Realty check - body image [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

LBTC

09-16-2007, 01:33 PM

Veronica

09-16-2007, 02:11 PM

I just refuse to shop in a store period. I do everything on line. Seriously, I hate to shop. I think it's because I don't like people. If I could just have the store all to myself...

I assume my bras fit properly. They are mediums from Patagonia.

It's been a tough 14 months for you. Logically you know why you're not in the place you want to be. But emotionally, it's hard to take. I think it's hard for women to separate what we look like from who we are inside. Men always seem to think they're hot, even with the huge beer gut and the hairy back.

If it were me, I wouldn't buy the bra, unless the ones I had were terrible. You're working on getting back in shape. It won't fit in a few months. :)

Sending those hugs and butterflies right back at ya.

V.

BleeckerSt_Girl

09-16-2007, 02:12 PM

This is pretty conflicting. I hate to spend $155 on a great new bra that actually fits when I'm just beginning to get back into shape. I don't know what to think of the extra size in those cups :rolleyes: And, of course, DH has no idea why this is an odd and difficult time for me and how I feel about my body.

Anyone else find bra shopping difficult, unfun and sometimes terrible for body image?

I've never spent more than $20 or so on a bra (Underarmour sports bra), with the average price I pay being about $12 or 15.... so I think it doesn't bother me much if I have to buy a different size or style bra every other year or so. I think if I spent $155 on a bra it would KILL me to have to go buy a different size one before it fell apart and I got my "money's worth" out of it! ;)
I am not very big on top so maybe I can get away with buying less expensive bras? :confused:

KnottedYet

09-16-2007, 02:20 PM

A well-fitting bra can be the key to serenity...

(bras drive me nuts for the most part)

$155 for a bra is a little beyond me, though.

Nordstrom does fittings, and I bought a bra there when I truly didn't know my size. I walked in, grabbed the first clerk I saw, and said, "I've lost 50 pounds, I have no idea what size I am, and I only want to buy ONE bra today."

She sized me and found one that fit me perfectly, cost $35 or so, and I still have it and wear it to this day.

Title 9 also does fittings (if you know your size you can order online) and they did a great job with both Trek420 and I. I just bought an expensive bra ($50) from them, which fits me very well and is very comfy.

(I have funny shoulder issues from my cancer surgery, so I don't mind spending some $$ on bras that feel good.)

Grog

09-16-2007, 02:37 PM

I come out of the closet :p as one who likes very well-fitted bras, despite (or because) of my 34A(or AA, thanks to cycling and running...)-sized chest. Little I have, I like to be have wrapped in a pretty AND comfortable bra.

I LOVE going to an actual lingerie store with a true professional attendant who will size me properly. There is a very nice store right next to a good bike shop here in Vancouver: you can get fitted on your bike on one side, and in a nice bra on the other. :D Both are equally important to me!

I find that, for body-image purposes, it's better to have great clothes that fit you NOW than to have clothes that you hope will fit you well in the future. That way, when you look at yourself, you can say 'Wow' and not be constantly reminded that you're not the size you'd like to be. No matter what size you are, you are gorgeous, and your clothes should emphasize that (but not steal the show).

Plus: Too-tight bras create an "overflow" problem that shows through clothing, especially buttoned shirts (not so much for heavy sweaters of course). What is the purpose of getting nice suits if the base layer is neglected?

Properly fitted underwear does a lot for my self-confidence. I really hate having to pull at a too big/small piece of underwear as I walk to the front of a room to give a talk. It's not that important to look good, but I find that it's a great confidence-booster in critical moments.

Nice, well-fitted bras are not necessarily that expensive. I'm sure your friend can help you find something good in the $50 range, and, if not, visit a good lingerie store. Those that have been around for a while usually have lots of older models in the backstore, organized by size. They're the best!

And if you come around Vancouver soon, I'll gladly take you bra-shopping!!!! :D

solobiker

09-16-2007, 04:53 PM

I hate to shop, just like V. I just don't like to be around crowds of people. I work with people all week so the last place I want to be is surrounded by more. I would rather be outside, so I opt for spending no more then $25. I have a very hard time buying clothing (other then outdoor/sport clothing) for myself. However, if it fits well and makes you feel better then it is worth it.

Aggie_Ama

09-16-2007, 04:58 PM

I hate to shop! In the last year I have put on 20 pounds mostly due to stress eating and not coping with it well. I feel pretty upset about it. This weekend I wanted to get some board shorts and found the XLs wouldn't fit me. I am only 150 right now, so I am not be any means large. You know what is does for you when an XL won't fit your hips? The shops on the island only sold Juniors and then the cover ups that remind me of my grandma. Didn't know I had been force out of anything I would wear. So yes, I feel your pain.

solobiker

09-16-2007, 05:03 PM

I too have gained some weight due to stess eating and my bras seem tighter. I hope to be able to drop those 10 pounds I gained during my 5 moves I did this past year. I am also way too shy to have a "fit" I did it once and that was more then enough for me. I still wear T-shirts over my bathing suit:eek:

Triskeliongirl

09-16-2007, 05:12 PM

My suggestion is to buy clothes that you love and that fit you NOW, but don't buy very many and don't spend that much money on a single bra. I buy mine at victoria's secret, and even not on sale they don't cost anything like that much.

I lost 29 lbs over the last 6 months, and since I am still losing I have also been faced with this problem. Everytime I am a new size, I buy a single pair of jeans I love, with enough tops that fit that I don't go crazy doing laundry. Then I buy wrap around skirts that are very adjustable so I can wear them through several sizes. I started a 12 and am now a 6. Not sure if I am going to stabilize at a 6 or 4, so I am still shopping cautiously. I did buy 3 cycling outfits that fit and that I love, and I just wash them out frequently.

jusdooit

09-16-2007, 06:03 PM

I guess I'll stop complaining about the cost of my bras! Really,that is VERY expensive. It pained me the first time I broke down and admitted I needed to be professionally fitted. I am very jealous of you ladies who can get away with buying $15-20 bras. An average bra for me costs about $50 a piece. It's impossible to find a 34DDD in anything cheaper. Sometimes I get lucky and catch them on sale. I suggest you keep shopping around until you can get one for a little less. To be quite honest a 34D or 34DD should not be as difficult to find at a high end department store. I do not recommend just making do, a well fitted bra is an absolute necessity.
As for your body image...........keep doing what it takes to get yourself into better shape. Not to be discouraging but a 20 lb weight loss for me resulted in only a change of one cup size, 38 to 34 band, but FFF to DDD in cup.

mimitabby

09-16-2007, 06:38 PM

hehehe talk about unanimous.

I have nothing to add here except that i detest shopping for bras too. I was at my wit's end again as the last bras I had foundered and even though I know my size, i couldn't find one I wanted.

Then Queen popped on here sometime and says "I always buy these" so just for the heck of it, i bought two pairs (under 20 bucks) and i like them just fine.
and when they wear out, I'll probably go through it all again.

northstar

09-16-2007, 06:39 PM

I find that, for body-image purposes, it's better to have great clothes that fit you NOW than to have clothes that you hope will fit you well in the future.

I second this.

I've done it two ways: clung to clothes that were the size I've wanted to be, and I've also donated them and gone shopping when I've lost weight. The latter has been a happier option for me. :) The guilt of seeing the stuff in the closet didn't help motivate me. :(

I think that's a lot to spend on any item of clothing, but then when I think about it, I spend that much on a biking shirt and shorts that I won't be wearing several times a week (depending on how good you are about doing laundry!). So, if it's a fabulous bra, maybe it's not all that much. All depends on perspective, I guess!

Laterider21958

09-16-2007, 11:36 PM

Shopping for bras is a pet hate of mine. For about 6 years or more I've been buying the same ones (sometimes in black/cream/pink) however last year they were discontinued!!!!!! I am currently cherishing the good ones I still have. By 'good ones' I mean those that still have elastic that works well. When the elastic gives up the ghost, they are very uncomfortable and very tiring to wear and I can't wait to rip them off at the end of the day.

I must have tried 30 or 40 different brands/styles/sizes since discovering that my old faithfuls cannot be replaced, but to no avail. What do you do with those fleshy wobbly bits under your arms that insist on bulging out? (Other than drastic dieting!) It's amazing how they always look OK on the hanger, but are atrocious when put on. I've also noticed that lots of cups are fortified by foam, which changes the shape of your boobs totally. There's the Madonna look (when you end up with pointed parts and then the voluptuous look (where your boobs are in danger of greeting you every time you bend over). I prefer a natural shape rather than a pushed up top, flattened lower area. You also can't just go by the sizing on the label, you have to try them on.

If ever I find ones that are comfortable and look natural, I'll stock up big time!

lph

09-16-2007, 11:59 PM

This is funny - I like my body just fine, and most of the time I'm darn proud of it, actually ;) but I HATE shopping for clothes too. There's something about the combo of shop lighting, full-length mirrors and the gaggles of skinny 14-year-olds swarming right outside your flimsy curtain that will make any sane woman feel fat, pale, spotty and hairy.

And bras er the worst. I'm an A-cup, (actually an AA-cup, but that leaves me with the padded foam Snoopy bras) and have only managed to find one model from Triumph at a reasonable price that doesn't make me look like I'm borrowing my mother's underwear.

I wish I could just wear sports bras - everybody's flatchested then! :D

My beloved dh knows how much I hate to shop, so when he gets sick of seeing me in the same clothes he'll sometimes go shopping for me, bring home a bunch of clothes (checking the size on himself, he's not much taller (no, not bras)), and return the ones I don't want.... I really don't deserve this man. :)

spokewench

09-17-2007, 05:41 AM

Buy a bra that fits right now! But I wouldn't spend $155 for it. You were fitted so you should know how they are supposed to fit now Go to a reputable store and buy a decent brand of bra that fits you now. You will really appreciate it. I did this a year or so ago and am very happy about it and, yes, even though I am really not overweight, I do wear a larger bra size that I was before and it soooo much more comfortable and flattering under my clothes which in turn makes me feel better. Then as your size goes down as you get fitter - go buy another bra or two - you are definitely worth it!

