Putting On a Bra Can Get More Difficult as We Age—These 13 Front-Closure Styles Are Completely Hassle-Free
If you're on the hunt for good front-closure bras for seniors (or for anyone, really), you're in the right place. Putting on a bra can often feel like solving a Rubik's cube. Usually, you tend to the hook-and-eye closure first, then swivel the whole thing around to hoist your bosom into the pre-molded cups that you hope will fit just right. Once all of that is done, you slither your arms through shoulder-straps that you hopefully have adjusted to the correct length and fit.
All of that choreography already requires a good deal of mobility to execute on a daily basis, but as we age, it only gets more complex. The older we get, the more muscle mass we start to lose, and the process of putting on a traditional bra can feel like a Herculean feat.
- Lalitha Bhowani-McSorley, PT, physiotherapist and founder of Brentwood Physiotherapy Clinic
Good news is, it doesn't have to be so difficult. Bras with a front-clasp design offer a hassle-free solution, and don't require any extra mobility training to strap into. Read on to learn more about the benefits of front-closure bras from a physical therapist, then shop a few of the best on the market.
Best front-closure bras for seniors, at a glance:
- Best back support: Delamira, Women's Front-Closure Wireless Bra, $28
- Best sweat-wicking: AnaOno, Bianca Front Closure Sports Bra, $55
- Best single-clasp: Bali, Comfort Revolution Front Close Bra, $21
- Best for bigger busts: Glamorise, MagicLift Front-Closure Support Bra, $55
- Best for smaller busts: Pepper, Ultimate Racerback T-Shirt Bra, $65
- Best long-wear: Playtex, 18-Hour Front-Close Wire-Free Bra, $30
- Best plunging: AnaOno, Melissa Pocketed Front Closure Bra, $49
- Best zip-front: Anita, Lynn Front-Close Wire-Free Bra, $55
- Best budget-friendly: Fruit of the Loom, Women's Front Close Racerback Sports Bra (2-Pack), $16
- Best bralette: Skims, Adaptive Fits Everyone Scoop Bralette, $32
- Best seamless: Spanx, Bra-llelujah!® Lightly Lined Wireless Bra, $68
- Best sports bra: lululemon, Energy Bra High Support Zip-Front, $68
- Best camisole: Amoena, Women's Hannah Post-Surgery Front Close Camisole, $68
What is a front-closure bra?
A front-closure bra is exactly what it sounds like—a bra that swaps the closure on the back to the front. Lead physiotherapist at Brentwood Physiotherapy Calgary, Lalitha Bhowani-McSorley, PT, explains that, “this type of bra is ideal for women who have limited mobility or struggle to reach their back without help." There's no pulling over the arms and head, or straining to reach your back where you can't see—everything can be closed directly in front via a range of closures, like a hook-and-loop closure, zipper, velcro, snap, or single clasp.
What to look for in a front-closure bra
When you’re on the hunt for a front-closure bra, consider fit, support, comfort, and quality. Per McSorely’s recommendations, you want to make sure that the bra you choose supports your breasts, doesn’t put strain on your shoulders, and fits your torso comfortably. Above all else, you want to make sure the bra fits you throughout the entire day.
“It’s best to find a bra company or store that will let you try them, exchange and return them if they aren’t the perfect fit,” says Jon Pundyk, CEO of the lingerie brand, Glamorise.
Shop the best front-closure bras
Available sizes: 34B-48E
Delimira’s Front-Closure Wireless bra is a customizable front-closure bra that can be tweaked to add more lift to the breasts, as well as more support in the back for posture-support. Made of cotton, spandex, and nylon, this sturdy but lightweight bra is designed to keep your chest held high without weighing you down. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes.
Colors: 20+ options
Material: Spandex, nylon, polyamide
Pros:
- Multiple rows of front hooks allow for anyone to make the bra more wide, or narrow, depending on their needs
- Stitched side-panels to help keep the breasts centered
- Smooth, wireless cups minimize lines
Cons:
- If you have a larger bust, the fabric might feel too compressive
- No pockets for inserts
- Full-coverage can be hard to hide under some necklines
Available sizes: XS-XXL
AnaOno’s Bianca Front-Closure Sports Bra is a pocketed front-hook sports bra that is meant to offer incredible support without skimping on comfort. With a T-back design and venting along the upper-front – and entire back, it’s sturdy without being overbearing, as well as breathable in all the right places. Like the Amoena camisole, it’s designed for people who have undergone breast surgery, with pocketed cups to accommodate breast forms or pads as needed.
