I decided to try The Gap first because their sizes are made for women and not junior's, which is always reassuring when you are looking for something flattering and modest. To my surprise, there were several silhouettes I could wear ranging from the Gap Body department all the way to the display up front. I have never taken so many shirts into a fitting room! After trying on, I actually had to decide what shirts to buy, since I couldn't afford them all. That's when I wondered, "how many other women feel this way?". Should those of us with fuller chests have to feel outcasted by what's in stock at most chain stores? I already know the answer to this question as I'm sure you do. While we may not be able to fix this right away, I decided to share some BTC fashion and shopping tips with you.
1. "Suck it up and buy a good bra." I've been guilty of this myself but if you don't get through the nightmare that is bra shopping first, no shirt will look good on. My recommendation is the "Tailored Minimizer" from the Lilyette line by Maidenform. This bra comes in four colors; black, white, ivory and beige, and has a lace trim which distinguishes the bra from your grandmother's. The straps are adjustable and the back has three hooks instead of the usual, meager two. The bra retails for $34.
2. "Invest in good innerwear."
A great deal of the superfine cotton knits, most commonly used for t-shirts, are often see through and revealing. For BTC members, this is a great concern. When I purchase a shear blouse and a tank top to go with it, I often reuse that undershirt for cotton tops that are clingy or drape off the shoulder. Not only does this create some modesty, (the if you've got it flaunt it concept doesn't apply to every situation), but a tank top underneath can hide thick bra straps which can peek out of wider necklines. Innerwear is also good to have if you are looking to smooth out the overall look of the blouse. (Pictured: Pure Body Tank in silver from Gap. $14.95)
3. " Know your silhouettes."
There are many important things to consider when buying a shirt. Let's use the photo at left as an example. The neckline is open which gives your chest more room. The best neckline would typically be a v-neck but as long as a scoop neck is wide enough that will also work. Turtlenecks actually draw attention to your chest so stay away from those. Second, the sleeve length has to be right. The goal is to find a fuller sleeve that balances you out. This shirt has a kimono style sleeve with no armhole which means more breathing room for the girls. The shirt has some fullness towards the bottom so if it pulls up over your chest, there should still be some length to reach your hips. (Pictured: Seamed Jersey Top from Gap. $24.95)
4. "Choose the right print."
Proportion is an important factor when buying any apparel. Skinny jeans do not look the same on a slender frame as they do on a curvaceous frame. This is due to proportion. If you have a fuller chest you want to try and find a larger print that works with what you have and not against it. Look for prints that are less linear and more random so that you do not end up with a large stripe right across your boobs. (Pictured: Printed Raw Edge Shirt from Gap. $ 52.99)
5."Choose the right fabric."
This surplice top is a great silhouette for a fuller chest but more importantly it is a silk-cotton blend. When looking for a shirt, be sure to check the fabric content if you are not sure just by feeling "the hand" of the fabric. The fabric should be thick enough to drape nicely and not cling to your girls. While looking for structure, also look for stretch since you want to be comfortable. A blend can do the job nicely. Cotton blends are breathable but often lightweight. However, when paired with the right fabric they can look more tailored. If a shirt has spandex, make sure the percentage is low, since a high spandex content will cling and stretch, rather than drape. (Pictured: Printed Wrap Top from Gap. $49.95)
So, all in all I had a great shopping day at the Gap. I found a plethora of fabulous shirts that fit my frame and were modest but not too matronly. I only hope as I continue to shop the market, that more stores follow suit and fill the gap. Below are a few more suggestions.
Clockwise from top:
Rule 3 : v-neck, kimono sleeve
Rule 3+5: raglan, bell sleeve, poly/cotton/rayon blend
Rule 3+4: kimono sleeve, print
Rule 3+5: surplice neckline, print
