May 15, 2013
I bought a @ Playtex Convertible bra in 38DD. I'm altering the band, and the straps are convertible at the top, so I'm going to cut off the straps it has and use my nude straps from my strapless bra so I can have a halter bra to go with my halters and T Backs
Filed under Bras ups and downs
Did you buy it online or did you have the chance to try it on before you bought it? :) Ideally, what would be your band size? I'm wondering because I'm altering bands as well, and I've read somewhere here on Bratabase that a girl here took a bra to a seamstress to make her alter the band shorter, but she wouldn't do it. I think it was 2 band sizes down tops that she wanted to alter it. The seamstress said it was impossible. Pfft. Bullshit. I'm buying 38C's from Kappahl and alter them down to about 28FF's. I've had no issues with it, it works like a charm! The trick is... If you don't want to have additional altering on your shoulders (not literally, figuratively)... You just make sure the bra you're buying has a set of wings that are even in height all the way! :) There could be a slight curve but it's easiest with a bra that has no curve to it in the back (except the leotard curve that connects to the straps). I've found the quality of the XLNT bras (XLNT is a plus size range within the Kappahl brand) to be of far greater quality than their "normal" range. In the regular range the wires are flimsier, the bands are much lower (2 hooks instead of 3) and the materials don't seem as sturdy. When you get the hang of it, there's actually perks with knowing how to alter your bras! You might prefer the features of a bra in a different size range than yours, and now you're able to get those features with a great fit! :D I particularly like that I can get my hands on a bra with side boning, 28F's and 28FF's usually don't have that. And tell me about a 28F/28FF with three hooks in the back that isn't a sports bra or a longline? None ^^ I love to have 3 hooks in the back, it's much more comfy!
Is that why you're altering this bra? To have a halter bra? I'm sure there are none in your "actual" size. Or is it because you don't like to order stuff online?
I bought it at the local Kmart in town. While I do buy online, I don't buy online unless I know its going to fit- the back and forth of exchanges and returns is a lot if more than once.
I did try it on before I bought, I like trying on all my bras before I buy. I go to Macy's , or Dillards for bra study of what brands work/ fit well before I buy so I know ahead whats going to work.
My actual size is 32, right now I'm wearing a 34 band. I like Wacoal but I'm also interested in Chantelle, and they are the only undergarment brand sold US (French) that goes to 30 band and to H cup right now. Also they are unique and creative in the bras they make, many times I have thought Wacoal could do the things they are doing with bras.
Everything from T shirt bras to unique straps and convertible bras.
I agree about altering, there are benefits to knowing how to alter. Once you get the feel of it, you can alter more creative and try different kinds of bras.
With the seamstress, could be she didn't know how- or had not done that before.
I have altered many bras and for a long while.
If there are no strapless or other bras you can get in your size, or the bras that are available don't fit your shape, you have to wear a bra, at that point altering is a great option.
I needed a strapless for summer, but the bras I tried they didn't fit right. So I looked for a convertible bra , I found a Playtex that had convertible straps in regular and criss cross.
I'm taking of the straps that came on the bra and using my strapless straps so I can use the bra halter style, but I like clear straps too so it will be really versitle.
I found a convertible bra in Wacoal line called the Instant Polish, I need to try the G/H cup to see the fit, but I have to try first and Macy's didn't have it in G and H. I liked the cup, a soft lightly lined underwire, the bra in style is just like the Playtex, so for now I'm using the Playtex.
I think that once your skilled in altering, there are so many choices and options in bra wear, its like tailoring your own clothing/ undergarments. Lots of freedom with that.