Colors: 3 options
Material: Nylon, spandex
Pros:
- Breathable and airy
- Extra fabric paneling to avoid discomfort
- Pockets for breast forms, pads, etc.
Cons:
- Low-cut, which might not offer enough coverage for some
Available sizes: 34B-42DD
Not a fan of the hook-and-loop? Bali’s Comfort Revolution Front Close Bra is a great T-shirt bra that clasps in the front with a single clasp, making getting it on and off that much easier. Made of mostly nylon and spandex, it’s stretchy and smooth, providing a secure fit that’s still light and breathable. And the cups are dreamy, too, made from a buttery smooth fabric that provides all-over coverage and no lines, even worn under form-fitting tops.
Colors: 8 (neutral) options
Material: Nylon, spandex
Pros:
- Smoothing and sculpting
- Seamless back
- Molded cups add a bit of shape
Cons:
- Limited size range
- Thinner straps
- Contains underwire
Available sizes: 38B-58I
Pundyk says that Glamorise’s MagicLift Front-Closure Support Bra is the brand’s “best-selling wireless bra design.” The bra features a front row of hook-and-eye closures with wide and adjustable straps for added comfort. This wireless front0closure bra—made of a polyamide, polyester, elastane blend—comes in band sizes 38 to 58 and cup sizes B through I, making it the best on this list for those who need a larger cup size.
Colors: 2
Material: Polyamide, polyester, elastane
Pros:
- Extremely supportive and size-inclusive
- Adjustable wide straps for a custom and secure fit
- Full-coverage cups prevent spilling
Cons:
- No added back support
- Full-coverage and hard to hide under some necklines
Available sizes: 30AA-40B
Pepper bras are designed specifically for smaller busts, so if you have a AA-B cup look no further than this comfortable, adjustable front-closure bra. It’s made with cushy memory foam cups and the adjustable racerback straps make it a versatile pick for sleeveless tops. Plus, Pepper uses sustainably-sourced packaging, uses recycled water in their production, and partners with organizations to donate bras to girls in need. We love to see it.
Colors: 7 options
Materials: Polyamide, elastane
Pros:
- Designed specifically for smaller breasts
- Adjustable straps for a customized fit
- Comes from a business with sustainability and philanthropic efforts
Cons:
- Racerback style might not work for all outfits
- Not a fit for anyone who needs larger than a B cup
Available sizes: 36B-46DD
Playtex has been a staple in underwear draws for generations, and the Women’s 18-Hour Front-Close Wire-Free bra is no different. With detailed support in the back and shoulders, adjustable straps, and a smooth, wireless design, this front-close bra is a go-to that is meant to stand the test of time (up to 18 hours at a time, to be exact.)
Colors: 4
Material: Nylon, microfiber, mesh
Pros:
- Adjustable, contoured shoulder straps
- 4-way support
- Wireless
Cons:
- Limited sizing
- Full-coverage and hard to hide under some necklines
Available sizes: S-XXL
Sporting something low-cut? The Melissa bra is here to help. This front-closure bra features a low, deep V in the front that makes it invisible on nights when you’re wearing something a bit more revealing. The lacy racerback is definitely on the sexier side, too. And like all AnaOno bras, it’s designed for those who have had breast surgery, including reconstructions, mastectomies, and reductions. Each Melissa comes with pocketed cups and is eligible for insurance coverage.
Colors: 2 options
Material: TENCEL™ Modal, spandex
Pros:
- Plunging neckline
- Adjustable racerback
- Sexier than other options
Cons:
- Limited size range
Available sizes: S-2XL
Tired of having to go hook-by-hook to secure your bra? Then try a zip-front bra, like Anita’s Lynn Front-Close Wire-Free Bra. It still offers the convenience of a front-closure bra, but with one pull, you’ll be ready to take on the day.
Colors: 3 options
Material: Nylon, elastane, polyester, polyurethane
Pros:
- Zip-front
- Adjustable straps and removable padding
- Discrete zipper
Cons:
- Not as adjustable as other options
- Full-coverage and hard to hide under some necklines
Available sizes: 34-46
Fruit of the Loom’s Women’s Front Close Racerback Sports Bra is perfect for those who are older that love to move but crave comfort while they do their favorite workout. Featuring a front hook-and-eye closure and vented racerback, this polyester-spandex lined bra is ready to move with you. Best of all, it comes in a pack of two so you can alternate bras between washes and only costs $16.
Colors: 5 options
Material: Cotton, spandex, polyester
Pros:
- Comfy
- Breathable and vented
- Wireless
Cons:
- Limited sizing based on ribcage (no cup variety )
- Unadjustable straps
Available sizes: XXS-4X
Skims is known for their dreamlike undergarments that feel like nothing is there. This adaptive bra is no different. It’s the same, puppy-ear soft fabric as the rest of the brand’s lingerie, only it sports a hook-and-eye front closure that makes dressing even easier. Plus there’s discrete bonding at the closure that actually makes it lay flat against the skin under clothes.
Colors: 4 options
Materials: Polyamide, elastane
Pros:
- Soft material
- Lightweight
- Discrete bonding at the closure
Cons:
- True bralette/not as supportive as traditional bras
- Runs small
Available sizes: 30C-38DD
For a more seamless style, we love the Spanx Bra-llelujah!® Lightly Lined Wireless Bra. Designed with the brand’s patented all-hosiery back, this wireless bra doesn’t just go undetected under clothing, it also doubles as shapewear as it provides a smoothing effect on the back with specifically engineered straps designed to prevent digging at the shoulders. Overall, the bra is super comfy and the front closure hook is barely noticeable, giving the bra the look and feel of a pull-over style without the hassle.
Colors: 2 options
Material: Nylon, elastane
Pros:
- Constructed from a breathable, soft material
- Doubles as shapewear
- Straps are specifically designed to prevent digging
Cons:
- Only comes in sizes 30C through 38DD
- Only available in two colors
Available sizes: 32B-32G
A go-to for all things activewear, luluemon makes a wide variety of sports bras. This particular style is a front-closure version of their bestselling Energy bra, and it features high support, a zip-front design, and thick, adjustable straps. Plus, it’s made with moisture-wicking material that will keep you feeling dry through even your sweatiest workouts.
Colors: 4 options
Material: Luxtreme fabric (sweat-wicking with stretchy lycra)
Pros:
- Wide size variety
- Sweat-wicking material for sweaty workouts
Cons:
- Not very many color options
Available sizes: 2-30
A camisole front-closure bra provides support throughout the entire torso for whoever wears it. Amoena’s Women’s Hannah Post-Surgery Front-Close Camisole has detailed stitching for the band that separates the breast from the remainder of the torso, then smooths the under-bust down to the hip. It also zips up the front for easy on-and-off. This cotton-rich (82-percent cotton and 18-percent spandex) camisole is technically designed for women who have just undergone breast surgery, so there are thoughtful details incorporated throughout, including pockets for breast forms and padded straps for added comfort.
Colors: 1 (white)
Material: Cotton, spandex
Pros:
- Thoughtful, surgery-friendly designs
- Wire-free and comfortable
- Removable, padded shoulder straps
Cons:
- Only available in white
- Snug-fitting
- Full-coverage and hard to hide under some necklines
Benefits of purchasing a front-closure bra for seniors—or anyone!
McSorely reiterates that a front-closure bra can be incredibly an incredibly useful addition to your wardrobe if you have stiffness or mobility issues. "The primary benefit of a front-closure bra is that it can be put on without having to reach around your back," she says. "This makes it effortless and comfortable to wear, allowing seniors to maintain their independence and dignity.”
But it's not just for easier movement—the design is often more flattering, too."It also typically creates a silhouette with fewer lines and bumps compared to its back-closure counterpart,” explains Pundyk, adding that smoothing the back out and being compatible with lower necklines (depending on the cut) are perks, too.
Things to consider before buying front-closure bras for seniors
Coverage
From plunging necklines to compressive paneling, our list includes a variety of different front-closure designs. Decide how much (or how little) coverage you like, both for your own comfort and to accommodate your wardrobe.
Sizing & support
This probably goes without saying, but if you have a bust size that falls closer to one end of the size spectrum, it's important to pick a brand with diverse size options. Additionally, keep in mind the amount of support you'll need—there are plenty of wireless, seamless options on this list, but some are better at lifting than others.
Adjustability
Beyond standard sizing, having added adjustable features can help you find that just-right fit. Several of the options on our list include adjustable straps and various hook-and-eye clasps—these customizable details offer a better shot at finding your right size.
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