Democratic Underground Latest Greatest Lobby Journals Search Options Help Login
Google

Why are women supposed to wear bras in our society?

Printer-friendly format Printer-friendly format
Printer-friendly format Email this thread to a friend
Printer-friendly format Bookmark this thread		 This topic is archived.
Home » Discuss » The DU Lounge Donate to DU
 
raccoon Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:29 PM
Original message
Why are women supposed to wear bras in our society?
I know, so your boobs won't flop. If you're not jogging or doing something else active, such as aerobic exercises, what does it matter?

Decades ago I was told, so your boobs wouldn't sag later on in life. But that's soft tissue so it's going to sag anyway.

I can see if a woman is wearing something tailored or fitted, but if it's a loose shirt or whatever.... :shrug:

Is it just so onlookers won't be offended? Or to make money for Maidenform, Bali, etc.?
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
Midlodemocrat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:34 PM
Response to Original message
1. Because I don't want a broken ankle.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
supernova Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:35 PM
Response to Reply #1
3. ...
:rofl:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
yellowdogintexas Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:34 PM
Response to Original message
2. if you are um, well endowed, it is easier on your back and spine
also cooler, believe it or not. I would have heat rash without one

Before bras, there were other mechanisms to support the female breasts.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
supernova Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:35 PM
Response to Reply #2
4. Yes, thank you
also, I don't want men staring even more than they do at my chest.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
redqueen Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:38 PM
Response to Reply #4
6. Yes and yes.
Plus, I think it's more comfortable than going braless.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Deja Q Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:39 PM
Response to Reply #4
7. Believe it or not, not all men want to gawk.
Okay, many men want to look, but also try to be gentlemen and turn our gaze back to the eyes and converse.

I never liked human nature, but then I think Mr Spock and Doctor Who are better role models anyway... :crazy:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
applegrove Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:50 PM
Response to Reply #4
11. I once went bra less while walking downtown during university.. I got comments.
Your boobs bounce all over the place unless/until they sag if you are of a certain size. It is just better to keep them in order.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
philosophie_en_rose Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:36 PM
Response to Reply #2
13. Exactly!
Bras are very important to my comfort. They're only a problem, when people don't choose the correct size or type.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
RadiationTherapy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:37 PM
Response to Original message
5. It definitely helps the sag, but it is an "onlookers" based phenom in general.
Where I live, many women go without.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
raccoon Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:45 PM
Response to Reply #5
8. I go without at home most of the time.

If I go out to check the mail or something, I may put one on, or sometimes I think of somebody sees me, oh, well.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
my2sense Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:59 PM
Response to Reply #8
18. I do as well
It's the first thing I take off when I come home.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
guitar man Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:46 PM
Response to Original message
9. I don't know
I'm a big fan of the braless look myself. :evilgrin:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
MedleyMisty Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:47 PM
Response to Original message
10. If I don't wear one, it hurts when I jump
So I just always thought it was the female version of the jock strap.

Plus I don't like the idea of walking into a cold store or something and suddenly everyone's looking at my nipples.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
sniffa Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 04:50 PM
Response to Original message
12. It's a conspiracy by the patriarchal society
to give women breast cancer, and further assert their dominance.

And don't even get me started on Big Deodorant.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
edbermac Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:41 PM
Response to Original message
14. Well, maybe as Marlon Brando observed in Last Tango In Paris
"One day you'll be playing soccer with those things."
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Rabrrrrrr Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:42 PM
Response to Original message
15. So that the cancer industry has someone to buy chemo
(and, for the larger breasted woman, to save her back and spine)
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
SeattleGirl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:46 PM
Response to Original message
16. I don't know that we're "supposed to" wear them.
I mean, I don't think there's an ironclad rule about wearing them, but I know that personally, it's better for me that I wear one.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Deja Q Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 05:46 PM
Response to Original message
17. To make it more difficult for them to mechanically service vehicles?

Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
originalpckelly Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:00 PM
Response to Original message
19. It looks weird, like I opened the pages of national geographic without one...
:P
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Guava Jelly Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:01 PM
Response to Original message
20. To create another obstacle between me and the goods?
:shrug: :dunce:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
RedShoes Donating Member (658 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:01 PM
Response to Original message
21. I wear one religiously...
and still pass the pencil test in my thirties. So the soft tissue will sag, but by how much depends on how well you are locked and loaded.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Deja Q Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:02 PM
Response to Reply #21
22. What is this 'pencil test'?
You put a piece of paper over them and trace their image?

