Ahh bra, Soma and several other questions Please help

[celticlady]

Hi ladies,

Some months ago I came across this forum and read alot of very helpful information about so many interesting topics. I am getting ready to leave for a cruise on March 5th(eastern Carribean on the Ruby). I was hoping I could get some of your valuable opinions on some different topics.

 

Here it goes: Has anyone had expereince with the Ahh bra or Soma? If so what is your opinion? I am a 34-36DD. I have spent thousands of dollars seeking the perfect bra. I am in my early 50's, no implants, and I think I have alot of tissue( heavy in the bust). Comfort is most important to me. My skin is very sensitve. I did discover Victoria Secret "Incredible" bra which I love. The material is wonderful. It has no adjustable straps. Instead, the heat of your body molds the straps for you. The only problem is I really need a 35 LOL. It would be the perfect bra except the fit is not perfect. Does anyone know of other brands that might fit the bill besides maybe AHH and Soma?

 

Topic Two: What about sandals? I did remember seeing mentioned the brands ecco and merrill. Any other brands I should look at? My feet have nerve damage so I need lots of cushion.

 

Last few things: I received a sample of Hydroaxatone and tried it one time. It seemed to work, smoothing my undereyes but when it dried left alittle white film and felt kind of dry. Has anyone had any expereince with this? Is anyone using a product they feel really works for lines,puffiness and dark circles?

 

Is body lotion supplied in your cabin or do I have to bring my own?

 

Lastly, I am often cold when everyone else is comfortable. How heavy should the outerwear be that I take with me( for dinner for instance)?

 

Thank you in advance to all of you for your advice and opinions. I will value all of it and use it in making decisions. You are all very generous to take the time and energy to answer my questions. ;)

 

 

 

Thank you in advance for any opinions and advice offered.

[Happy ks]

I can only answer what I know personally. I prefer Wacoal bras to Soma. I have some Soma bras and I just don't think the quality is quite as good, close...but I still like Wacoal better.

 

Shoes, those are so personal. I have a pair of Born flats that my co-workers (retail) swear by. I've never had a harder time with this type of shoe, I think they stretch every time I wear them and they are too big for my feet, at least the right one is. The most comfortable flip flops I have are Havaianas, the first pair I tried were the ones I stole from my daughter, now I have my own and still have hers as well. I also have nerve damage in one foot and these are great for very casual wear. http://us.havaianas.com/womens-sandals/ All other shoes I adapt to my feet, adding arch supports, insoles and heel things (what are they called, they stick in the back of your shoe).

 

Take your own toiletries. Most cruise lines have only mystery shampoo and bar soap. I don't care to take chances.

 

Sorry I don't have answers for your other questions. Please remember, it's all personal taste and opinions.

[Happy ks]

Ways to adapt shoes:

 

http://insolia.com/

 

http://www.amazon.com/Pedag-Stop-Padded-Leather-Grips/dp/B004BD71JK/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_8

[5326jan]

This is the most comfortable bra I have EVER worn! The straps don't slip, there's no bra line, no back fat, has smooth contour in front for modesty and smooth contour in the back. LOVE IT!!! :D http://www.soma.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=74&pageId=1&productId=560000135&viewAll=&prd=Vanishing+Back+FrontClose+Nadia+Underwire+Bra&subCatId=&color=&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=1&catId=cat40089&cat=Bras&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=5&size=

[cb at sea]

If a bra doesn't fit...it doesn't fit....end of story. No matter how expensive or what the "brand" is...it apparently doesn't work for you. Have you tried a professional fitting? Perhaps you need a different cup size...go up or down on the band size and try a D or E cup.....the band size affects the cup size.

 

Shoes.....you have to try them on..and walk A LOT in the store....I find stuff I like, and wear them while I continue to shop...there are a lot of "cushy" shoes out there, but you still need to walk in them to see if they work for you!

 

Definitely bring your own toiletries and cosmetics....if the Hydro...stuff you used left you dry, it was probably too strong. Bring what works for you and your skin type! Or, get a better hydrating lotion.

