Ever since I had to start wearing a bra, it seems like finding the perfect size and fit has been such a struggle. While bra shopping, I’ve always encountered these common problems: the cup size was too big, the band size was too small, and comfort was no where to be found. Keep in mind that I usually shopped for bras at stores like Khols or Target. However, when I officially crossed over into the plus size world, it was then that I noticed a few shops that actually make bras for curvaceous women, like me. So here are a few of the places that I know I count on finding practical, well-fitting, and sexy bras!

1. Knix
Get ready for extreme comfort with these underwire-free Knix bras. These bras are suitable for plus size women, as they mold and shape to your body, allowing you to breathe, stretch, and go about your daily activities comfortably. Because the bras are wire-free, they don’t rub or cause irritation, which is something that I experience with any other underwire bra. Aside from providing comfort, these bras also mitigate boob sweat, and they are versatile and compatible with any kind of blouse or top you wear. Wearing these bras essentially just feels like you are wearing a tank top or camisole—they are that comfortable! The brand carries cup sizes A through E.

2. Curvy Couture Intimates 
This is my go-to place for sexy bras. I love a simple bra that provides support, a little extra push up, and an enticing design. My favorite bra from this store is the Tulip Allover Lace Bra (As seen here: YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL). The brand carries cup sizes B through H.

3. Torrid
Torrid was the first place where I found a bra that actually fit me comfortably. These bras are made exclusively for plus size women, so they provide just the right amount of support, push up, and comfort. Torrid also carries a variety of styles so that you can pick out the perfect undergarments for the blouse or occasion you’re going for. The brand carries cup sizes B through G.

4. Parfait Lingerie 
Parfait Lingerie (As seen here: FALLING IN LOVE WITH ME) is another brand I love to shop for sexy intimates and cute lingerie. While some of these other brands run pretty true to size, Parfait runs a little small, which is fine because they do carry a wide range of sizes. I always suggest sizing up one cup size and one or two band sizes when purchasing lingerie from Parfait. The brand carries cup sizes A through G.

“How do you appreciate yourself?” my therapist asked me. I thought of the many ways I have recently prioritized myself in an effort to improve the way I show my appreciation. Maybe it was the trip I took for my birthday, the spa day I booked, or the daily positive affirmations I tell myself. But instead of mentioning these things that instantly popped into my head. I put my hands on my thighs and traced them, reenacting the times I wake up and place my hand on a part of my body and think, “You are just so beautiful.” These moments are fleeting. Not because I dislike myself or think negatively very often, but because they are special and pass so quickly. These instances get lost in the constant feedback I get from social media or society. I cried as I began to tell my therapist why my hands were tracing my thighs. I could barely even get the words out, “There are these moments where I feel beautiful, and for a second, no one else’s opinion of me matters,” I eventually mumbled.

This isn’t the first time that I’ve gotten emotional when talking about or acknowledging my own beauty. As women, we are taught to dislike ourselves from a very young age. We are taught that we aren’t good enough and that we need enhancements to be our best (for example: Makeup, plastic surgery, etc.). We can’t possibly be good enough when we are at our most true, natural state. But I’m trying to break away from those ideals when it comes to my body.

One of the ways I have been showing my body some love and appreciation has been wearing lingerie around my apartment, just because. This not only gives me a huge confidence boost, but it makes me feel prioritized and special because I’m not dressing up for anyone, I’m dressing in these pieces for me. Currently, my favorite set of lingerie is the Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra and Brazilian Thong in French Blue from Parfait Lingerie. I’ve never owned a longline bra before, but I love how comfortable this one is. The way it contours my bust is super sexy, and I love the look it gives my body. And can we talk about this color? Sure, red and black are my go-to’s for super sexy lingerie, but this color gives this Sandrine set a delicate and beautiful vibe.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a 42 D in the Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra, which is a cup size larger than my usual, but according to Parfait’s sizing chart, it is my actual size, and it’s a little tight, but still very comfortable. I would recommend sizing up one entire cup size and band size from your usual fit. I am wearing a 2x in the Sandrine Brazilian Thong, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly.