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 28AA to 42KK, 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 lingerie fitting service in all John Lewis stores and inclusive mannequins are designed to showcase our most popular sizes.”
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 any more. Our John Lewis range creates stylish and supportive styles for women with bigger cups, starting at a 32C and going up to a 38F. Our Giselle styles are super smooth and flattering, while the Eva non-padded bra is designed with a wide strap and a deep neckline for unmatched support and comfort.
Meanwhile brands like Fantasie have a stunning range available from a D to a H cup – we love the the Fantasie Illusion Bra, which offers all-day comfort, great lift and a natural rounded shape without padding.
Best forSmaller cup sizes
Whether you like a push-up, light padding, seamless or underwire, we have the best bras for small cup sizes and your style preference. Our Cassie strapless bra arrives in four colours and gives you a little lift, while the Isla T-shirt bra is crafted from organic cotton and starts at a 28AA. Pretty or practical, you will find a style to flatter and support.
Best forEveryday luxury
Not just for special occasions, romantic statement pieces are flattering and confidence-boosting for every day. And lacy and beautiful doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. Look to our John Lewis range for intricate detail, 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 – the popularity of comfy bras, non-wired styles and Calvin Klein bralettes shows no signs of slowing down. For luxe loungewear look to our Amara range. We love the 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. Plus, 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 bras and knickers, making 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 Evelyn & Bobbie 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.
Free bra fitting
From maternity and nursing to first bras and post-surgery, all our expert lingerie fitting services are free and available in all John Lewis stores. Pre-book online or simply walk in and our bra experts will help you find your perfect fit.
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 a 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, over the years, your body changes – for example through pregnancy, hormones or weight fluctuations. We recommend a fitting 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, for customers who prefer more flexibility, our branches also accept walk-in appointments. Our experienced fitters will fit, not just measure, as brands can differ according to size. We are specialists in all aspects of bra fitting, whether first bra or maternity, post-mastectomy or breast enhancements. 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 – front and back – when on. 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 well-fitting bra – which will make you feel fabulous!
