your unique shape. 

Since our bodies are changing quite a bit now how often should you check your fit?

You know your body. Anytime you are experiencing a change is a good time to check in on your bra fit. It could be surgery, weight loss or gain, loss of breast density or just generally feeling uncomfortable in a fit that used to feel fine. 

What can you do about back fat?

All bras are not created equal. Look for styles that have double or triple layers of fabric on the back. Check for a wider hook and eye, which usually means the back will be wider. Skip styles that have exposed elastic as that often digs into the skin. Try our Classic T-Shirt or Perfect Coverage. The elastic is sandwiched in between fabric to prevent dig in.

What is the best way to get a smooth look?

Getting a bra that fits! If you’re wearing the wrong size or wearing a bra style that’s too skimpy, you’ll never have the coverage and smoothing effect that you crave. If you’re under a D cup, a full coverage lounge bra might do the trick, but if you need more support, a wired bra with a smoothing back is the best option. We’re launching our Full Coverage Lounge Bra next month!

Is there a way to wear a wireless bra and get support?

Yes, our Pima Cotton Wireless gives support similar to a wired bra but it’s important to know it will never be exactly the same as a wired bra. For example, depending on the breast shape and size, your breast may spread out a bit more when not wearing a wire. It all depends on what your priority is.

We also have a question about post-cancer bras. What should we wear?

It’s often recommended for a year post surgery to not wear a wired bra, and sometimes even longer than that. While we don’t offer bras that hold prosthetics yet, we currently have our Pima Cotton Wireless and are launching a collection of wireless, no seam lounge bras that are perfect for post surgery.

Shop our favorite ThirdLove bras below:

All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.