LBTC

09-17-2007, 06:10 AM

Wow! I think good bras are much less expensive in the US! I must have tried on 15 bras in this little independent store, the cheapest of which was $80, the most expensive was $180. It made the price of the one I bought (yes, I did buy it - it worked very well with the low cut top for the alpha b**ch outfit) seem not terrible. And, yes, now that I know my size and the finer points of a good fit, I will visit a lower end store to buy one or two less expensive, well fitting bras. At least one of those will be microfibre. Too bad their microfibre bra was in the wrong colour.

I think one of the things that is weird about this larger cup size issue, is that it really emphasizes that I *must* have a well fitting bra all of the time. These girls need support! It's a bitter sweet feeling. For years I was quite a bit on the small side, and my perception of myself hasn't changed since then! How strange to be a woman!

My DH has been wonderful through all of this, wanting me to upgrade my wardrobe to help me feel better about me. This is a fabulous thing! And the clothes shopping really helped to make up for the high cost of the bra. A pair of suede and leather shoes, a belt, 3 skirts (one in leather) 3 tops and a suede jacket for $225. Still more money than I usually spend, but I think I did well.

Today I'll be wearing the fab new bra, one of the skirts and the shoes, with an old favourite blouse. I'll keep you posted.

Thank you for the encouragement, support and reminders to be gentle with me! And especially for the great stories of how unpleasant shopping can be! I feel like I'm not alone!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

emily_in_nc

09-17-2007, 06:28 AM

Triskeliongirl

09-17-2007, 08:14 AM

Body by Victoria bras are the best IMO. They're pricy (to frugal me) at ~$40 depending on style, but they're sleek, pretty, and do the job. I don't wear a large size so can't comment on how well they work in larger sizes, but I know that they come in "full coverage" versions as well as the demi style I wear (34B). Pretty colors too!

Good luck!
Emily

I secnd that. I buy the full coverage version. Been buying 36C but now they are on the smallest hook so I think I am headed towards a 34C. They are $40 new, but often go on sale. I think I paid half that at their last 'semi-annual' sale. They are good fitting and really seem to last. Is it possible for you to mail order them (useing the size chart).

smilingcat

09-17-2007, 08:14 AM

HURRRAAYYY!!!! THEIR ARE OTHERS OUT THERE WHO HATE SHOPPING!!!

I get so self conscious. My common sense goes out the door. I know I need to look profession cause of my job. (Mr. Silver in his suit/tie and bike short was really wonderful). But what does a professional serious woman supposed to wear? I don't want to look like an never married old spinster grade school teacher. Nor do I want to look anything like Pamela Anderson (I don't have her boobies), nor any of the girls who are headlining all those tabloid rags aka Brittney and company.

I wouldn't mind having the kind of Audrey Hepbourn-nesque look but seriously who has such anorexic look. :confused: :confused: :confused:

As one of my close friend who also hates to shop said, "I was traumatized growing up. My mother would yell out we need a chubby size 12!!!" Afterwards, here honey have a cookie. It will make you feel better.

Speaking of which, I need to redo my wardrobe cause nothin' is fitting. Haven't cloth shopped for a whole year.

Smilingcat

kdskaggs

09-17-2007, 10:46 AM

I am tiny person with tiny boobs to match. What I once had is now gone after nursing my now teen-age kids. Bra and bathing suit shopping are enough to put me in a depression! I hate bra shopping! I have been measured a few times and it is so embarrasing to be told you are a 32A! :O I find a bra I like and then order it online when I need more. In this day of breast implants, it doesn't seem like there are many 32A's left, at least not many over the age of 12. :(

Kenda

BleeckerSt_Girl

09-17-2007, 12:28 PM

Kenda, I think there are PLENTY of natural A cup women out there...and plenty smaller too.

In my twenties I was a 34AA (all the way through breastfeeding two children for 3 years, too). Then at about 35 I became a 34A. Now in my 50's I'm a 36A. I don't feel too small at all! Maybe you are seeing a lot of A cup women wearing padded and pushup bras nowadays and they just look bigger- those bras are everywhere, and they do make one look bigger.
(remember the "36" is just the measurement around your ribcage, under your boobs. The "A", "B", "DD" etc is the actual cup size.)

I think the huge perky rock-hard grapefruit look is what we see everywhere in magazines, on the internet, in the movies... It's NOT what most women look like naturally....not by a long shot. Unless you are nursing a baby and are painfully engorged with milk- breasts are supposed to be soft and hang on the body in a natural graceful way. And natural breasts don't have cleavage on TOP when one is just standing naked. :eek: :rolleyes: Natural breasts are beautiful, whether large or small, yet we are bombarded (boobarded?) with the promotion of structurally altered fakeness geared towards making us feel less beautiful about our own bodies. :mad:

Sorry....couldn't help a little rant.... :o

Trek420

09-17-2007, 12:59 PM

Title 9 also does fittings (if you know your size you can order online) and they did a great job with both Trek420 and I.

I hate to shop. But the Title 9 shopping experience was really quite good. I used to get whatever Primalwear uniboob producing thing I could fit the gals into :rolleyes:

Knott's right. The key to nirvana is a bra that fits :rolleyes:

One trip to T 9 now I know what fits and just as important which ones I like. Then bought online at Sierra Trading Post etc.

But $155? :eek: :confused: :eek: :confused: For that price it'd better hold 'em up, pedal your bike, cook dinner, built in back massager....

kaybee

09-17-2007, 01:09 PM

Not sure which I hate more -- bra shopping or shoe shopping. Small chest + big feet = unpleasant shopping experience :(

KB

Eden

09-17-2007, 01:19 PM

$155!! wowza, I balk at $15.......
but I am another 32A, so I look for minimal support and lots of comfort.
I prefer sports bras and I've really become a big, big fan of camisols recently. sooooooooo comfy

teigyr

09-17-2007, 01:56 PM

I can relate to body image because sometimes aging is not kind. I stagger a bit and think "but...but...I've always been <insert size here>!".

It's humiliating. I do agree that things that fit are the best. Unfortunately I'm bad at that also, I balk at going up a size. I've had to swallow my pride though and do it and I honestly think we are harder on ourselves than others are to us.

I like bras. It's a relatively inexpensive way to (but not at $155! :eek: ) play and have fun. Same goes for undergarments in general, you can get any color and get all wild but nobody knows the difference. I'm not 100% impressed with VS in some things but they are good for others.

The most absolute worst thing (that I will share because I have no shame) is I had to get old/large people "support" undies to fit under pants I have. I got 'em. They looked SO heavy duty and were tri short configuration. (Had previously been wearing tri shorts under these pants because the pants show lines really easily.) I was running late and had to dress "professionally" so on went the support granny panties. They shredded. I kid you not, the first time I wore them I shredded underwear meant for large women that were trying to fit into smaller clothes. I was mortified. How many people can say they broke a girdle type undergarment?

Everyone assures me there was a defect. I am not convinced :o

KSH

09-17-2007, 02:01 PM

Grog

09-17-2007, 02:26 PM

I think the huge perky rock-hard grapefruit look is what we see everywhere in magazines, on the internet, in the movies... It's NOT what most women look like naturally....not by a long shot. Unless you are nursing a baby and are painfully engorged with milk- breasts are supposed to be soft and hang on the body in a natural graceful way. And natural breasts don't have cleavage on TOP when one is just standing naked. :eek: :rolleyes: Natural breasts are beautiful, whether large or small, yet we are bombarded (boobarded?) with the promotion of structurally altered fakeness geared towards making us feel less beautiful about our own bodies. :mad:

Just to add to your rant: I am about 34A/AA and I actually really like being like that. However it's nearly impossible to get a bra that has no padding in that size. It's assumed that I'd want to show more than I have. I find this really annoying. The only option otherwise is the flat-chesting sport bra. And when I find a non-padded 34A, it's usually not really well constructed. *sigh*

BleeckerSt_Girl

09-17-2007, 02:31 PM

...I was running late and had to dress "professionally" so on went the support granny panties. They shredded. I kid you not, the first time I wore them I shredded underwear meant for large women that were trying to fit into smaller clothes. I was mortified. How many people can say they broke a girdle type undergarment?
Everyone assures me there was a defect. I am not convinced :o

Hey maybe they were those special edible underwear, some sort of "cole slaw" variety? Maybe they were "supposed" to shred? :o

Eden

09-17-2007, 02:37 PM

Just to add to your rant: I am about 34A/AA and I actually really like being like that. However it's nearly impossible to get a bra that has no padding in that size. It's assumed that I'd want to show more than I have. I find this really annoying. The only option otherwise is the flat-chesting sport bra. And when I find a non-padded 34A, it's usually not really well constructed. *sigh*

My favorites are the "Barely There" brand - I like a bit of support, but I won't buy a bra with padding or wires in it. Of course they don't even call things by this description bras... they call them bralets.... http://www.barelythere.com/style.asp?cid=4&id=33
Love their cami's too

mary9761

09-17-2007, 02:38 PM

I hate my body, have for a long time and the longer I'm off the bike, the more I hate it and the more I want to eat (vicious circle) I have NEVER had a bra that fit and the ones I have right now are ill fitting 50DDD that are near impossible to find. I don't have 50-155 to spend on a single bra, but even when I buy a bra it may fit ok once or twice then the support starts to break down under the weight of my sagging behemoths. Even having lost weight they are a pain in the (fill in the blank). Since I've lost weight, they are saggier than ever. This is one of the first places I gain weight and last I lose, but the weight I lost has only made my body image worse in this case. They are nearly to my waist and I figure by the time I finish (if I finish) losing my weight they will literally be to my knees empty skin sacks with a lump in the bottom. I lay on my back, they fall into my armpits, I get too far onto my back and they smother me. I bend over too far they smother me. My husband loves me the way I am, but too bad I don't either way it's hard to feel sexy with all the loose skin as I lose weight and it's hard to feel sexy weighing over 300 pounds (thankfully not back there yet, but approaching it again.)
Sorry I know TMI.. :(

teigyr

09-17-2007, 02:40 PM

Hey maybe they were those special edible underwear, some sort of "cole slaw" variety? Maybe they were "supposed" to shred? :o

Like stripper "breakaway" granny panties? Or, um, maybe they were edible and tasted of the "early bird dinner".

