Meet the lingerie brands prioritising comfort and style, as our expert explains the secret to finding the perfect fit
Underwear. It’s the area of a woman’s wardrobe that probably has the most ups and downs (excuse the pun…) in terms of the attention we pay to it. For every occasional spending flurry when things start to look a bit tired – or if we have a hot date – there are also those days when we reach for battered old familiar suspects simply because they're so comfortable we just can’t seem to give them up. Sound familiar?
Get underwear right, however, and it can be transformative, changing not only your outfit but also how you carry yourself. Back problems, posture issues and various levels of discomfort can all stem from a badly fitted bra. Seriously.
“We are already trusted for quality and value, but we also stock a size range from 28A to 38G, as well as some brilliant brands,’’ says Jo McKee, our Lingerie Buyer. “So whether you're working from home and want something more relaxed, or are looking for something discreet under a dress for a special event – or every occasion in between — we have the lingerie for you. And don’t forget, we have a free bra fit service in all John Lewis stores.”
Read on to discover which brands might be the best fit for you.
Best forLarger cup sizes
There was a time when having a larger cup or back size really limited the styles of underwear you could buy. Not anymore. Brands like Fantasie create stylish and supportive styles for women with bigger cups, starting at a 30 back size and going up to 40.
The stunning range is available from a D to a H cup, and features styles including the Fantasie Fusion Lace Bra, a beautiful design that's crafted from a stretch floral lace that sits flat under clothing (clever) and comes with matching briefs.
Perfect for summer, the Fantasie Caroline Bra has a flattering floral finish, while the Fantasie Illusion Bra offers all-day comfort. The side support design on both of these styles offers great uplift and a natural rounded shape without padding – plus they come with coordinating knickers.
And elevating the everyday is the Fantasie Rebecca Essentials Bra – a must-have T-shirt bra with breathable, seam-free and full coverage cups.
Best forEveryday luxury
Not just for special occasions, romantic, statement pieces are flattering and confidence-boosting for the every day. And lacy and beautiful doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. Look to our exclusive John Lewis range And/Or for intricate underwear, and luxurious French brand Chantelle for seductive styles with savoir-faire.
Best forLoungewear levels of comfort
Today, comfort and style go hand-in-hand. Working from home has influenced a more relaxed approach to dressing – even now we are seeing a return to the office – and comfy bras and non-wired styles show no signs of slowing down. Look to John Lewis for soft, non-wired styles that still have the support and fit of traditional lingerie.
Best forShapewear
Best forMaternity
Stretchy, supportive and still stylish, our maternity and nursing bras offer all the comfort you want in a variety of colours and with easily adjustable straps. And did you know, we offer a free nursing bra fitting service from week 30-34 in your pregnancy? Fuss-free feeding is ready when you are.
Best forCoordinating sets
Why is it that wearing a matching bra and underwear set makes us feel like we have our life together? Our sophisticated sets take the guesswork out of pairing pants and knickers, and make you feel polished and pretty in an instant. Because who doesn’t want to feel more put together?
Best forNon-wired styles
Increasingly women are moving away from underwiring in favour of non-wired bras with modern allure. Calvin Klein, Sloggi, and John Lewis all excel at comfort and shape. Triumph, one of Europe's oldest lingerie brands, has also become known for a great fit across non-wired bras.
Best forSports
It is simply essential to own a well-fitted sports bra (it improves performance and reduces the risk of breast damage). What’s more, a comfortable, supportive and stylish piece will motivate you to move more. You’ll reach for these hardworking staples for every workout – and face zero distractions while you’re training.
Lingerie fitting, at your service
From maternity to first bras and post-surgery, all our expert lingerie fitting services are free and available in all John Lewis stores. Pre-book or simply walk in and our bra experts will help you find your perfect fit.
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How toFind the perfect fit
When was the last time you were properly measured for underwear? It really is the best way to find the right size – and style – for your shape and needs. For those who can’t make it into store, there are also really useful buying guides and videos available online.
Read on to learn more from our Lingerie Buyer Jo McKee.
What are the most common mistakes people make when it comes to fit?
Ensure you have regular fittings as your body changes over the years through, for example, pregnancy, hormones, or weight fluctuations. We recommend every six months, after a significant change in weight, or after a life change such as pregnancy or menopause. The underband should always fit snugly against the body, and not from the straps being overly tight.
Can you outline how the service works and what makes it stand-out?
Our fit service is free of charge, and there is no obligation to buy during or after your appointment. Customers can book a fitting appointment online via the John Lewis website, and branches also accept walk-in appointments for customers who prefer more flexibility. Our experienced fitters will fit, not just measure, as brands can differ according to size. We are specialists in all aspects of bra fitting including mastectomy, breast enhancements, first bra and maternity. We offer a diverse service and have fitted a wide variety of customers. Finally, the customer doesn't need to fully undress in front of the fitter as they can leave their own bra on.
What are your top tips for finding the best fit?
Ensure the band sits horizontally all the way around the ribcage when on, front and back. Ensure the wire sits further back than the breast tissue and there is no cup overhang. If you can’t wait to get your bra off at the end of the day then you are not wearing the right size.
What are the benefits of discovering the right fit for you?
First of all: comfort. Second, wearing a badly fitting bra that doesn't support the breasts properly can increase your chance of back problems and poor posture. Lastly, your silhouette and shape can be transformed with the help of a good fitting bra – which will make you feel fabulous!
