As the mercury rises and summer clothing verges on skimpy, those who are fuller of chest face the age-old conundrum: how to make summer clothes work with a bra. It’s a well-known fact that fashion and larger busts have never been easy bedfellows. Particularly in high fashion, where an idealised (that is, skinny and flat-chested) body type has traditionally reigned supreme.

Indeed, a recent study in the UK revealed breast reductions now make up 40 per cent of all breast operations – up by a quarter (27 per cent) in three years. Interestingly, the procedure is soaring in the over 50s demographic. NHS reduction operations are up 79 per cent in nine years for those aged 50 to 59, up 107 per cent for women aged 60 to 69, and have more than tripled for those aged 70 to 79.

As many fashion brands lean into spaghetti straps or off-the-shoulder pieces for summer months, the reality is that going braless is not an option for many of us. 

So, what’s the solution?

Thankfully, there are a number of fashion and brands who factor in a fuller chest into their designs, making bra-friendly dresses that are easy to shop – and wear. 

We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite fashion brands who don’t compromise on personal style and flattering summer shapes. 

Main image: Reformation. 

Known for ethereal pieces, Reformation is a favourite for weddings and generally glamorous events, and is loved by the fashion crowd as well as It girls such as Kendall Jenner. At a first glance, the brand’s Victoriana-influenced corset tops and trademark puff sleeve dresses may seem prohibitive for fuller busts. See something you like? Scroll to the product description where the brand tells you if the piece is bra-friendly or not. It’s the perfect shopping solution. 

When Irish designer Sinead Keary released the Becky camisole, it was a win for fuller chested fashion followers, as the summer-friendly silk camisole comes with nifty bra-loops that help conceal your bra strap. Since then, Keary has released the Becky slip dress, which features the same design detail. Shop it here.

As well as loving Rouje’s trademark French flair, the brand also flatters fuller figures largely thanks to the vintage-style dress shapes that feature in each collection. A case in point is the label’s new Lilia dress that boasts a shirt collar and elegant cap sleeve.

If bucolic summer dresses are your bag, UK label Day Dress is for you. As well as stocking a stable of lively prints in decadent fabrics, the brand’s V-neck and long-sleeved dresses make them perfectly bra-friendly options.