I exchanged them and let it be done. The poor saleswoman though...

ACG

09-17-2007, 03:08 PM

I was an A cup, then after 2 kids a B cup, now with age a D cup. I have 2 daughters, both of them are D cups!!! Try shopping with 2 young women whos breasts are still pointing north, tummies are flat and who's behinds don't jiggle, then we can talk about body image!

I get measured every 6 months and buy a bra based on comfort, not the price. I've never to spent $155 on a bra. I work in an office and have to wear business attire, so headlights are not appropriate. Coverage is appropriate. I only wear sports bras when I'm riding or working out.

My advice, if the cost makes you uncomfortable then the bra will too.

:)

BleeckerSt_Girl

09-17-2007, 04:12 PM

mary9761

09-17-2007, 05:22 PM

Thanks Lisa, I know that being top heavy has always been a problem for the back. When I was in marching band I had to not only haul my own upper weight, but I marched with a very big horn and had to try to keep everything level. When the back isn't bothered by the weight, the shoulders are permanently grooved from straps. :eek:

Aggie_Ama

09-17-2007, 07:18 PM

I saw a poor girl this weekend at the coast who was easily a DDD. She couldn't have been over 17 and was fairly thin for toting those behemouths. My good friend went through 2 years of waiting for the insurance to agree her breat reduction was a medical necessity. :( The next day we saw a lady with the most obnoxious boob job ever. Seriously, is it necessary to look like you have a canteloupe under your skin?

I agree on the suggestion of the full coverage Body By Victoria line. So comfortable! I usually buy the ugly colors on sale, heck I don't care if it feels comfortable.

teigyr

09-17-2007, 07:36 PM

... it's hard to feel sexy with all the loose skin as I lose weight and it's hard to feel sexy weighing over 300 pounds (thankfully not back there yet, but approaching it again.)
Sorry I know TMI.. :(

no, not TMI at all. Do what is healthy for you and what makes you feel good. When all's said and done, then get someone to fix the excess skin.

There is so much we don't have control of and when you find that place where you're happy and want to stay, ask for help to make it better. The cycling is such a good step to all of that.

I never believed in plastic surgery at all. Starting from way back when til about 10 years ago, I've had multiple surgeries on my abdomen. No matter what I do, I've lost muscle tone and it sags. DH, who is adverse to "beautification" as I am, even said that if I ever wanted, it should be fixed.

The way I see it there is vanity and there is "fixing". Be healthy, be happy, and for those things you can't do, have someone help you.

I know it's a struggle though.

deedolce

09-17-2007, 10:46 PM

Ooog. I've been living in sports bras. Went to the VS site, and measured myself. My chest size is 1" smaller than my band size!! If there was a 36AAAA, that would probably be me. :confused:

My top, or lack of, is my biggest area of self consciousness, in the buff. Enough to make me stay single, even. Bleh. I look good on a bike, though! :p

lph

09-18-2007, 12:15 AM

Well it's hard to say not having been there, but I think that if I ever gained and then lost a large amount of weight, I'd consider surgery to remove loose skin part of the "fixing" process towards maintaining a healthy, functional body, and not vanity at all.

Deedolce - the flattest-chested girl I ever knew (I swear, her chest was like a boys with 2 pea-sized bumps on it, she looked about 11) is also outgoing, funny, outdoorsy and is now married and has three children. You'd be surprised how many guys really don't care much about boobs.

And I hate the assumption that I'd rather be "bigger" than A/AA too. I wear unpadded bras, and dammit, that's what I look like!

Dianyla

09-18-2007, 02:30 PM

no, not TMI at all. Do what is healthy for you and what makes you feel good. When all's said and done, then get someone to fix the excess skin.
Seconding this. A good friend of mine used to be obese in the 220-230 lbs range. She has completely changed her lifestyle and is an extremely fit person, teaching yoga, and being active. She's like a size 0-2 now. However, after losing all that weight she had a lot of loose skin. It was like pizza dough, she could pull and stretch it out 6" away from her body, and she actually had to tuck it into her pants. She had a pannus reduction surgery earlier this year and is thrilled with the results.

Just make sure you go with a good surgeon, it is a fairly major procedure.

Kano

09-18-2007, 03:22 PM

Yup, there CAN be health issues related to the excess skin flapping around, it's not just an aesthetic thing, so this is a "fix" rather than a vanity issue. I think, if I find myself with flaps, getting it repaired will also be a nice incentive to maintain the loss, though I can imagine I'll want to be sure I've stabilized before doing anything that major!

But body image -- it's quite a thing, isn't it? We were at an "art in the park" show a week or so ago, and there was an artist exhibiting "fat girl art" as my girls named it. Cute stuff, kind of inspirational in that these zaftig females were doing all sorts of fun things, not just sitting around being fat as it's so easy to do (hey, I KNOW this to be true!) One picture had our chunky lady looking into the mirror at herself and seeing a lovely thin, curvy reflection.

I look at it and say to myself, how TRUE! -- I've always been surprised to see myself in a mirror or especially photos, and have a more outside look at myself: That's ME????? Yikes! (Lately, I'm seeing myself in the mirror and saying, That's me? Cool! -- I'm not sure I want that deflated by a photo at this point!)

On the other hand, my oldest daughter, who's battled with her body image over the years too -- looks at that same picture and says it's totally BACKWARDS. She says the thin version should be the one looking into the mirror...

Karen in Boise

snapdragen

09-18-2007, 03:31 PM

I agree on the suggestion of the full coverage Body By Victoria line. So comfortable! I usually buy the ugly colors on sale, heck I don't care if it feels comfortable.

I thought I was the only one who did this.....well, my grey leopard spotted Body by Victoria bra isn't really ugly....:rolleyes:

Tuckervill

09-18-2007, 05:47 PM

Boob-related hijack:

Son (13) and I were going on a trip, and he noticed the list of items to pack in my PDA. One of them was abbreviated: OTSBH. He said, "What's that?"

"The OTSBH? That's an Over The Shoulder Boulder Holder."

I waited and waited and waited for it to sink in and when it finally did he said, "You are a sick woman." :D

Karen

Kitsune06

09-18-2007, 06:17 PM

Yesterday DH took me to my favourite store and the owner, my friend, got me all dolled up in some fab new outfits including the total alpha b**ch work clothes. hmmmm Well, that was cool and made me feel wonderful, even though some of the sizes were a large....

Then we went to a very nice bra store and I was fitted properly. It's been a few years. I used to be a nice tidy 34C. Well, now I'm a 34D, and in some brands a 34 DD:eek:

This is pretty conflicting. I hate to spend $155 on a great new bra that actually fits when I'm just beginning to get back into shape. I don't know what to think of the extra size in those cups :rolleyes: And, of course, DH has no idea why this is an odd and difficult time for me and how I feel about my body.

Anyone else find bra shopping difficult, unfun and sometimes terrible for body image?

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

Welll I actually had kind of the opposite experience recently.
A couple years ago I was pretty solidly an A- or something. With my hair cut short and a bandanna on, baggy shorts, I could actually go topless without getting second glances. I hated bras. They rode up, the shoulder straps slid down, etc etc, I said 'Eff this' and started wearing sports bras all the time.

...then they started to be sore etc. Very uncomfortable. Hated wearing bras.
...
had a funny little thought around a month ago, and decided to raid X's underwear drawer, found a C and put it on. I was amazed at how close it was to fitting.:p :rolleyes: :cool: :eek: :o ;) :D Went to the store and realized I was comfortably a B+, not quite a C. Wow. I mean Wow. Shocked.
and this happened at the same time as the waist-trimming and sculpting from all the running around and order processing at TE... so I realized all of a sudden that wearing a 'real' bra (not a smooshing sports bra) did really nice things for my bod and I looked so much better in more form-fitting clothes than the uber-baggies I had been wearing all the time.

So yeah.... I'm happily at 36B now, but I'm kinda wondering if I'll be at 36C next year (?) but it was nice.

Wahine

09-18-2007, 09:04 PM

I'm a solid 36 A. It's not easy to find a 36 A and like many other women here I don't want a whole lot of extra padding. DH calls those FAB - false advertising bras.;) ;) Any way, I've just started to go braless except at work. I wear tight tees and the whole bit. Don't care anymore. But hey, it's important to be comfortable in your skin so you need to do what you need to do to feel good about yourself. As for my smaller than average breasts, DH says that anything more than a mouthful is a waste.:eek: ;)

bmccasland

09-19-2007, 04:53 AM

Since my weight has fuxuated, am essentially a size larger than when I moved here 5 years ago, but that menopause thing has really messed me up. So I took myself to Victoria's Secret, begged for mercy and got fitted again. Just because I wore a 32 b-c ten years ago apparently doesn't mean it fits now. They put me in a 34 c, then handed me a box full of 34c and suggested I try on several to pick ones I like. Took awhile, but it was the right thing to do. In fact I forced a friend of mine to do the same thing when she had me go shopping with her - she's large chested and always wears sports bras, but needed to get something that fit to wear under a nice dress.

