So I was a super sized breasted girl then had reduction surgery at 19. I demanded to be made a AAA size. I was so disgusted with a large chest. Luckily (in most ways), my surgeon refused and made me average sized (which 12 years later allowed me to slowly build up a breastfeeding ability for two sons). After I grew more during pregnancy and nursing then shrank after weanings, I had to find new bras. About two to three years after final weaning of my youngest, I lost over 30 pounds. Gosh these breasts have really gone through the mill.
I have worn many many things--not all "bras". After my second son's birth, I found The Marathon Store (in Boston area) for my exercise bra needs that I ended up wearing all the time (
www.marathonsports.com). I sang the song of rapture and elation. Wow. The first bras that covered me, didn't leave bulgings, and I could really move around in.
After I lost all this weight, I couldn't find a bra anywhere and was in tears after an hour in the dressing rooms of the mall. I really was a mess. How could I NOT find a BRA now. I'd lost weight! I was wearing sizes 6 or 8. Wasn't I finally NORMAL? Argh!
I couldn't stand the problem and ended up with a few sports bras again. I really wanted PRETTY bras. Nothing worked. I've been at around this weight now for 1 1/2 years and still wouldn't try on more bras. However, I did find Bali bras a couple weeks ago that I really like. But I think bras are so varied and so are women's bodies/preferences, it's hard for me to recommend my preferred bra to anyone.
My older sister really loves Nordstrom for fittings and purchases one bra each time (taking the measurements and learnings elsewhere to buy more affordable bras). I looked on-line just now and found the below two links that seem to cover what my sister has said and possibly give some options:
http://www.lindasonline.com/bras.htm...FRt25QodxXZu9Q
http://www.ehow.com/how_5956001_bra-...pecialist.html
I hope all our 3fc friends can find a few "just right" bras. It really lifts the spirits.