 

I, too, get chilled easily, but I've never needed extra layers, even tho' I bring some sort of wrap every cruise. The 1st couple of nights I'm lugging the damn thing around...next time, I'm not bringing it...too much trouble!

[kitty9]

I just didn't care for the Soma. But, the Ahhh bra? Absolutely love it. I'm big chested, and these bras are the most comfortable. And, the reduce me by 2 inches. I do wear two atba time, for better support, but even wearing two is VERY comfortable.

[celticlady]

Thank you to all who responded to the variety of questions. I realize it is to each their own. I like to hear what others have experienced personally in relation to a particular product. It gives me different prospectives. However, in the end I make the choice that is best for me. If anyone else would like to share, please feel free.

[royalcruz]

This is the most comfortable bra I have EVER worn! The straps don't slip, there's no bra line, no back fat, has smooth contour in front for modesty and smooth contour in the back. LOVE IT!!! :D http://www.soma.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=74&pageId=1&productId=560000135&viewAll=&prd=Vanishing+Back+FrontClose+Nadia+Underwire+Bra&subCatId=&color=&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=1&catId=cat40089&cat=Bras&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=5&size=

 

Soma Vanishing Back is my favorite bra also. It's comfortable, looks so smoothe, and gives me good support and shape. I do have to adjust the straps on every couple of wears though but I am short and wear the straps on the tightest setting.

[alidor]

I returned that Soma bra. Bought 2 and they were comfortable but the adjusting straps kept slipping and I was constantly adjusting them. At the beginning of the day, the "girls" were they were supposed to me but as the day progressed, they kept slipping as the adjustment straps kept slipping. Kept the one but returned the other. I never had a bra do that.

[lucyintheskywithdiamonds]

kohl's sells bras that are sized in the 35's.. in-between sizes. i agree with the proper fitting, try a smaller band w/ a bigger width cup, the demi might be comfy it's less material. check their website! can't remember the name of the bra.

 

take your own lotion, they probably give some cheap crap. dont risk getting an allergic reaction!

 

"teva" or "magellan" shoes are good.

under eyes!! ugh, good luck the tea bag trick works, the tannic acid does something,, one expert recommended dabbing vit e very gently on area before bed... sleep is the best way to get rid of the dark circles, their are also various facial exercises you can do to tighten every muscle in your delicate face,,( google or you tube) they work!

 

have fun!

[5326jan]

kohl's sells bras that are sized in the 35's.. in-between sizes. i agree with the proper fitting, try a smaller band w/ a bigger width cup, the demi might be comfy it's less material. check their website! can't remember the name of the bra.

 

take your own lotion, they probably give some cheap crap. dont risk getting an allergic reaction!

 

"teva" or "magellan" shoes are good.

under eyes!! ugh, good luck the tea bag trick works, the tannic acid does something,, one expert recommended dabbing vit e very gently on area before bed... sleep is the best way to get rid of the dark circles, their are also various facial exercises you can do to tighten every muscle in your delicate face,,( google or you tube) they work!

 

have fun!

 

I had heard that hemorrhoid cream was good for circles under the eyes and puffiness. :eek: I read up on it and apparently the ingredients that accomplished the desired effect, has been removed from the US products. It's still available in Canada and Europe. You might remember having seen reference to this in the movie "Miss Congeniality" and it has been widely used by models for years. The ingredients that are now missing from our Preparation H are shark oil and a live yeast cell derivative. You can bet the next time I travel to Canada or Europe, I'm stocking up!:rolleyes: That will be embarassing to buy a case of Hemorrhoid cream!:o

[Guest maddycat]

I'll answer two of your questions. I always bring a light sweater on cruises. Some locations on the ships are just too cold for me, usually the dining room and theater. Many women use a shawl in the evenings, especially on formal nights. The shops on the ship usually sell inexpensive shawls ($10). They also do a big business selling sweatshirts, hoodies and jackets so I'm not the only cold one on a cruise ship.

