It’s been days in Nigeria, weeks in some countries and months in another since there has been a coronavirus lockdown, in most parts of the world.
Pyjamas are naturally becoming the national uniform and nobody has a clue what day it will end.
Experts have now warned women that enjoying the freedom of ditching your bra for the duration of time indoors could have long term effects on your breasts.
Going braless has been one of the small victories that have been celebrated since we were told to stay at home, with some one writing on social media: “I’ve been braless for weeks now I cannot contain my joy. That’s probably the only liberating thing about this lockdown.”
Victoria Shelton, a garment technologist at Figleaves, has told the Daily Mail that leaving breasts unsupported could damage the connective tissue which helps to maintain structural integrity, known as the Cooper’s ligaments.
She said: “Our wardrobe needs have changed as we find ourselves at home. But we all still need to wear a bra as our breasts need to be supported, due to their weight, you may damage your posture or have back pain if your breasts aren’t fully supported.
“If breasts are left unsupported damage can occur to the Cooper’s ligament in the breast, causing them to sag.”
It was echoed by Dr Riccardo Frati, of Frati Cosmetic surgery, who argued bras were important to give support to breasts due to potential damage to Cooper’s ligaments, and because ‘breasts tend to sag over time due to gravity and age’.
Victoria explained how to compromise at home by switching to something ‘super comfortable so we can enjoy that no bra feeling’ without the risk.
Her advice was to look out for flexi wires, often found in maternity ranges.
She added: “If you have a larger bust, look for non-wired styles that have seam cups as these have often been designed and fitted to support a larger bust. Padded hook and eyes, and soft brushed straps are also key for comfort.”
