Bras are out of style – but what happens to your breasts when you stop wearing one?

The decline in bras in recent years, influenced by movements such as ‘Free the Nipple’ in 2012 and the shift to remote working during the pandemic, is evident.

Despite the fact that bras are designed to support and enhance the breasts, discomfort – especially with underwires or poor fit – is a common problem.

It’s no surprise, then, that a number of celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, Rihanna, Florence Pugh and Gillian Anderson, are embracing the no-bra movement, prioritizing comfort over social norms.

In fact, the Crown actress, 54, famously declared: ‘I don’t care if my breasts reach my navel. I’m not wearing a bra – it’s just bloody uncomfortable.’

However, advanced esthetician and practitioner Dr. Chandi Rajanai, based in London, told FEMAIL that it is important to weigh the short-term relief against potential long-term effects on breast health.

Dr. Rajanai, who specializes in women’s health and wellness, explained that the effects of going braless can vary widely, but can help those who find traditional bras uncomfortable.

“The effects of not wearing a bra vary from person to person, depending on factors such as breast size, tissue elasticity and individual comfort.

‘Going braless can lead to increased comfort for some individuals, as bras can sometimes cause discomfort, irritation or pressure on the shoulders and chest.

‘Also, not wearing a bra can promote better circulation and ventilation, reducing the risk of skin-related problems.’

Nevertheless, highlights Dr. Rajanai that the potential impact of going braless on breast shape and sagging is a frequent concern.

“Although there is limited scientific evidence linking bra use with breast bleeding, some argue that the natural support provided by bras can help maintain breast firmness over time.

‘Going braless can result in increased breast movement, potentially causing stretching of the supporting ligaments and tissues.

“Yet others claim that the muscles under the breasts can be strengthened with reduced reliance on bras.”

The GP concluded by saying that there is no definitive right or wrong and the decision is ultimately a personal one.

‘Ultimately, the decision to wear a bra or not depends on personal comfort, lifestyle and individual preferences.

‘It is important to find a balance that promotes both physical and emotional well-being.’

Back in 2012, the topic became political when it was revealed that Facebook and Instagram censored female nipples, but not male ones.

A number of celebrities including Miley Cyrus chimed in with their own topless photos, braless marches took place and Never Fully Dressed sold a ‘boob t-shirt’ worn by Kendall Jenner, raising £50,000 for mental health charity .

But it was lockdown that encouraged more of us to embrace a bra-free lifestyle, as working from home introduced a stripped-down aesthetic that extended to our underwear.

A 2021 YouGov survey found that a third of British women stopped wearing bras during the lockdown months, while researchers at the University of Portsmouth and St Mary’s University reported a 70 per cent drop in bra use during the lockdown, with a quarter of women saying they had no intention of going back.

In October 2020, lingerie retailer Bravissimo reported a 30 percent drop in revenue, while US bra sales fell 9 percent in the same year.

Meanwhile, on TikTok, the #NoBra hashtag has amassed 399.4 million views and the #NoBraClub has 102 million — and counting.

The no-bra movement has re-emerged regularly since the 1960s.

In July 2022, Florence Pugh hit back at cruel trolls who criticized her for going braless in a sheer Valentino dress and questioned how her ‘breasts’ could have ‘offended’ people – especially men.

She wrote in an impassioned post on Instagram: ‘What has been interesting to watch and witness is how easy it is for men to totally destroy a woman’s body, publicly, proudly, for all to see.

‘So many of you wanted to aggressively tell me how disappointed you were with my ‘little t**s’ or how I should be embarrassed to be so ‘flat chested’.

‘I have lived in my body for a long time. I am fully aware of my breast size and am not afraid of it.’

The Don’t Worry Darling star started her post by telling fans that she knew the dress would cause a reaction, but she was “excited” to wear the dress.

Meanwhile, Kim Kardashian embraced the trend by launching a £64 ‘nipple bra’ last October which had built-in foam nipples – and it sold out instantly.

‘I’m introducing a brand new bra with a built-in nipple. So no matter how hot it is, you will always look cold. Some days are hard. But these nipples are tougher. And unlike icebergs, these aren’t going anywhere,’ she explained on Instagram.

Available in six skin-toned shades, the Ultimate Bra is made from soft microfiber fabric with first-of-its-kind tapered foam pads for “sexy, natural-looking lift and support.”

The push-up bra also includes smooth wings and a padded, hidden underwire to ensure a comfortable fit.

That’s why the SKIMS Ultimate Bra is designed to give the feel and look of going braless, while maintaining support and lift.