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10 Best Bras for Older Women of 2024

Full-coverage, supportive and comfortable picks for women of all shapes and sizes.

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best bras for older women

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The hunt for the perfect bra can seem to be never-ending, and it can become even more challenging to find the right bra as your body changes with age. Whether you're experiencing sagging, loss of volume or change in shape, it's important to find a bra that meets your needs. And when your bra no longer fits well, provides the support you need or feels comfortable for all-day wear, it might be time for an upgrade.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test intimate apparel and bras of all kinds to find the ones worth buying, including bras for large busts, bras for small busts, wireless bras, sports bras, the best underwear and more. We've tested hundreds of bras over the years, and in the last year alone, we've tested more than 60 styles in the Lab and with consumer testers of varying body types. We evaluated our testing data and used our relative expertise when researching bras from popular brands online to determine which bras are best for older women.

1
Best Overall

ThirdLove 24/7 Perfect Coverage Bra

24/7 Perfect Coverage Bra
$72 at ThirdLove
Credit: Thirdlove
Pros
  • Smoothing band
  • Memory foam straps for comfort
  • Full-coverage cups
Cons
  • Some online reviewers say the underwire digs in on the sides

ThirdLove's popular bras are designed with thoughtful features and are available in an inclusive range of sizes to make it easier to find your perfect fit. The brand offers a virtual quiz to take before you shop to help you choose the proper size, and the 24/7 Perfect Coverage Bra is available in band sizes 32–44 and cup sizes B–H. The fuller coverage style has molded foam cups to conceal the nipples and shape the breast, an underwire for added support, wide straps with memory foam cushioning for comfort and a double-layered back for smoothing.

According to some online reviewers, the full-coverage style has large underwires that can poke into the underarms, but other reviewers were happy with the feel. Our testers appreciated the softness of the fabric, adding that the bra felt great all day long. And when we washed other bras from the brand in the Textiles Lab, they held up well without major changes in appearance or shrinkage.

Band sizes32–44
Cup sizesB–H
2
Best Value

Playtex 18-Hour Ultimate Lift Wireless Bra

On Sale
18-Hour Ultimate Lift Wireless Bra
Now 54% Off
Credit: Playtex
Pros
  • Online reviewers call it "reliable"
  • Earned high scores for staying in place all day long
  • Supportive without an underwire
Cons
  • Some testers said seams were apparent under clothes

With more than 51,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this Playtex bra is designed for the ultimate lift and support, and it's a total steal — typically on sale for under $20. Online reviewers highlight its comfortable feel and say the bra provides plenty of support, even without an underwire. One reviewer said that she's been buying the "reliable style" since the 90s and added that she has "never found a rival for attractiveness, coverage, comfort and good fit."

Our testers agreed and gave it high scores for being easy to put on and take off and for staying in place all day long, which can be attributed to its wide, cushioned straps and thick back band. Some testers said the seams were noticeable under clothes and gave it low scores for overall appearance, but it performed well in our tests overall, especially for stretch recovery.

Band sizes34–54
Cup sizesB–G
3
Best Underwire

Vanity Fair Full Figure Beauty Back Smoothing Bra

On Sale
Full Figure Beauty Back Smoothing Bra
Now 58% Off
Credit: Vanity Fair
Pros
  • Loved by more than 35,000 five-star reviewers on Amazon
  • Great value option
  • Comfortable wide straps and back band
Cons
  • Some online reviewers say it creates a pointed look

For all-over support, this bra from Vanity Fair combines thick straps, full-coverage cups and wide side panels. The affordable bra has more than 35,000 five-star Amazon reviews from buyers, including those who say it holds everything in place and is camouflaged under their clothing. When we tested the wireless version in the Textiles Lab, we were impressed by how well it recovered to its original shape after being stretched and laundered repeatedly. Plus, our testers, especially those with larger busts, said the bra felt "supportive" and "uplifting." Some online reviewers said the bra created the appearance of conical, pointed breasts, but others appreciated the shape the bra provided. This version has an underwire for better separation and support, but we also recommend the wireless version of the bra for an overall more comfortable feel.

Band sizes34–46
Cup sizesB–H
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4
Best Bralette

Harper Wilde The Bliss

The Bliss
Credit: Harper Wilde
Pros
  • Buttery soft fabric
  • Held up well in washability evaluations
  • Testers say it's comfortable
Cons
  • Has to be pulled over head with no back closure

Our pick for the best overall bralette, this style from Harper Wilde is wireless and uses no molded cups or foams for a super comfortable feel. We love the luxurious and buttery smooth feel of the nylon and elastane microfiber fabric. One at-home tester shared, "I usually take bras off as soon as I'm home, but I wore this to sleep; it was so comfortable." It also washed well in our evaluations and earned top marks in our stretch recovery tests. The bra doesn't have a back closure, so it slides over your head instead of clasping in the back, which could prove difficult for someone with limited mobility. Available in sizes XS–6XL, the bralette is suitable for those with standard bra sizes 30A–50F, and it comes in a variety of neutral shades and fun limited edition colors.