 

I just bought my 2nd pair of Merrill sandals. Merrell Bassoon Black Full-Grain Leather - 6pm.com I tried them on in a local store, but ordered them online and saved $30. I also have a pair of SAS sandals. They're not the most stylish but have great support and are very comfortable. They have loads of padding, very soft leather inside and out, adjustable straps. They're really made to last. I've worn my SAS Trio II sandals for 4 seasons and they still look new. San Antonio Shoes - Products and Styles

[celticlady]

I just didn't care for the Soma. But, the Ahhh bra? Absolutely love it. I'm big chested, and these bras are the most comfortable. And, the reduce me by 2 inches. I do wear two atba time, for better support, but even wearing two is VERY comfortable.

 

Hi Kitty,

 

So glad to hear about the bra. I want to order one. If you don't mind my asking how is the side support? Is it enough support to hold the shape or does it allow the the bust to fall to the side( I hope you can understand what I mean, it's hard to ask that question delicately :o LOL)? Thanks

[Colorado Kat]

As far as the comfort of the sandals: You can go to any good sporting goods/running store, and get shoe inserts. Get the good kind made for runners, who pound the pavement. Makes a hugh difference! And they can be swapped shoe to shoe.

[SadieN]

...............

Shoes.....you have to try them on..and walk A LOT in the store....I find stuff I like, and wear them while I continue to shop...there are a lot of "cushy" shoes out there, but you still need to walk in them to see if they work for you!

 

.............

 

Adding on-- try to wear them on hard surfaces. Have several shoes that are ok on carpet but no-go on hard surfaces.

 

Do a search on here. There are many threads about shoe brands.

[Denverite]

I'm not big chested (36B) but absolutely love the Ahh Bra. It is so comfortable, easy to pack, easy to wash and dry. I have only been able to find it at Walgreens. Does anyone know any other stores that carry it?

[cb at sea]

Definitely take your own lotions, creams, shampoos/conditioners, etc...bring what works for you.

 

Can't help with the bra issue....I wear a smaller band size, so the cup will fit me correctly....you don't have to fasten it on the last hook...use the 1st hook if the band size is a bit smaller than you usually buy!

 

You HAVE to try on shoes....there's no other way to do it. Put them on in the store and walk and walk and walk...and then, walk some more. Walk fast...walk slow...dance a bit...wear them for at least 30 mins. to make sure they feel ok. Most shoes will feel fine for 10 mins......but some will be excruitiating after that! Keep wearing them before you pay for them!

[STARFISH*4]

i got the AHHH bra and hated it...supported less than a sports bra that i have had--very uncomfortable--i wear 38-40D...i have worn underwire since i was a teen 50s now and i will continue--i havent found the perfect bra but what i have now least supports and is okay for comfort--i have several different brands, but one of the worst was the AHHH for me!

i probably have tried on in the last year 75 bras at least!

[5326jan]

I bought the Soma Vanishing Back bra based on a recommendation on this board well over a year ago. It is now the ONLY bra that I wear and still swear that it's the most comfortable bra ever made!:D

 

http://www.soma.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=37&pageId=1&viewAll=true&productId=560000135&prd=Vanishing+Back+Full+Coverage+Front+Close+Nadia+Bra&subCatId=&color=&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=1&catId=cat20004&cat=Vanishing+Edge&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=

[Tatianablue]

I was wearing a 36DD until I went to a bra shop and was fitted into a 34G. I came home with Wacoal and will only wear themf from now on. They are very supportive and comfortable for me. I bought an Ahh bra at Walmart last week, and took it back the next day. I felt no support.

[lakemurraykid]

Hi ladies,

Some months ago I came across this forum and read alot of very helpful information about so many interesting topics. I am getting ready to leave for a cruise on March 5th(eastern Carribean on the Ruby). I was hoping I could get some of your valuable opinions on some different topics.

