If I find a bra that fits well, is comfortable, and doesn’t make me want to yank it off the second I walk through the door, I’ll wear that thing to death. But just like everything else in our closets, bras don’t last forever. One of my bras has holes in it, and I still keep putting it on. Lol! Eventually, the elastic wears out, the shape goes, and before you know it, you’re wondering why your favorite top isn’t fitting quite right anymore.

I decided it was the perfect to take a good look at what I’ve got in my bra drawer and decide what needs to go. A lot of retailers are running end-of-summer or back-to-school sales right now (I told you this was a good time), which makes it a great time to refresh your basics without spending a fortune. So today, we’re going to chat about how to know when it’s time to replace your bras, how often you really should be doing it, how to make your bras last longer, and a few of my favorite tried-and-true bras that are perfect for women over 50.

How Long Does a Bra Actually Last?

If you’re wearing the same one day after day, washing it regularly, and tossing it in the dryer (guilty!), then it’s probably only good for about six months. I know. That sounds crazy, doesn’t it?

Now, if you’ve got a good rotation going, meaning you’re switching between a few bras, washing them gently, and letting them air dry, they can last closer to a year.

7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Bra

Knowing when to retire that old standby is the hard part, but here are a few signs to watch for.

1. The straps are stretched out

If the straps keep falling off your shoulders no matter how much you tighten them, the elastic’s worn out. Once that stretch is gone, there’s no bringing it back.

2. The band is riding up

Your bra band should sit snug and straight across your back. If it’s creeping up toward your shoulder blades, it’s no longer doing its job. And your “gurls” aren’t getting the support they need.

3. The cups look wrinkled or deflated

A bra that’s lost its shape can make your tops look off, even if everything else in your outfit is on point. If your cups are gaping, folding, or just plain sad looking, it’s time.

4. You’re constantly adjusting it

If you’re tugging at it, shifting it around, or readjusting throughout the day, it’s not you. It’s the bra.

5. It doesn’t support you anymore

Sometimes a bra looks okay, but it just doesn’t feel right. If you’re not getting that gentle lift or support like you used to, that’s your sign.

6. There’s damage

If the wire is poking out, the hooks are broken, or you see fraying, quit trying to put the wire back in place, and do yourself a favor and toss it. A damaged bra isn’t just uncomfortable. It can actually cause irritation or even posture issues over time.

7. You’ve had it for over a year and wear it all the time

Even if it still seems fine, if it’s in heavy rotation and you’ve had it more than 12 months, it’s probably past its prime.

How Many Bras Do You Need?

This is different for everyone, but I like to keep around five or six in regular rotation. That gives me enough options to match different necklines and outfits, plus it helps each bra last a little longer.

Here’s my mix:

• A couple of good everyday bras
• A wireless one for everyday and travel
• A strapless or convertible bra for certain outfits
• And one that just makes me feel a little fancy – lace, color, etc.

The key is not wearing the same one every single day. Give them a break so the elastic can recover. Your bras and your back will thank you.

How to Make Your Bras Last Longer

Let me be the first to say I don’t always follow the hand wash only rule, but I do try to treat my bras a little more gently now. Here’s what helps:

• Use a mesh lingerie bag if you’re machine washing.
• Always wash on cold, gentle cycle.
• Skip the dryer and air dry them flat or hang them from the center.
• Stack molded cups inside each other instead of folding them.
• If you’re looking for a gentle detergent made just for delicates, this one on Amazon has a lot of great reviews. I haven’t tried it myself yet, but it’s designed for lingerie and delicate fabrics, and people say it helps extend the life of their bras without leaving behind any residue or harsh scent. It might be worth a try if you’re looking for something more delicate than your regular detergent.

What to Look for in a New Bra

I get it, shopping for bras isn’t always the most exciting thing to do, but getting it right makes such a difference. Here’s what I keep in mind when I’m shopping.

• Fit and comfort come first. If it’s digging, squeezing, or riding up, keep looking.
• The band should feel snug without being tight. That’s where most of the support comes from.
• Be open to new styles. With the necklines these days, you may need a different style than before!
• Sizes can change. Get remeasured once a year if you can.

Once you find a style you like, I always recommend buying more than one so you can rotate them and make them last longer.

My Go To Bras Right Now

You know I love sharing my favorite finds, and bras are no different. Here is a quick overview of the bras I keep on rotation:

This is my go-to bra for everyday wear! I swear by the bra-llelujah from Spanx because it fits great, is wireless, has wide straps, and does a great job of controlling my back fat. I have it in nude, so I can wear it under my white tops. Plus, the front closure makes getting it on and off a breeze.

Underwire bras aren’t usually my first choice, but I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave this bra a try. My husband said I should be wearing this one all the time. I think his exact words were “perky” and “lifted,” which gave me a good laugh. Those aren’t words I hear very often these days. It’s smooth under clothes with no lumps or bumps, and surprisingly comfortable for an underwire.

I also have this bra for occasions when I’ll be wearing a halter, one-shoulder, or strapless top or dress. That’s when you’ll need a comfortable strapless bra that stays put! Because I loved my everyday bra by SPANX, I decided to try the strapless one, also. I find that it is as comfortable as a strapless bra can be and doesn’t slip or slide, even in hot weather when I’m sweating.

I’ve got a full roundup of my favorite bras in this post along with other posts on every type of bra you could need:

• Nine Great Sports Bras to Buy Now
• The Best Front Closure Bras For Women Over 50
• Comfortable and Supportive Strapless Bras for Women Over 50
• The Best Bras for Large-Chested Women Over 50

If you’re looking for bras on sale, I’ve done a round up below of ones available in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

Bras Included in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I’m always on the lookout for wire free bras that still offer a little lift and shape, and this one checks all the boxes. It’s soft, supportive, and disappears under t-shirts. If you’re someone who avoids underwires but still wants to feel put together, this is a great everyday option.

This is one of those bras that makes you feel like everything is right where it should be. It’s full coverage without feeling bulky, and it smooths things out beautifully under tops. If you’re fuller chested like I am, this is the kind of support you’ll really appreciate.

Don’t let the word “bralette” fool you. Reviews on this one say it was made with support in mind. It’s supposed to be perfect for days when you want comfort but still need to feel held in. The stretchy fabric looks comfy, and it would be a nice change from traditional underwire bras when you’re lounging or running errands.

This is one of those bras that looks like you would forget you’re even wearing one. Reviews say it is buttery soft, has no wires, and the straps can be worn regular or crisscrossed in the back. It would be great for layering or low-cut necklines.

For those who want a little lift without too much padding, this balconette bra offers a flattering fit and a smooth finish under clothes. The full coverage design keeps everything in place while the lower cut neckline works with all kinds of tops and dresses.

What a pretty bra, gurls! Some of well-endowed friends say this underwire plunge bra is both supportive and stylish, with sheer paneling and side support to keep the fit comfortable and flattering.

If you’ve ever put on a fitted top and wished your bra didn’t create any lumps or bumps, this one might be for you. The extra smoothing in the back and sides, and the underwire gives great support without feeling too stiff. It appears to help your clothes lay nicer and gives you that smooth look from every angle!

Shop More Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Bras:

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Verse Of The Day

1 Samuel 2:2 (NIV)
² “There is no one holy like the Lord;
    there is no one besides you;
    there is no Rock like our God.