Clothes - I find that sales help makes the difference. My current favorite is Banana Republic because their sales people actually help, and will tell you when something doesn't look right. When I lived in rural areas I did a lot of catalogue shopping, but would often get clothes that didn't fit right (especiallly slacks and skirts).

And shopping in general - being short, and medium build, I've never had much of a selection in the 'petit" department; until I moved here. That *inbreeding* of French bloodlines means there are LOTS of short people in this city - I'm no longer short! I'm average height. It is very strange to be taller than some men in the office!

annie

09-24-2007, 04:52 PM

Mary,
You give us something to think about, for sure.
Hey, but maybe someday if you continue to lose weight you will be able to get the excess hanging boob skin reduced. I think it may be a relatively simple operation and perhaps not as costly as one might fear- and not invasive like getting implants. You might even find a doctor willing to take time payments?
And i wonder if somehow it might help alleviate some back problems for you- you never know.
Something you could perhaps look forward to doing eventually... :o

NOT a relatively simple op at all. Actually more complicated in most cases than getting implants. And you will almost assuredly need implants, also, to fill in the extra skin. Believe me, I'm not saying it wouldn't be worth it! I think it would, and I also think that insurance would cover something like this, because it would not be simply cosmetic. Something to think about for the future, Mary, when you are ready. Certainly something that a competent PS could handle.

Annie

annie

09-24-2007, 05:10 PM

Zen

09-24-2007, 06:46 PM

For the women having trouble finding the smaller cup size, these (http://www.galapagosboutique.com/Silicone-Push-Up-Pads-p/fash-8600.htm) are an alternative.

Queen- the Spanx are on the same page.

This company wraps their merchandise nicely too :p

kjay

09-24-2007, 06:52 PM

I'm with you, Annie! I say go for whatever makes you happy. It's all in what pleases YOU and no one else!

Aggie_Ama

09-24-2007, 07:25 PM

Respecting everyones' opinions, I would like to voice my own. I've heard some very negative comments about "boob jobs" on here. Not the first time and one reason why I quit visiting these forums for awhile. Annie

Annie- I am very sorry if my comment about boob jobs was one of them. I have seen very many women with tastefully done augmentations and do not see any issue. There are just some that I find tacky but I assume their owners love them and I guess it keeps the world interesting. I have tattoos some may find awful but I like them.

sgtiger

09-24-2007, 07:27 PM

annie

09-24-2007, 07:37 PM

Annie- I am very sorry if my comment about boob jobs was one of them. I have seen very many women with tastefully done augmentations and do not see any issue. There are just some that I find tacky but I assume their owners love them and I guess it keeps the world interesting. I have tattoos some may find awful but I like them.

Amanda,

Thanks, but don't worry! I am NOT offended. I think it was my problem that I was defensive for awhile and am now past that.

I've seen tattoos I love and some I do not. :eek: Yet I would never criticize. So I know what you're sayin'........

Annie

Zen

09-24-2007, 07:39 PM

I'm with you, Annie! I say go for whatever makes you happy. It's all in what pleases YOU and no one else!

Still, you can't stop people from voicing opinions. And we all have them.

annie

09-24-2007, 07:48 PM

<<<<<<Annie>>>>>>

I'm sorry anyone said something hurtful about something that is your personal choice. If having them makes you feel better in your skin than more power to you. I ,for one, welcome you back with open arms. I value your knowledge as a cyclist and I have found many of your posts inspiring.

Thanks! As I said to Amanda, maybe it was me who was overly sensitive to comments. IDK!! Whatever, I just wanted to make people aware than their comments can be, and are, taken to heart by some of us reading the posts.

I am first and foremost, on these forums, a cyclist!

Annie

annie

09-24-2007, 07:54 PM

Still, you can't stop people from voicing opinions. And we all have them.

True. What an awful, boring world if we all thought exactly the same!! Trouble comes when we try to impose our beliefs on everyone else and assume we are the only ones who are right.

Annie

Crankin

09-25-2007, 05:14 AM

Well, I have felt the same way about comments regarding what we do to our bodies. I haven't had a boob job, but I probably am a candidate for one. However, in my case, finding some well made bras that fit have enhanced the body image in a cheaper way. I always wear bras with fiberfill padding, not the heavy stuff, or else everything shows through. I buy my bras on line at BraSmyth, that specializes in having a huge range of sizes. They mostly do bigger sizes, but they do have a page or two of petite sized bras, some with padding, some without. They are not cheap ($50-70), but they fit and sometimes go on sale. I did get fit in a local lingerie shop and it was worth it.

Yes, and I wear make up, get high lights in my hair, paint my nails and love buying clothes. Well, i do buy most of them on line because there are hardly any stores that carry petite sized clothes that are not either for old ladies or teenagers.
In spite of the above, i don't mind getting dirty or sweating. I will never be one of those people who takes their helmet off, shakes their hair out and looks great. And that doesn't bother me at all.

silver

09-25-2007, 06:25 AM

Geonz

09-25-2007, 07:10 AM

I've gone to a D cup and the last bra I got in that size requires the ductape solution, but I *think* it's a style issue. I wish I knew... and I don't like shopping either. I hate it when Bali takes *my* bra out of circulation. (I'm of the category of people who can neither execute nor imagine spending beau coup bucks on my 'body image.')

BleeckerSt_Girl

09-25-2007, 08:15 AM

Well, just to clarify my own stance on the subject a bit, for whatever that's worth:

I think it's great that women who feel uncomfortable about the size of their breasts can have them surgically adjusted to make them bigger or smaller- whatever makes them more comfortable about themselves. This is especially understandable for women who naturally have very little or very large breasts, or who have had breasts removed of course.

My only objection to implants is when women get gigantic implants that make them look deformed and bizarre- I feel the promotion of the huge deformed beachball look as an ideal sends a very unhealthy message to young men and young women.
I have no issues about implants or reductions that fall within the realm of what *might* be a natural size. Not my thing, .....but hey, it might BE my thing if I had nothing at all there, or way too much there!

Brandi

09-25-2007, 08:54 AM

Ok here's mine.
When i was 14 years old and not comfortable with my body yet (who is at that age), My mom who was the same size as me (34b, very common i would say) had a breast job. It scared me for a long time. I really thought there was something wrong with my size.
I am so over that now! And am very proud of my boobs. They are still pretty perky for a 39 year old very active women. I also know a few women whos' breast are very samll and understand they would like bigger. And support them wanting to improve them. I just don't understand someone like my mom who had perfectly wonderful breast and made them bigger? And the fact that she didn't consider her daughter might be affected by this.

annie

09-25-2007, 05:50 PM

Well, I hadn't read this thread yet. I'm posting to tell you, Annie, that I agree 100% with you. Sometimes the comments about boob jobs can be hurtful. A lot of people make judgements about breats implants without really knowing where a person comes from.

I, too, have breast implants. I was barely an AA cup before I lost weight and then when I lost 40 pounds, there was NOTHING. Worse than that, there was nothing and my nipples fell into themselves to make little inverted hammocks. Because I spend 98% my time in workout clothes/tri clothes, enhancing bras were not really an option. I have a boyish figure, slim hips, no rear, muscular waist. Honestly I looked like a 12 year old boy. I worked hard to get fit. I have 6 pack abs. But the more fit I got the worse my breasts looked.

I went to the PS and told him that I wanted to have some breasts. I told him my athletic activites. He agreed to give me implants that would give me some shape and fit my activity level. Mine are some of the smallest that he's used. I'm now a large B/Small C. In some bras I wear a 34B and in others a 34C. I don't think that they look as good as "REAL" breasts, because they are not "real" breasts. But I didn't get that choice.

I don't think that anything had been said here that was terribly offensive, but just wanted to add my support to Annie. Sometimes it seems that the negative extreme examples of breast implants overshadow the others.

Thanks, Silver, for sharing your story and viewpoint and reasoning. I agree that nothing said here was terribly offensive, I guess I was just ready to open up a dicussion from the POV of someone with implants, since it seemed that most comments came from those without.

Lisa SH, just gotta tell you - I do not have, nor want beachballs! LOL! Mine may not be quite as saggy as naturals would be at my age, but I'm ok with that. I've still got a ski slope, but it just doesn't scoop out as much as before. No big air for mini-skiers.

Brandi, Did you ever ask your Mom why she had a boob job? Maybe she didn't think they were as wonderful as you did? That's a good question. I know women worry about this and the effect it might have on their daughters. No easy answers. How to decide what is more important - your own self-esteem or the possible (yet unkown) effect on someone you love? You raise a very good and thought-provoking situation.

Annie

Kitsune06

09-25-2007, 06:18 PM

Still, you can't stop people from voicing opinions. And we all have them.
A wiseazz once said "Opinions are like azzholes, we all have them, just some stink more than others". ... sometimes people need to be more careful about the way they choose to express themselves.

Well, just to clarify my own stance on the subject a bit, for whatever that's worth:
...
My only objection to implants is when women get gigantic implants that make them look deformed and bizarre- I feel the promotion of the huge deformed beachball look as an ideal sends a very unhealthy message to young men and young women...

My opinion, too. I like boobs. I do. Lots. :D :p but yeah, the cantalope-sized fake boobs you see on some chicks are very unappealing. Just enough for a hand or mouth, I think, is easily enough... and as a person into piercing/tats, body mod, etc.. people need to do what makes their appearance match their mental perceptions of themselves- in a positive and healthy way.
I was okay as a AA, and ok as an A. I'm happy as a B, and would still be ok if I lost weight again and went back to A or AA... *shrug*

Zen

09-25-2007, 08:48 PM

A wiseazz once said "Opinions are like azzholes, we all have them, just some stink more than others". ... sometimes people need to be more careful about the way they choose to express themselves.