SizesXS–6XL (suitable for cup sizes A–F and band sizes 30–50)
5
Best Wireless Bra

Bali Comfort Revolution Shaping Wirefree Bra

On Sale
Comfort Revolution Shaping Wirefree Bra
Now 56% Off
Credit: Bali
Pros
  • Silky smooth material
  • Molded cups provide support
  • Breathable design
Cons
  • Straps aren't adjustable

Our testers say that this wire-free bra from Bali offers the perfect balance of comfort and support, an impressive feat for a wireless style. According to testers and online reviewers, the material has a silky smooth feel that doesn't cause irritation, and they say it's breathable, helping to keep sweat at bay. The bra has structured, molded foam cups built inside to shape and lift, while the four-way stretch knit band moves with your body instead of restricting or digging in. It has wide straps that are designed with a U-shape to stay in place, but they're not adjustable, so some testers said they felt a little loose, especially those who were petite.

SizesS–3XL (suitable for cup sizes B–DD and band sizes 32–46)
6
Best Front-Closure

Liberare Everyday Easy-On Bra

Everyday Easy-On Bra
Credit: Liberare
Pros
  • Straps adjust in the front
  • Magnetic closure
  • Ideal for those with limited mobility
Cons
  • Some online reviewers wish it offered more support

Liberare's undergarments are designed specifically with accessibility in mind, and this front-closure bra is easier for those with limited mobility or chronic pain to put on and take off. The bra utilizes magnets instead of hooks or zippers, along with dressing loops lining the front, so it can be secured in place with only one hand. It also has thick straps that adjust in the front of the bra instead of the back and a 4-inch adjustable band. One online reviewer shared, "I love this bra! I can finally get dressed independently! I bought a size XXXL and it definitely holds! The magnets are great and strong and supportive."

The brand notes that the magnetic closure could interfere with certain medical devices, so it's best to consult with a physician before wearing it if you have concerns. Without any padding, lining or underwire, the bra isn't the most full-coverage option, but it does have seamed cups to shape the breasts.

Band sizes34–44
Cup sizesB–G
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7
Most Popular on Amazon

Shapermint Compression Wirefree Support Bra

On Sale
Compression Wirefree Support Bra
Now 36% Off
Credit: Shapermint
Pros
  • Lightly molded foam cups to shape
  • Extender included for customizable fit
  • Testers say the straps stay in place
Cons
  • Users have said the band rolls up

Unlike a traditional bralette, this bra from Shapermint is made with slightly compressive material and features lightly molded foam cups to shape the chest, along with a hook-and-eye clasp closure in the back. It's available in sizes S–4XL, covering cup sizes A–G and band sizes 30–48, and online reviewers say it runs true to size. Each bra comes with an extender to widen the band for a more comfortable fit. Some users and online reviewers have said the band is prone to rolling up throughout the day, though another said, "It's wear-all-day comfortable." Our testers appreciated the amount of support the bra offered, with one comparing it to the fit of a sports bra, and they noted that the wide straps stayed in place all day without digging in.

SizesS–4XL (suitable for cup sizes A–DDD and band sizes 28–48)
8
Best Full-Coverage

Soma Embraceable Full Coverage Wireless Unlined Bra

Embraceable Full Coverage Wireless Unlined Bra
Pros
  • Sling design for lift
  • Online reviewers say the bra provides nice separation between the breasts
  • Subtle V-neckline
Cons
  • One tester said claps was difficult to hook

According to Soma, this bra has a sling design with an extra layer of fabric lining the cups for added support, and our testers were unanimously impressed by the amount of lift it provided. Despite its full-coverage cups, the bra does still have a subtle V-neckline, and one tester shared, "This is the type of bra I would wear every day. It will go under almost any kind of top." Online reviewers appreciate the amount of separation the wireless style creates, eliminating the dreaded "uni-boob" caused by other styles. The back of the bra has four hook-and-eye clasps that one tester said were difficult to secure on her own, so it can be helpful to first hook the bra in the front of your chest and slide it around to its proper position.

Band sizes34–44
Cup sizesC–H
9
Best Balconette

Lane Bryant Comfort Bliss Lightly Lined Balconette Bra

Comfort Bliss Lightly Lined Balconette Bra
Now 28% Off
Credit: Lane Bryant
Pros
  • Mesh insert for breathability
  • Inclusive range of sizes
  • Wide wings and back band for smoothing
Cons
  • Some testers said it felt bulky

A balconette-style bra has slightly shallower cups with wider set straps to create lift and cleavage, but this one from Lane Bryant offers a little more coverage than other balconettes we've tried. Our testers said they felt supported while wearing this style without experiencing any unwanted bouncing or slippage. The sides of the bra, also known as the wings, and the band are extra wide for a smoothing, shaping effect, and the straps are wide to prevent them from digging in. Some testers said it felt bulkier than other bras they've worn, but they appreciated the support overall. A small mesh insert under the cups lends airflow for a more comfortable, breathable feel. Perfect for those with larger band and cup sizes, the bra is available up to band size 54 and cup size K.