:shrug:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
moriah Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:12 PM
Response to Reply #22
23. Lift, put pencil under, drop.
Edited on Tue Jul-22-08 06:14 PM by moriah
If the pencil stays, you fail the pencil test.

As a DD in high school I passed the pencil test.

(ETA: I fail it now at close to 30, but I've also gained and lost quite a bit of weight. I may weigh now what I did in high school, but my body is NOT the same...)
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Deja Q Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:16 PM
Response to Reply #23
24. Well, I can still see how that'd come in handy if you needed to grab something yet not put it down.
But that's just me...

A DD in high school and you passed it - sounds impressive, actually... A DD, you could otherwise be like Twiggy and by 30 anyone with the same endowment would still fail. (Besides, it's about who you are that counts most; the soul is eternal, even if the carriage it's in becomes feeble.)
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
moriah Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:29 PM
Response to Reply #24
26. I've definitely never been Twiggy....
... but yeah, I figure even if I'd stayed a constant weight I probably wouldn't be as perky as a 16-year-old. :)

One thing many guys don't realize about boob sizes is that a DD on me may be very, very different than a DD on, say, a person who was 5'7 and had a larger ribcage. (This brings up a gripe that I've had for a long time with reading erotica written by men, at least crappy erotica that actually tries to mention an exact bra size when they describe women. They really don't understand how the numbers crunch, and so they describe a tiny but busty woman as a 40 C -- I've been FAT and never had 40 inch ribcage.)
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
NewJeffCT Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:05 AM
Response to Reply #26
40. I've wondered about that, too
the bra size thing in literature where they mention 40+ something for the bra size like it is Dolly Parton's boobs on a thin woman... I even remember that from the movie "Saving Private Ryan" where the guy talks about some woman being a 44 something?

I've heard it often enough where I thought maybe I was wrong about my ideas of a woman's bust size, because I remember being more impressed with a woman that was a 32 or 34D than I was with a woman who was a 40D.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
moriah Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:17 PM
Response to Original message
25. It really is more comfortable....
... to wear one when you are well-endowed.

At least if you're moving any faster than a very slow walk.

I do take mine off as soon as I get home (and I don't put it back on to go and check the mail, my neighbors can laugh all they want if they're watching) but I've gone grocery shopping braless a few times, and even the walk around the grocery store starts to get uncomfortable without some support.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
sarge43 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 06:40 PM
Response to Original message
27. I usually don't unless I'm wearing a fitted or filmy top.
But then, I'm a charter member of the itty bitty titty committee.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
SOteric Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 07:09 PM
Response to Original message
28. So that hetero men can think and function in society.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
zanne Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 07:12 PM
Response to Original message
29. It's cultural.
I really enjoyed the 60's and 70's, when bra-wearing was completely optional. Now, the societal pressures are back to wear one.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
LiberalEsto Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 07:25 PM
Response to Original message
30. To torture us
same as the high heels
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
zanne Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:05 AM
Response to Reply #30
39. High heels are so bad for you!
All of your weight is shifted to the front of your foot, causing back problems that you'll only notice once high heels go out of style.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
WritingIsMyReligion Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 07:26 PM
Response to Original message
31. I wear 'em during the day, even at home. I have never found a bra uncomfortable.
It never occurs to me to take the bra off until I take a shower or get ready for bed--they're not uncomfortable at all for me. For the most part I forget I have it on. Then again, I'm not exactly well-endowed; I'm not really endowed at all. I can't say, judging from some of the comments here, that I'm sad about that, though. :rofl:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Critters2 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 10:16 PM
Response to Original message
32. We're supposed to wear 'em so men won't see our nipples.
That's the one and only reason. There's no physiological reason why one's muscles won't support one's breasts. They do just fine in cultures where women don't wear bras. We wear 'em to save men the trouble of fighting the urge to stare at our chests. That's it and that's all.

I don't wear a bra, don't own a bra, and wouldn't know what size to buy if I had to. I do wear camisoles--so men can't see the nips, cuz I know how hard that is on 'em--, and I am not flat chested (I think I'm a 36 or 38). But I won't wear a bra. Which drastically reduces my risk of getting breast cancer.

Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
raccoon Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 07:54 AM
Response to Reply #32
37. Ding, ding, ding! We have a winner. nt
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
PassingFair Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 10:32 PM
Response to Original message
33. Mine comes off the minute I hit the door.
It's sitting beside me on my desk as I type. :)

I went through the 70's and most of the 80's
without wearing one, even *gasp* at work.

We wore halter tops without bras, the
"bra strap" look was a no-no.

I find them uncomfortable and I resent wearing
them all day.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
DarkTirade Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 10:35 PM
Response to Original message
34. So if I'm not planning on going jogging, I shouldn't wear comfy sneakers?
:shrug:
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
datasuspect Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 10:51 PM
Response to Original message
35. i prefer to see unharnessed fun bags
womens is naturally beautiful
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
MilesColtrane Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jul-22-08 11:30 PM
Response to Original message
36. To prevent the collapse of Western Civilization...
About half the population would instantly start staring, drooling, and forget what they were supposed to be doing.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
WinkyDink Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 07:57 AM
Response to Original message
38. Not to be leered at by creepy old guys?
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
stuntcat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:23 AM
Response to Original message
41. I hate them
I was just thinking yesterday that I almost wish I didn't have boobies at all because bras are a pain in the ass and they slow me down more. I have to straighten them out, then pin them, then turn them around.. and I have to wear certain bras with certain shirts, especially in the summer. I just want to slip on any shirt I want and go.

I really do wish I was flat as a boy. It would be one less cancer to worry about to.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
One_Life_To_Give Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:36 AM
Response to Original message
42. So you don't step on them in your old age
Take a look at some of the old National Geographics. Those poor women in Africa had them hanging almost to the waist.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
noonwitch Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:38 AM
Response to Original message
43. I can't speak for all women, but I wear one to prevent back problems
My back hurts if I go braless for too long.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
MissHoneychurch Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 08:49 AM
Response to Original message
44. So my n* don't get sore
when I don't wear a bra my nipple rub on the fabric and get sore.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
montanto Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 11:14 AM
Response to Original message
45. I'll speak for my wife.
Her nips are so prominent that you could see them through a down jacket, and since we work around high school students, its not a good idea to let the girls loose. She has to wear what we call her "bullet-proof" bra at work. Otherwise she just wears a sport top. But otherwise, if she wears a t-shirt with nothing under, it looks like she's got a pair of 45 caliber bullets in her shirt. Very distracting to men and embarrassing to her.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Writer Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 11:55 AM
Response to Original message
46. Running without a bra?
Ow!
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
IntravenousDemilo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 12:53 PM
Response to Original message
47. And also, why aren't women permitted to go topless in public just like men?
OK, actually they are legally allowed to do so in Canada, but 99.99999 per cent of them don't exercise that option, so it works out much the same as if it were illegal.
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
Breeze54 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 01:12 PM
Response to Original message
48. Back/shoulder pain --- comfort and it looks better in public for the well endowed!
There are times when you want to appear stylish, less-top heavy and not
as conspicuous and a good fitting bar can make your figure look younger!

http://beautiesbeautytips.blogspot.com/2007/10/shaping-up-twin-assets-right.html
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
FloridaJudy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jul-23-08 01:22 PM
Response to Original message
49. So we have a place to stash our MP3 players.
Since manufacturers frequently fail to put pockets in women's clothing. What? You don't have earwires emerging from your cleavage?
Printer Friendly | Permalink |  | Top
 
DU AdBot (1000+ posts) Click to send private message to this author Click to view this author's profile Click to add this author to your buddy list Click to add this author to your Ignore list Tue Apr 30th 2024, 11:02 AM
Response to Original message
Advertisements [?]
 Top

Home » Discuss » The DU Lounge Donate to DU

Powered by DCForum+ Version 1.1 Copyright 1997-2002 DCScripts.com
Software has been extensively modified by the DU administrators

Important Notices: By participating on this discussion board, visitors agree to abide by the rules outlined on our Rules page. Messages posted on the Democratic Underground Discussion Forums are the opinions of the individuals who post them, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Democratic Underground, LLC.

Home  |  Discussion Forums  |  Journals |  Store  |  Donate

About DU  |  Contact Us  |  Privacy Policy

Got a message for Democratic Underground? Click here to send us a message.

© 2001 - 2011 Democratic Underground, LLC