I don't think anyone directly criticized Annie. If they did, I missed it. As she herself put it-

Thanks, but don't worry! I am NOT offended. I think it was my problem that I was defensive for awhile and am now past that.

Annie

And in a situation like this you also have to consider that when you read something it may not sound the way the writer intended it. When we compose the written word we are transposing our thoughts as we "hear" them. Emphasis and inflection are lost and sometimes misunderstanding arise.

HoddyToddy

10-01-2007, 10:26 AM

Respecting everyones' opinions, I would like to voice my own. I've heard some very negative comments about "boob jobs" on here. Not the first time and one reason why I quit visiting these forums for awhile. The nasty comments hurt at first. Now, I don't really care because I LOVE my new boobs and am totally comfortable with having had a Breast Aug. They do not interfere in any way with my biking, running, etc. I am much happier with my appearance. Very much happier. Would it have been cheaper/easier to be happy with my body image the way I was? Yeah, I have to say it would have. But that wasn't the case. No matter how I worked out, no matter how I watched my diet, I could not achieve the shape I wanted. Vain? Ok, call me vain. :p I also got braces on my teeth when I was 50 yrs old! And am thrilled with the results. I use make-up, too! And color my hair and shave my legs............ All various levels of self-enhancement. All I'm saying is please do not be too judgemental. Big boobs, little boobs, large or small legs, saggy tummy or tight........ if you can accept what you are, awesome!! If not, and you've got options available for change and choose that route, good for you! We are all individuals and I would hope we can read/listen to others opinions without predujice and respond without criticism.

There you go -- my rant for the evening. Hope I offended no one. And hope I'm still welcome on the boards, new boobs and all. :rolleyes:

Annie

If I had $10K to spend, I would *SO* have a boob job! Was always a B, but they were lovely, perfectly shaped Bs, then had baby #1 and nursed 13 months, about to have baby #2 and nurse. I HATED my breasts after I stopped nursing #1 and can't imagine they will be nicer after nursing #2! Ga-ross. :p
And am so in love with my nice, full preggo boobs! So is DH, who is a boob man! Being married to a boob man when you have saggy pancakes is no fun. YES, he loves me just the way I am, but he wouldn't love me less if I had nicer ta-tas that's for sure! :D
So yes, if I had the cash, I would totally get new boobs!

LBTC

10-01-2007, 11:08 AM

If I had $10K to spend, I would *SO* have a boob job!

:eek: :eek: Is that really how much it costs? :eek: :eek:

H&B
~T~

HoddyToddy

10-01-2007, 11:13 AM

:eek: :eek: Is that really how much it costs? :eek: :eek:

H&B
~T~

For really good ones! I'm not really sure, actually!

But I do know that each implant alone is about $2K. Then you have the consultations, the actual surgery, the anesthesia, and so on...

Only if I win the lottery or inherit a lot of money from some old crazy aunt I never knew I had....!

limewave

10-01-2007, 11:17 AM

I've looked into having brachioplasty because my upper arms are so flappy. I have a hard time finding shirts to wear. The more I do weight training, the worse the get :eek:

Anyways, it was 3-4k per arm and there's no implant involved in that surgery. I imagine a boob job would easily be 10k.

Tuckervill

10-01-2007, 11:24 AM

How about a tummy tuck--the mommy makeover kind? What do they run?

I've always wanted one, since my first child. The first time I ever brought it up with my husband he was more dismissive of my feelings than he'd ever been. He thought it was unnecessary, but now that I'm much older I don't care much what he thinks. I'm going to find a way to get it.

I don't feel as horrible about my baby flap that I used to. I developed a new appreciation for life and everything one day, when I ran across a picture of a line of women standing naked. They were in line for the gas chamber. :'''( I studied that picture for a long time and it was utter sadness to behold and I will never forget it. But I learned things about women's bodies that I never knew before. I don't want to trivialize that event ever at all, but that photograph had a profound effect on me in ways aside from the obvious.

Karen

silver

10-01-2007, 03:14 PM

cost depends on where you live and what choices you make. Mine was less than $4,000. I have high profile saline, smooth Mentor implants, placed under the muscle (costs more than over the muscle but definately has better results), with the incision under the breast (less chance of have numbness in the nipple area). I believe that I had a great job. I am VERY pleased with the results.....let's see.....I got them in Nov. 04.

I drive an old minivan that rattles. The way I see it....the cost is the difference between driving a new car.

However, I live in the boonies. I've heard advertising for a BA for $2,000 but the price has an * by it and says over the muscle only. I feel sure that once they get the person in there they sell them up.

sundial

10-01-2007, 03:18 PM

In my 20's I used to wish for the Boob Fairy. Well, she came in my late 30's and now I have a hard time finding tops that fit broad shoulders and boobs without taking it in at the waist. Ack!

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-01-2007, 05:32 PM

I don't feel as horrible about my baby flap that I used to. I developed a new appreciation for life and everything one day, when I ran across a picture of a line of women standing naked. They were in line for the gas chamber. :'''( I studied that picture for a long time and it was utter sadness to behold and I will never forget it. But I learned things about women's bodies that I never knew before. I don't want to trivialize that event ever at all, but that photograph had a profound effect on me in ways aside from the obvious.

Karen

Thank you for posting that profound insight, Karen. I hear you. My best friend in high school 40 years ago had Jewish parents who had saved dozens of photographs from the concentration camps in order to remember. They let me see them when I asked and i too was deeply changed forever by those pictures. It gives you a real view of how precious our lives are, and how horribly easy it is to forget that.

Not really much to do with this thread except in a superficial way of course.

annie

10-02-2007, 02:20 PM

:eek: :eek: Is that really how much it costs? :eek: :eek:

H&B
~T~

Depends on where you live, how much you need to have done - like do you need a lift, also. Silicone is more expensive than saline. Mine were saline, under the muscle, crease incision, just like Silver. Cost was right under $5K. Worth it, IMO. I, too, am very happy with my results and would recommend my surgeon.Don't know the cost of a TT, Tuckerville, but I would guess it's higher. Maybe not, tho', since you wouldn't have the cost of the implants, plus the surgery. Hey - go for it if you can. Life is short.

Annie

Zen

10-02-2007, 03:25 PM

I'm happy to be alive.

I was recently by one doctor that I should have been dead five years ago, related this comment to another doctor who said "yep, that stent pulled your azz out of the fire".

Things like this tend to change ones perspective.

sundial

10-03-2007, 06:36 AM

If I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and had a mastectomy, I'm not sure I would opt for an implant. I hesitate when it comes to foreign objects in my body. I stressed over the titanium staple in my knee.:confused: :eek:

LBTC

10-03-2007, 07:28 AM

I stressed over the titanium staple in my knee.:confused: :eek:

But, sundial, titanium is Good!

H&B
~T~

glamgurl36

10-03-2007, 08:01 AM

i think we all have our i hate my body moments..but at least you can recognize it early and do something about it..its hard because our lives are so busy...its a good thing we have riding

KSH

10-03-2007, 02:44 PM

cost depends on where you live and what choices you make. Mine was less than $4,000. I have high profile saline, smooth Mentor implants, placed under the muscle (costs more than over the muscle but definately has better results), with the incision under the breast (less chance of have numbness in the nipple area). I believe that I had a great job. I am VERY pleased with the results.....let's see.....I got them in Nov. 04.

However, I live in the boonies. I've heard advertising for a BA for $2,000 but the price has an * by it and says over the muscle only. I feel sure that once they get the person in there they sell them up.

I live in Dallas, TX... and you can get a very nice breast augmentation (BA) for $4000-$5000 around these parts.

For a really well known popular Dr. it's around $7000. I can see a BA costing around $10,000 IF you need a lift AND implants. A lot of women who are fixing what pregnancy did to their boobs, need both the lift and implants... thus it's a lot more money.

KSH

10-03-2007, 02:49 PM

Respecting everyones' opinions, I would like to voice my own. I've heard some very negative comments about "boob jobs" on here. Not the first time and one reason why I quit visiting these forums for awhile. The nasty comments hurt at first. Now, I don't really care because I LOVE my new boobs and am totally comfortable with having had a Breast Aug. They do not interfere in any way with my biking, running, etc. I am much happier with my appearance. Very much happier. Would it have been cheaper/easier to be happy with my body image the way I was? Yeah, I have to say it would have. But that wasn't the case. No matter how I worked out, no matter how I watched my diet, I could not achieve the shape I wanted. Vain? Ok, call me vain. :p I also got braces on my teeth when I was 50 yrs old! And am thrilled with the results. I use make-up, too! And color my hair and shave my legs............ All various levels of self-enhancement. All I'm saying is please do not be too judgemental. Big boobs, little boobs, large or small legs, saggy tummy or tight........ if you can accept what you are, awesome!! If not, and you've got options available for change and choose that route, good for you! We are all individuals and I would hope we can read/listen to others opinions without predujice and respond without criticism.

There you go -- my rant for the evening. Hope I offended no one. And hope I'm still welcome on the boards, new boobs and all. :rolleyes:

Annie

Unfortunately, when talking about breast augmentation (BA) it's almost like talking about being pro-choice or pro-life. It brings out a very passionate side in people.

There are people who are passionately AGAINST BA's. That's how they are... and always will be. Nothing is going to change thier mind. No matter how nice your boobs look now, or how aweful they looked before... no matter how easy the surgery was or how you don't have any of the horrible side effects... those people aren't going to hear it. They hate BA's end of story.

If you are going to be willing to put it out there that you have a BA, then you have to be ready to take abuse from these people. Plain and simple.

It's sad... but true. Obviously you have come to a point where you are strong enough to say, "screw off", to those people. Good job!

