Blouse in gauzy fabric: how to make it modest while braless?

9 years ago

last modified: 9 years ago

I know this is a strange question! But it's a serious question. I often have to work outside when it’s very hot. I need something very cool.

But… if it’s REALLY hot, like 95 degrees, I’d like the option of going braless as well. Many are the times I’ve arrived home to find my 100% cotton bra was sopping wet. More times than I can count, I ran to a porta-potty and ripped the dang thing off. I’d sacrifice support to be cooler. The only way I’ve been able to get away with going without was by wearing a darker patterned fabric. It’s a show-through issue.

I chose a pattern for a sleeveless, V necked, loose-fitting drapey top that should allow some airflow through and under the hem.

I bought 100% lightweight gauze fabric that is white with a pattern of thin gray pin stripes. The store didn’t have it in anything but pastels and the white with grey stripes. If they’d had something dark or patterned I would have bought it.

Any idea for how to make it more modest, without adding a full layer inside of heat-trapping fabric? If it wasn’t for the flowing design I’d opt for small patch pockets. I thought of adding a sort of bib inside covering the area, but think that area of 2 layers would look more white and be too obvious.

Ideas? Thanks for any advice you can offer.

Featured Answer

brendadallas

9 years ago

I'm enjoying the all cotton Cami from Wal-Mart this hot summer. They are the no boundaries brand and a steal at $1.68 each. With them being cotton they help me stay cool and they are somewhat wicking. Much more comfortable than a bra. I've wire them under Sun dresses to add some moderates they are too low and under sleeveless top. I'm hooked!!!

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Comments (6)

linnea56 (zone 5b Chicago)
Original Author
9 years ago
Are they knit fabric? I'm trying to stay away from knits as they trap heat too. That's probably the problem with a bra even if cotton: they are all knit fabric.
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c t
9 years ago
You could dye the tops once you've finished them. You'd be right in style, from what I've observed. I run across garment dyed things a couple times a week.

You could dye them whole, or you could do the ombre' thing and have lighter on the hem, darker toward the bust.

You could dye some of the gauze with tea or coffee to try and get a sort of beige, and use that as the underlayer of the double layered top.

There are little pasties you can put over your nipples, as well. They're available in places like Walgreen's, Walmart, Victoria's secret. They're sometimes called concealers instead of nipple covers.

Cotton does not wick moisture away or dry quickly. That's why it's not used often for bathing suits. A nylon or synthetic bra would dry quicker, but I know some people hate the feeling of synthetics.
linnea56 (zone 5b Chicago)
Original Author
9 years ago
Thank you. As soon as summer comes I put away my nylon bras.
Cotton does feel more comfortable, until it gets soaked. Then like you say, it
stays wet. When I travel out of town I find it does not dry even overnight. I
have to bring several or put on a clammy still wet bra. Ugh. It would be nice
if they made some out of the wicking fabric that is being used for exercise
clothing. Though I have some of that clothing and I’m not sure it really works.
I also tried using my sports bras, but those all seem to be thick and hot even
if made out of the special fabric.

I have cut out the fabric and started. I bought some sheer
lace to use as an overlay on the bodice, just down to and covering trouble
area. Though that might be hot too. I’ll just have to see. I have plenty of fabric.
If need be I’ll test a floating panel inside.
colleenoz
9 years ago
There are new knit fabrics these days which are designed to wick perspiration away from the body. I have polo shirts for work made of these fabrics as working in an unairconditioned kitchen in 45 degree heat can be very trying. You might like to check them out.

I know one is called "Cool Dry" but there are others.
linnea56 (zone 5b Chicago) thanked colleenoz
kittymoonbeam
9 years ago
I have some rayon tops with heavy ribbon/ trim embroidery in jewel colors that hide everything. You could use decorative cords couched down or vertical tucks lined up - anything with texture.
linnea56 (zone 5b Chicago) thanked kittymoonbeam