Is Wearing a Bra Necessary in 2023?

In the year 2023, a seismic shift seems to have occurred in the world of fashion. It’s as if society collectively decided that breasts are no longer a subject of controversy. Gone are the days when bras were considered a wardrobe essential. Celebrities now freely flaunt their natural look, and the question on everyone’s mind is whether this braless revolution is a liberating stride towards comfort or a path to potential sagging.

Perhaps this change can be attributed to a post-pandemic response, a consequence of months spent in the cozy embrace of optional bra-wearing during lockdown. Or maybe it’s a reflection of our modern ‘no rules’ approach to fashion, where going big or going braless seems to be the motto. Regardless of the reason, it appears that we have entered an era where the display of one’s chest is no longer a contentious issue, and those who raise an eyebrow at this freedom of expression are increasingly seen as out of touch.

And they’re right — there’s nothing inherently “terrifying” about celebrating and empowering the female form in public while minimizing those sometimes uncomfortable bra-wearing moments. After all, a plunging dress feels even more comfortable without the constraints of underwire and silicone cups. But what might genuinely concern some is the prospect of sagging breasts. Time and again, we’ve been bombarded with warnings that failing to support your breasts could lead to back pain, tenderness, and the dreaded loss of perkiness.

For me personally, it’s a nagging refrain that my mother frequently repeats: “You don’t want saggy boobs.”

But I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with the wires and straps. My B-cup breasts used to favor lace bralettes, but eventually, I took the plunge into the world of going braless (although, to clarify, I do don a sports bra when working out). In my quest to reaffirm my undergarment choices and the belief that it’s perfectly acceptable to let the girls roam free, I found myself asking the question: Does not wear a bra actually lead to sagging or back pain?

There’s nothing quite as liberating as shedding your bra as soon as you step through the front door or letting your breasts bask in the gentle caress of a silky dress. However, from a medical standpoint, it’s worth exploring whether abstaining from bra-wearing is equally liberating. But before we dive into that, let’s have a quick anatomy lesson.

Breast tissue is primarily connected to the muscular chest wall through the posterior aspect of the breast, with this single attachment being the sole source of stability. This means that the majority of breast tissue remains unsupported, making it susceptible to trauma and discomfort during vigorous movements. The primary function of a bra, then, is to lend support to the weight and structure of the breast.

While it’s widely acknowledged that multiple factors contribute to breast sagging, including aging, hormonal fluctuations, and fluctuations in weight, concrete evidence linking bralessness to sagging is scarce, despite the perceived connection. There are numerous bras on the market claiming to be “sag-proof,” and some medical professionals even advocate for well-fitted bras as a means of preventing the inevitable descent.

Consequently, the jury remains out on this issue. A compromise may be the best solution: opt for a supportive bra during physical activities and let your breasts roam free when you’re out for the evening.

So, what are the downsides of wearing a bra, apart from the straps interfering with your outfit? Surprisingly, there are some disadvantages to donning this undergarment.

Going braless can sometimes be a boon for your skin, especially if you’re prone to breakouts and irritation. Bras can trap sweat under and around the breasts, potentially clogging pores and fostering yeast overgrowth, inflammation, and, on occasion, yeast infections.

Additionally, individuals with larger breasts may experience sweat, rashes, and pressure sores beneath the breast line, making it crucial to ensure a well-fitted bra to minimize discomfort, infection, and pain.

The bra-versus-braless debate is not as black and white as it may seem. It’s a matter of personal preference, comfort, and individual body characteristics. While the jury is still out on the long-term effects of going braless, it’s important to consider both the liberating aspects and potential downsides of this choice. Ultimately, the decision to wear or not wear a bra should be guided by what makes you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.

As I continue to embrace the freedom of going braless, with my nips feeling unrestrained and full of vitality (take note, Mum), I acknowledge that this choice might not suit everyone’s preferences or circumstances. To truly foster inclusivity, we should strive to promote and emphasize a wider array of choices in our clothing options — no pun intended here. It’s about supporting your breasts (apologies for the pun, once more) and, ideally, empowering everyone to make their own decisions when it comes to matters of the bosom.

Love,

Emily ❤