I'm sure you will also set an example for other women who are considering it... that women can get a tasteful BA that fits their body and simply enhances what was already good.

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-03-2007, 04:56 PM

Unfortunately, when talking about breast augmentation (BA) it's almost like talking about being pro-choice or pro-life. It brings out a very passionate side in people.

There are people who are passionately AGAINST BA's. That's how they are... and always will be. Nothing is going to change thier mind. No matter how nice your boobs look now, or how aweful they looked before... no matter how easy the surgery was or how you don't have any of the horrible side effects... those people aren't going to hear it. They hate BA's end of story.

If you are going to be willing to put it out there that you have a BA, then you have to be ready to take abuse from these people. Plain and simple.

It's sad... but true. Obviously you have come to a point where you are strong enough to say, "screw off", to those people. Good job!

I'm sure you will also set an example for other women who are considering it... that women can get a tasteful BA that fits their body and simply enhances what was already good.

An interesting viewpoint. You make it sound as though women who are not in favor of breast augmentation operations are full of hatred towards women who are. Stating one's own opinion that differs from another's is not "abuse", it's just a basic right of expression.
What *is* accurate is that each woman has their OWN opinions on the subject, and when groups of them talk about the subject in an open discussion forum, then one can expect to hear various opinions, both pro and con. Discussions involve a back and forth exchange of ideas and opinions. If one doesn't want to hear any opposing views, then one shouldn't be reading a discussion about it. As far as I've seen, the women in this discussion were pretty much just stating their own viewpoints, not attacking anyone here.
No need to tell anyone to "screw off". I think Annie also understands this concept of being able to discuss varied opinions without personal attacks.

There are people who are passionately AGAINST BA's. That's how they are... and always will be. Nothing is going to change thier mind. So? Why would anyone feel it's necessary to try to change their mind? :confused: One could say the very same thing about people who are passionately FOR BA's.

amymisk

10-03-2007, 05:20 PM

I don't remember who asked about the cost of a tummy tuck, but it is easily $8500-10,000. The cost depends on what is involved.

If it is a simple abdominoplasty (no muscle plication-tightening) then it is less.

It is extremely painful. I had a simple "mini-tummy tuck" after I had my son. It was worth every penny and ounce of pain to me. Those who need muscle work have much more pain than myself.

It should involve an overnight stay in the hospital as well.

I obviously don't have anything against PS and think if it is an issue that causes someone to feel self conscious about their appearance and they have the money to fix it, good for them.

I also had Rhinoplasty 11 yrs ago. Again, money well spent.

As for bras- get a fitting and try out as many as needed to find a comfortable type. I was barely a 32A before my son. Then I breast fed and had to deal with D cups for the entire time! I now am a 34B and happy there. I am not sure how one deals with large breasts, they made me so uncomfortable.

Breast reduction surgery can be covered by insurance if there are documented side effects (back pain, neck pain). So, there is no need to suffer in pain.

annie

10-03-2007, 05:58 PM

No need to tell anyone to "screw off". I think Annie also understands this concept of being able to discuss varied opinions without personal attacks.

So? Why would anyone feel it's necessary to try to change their mind? :confused: One could say the very same thing about people who are passionately FOR BA's.

Thanks, Lisa. I certainly hope I didn't sound like I was telling anyone here to "screw off!" Yikes! There are certainly people out there who I might say that to, but I can't think of one single person who's posted in this thread who would rate that. :confused: I just wanted to point out the difference of opinion and possibly get a discussion started. Seems to have worked. ;) :D

KSH, You are correct in that I'm comfortable enough in my decision to not be bothered by what others think. Or I wouldn't have said a word. I appreciate your speaking up in defense of my POV. Thanks!

I think we're lucky to have a forum of women who are able to discuss many controversial topics without too much acrimony or flaming and respect each others' opinions, whether or not we agree with them.

Annie

Zen

10-03-2007, 06:33 PM

Did I ever tell you about the time I shot a skunk?

deedolce

10-03-2007, 06:42 PM

teigyr

10-03-2007, 06:53 PM

Did I ever tell you about the time I shot a skunk?

Noooo! Skunks are wonderful creatures :p

teigyr

10-03-2007, 07:01 PM

silver

10-03-2007, 07:27 PM

If I won the lotto, I would so seriously consider a BA and a nose job! I have a question though: can someone else (aka possible boyfriend) feel the difference between implants and nature by feel? :confused: :o

I can't exactly answer this question because I've never actually "squeezed" a real breast myself. But I would say that someone else would be able to notice the difference. I think it would depend on how much breast tissue you already have to insulate the implant. I would say that my saline implants are more firm than real breasts. They don't "ebb and flow" like real breasts. They don't bounce and jiggle like real breasts. I also have a one inch scar in the crease of each breast. (of course I have many other scars, one might not notice those) I think that they are still very nice and "squeezable." And they are better than no breasts at all. :rolleyes:

Now, silicon wasn't available when I got mine. They say that silicon has a much nicer feel.

Now I've asked Mr. if he could tell the difference and sweet man that he is, says he doesn't remember. ;) He likes them. However he was very clear to me that getting them was my decision and he loved me the way that I was.

silver

10-03-2007, 07:29 PM

Though I wonder if implants help in swimming? Are they bouyant? Might get me to thinking ..... :rolleyes:

They are no help at all! :(

deedolce

10-03-2007, 08:04 PM

Thanks, Silver. I think it's awesome that strong women, especially cycling women (!) are willing to talk about this...I've always been curious, and I've always thought about it - not willing to spend that kind of money yet, though. :p

Torrilin

10-04-2007, 04:19 AM

I have no desire to get it done but the ultra-painful sounding tummy tuck would be something I'd be interested in. Though I wonder if implants help in swimming? Are they bouyant? Might get me to thinking ..... :rolleyes:

It's actually better to be flat chested if you swim. A lot better :(. I went from an A cup to a C cup over the course of a year in college, and well... the difference in water resistance is very noticeable. I don't exactly hate having grown boobs now, but it was really traumatic when it happened. Fortunately, going from an A to a C is still within the limits of what a racing suit can smoosh. And as long as there's no gaping at the neckline, there's no risk of swimming out of my suit. If it's one of those stupid low cut or "pretty" swimsuits tho, ugh!

It's definitely a YMMV thing tho. I'd not get breast reduction just to get back to being fast in the water. And I'm sure there are swimmers who wouldn't mind larger breasts. But I liked my body best as an A cup.

KnottedYet

10-04-2007, 05:38 AM

If I won the lotto, I would so seriously consider a BA and a nose job! I have a question though: can someone else (aka possible boyfriend) feel the difference between implants and nature by feel? :confused: :o

I certainly could... it was very odd. They looked real, but they felt very unusual. (this was a friend of mine who later got them taken out)

I used to work in a clinic where we did rehab on the "failed" cosmetic surgeries from the plastic surgeons in the building. Believe me, you want to research your surgeon, and then do everything they tell you! If someone gets a tummy tuck and is supposed to walk hunched over a low walker for 2 months to let it heal right, dang it they'd better do exactly that!! (cuz otherwise things can go very wrong)

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-04-2007, 06:45 AM

Zen,
You better behave yerself, Missy! :cool:
Don't make me mention butter.

:eek: :eek:
;)

Knot,
That's scary stuff!! :eek:
(((hoping Kit doesn't start posting bloody eyeball pix again....)))

Kano

10-04-2007, 07:10 AM

... get a fitting and try out as many ...

I thought this thread was about breasts?

:D Karen in Boise

sundial

10-04-2007, 09:30 AM

What about a fanny lift? You know, having it high and tight? Zen, are you listening to me? :p :rolleyes: :D

Zen

10-04-2007, 09:46 AM

OMG- I hate that abbreviation but OMG you gotta see this (http://slate.com/id/2174613/) :eek:

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-04-2007, 10:39 AM

OMG- I hate that abbreviation but OMG you gotta see this (http://slate.com/id/2174613/) :eek:

(keeping my mouth shut) :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :( :( :(

sundial

10-04-2007, 10:49 AM

Holy moly!! I thought the girlie parts trimming was bad enough! :eek: :eek: :eek:

teigyr

10-04-2007, 10:51 AM

Heh. I looked that up and as I was scrolling through the slides, one of our managers (a friend of mine from way back when) walked behind me. His comment was "where do you FIND these things?"

I wanted to blame zen :D Instead, I took the fall for her.

sgtiger

10-04-2007, 10:53 AM

I always did wonder how women sat in those bustle dresses. Never imagined that they were retractable! Cool! Thanks, Zen.

Too bad there's not a magic pill for me to gain a few inches in my legs. <sigh> Oh, well... my bike wouldn't fit than.;) Never mind! :p :D

KSH

10-04-2007, 01:46 PM

An interesting viewpoint. You make it sound as though women who are not in favor of breast augmentation operations are full of hatred towards women who are. Stating one's own opinion that differs from another's is not "abuse", it's just a basic right of expression.
What *is* accurate is that each woman has their OWN opinions on the subject, and when groups of them talk about the subject in an open discussion forum, then one can expect to hear various opinions, both pro and con. Discussions involve a back and forth exchange of ideas and opinions. If one doesn't want to hear any opposing views, then one shouldn't be reading a discussion about it. As far as I've seen, the women in this discussion were pretty much just stating their own viewpoints, not attacking anyone here.
No need to tell anyone to "screw off". I think Annie also understands this concept of being able to discuss varied opinions without personal attacks.

So? Why would anyone feel it's necessary to try to change their mind? :confused: One could say the very same thing about people who are passionately FOR BA's.

Lisa, I probably didn't word my response just right.