Band sizes34–54
Cup sizesB–K
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10
Best Smoothing

Evelyn & Bobbie Beyond Bra

Beyond Bra
Credit: Evelyn & Bobbie
Pros
  • Comfortable, smoothing fabric
  • Front cradle to separate the chest
  • Testers love the supportive feel
Cons
  • Some online reviewers have issues finding the right size

We love Evelyn & Bobbie's range of bralettes and bra tanks, thanks to their smoothing, comfortable fabrics and natural look. The Beyond Bra is one of the brand's best-selling styles, and online reviewers highlight its supportive feel. One of our testers shared, "I was pleasantly surprised by this bra! I'm not one for wireless, but it was oddly supportive for a wireless bra and very comfortable." There are adjustable wide straps, a flexible back band with hook-and-eye closure and a cradle in the front of the bra to separate the breasts. Some online reviewers have had issues finding the right fit — too big or too small — but the brand does offer free returns for up to 60 days after purchase, so you can swap for your perfect size.

SizesS–3XL (suitable for cup sizes C–K and band sizes 29–50)

How we test bras

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In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly evaluate bras, shapewear, lingerie, underwear and more to determine which ones are worth buying. We've tested hundreds of bras over the years, and in the last year alone, we've tested more than 60 bras in the Lab and have shared samples with consumer testers who wear the bras in their daily lives before providing us with real-world feedback. Here's what we consider when we evaluate bras:

a gh analyst stretching and measuring a bra during bra testing
Philip Friedman

✔️ Stretch recovery: Bras should be able to stretch to conform to your body but shouldn't lose their elasticity over time. To measure how well a bra is able to maintain its shape, we conduct a stretch recovery test in the Lab. We mark the bra material, stretch it out to a standard length for a set amount of time and then release the bra and measure it again to determine if the material returned to its original shape or not.

✔️ Washability: We wash bras repeatedly according to their care instructions in the Lab to evaluate how well they hold up to regular laundering. We assess them for any changes in appearance, shrinkage or damage after laundering.

✔️ Wear: We assign bras to hundreds of real users with different body types and different bra sizes to gather more inclusive data. Our testers have ranged between cup sizes AA to H and band sizes 30 to 38. The testers wear the bras and provide us with real-user feedback, rating properties like comfort level, support, visibility under clothing, how well the bra stays in place and the ease of putting on and taking off the bras.

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What to look for when shopping for a bra

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When you're searching for a new bra, these are a few things to keep in mind:

✔️ Sizing: It's best to take your own measurements to determine your best bra cup and band size. Every bra brand has slightly different sizing, so it's a good idea to refer to the brand's size chart for some extra guidance when selecting your size. If your bra fits properly, there should be no overflow or gapping in the cups, the bra band should fit flat against your chest and the straps should stay securely in place without digging in or sliding off of your shoulders.

✔️ Underwires: Some bras have a small metal or plastic wire built into the base of the cup, which helps to lift and support the chest. They aren't necessary, and some wearers find them to be uncomfortable, but they can provide extra structure.

✔️ Padding: Padding in a bra can help to shape your chest and provide additional coverage. Lightly lined bras feature minimal padding, but the thin layer of padding helps to conceal your nipples. A molded bra with extra padding can lift your breasts and may add extra fullness.

✔️ Straps: Wider straps are ideal if you're looking for the most comfortable feel. They're less likely to dig into your shoulders or slide down, and they're more supportive than thinner styles. Also look for adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened with a slider to help you achieve the best fit.

✔️ Closure: Most bras feature a hook-and-eye closure in the back along the band, which can be difficult to hook on your own, especially if you experience limited mobility. A front closure bra has clasps or buttons — sometimes even a zipper — in the front of the bra instead, and other bras have no closure and can be pulled over your head. Sometimes, these styles are slightly compressive with little stretch and require extra effort to pull down into place.

How to find your correct bra size

preview for Do This And Never Buy The Wrong Bra Size Again

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Amanda Constantine is a home & apparel reviews analyst in the Textiles Lab and regularly tests and writes about intimate apparel including the best bras for small busts, bras for large busts, boob tape, bralettes, shapewear and underwear for men and women. Amanda used her relative expertise when choosing the best bras for older women and researched bras from popular brands to determine which ones would best accommodate an older wearer.

Amanda also referred to intimates testing data collected by content intern Aidan Collins. He worked with senior analyst Emma Seymour to test more than 60 bras from well-known brands in the Lab and matched bras with consumer testers to collect real-user feedback. Emma has also written about intimate apparel, including the best wireless bras and strapless bras.

Headshot of Amanda Constantine
Amanda Constantine
Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

Headshot of Aidan Collins
Tested byAidan Collins
Content Intern

Aidan Collins was a content intern in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab in 2023. He has a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University and is currently working towards a master of engineering. He led testing for underwear, bras and shapewear while at GH.

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