 

Here it goes: Has anyone had expereince with the Ahh bra or Soma? If so what is your opinion? I am a 34-36DD. I have spent thousands of dollars seeking the perfect bra. I am in my early 50's, no implants, and I think I have alot of tissue( heavy in the bust). Comfort is most important to me. My skin is very sensitve. I did discover Victoria Secret "Incredible" bra which I love. The material is wonderful. It has no adjustable straps. Instead, the heat of your body molds the straps for you. The only problem is I really need a 35 LOL. It would be the perfect bra except the fit is not perfect. Does anyone know of other brands that might fit the bill besides maybe AHH and Soma?I have never worn either of these, but I will recommend Wacoal. Wacoal is a high quality bra and will last a very long time if taken care of. Do you have a Dillards or another major department store where you live? If you do, and they carry Wacoal, they should have a Wacoal specialist (someone who has been trained by them to measure, etc.) Last week I spent an hour at Dillards with their Wacoal specialist and found out I'd been wearing the wrong size bra for years. Dillards also has their own line of bras called Modern Movements, which are made by Wacoal, so you get the same quality. Granted the Wacoal is more expensive, but if it fits and is comfortable, it's worth every penny.

 

Topic Two: What about sandals? I did remember seeing mentioned the brands ecco and merrill. Any other brands I should look at? My feet have nerve damage so I need lots of cushion.

 

Last few things: I received a sample of Hydroaxatone and tried it one time. It seemed to work, smoothing my undereyes but when it dried left alittle white film and felt kind of dry. Has anyone had any expereince with this? Is anyone using a product they feel really works for lines,puffiness and dark circles?

 

Is body lotion supplied in your cabin or do I have to bring my own? I suggest you take your own. There has always been lotion in our cabins on every cruise we've taken, but, personally, I didn't care for it.

 

Lastly, I am often cold when everyone else is comfortable. How heavy should the outerwear be that I take with me( for dinner for instance)?Like others have said, take a light sweater.

 

Thank you in advance to all of you for your advice and opinions. I will value all of it and use it in making decisions. You are all very generous to take the time and energy to answer my questions. ;)

 

 

 

Thank you in advance for any opinions and advice offered.

Good luck with everything and I'm sure you will have a great time on your cruise. Have fun shopping.

[Gathina]

You are so right..if it doesn't fit, it doesn't fit, period.

 

The best bras, in my opinion, are from Fredericks of Hollywood..I've had some that have lasted 10 years..I kid you not..they are so worth the price, IMO. They had a giant sale in the store itself in July and I bought 6 for $19 each. They fit well, are sewn well, and it's the only kind I buy. They are for women of all ages and sizes, too.

 

 

If a bra doesn't fit...it doesn't fit....end of story. No matter how expensive or what the "brand" is...it apparently doesn't work for you. Have you tried a professional fitting? Perhaps you need a different cup size...go up or down on the band size and try a D or E cup.....the band size affects the cup size.

 

Shoes.....you have to try them on..and walk A LOT in the store....I find stuff I like, and wear them while I continue to shop...there are a lot of "cushy" shoes out there, but you still need to walk in them to see if they work for you!

 

Definitely bring your own toiletries and cosmetics....if the Hydro...stuff you used left you dry, it was probably too strong. Bring what works for you and your skin type! Or, get a better hydrating lotion.

 

I, too, get chilled easily, but I've never needed extra layers, even tho' I bring some sort of wrap every cruise. The 1st couple of nights I'm lugging the damn thing around...next time, I'm not bringing it...too much trouble!

[crusinpsychRN]

The Hydro works for me but costs too much.

 

I wear eccos from The Walking Store. Best ever--you could walk miles and your feet won't feel it. Got Trotters there for elegant night. They look like the dancer's shoes with the broad heel so you can walk a long ways without discomfort.

 

No bra ever fits me.

 

A regular sweater should work. It can be cold in areas.

[slidergirl]

I don't know where you are located, but check and see if there is a {intimacy} store near you. Check their website (myintimacy.com) for the locations. They don't sell online. I was on vacation last spring and found myself in a place with one of the stores. I made an appointment for a fitting. I came out with several very nice bras. Sorry, but they don't have WalMart pricing, though :eek:

[karinad]

I bought the Ahh Bra online. QVC also carrys it. I'm a 36D. I really like it! Everything bothers me, but this doesn't. You do need the modesty pads to give it shape. You do have to size up. I bought the large. Believe me, I have a drawer full of bras that I don't wear. I haven't put one of them on since I bought the Ahh Bra.