I would say that there are probably 3 types out there (applies to men as well as women really):
1) Boob jobs are fine in their book. They have no issue getting one themselves (or their SO) and are fine with them.
2) Boob jobs are fine in their book, but they wouldn't want one for themselves or their SO.
3) Boob jobs are NEVER OK in their book. No matter if a women needed them (some women do have tubular breasts, etc. Getting a boob job is a huge mental lift for them. Or what about breast cancer survivors?)... and they will stand on the top of the "mountain" to let women with boob jobs how horrible they are for getting one and how agains boob jobs they are.

I'm all for listening to opposing views. I don't think anyone in this thread has been rude or judgemental. Not at all.

But in reference to the lady that posted... you do run into the ones who are judgemental and you have to be prepared to face that if you tell people.

I know I was cornered in a ladies restroom at a club for about 45 minutes by a lady who had to tell me how horrible getting a boob job was. I was very polite and listened to her point of view and recognized why she didn't agree with it and respected her opinion. Trust me, I was more than kind to this lady. But that's a prime example of what you sometimes have to face.

I would never expect to change someone's mind. If you are against it, that's the way it is. I guess I would just expect for someone to respect my decision for my life and stop judging me for my decisions. But, sometimes, that's not the case. Not in this thread, but generally speaking.

So trust me... I'm not upset or hurt and I don't think anyone here has been mean. I was just pointing out that sometimes you do have to "face" those people who will make judgements and tell you how horrible you are for making your choices.

KSH

10-04-2007, 01:55 PM

I have to say I am intrigued by this thread, skunks nonwithstanding. I was one of the "anti" people merely, I guess, due to my own feelings about how women shouldn't have to modify themselves due to society, etc.

What I'm impressed with are the people who are obviously in shape and are extraordinarily strong women who choose to do this. This is cool. I guess I've witnessed the non-athletic "Barbie" types who rely on surgery to do what they don't want to work for. I guess if it's something you want to do (instead of an attempt to make someone like you) it's a positive thing.

I have no desire to get it done but the ultra-painful sounding tummy tuck would be something I'd be interested in. Though I wonder if implants help in swimming? Are they bouyant? Might get me to thinking ..... :rolleyes:

Well, I think with everything... why women get boob jobs can vary.

Yes I think there are the ones out there who do it to "get men" or they are just all about relying on their looks to get by in life.

I would encourage you to view some before and after pictures though... as you will see that there are women out there with deformed breasts. One size is an A cup the other a D cup... tubular breasts, etc. I am sure these women get a BA so they can feel comfortable undressing in front of their partner.

I can't say my choice was based on something that dramatic.... I just like boobs and I didn't have any. I went from a perky B to a saggy A when I lost some body fat through diet and exercise. After that I wasn't happy with the size or shape. And I'm a women who is all hips/thighs/butt. I had this thin torso, no boobs but a lot of booty. I just wanted to even it all out.

Honestly, most people who have met me in person, and who I tell later about my BA... are shocked I have one. I don't stand out... mine are very natural looking and fit my body size. I don't flaunt my chest... I don't use it to get anything. I dress in respectable clothing and I make sure to cover up at work.

I'm a very strong and confident woman who got it done for... me. I didn't do it for anyone else.

As for swimming... eh... no help there.

stacie

10-04-2007, 02:51 PM

[QUOTE=KSH;250607]
But in reference to the lady that posted... you do run into the ones who are judgemental and you have to be prepared to face that if you tell people.

I know I was cornered in a ladies restroom at a club for about 45 minutes by a lady who had to tell me how horrible getting a boob job was. I was very polite and listened to her point of view and recognized why she didn't agree with it and respected her opinion. Trust me, I was more than kind to this lady. But that's a prime example of what you sometimes have to face.

I find people who force their opinions on others much more obnoxious than women with big boobs real or fake. :D

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-04-2007, 03:38 PM

I know I was cornered in a ladies restroom at a club for about 45 minutes by a lady who had to tell me how horrible getting a boob job was. I was very polite and listened to her point of view and recognized why she didn't agree with it and respected her opinion. Trust me, I was more than kind to this lady. But that's a prime example of what you sometimes have to face.

Yikes, you probably should have just excused yourself after 5 minutes! :eek: :rolleyes:

But hey, I hear what you are saying. :)

I think there are more than the 3 types you mention though. I know I don't fit neatly into any of the 3 "types".

BleeckerSt_Girl

10-04-2007, 03:41 PM

I find people who force their opinions on others much more obnoxious than women with big boobs real or fake. :D

I agree. What's more, I also think that women who force their boobs on others can be just as obnoxious as women with big mouths and opinions real or fake.

(just kidding!!)

teigyr

10-04-2007, 04:22 PM

KSH, thank you for sharing that.

I guess we're all guilty of having proconceived notions sometimes and it's always the obnoxious people who are out there talking about what they had done. (Think Pamela Anderson) I've long been against people "beautifying" themselves to fit into some role but then again I know that's pretty hypocritical because we all do things that make us feel good. What gets to me about surgeries, especially for those who do them for someone else instead of themselves, is it's risky. I've known men who insist their womenfolk do these things (really, I have and it's horrible!) and it appalls me. Then again we should have the freedom to do what we want with our bodies.

I find a lot of TE people are role models. I don't see any of you as going around flashing your boobs (unless there's good reason ;) ) and scheming about your next surgery. Yeah, I've seen surgery addicts also. All/most of you are in incredible shape and take care of yourselves.

It is sad that the procedure is stereotyped in such a negative way but I think it's usually because we only hear/see negativity.

michelem

10-04-2007, 10:31 PM

Go here for the new Dove, Campaign for Real Beauty, film entitled "Onslaught":

http://www.campaignforrealbeauty.com/home.asp

What do you think?

Tri Girl

10-05-2007, 04:10 AM

That video was interesting, michelem. Thanks for posting the link.
I feel that way- like the media is the ones who make us think we need to be thin to be pretty or perfect.
Then again, I know how I feel when I'm thinner (better about myself in general). Don't know if that's from all the hype that's put it in my brain or not. When I was 25 lbs thinner I thought I looked good, but even then I still saw all my flaws and wished I was just a little flatter here or thinner there. That alone tells me I'd probably not be happy at any weight (no matter how tiny I got, I'd still find flaws), and that I just need to learn to be happy and love myself where I'm at now.

silver

10-05-2007, 05:06 AM

That video is AWESOME!!!!! sooooo cool! everyone should see that!

Hmmmm....this is a very thought provoking thread. and good discussion.

beware of random musings with no particular point in mind.

I, being a thin, fit athletic person, who has had plastic surgery, have had to really do some soul searching about my choices. I'm very comfortable with the choices that I've made. I won't get my feelings hurt, but I will not be silent when plastic surgery or "thinness" gets stereotyped and negatively addressed. I do try to present a more positve side...an alternate view.

I'm very thin boned, thin framed. my natural body type is thin. When I eat healthy food and exercise my body weight falls to a "thin" weight. If I eat junk food I gain weight. I actually am not a sweet eater and because I eat healthy I really notice my performance suffer when I eat junk food.

I worked hard to become fit and was very happy with the way that I looked except my breasts. Which as I explained before, I wasn't just flat chested, my chest looked deformed.

sideline to say that when I told my mom that I was getting the BA, she said, I always wondered why your breasts never developed. :rolleyes:

So, now, I'm very happy with my body image. I work very hard to become more muscular and stronger and faster. I love how clothes fit. I love being able to go into a store and buy a bra that fits. I used to hate shopping for clothes because of how poorly things fit.

But I recognize that my body type is more the type that perpetuates this pressure on young girls to be thin. I don't want to be a negative role model, it's my desire to be a role model for girls to be active and fit. However, this is my body type, (ectomorph) I'm working as hard as I can to be the most fit that I can with my body type.

as you know I have a 17 year old daughter. she is built more like Mr. she puts on muscle and weight more easiely than me. She's curvier. She's a nice A cup. She is beautiful and proportional! She turns heads. When I got my BA, I asked her what she thought, and she said she understood. She said that she understood that I would want to have breasts that were nice looking. I feel that she has a very good self image. She works out and is active and doesn't worry too much about what she eats.

This part is hard to explain......it's the point at which I finally decided to have the BA. I was always one that said I was happy with them, didn't want plastic surgery....put a lot of energy into saying that I was happy with the way I looked. Well, I was running at a Race for the Cure. All these beautiful women that had had breast Cancer. What a terrible illness! (I do not want in any way to detract from what a horrible thing that breast cancer is) They all had beautiful breasts! I understand that some were prothesis. and that not every woman chooses reconstrutive surgery, but a good majority do. Much of BA development comes from breast cancer reconstructive surgery. I was wearing a running top and completely flat. So here, I've been telling myself that having breasts aren't important....and these women you have faced death are celebrating and although I know they were celebrating life mostly, they were celebrating breasts. When they lost their breasts to surgery they mourned the loss of them. Why, because breasts mean something to a woman. It can't really be defined.

ha, enough for now.

Zen

10-05-2007, 05:12 AM

That film about sums it up.
But I'm afraid it's bigger than all of us.
The weak will succumb.

LBTC

10-05-2007, 07:37 AM

Silver, I'm really touched by your post, and it's given me more to think about.

My sister, who I am not very close to, is a breast cancer survivor who has had a masectomy. I am very proud of her. Her attitude is awesome, she rose above a terrible disease and she's a nice person. She did not have BA surgery. She told me that she'd had all her kids and was finished using them anyway....I realized then that she was not defined by her breasts. She defines herself in other ways, which is perfect for her and her family.

I also realized then and am reminded now - I am not her. I am partly defined by my breasts, as can be seen in my original post. I know now that if I were ever in that situation, if I went through what she did, I would opt for surgery. I am proud of my curviness, generally happy with my body (always aware of imperfections and room for improvement as most of us are), and would want to rebuild myself after going through the grief and the healing....

