Comments on: Frugal Bra Shopping For The Not-So-Average Woman

By: Rebecca

Rebecca — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:52:58 +0000

Thanks for this, I have done the same thing. I have a question for you. I have only recently started wearing bras – they were always incredibly uncomfortable and I didn’t know I was wearing the wrong size, and being small, I could afford to go without. Once I decided to wear one I delved into the world of bras in search of bargains, and I found a thriving market in used bras on ebay. I found some other cheap sources and started selling them on ebay with some success, but I am finding that ebay charges an awful lot in fees.

So my question is, would you, the frugal bra shopper (or anyone else who cares to respond), consider buying a used bra from an online boutique-type store? There would be a return policy and a good selection – i.e. quality items in good condition, hand-washed before shipping, etc. The site would be pleasant and professional, much nicer than digging around in a bin of used clothes at a thrift store, and it seems like people might like the idea of a bargain. Or am I crazy for even considering such a thing?

By: aardvark

aardvark — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:47:14 +0000

I have the exact opposite problem, having lost (cheers are in order!) 100 pounds and reached “a certain age” I am now a 40A/B which is also v. hard to find. I did a lot of searching and spent a large amount having many styles delivered here (we’s a ways out ) to shop at home. I have to be on top of things and return promptly for refunds, but it was worth it to find what fits and what doesn’t. It is such a relief to treat myself to what fits properly and what feels good. I am worth it! I now can shop for the great sales and closeouts available online, since i *KNOW* my size!

By: The Prudent Homemaker

The Prudent Homemaker — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:50:28 +0000

It is worth being fitted no matter what size you are.

I was fitted for a nursing bra at Dillard’s. It was wonderful. I bought three, and they have lasted through 3 babies.

I also bought Victoria’s Secret bras for when I am not nursing. I have not been happy with the quality at all (and I was fitted there as well). They fall apart too quickly.

The bras at Dillard’s were less money, but they last 4 times as long (I’ve had mine for 4 years and they are still good. Nursing bras take a lot more wear, and get washed more often because of milk).

A friend of mine was also fitted at Dillard’s. She is well-endowed and said she was surprised to find out what size she SHOULD be wearing. She had no idea. The bra was larger than she has been buying. She said it fit beautifully, and wasn’t too tight anywhere. She said it was very comfortable and supportive.

By: Ask The M-Network: Frugal Business Clothes Shopping | I've Paid For This Twice Already...

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:19:49 +0000

[...] have the same concerns. For my few “expensive” clothing purchases, I have turned to buying one of an item “off the rack” so to speak, and then scouring the internet for dea…. This worked for me for undergarments, but I somehow doubt you want 5 identical pairs of [...]

By: Lee Anne

Lee Anne — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:51:25 +0000

I do this with dance shoes. With three daughters, I get them sized for shoes, buy one pair at the specialty shop and then go on-line to discountdancesupply.com and buy the rest until it is clear that the girls’ feet/needs have changed. You HAVE to have a special fitting for toe shoes in particular and sometimes one brand is preferable over another, depending on the way the foot is built or used in dance. I have saved thousands of dollars on toe shoes tap shoes, etc. this way (I’ve also spent thousands of dollars too, for that matter . . .!),

By: Janel

Janel — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:54:44 +0000

Cheap bras are not frugal.

I’ve always been hard to fit and walked into a lingerie store for the first time 2 weeks ago. I will not tell you what I spent for 2 new bras. I will probably pay the bill before DH see it… lol But I’m glad I did. I’m hoping these will last as well.

I got several Olga bras 3 years ago and spent like $35 each for them. I about died forking over the cash, but they lasted 2.5 years before I had to retire them. I was really surprised.

I went out 3 months ago and found several on clearance for $5-10 each figuring multiple cheap ones would last longer than 3 expensive ones because I’d wear them less. NOT SO!! I couldn’t believe how fast they went to pot and I hand wash & drip dry.

I went looking online for the two I recently purchased, but couldn’t find the same style as the store. I know they’ll be cheaper online, but I’ll have to keep looking.

By: Amanda

Amanda — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:53:18 +0000

You caught me! I’m the exact opposite of well endowed. I didn’t give this much thought before I posted, my apologies. I guess there ARE advantages to having the chest of an 8 year old boy!

I’m not totally DISAGREEING with the post… a lot of ladies may need more expensive bras. But if you’re using cheap bras happily and read this article, don’t automatically think you have to go run to a fancy lingerie store.

By: Looby

Looby — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 17:41:14 +0000

As someone on the other end of the breast-size spectrum I still feel it is well worth it to invest in good quality bras. I try to remember to get professionally measured every year and then look online for bargains- (last seasons colours!).
Great post.

By: deputyheadmistress

deputyheadmistress — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 01:32:20 +0000

Thank0you, thank-you, thank-you for this post. I have six daughters. I, and five of my girls can get along just fine with the Wal-mart or anywhere else. One of my girls cannot, and I have not been sure what to do for her. I really appreciate this.

By: Tara

Tara — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 02:52:36 +0000

I definitely agree with the do it well and then find it cheap philosophy. I’ve gone to some lingerie sites, but my best luck (still hit or miss) has been on ebay — clearly knowing the style and the size that I want/need. I’ve been able to get them for about half ($30 instead of $60) what I paid in the fancy store. Also, if you buy more than one they’ll often combine shipping and then.. you get to save even more.