Thank you, Silver. Thank you, all of you ladies, for such a great discussion!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

annie

10-05-2007, 07:54 AM

Thank you, Silver. Thank you, all of you ladies, for such a great discussion!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

Ditto!

Annie

LBTC

10-07-2007, 07:47 PM

So, back to where I started on this thread....not that the rest of the discussion hasn't been great....but this new strange sizing to consider.

Sure, I'd love to buy an inexpensive bra, but it absolutely must fit. So, now that I know the size I'm supposed to be, before I start randomly trying on anything that looks okay, I'm going to try to find the right size...34D.

All I can say is Good f*****ing luck.

Thousands of bras at Walmart. Not a single 34D. D's start at 38, with the odd 36 in there. 34's don't get past C.

Yes, I'll try another store next chance I get, and I'll let you know if I have any success. I may be destined to only buy expensive bras. I hope not.

Will the hoped for weight loss help to reduce the cup size? Hard to say. Perhaps. But I'm not going to lose weight fast, so I'll need at least one more bra, including a sports bra, in the meantime. Wish me luck!

Hugs & butterflies,
~T~

Wahine

10-07-2007, 09:26 PM

I have a few tidbits to share.

First LBTC - I feel your pain, a 36/38 A ain't easy to find either.

Second - I am lucky enough to have very nicely shaped breasts, however they are smaller than average. I also have spectacular abs. BFs in the past have always commented on how nice my breasts are, I on the other hand always wanted to hear how nice my abs are. I earned those abs, they weren't a simple developemental happen-stance. My breasts are a fluke.

Thirdly - I have opted not to have children in part because of what it does to our bodies. Sure, I haven't had PS but in many ways I'm more vain than many. Who am I to say if it's right or wrong to have PS. That would be pretty hipocritical of me.

Lastly - I have very close friend who just had a mastectomy due to breast cancer. She's 36 years old. She's currently going through consultations for her reconstructive surgery. I asked her what size she was going to get (you do get to choose and they do the other one to match), she said "I told DH if he lost 20 lbs I'd get a C, otherwise he's getting a B same as before." She cracks me up, I love her and I hope she wins her battle.

lph

10-08-2007, 01:56 AM

This thread has been really interesting, and not least, it's made me rethink some of my own values. I think the only point important to me when it comes to body image issues is "how it looks is less important than how it WORKS".

That's not to say that vanity is stupid, or pointless, or completely shallow, but I do believe that it's important to have a sense of perspective. We're all vain in some way or another, some of us more than others. Some of us on behalf of our bikes... And we change with time, and with different circumstances. I remember when I was a teenager, and swore I'd NEVER dye my hair (like my mother), I'd rather just go grey gracefully. Well FOOF to that ;) I dye my hair all the time. But I like to think I can just stop, and still feel fine about myself.

Whoever said that "it's only the obnoxious ones you notice" - very true. You don't notice the discreet, natural-looking BAs. I see skinny little teenage girls wearing watermelons, and I feel sad for their flatter chested classmates. My bust size is increasingly "invisible". (Funny thing is, quite a few supermodels hardly seem to have breasts either, it seems to go quite naturally with their skinny frames.) I used to go to an aerobic class that was half full with teenage girls obsessed with making their butts look good. I just thought, well, great, they're getting a cardio workout at the same time, and that might be really important for their health at some point.

I'm not really getting anywhere here. But it's been a education reading all the stories here, and I thank you all for it. I know everybody here is primarily concerned with keeping their bodies fit and in good working order and I can't imagine a better ideal for women. How vain we want to be on the outside is a personal choice, and I for one am going to be a bit more careful about passing judgement too fast.

Torrilin

10-08-2007, 03:42 AM

Will the hoped for weight loss help to reduce the cup size? Hard to say. Perhaps. But I'm not going to lose weight fast, so I'll need at least one more bra, including a sports bra, in the meantime. Wish me luck!

Good luck :).

If you can remember the pattern you gained weight in, that offers a clue as to how the weight will come off. It's *not* a hard and fast rule, but often women who gain weight in the chest area tend to lose it from there too.

I know I've seen 34D bras available. Just not at Walmart/Target. If you've got an old fashioned department store around, check their underwear department. There's usually a sale rack tucked somewhere in a corner, with all the discounted bras stuffed on it. If you're a 34 or 36B, you won't find anything there most of the time. If you're an A cup, a C cup, under a 34 band size or over a 36 band size, go digging. There will be lots of odd colors, but you'll find cheap bras :). Victoria's Secret end of season sale is still going on too (tho it's about due to be over). Again, lots of weird colors, but for much less money.

Sadly, neither of those options work if you're much above a D cup :(.

silver

10-08-2007, 04:12 AM

Triskeliongirl

10-08-2007, 04:21 AM

Pax

10-08-2007, 05:49 AM

I've avoided this thread until now but I thought my experience might be helpful to some.

I hit full on puberty at 10, before I was 11 I was wearing a 36C bra. I went though high school with giant breasts (40D), they encumbered me and made playing sports (my sanctuary) painful, made me the focus of ridicule, and made me the focus of endless sexual advances from boys AND grown men. By the time I was 20 I was wearing 44DD and by the time they finally finished growing I was a 44E.

I spent years as a lifeguard, police officer, firefighter/medic, all the while dealing with breasts so large they impacted my breathing, hurt my back and neck, and made doing my job significantly more challenging than it should have been. At age 39 my parents gave me the best gift I ever received, they offered to pay for a breast reduction. I went from 44E to a B cup and could finally breathe again! My life improved immeasurably, I was no longer defined by my breasts, males looked me in the eye for the first time in my life, and I could ride and play sports without pain. The scarring on my chest is unbelievable, I looks like someone took a weed whacker to my chest, the scars are thick and ropey and sometimes uncomfortable. But I truly don't care.

Weirdest thing...the reactions I get for some women, so many wish they could have it done BUT their boyfriends or husbands wouldn't like it. Men respond by saying it's a tragedy and NO woman should have a reduction.

I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Trek420

10-08-2007, 06:06 AM

Thousands of bras at Walmart. Not a single 34D. D's start at 38, with the odd 36 in there. 34's don't get past C.

Yes, I'll try another store next chance I get, and I'll let you know if I have any success. I may be destined to only buy expensive bras. I hope not.

LBTC, listen to Knott, she is very wise :) She recommended Title 9 for me, I just checked and they have 34D :D

One example

http://www.titlenine.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=2164&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=674&iSubCat=679&iProductID=2164

Trek-The secret to inner peace is a great bra-420

LBTC

10-08-2007, 08:05 AM

If you can remember the pattern you gained weight in, that offers a clue as to how the weight will come off. It's *not* a hard and fast rule, but often women who gain weight in the chest area tend to lose it from there too.

Weight gain was very hard to track due to the severe bloating that came with my illness over the last 15 months.... Walking has already improved the shape and size of my butt, the improvements in my health have reduced the huge belly I was sporting.... I don't remember when exactly my bras started fitting poorly in all of that, I was a little distracted. :rolleyes:

I think I lose it there last, but I'm not sure.

H&B
~T~

LBTC

10-08-2007, 08:06 AM

LBTC, did you try Target? I've seen lots of 34D's there. I've even seen them on the sale rack. :) I wear a 34 B or 34C depending on the style. and so I notice the 34's.

Another good place is JCPenny's.

There is no Target or JCPenney's in my town. In fact, I'm not sure they are even in Canada!

H&B
~T~

LBTC

10-08-2007, 08:06 AM

One example

http://www.titlenine.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=2164&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=674&iSubCat=679&iProductID=2164

Trek-The secret to inner peace is a great bra-420

Looks like a good one. Too bad it's out of stock. :(

H&B
~T~

LBTC

10-08-2007, 08:10 AM

Personally I highly recommend the body by victoria full coverage bra and its available in your size in black and tan for $24.99.

Out of stock, too. There is another one there, though, that I may try....

and

Queen, thank you for sharing your story. From where I am now I just can't imagine how awful that would have been for all those years. I wish they could have done a beautiful scar-free job for you, too, though.

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

Pax

10-08-2007, 08:55 AM

Thanks LBTC, I guess I'm the only woman of Irish decent on the planet who forms keloid scars. :confused: I'm used to it now but I am vain enough to hope and pray I never end up with scars on my face...I'd look like a lumpy road map.

Trek420

10-08-2007, 09:58 AM

Looks like a good one. Too bad it's out of stock. :(

H&B
~T~

Call them. When we were in their Seattle store they offered to hunt stuff down. I bet if it's not in their online warehouse and one store has it .... they are pretty cool chickies. :cool:

annie

10-08-2007, 10:24 AM

LBTC,

Do you have a Kohl's? I'm just not sure what dept. stores you have in Canada! A 34 D is not TOO tough to find in the states. Just try finding anything in a 32! It's much more difficult.

There are quite a few websites you could try. Can we post those here? I'll try and if it doesn't go through, PM me and I'll send it on.
http://www.freshpair.com
There are tons of choices. You can search by size. There is no shipping charge in the states; not sure what it would be for you. Might be worth checking out. Good luck. Hope you find something.

Annie

annie

10-08-2007, 10:27 AM

I searched victoria's secret clearance for 34D and came up with 3 in the link below. Personally I highly recommend the body by victoria full coverage bra and its available in your size in black and tan for $24.99. It doesn't get much better than that for good quaility. My VS bras last years when properly taken care of (don't put in dryer).

http://www2.victoriassecret.com/Sale/search_results.cfm?rfnbr=3675&Size_B=34D&ProductTypes=B&x=4&y=9

Just be careful with VS bra sizing............ they tend towards "vanity sizing." If you normally wear a 34D, in a VS, you could easily need a 34DD. Or 36 D. I agree, they are well made and will last for years if taken are of. Just be careful of the sizing.

Annie