Why Modal Fabric Creates the Softest Bras for your Boobs & Body
When it comes to finding a comfortable bra, especially post-surgery or after a mastectomy, we are all about softness. But finding a super-soft bra feels next to impossible with all the scratchy lace and stiff padding out there in the lingerie department. But what makes one post-mastectomy bra style soft versus other wire free bra styles that are ridiculously, outrageously, and BUTTERY soft?
The answer? The fabric.
While that may seem like an obvious answer, it can be difficult to know what specific materials we want or need when shopping for a bra, because oftentimes, we don't know what materials to look for. We all know cotton is soft, but most bras made of cotton are only moderately soft and don't give our bodies that skin-on-skin or barely-there feeling we all crave. And when healing from a breast surgery or recovering after radiation therapy, moderate levels of softness just aren't good enough.
You need the dreamiest, most supple, and most sensual of fabrics that will make you feel like you are floating in a creamy, fluffy cloud. You need modal fabric. It's our fabric of choice here at AnaOno, and in case you don't have a chance to see our bras in person before buying them, we're happy to give you the full rundown so you can get a sense of just how luxuriously soft this material really is.
What is Modal Fabric and How is it Made?
Modal fabric is an ultra-soft fiber made from beech trees. It is stretchy, absorbent, and beyond breathable, making it the perfect foundation for our comfortable mastectomy bras and post-surgical bras. It is cool to the touch and moisture-wicking, yet will offer the support you need without irritating your sensitive skin post-surgery or scars.
Due to the combination of raw material and cellulose, this fabric is considered a semi-synthetic that is then developed into a fiber through an environmentally conscious chemical treating process. At the end of the process, the modal produces an unbeatable silky soft quality that, unlike other stretch fabrics, will not lose its shape or quality when washed.
Who Makes AnaOno’s Modal Fabric?
At AnaOno, we use highly sustainable Tencel® fabric in our bras. Tencel is derived from renewable raw material wood, which is then processed into a fiber that’s spun into this fabric. From having a low environmental impact during production to being biodegradable on disposal, this material is made for a sustainable fashion future without skimping on quality or comfort.
Tencel is not only known for its blanket-like softness, but it’s also celebrated for its many properties that make it ideal for clothing, and specifically for intimates. Some of its properties include color retention, excellent breathability, and its moisture-wicking properties that discourage bacteria growth on your skin, which is great for both healthy skin and odor control.
Why Is Modal Great For Intimates?
Eco-friendly: Modal is made from wood cellulose derived from beech trees. This type of tree needs much less water to grow, which makes modal a more eco-friendly material.
Holds shape: Modal is an investment! Since modal has such a tight weave and long fibers, it will hold its shape after multiple washes. What’s even better? The fabric feels softer after each wash.
Highly stretchable: Your undergarments should move with you. Although it’s form-fitting, the soft and silky texture of modal allows for comfortable, easy movement without chafing.
Excellent moisture wicking properties: Did you know that modal is 50% more absorbent than cotton? The fabric allows sweat to evaporate quickly, so you won't feel sticky and have to sit in a pool of sweat all day.
Breathable: Modal allows air to circulate between your skin and the fabric, so you won’t overheat.
Why is Modal Ideal for a Surgery Recovery Bra?
Modal is the perfect fabric for your post-mastectomy bra or recovery bra for many reasons. As an incredibly luxurious fabric, it is cool to the touch, 50 percent more absorbent than cotton, and feels remarkably similar in texture to silk. Unlike cotton, it is resistant to shrinkage and less likely to fade in color or pill (you know, those little annoying bumps).
In addition to being extraordinarily smooth and soft, modal fabric breathes remarkably well and features moisture-wicking properties. You don't want areas that are still healing to get hot and sweaty, so this quality is a major benefit to wearing a modal bra.
Modal allows your body to breathe and heal while feeling like a warm and cozy hug against your sensitive skin. As soon as you feel this dreamy soft modal fabric in your post-mastectomy bras, you'll want to replace all your bras in your lingerie drawer!
Who Else Should Wear Modal Bras?
Because of the fact that they're made with the softest fabric ever, modal bras are not and should not be limited to the post-surgery timeframe. In fact, AnaOno bras are a fave among survivors for years after surgery due to the fact that they offer that barely-there feeling. Wire free modal is a fantastic choice for lounging or working. It is also naturally anti-bacterial, lightweight, and breathable, which can make it appropriate for light activity, such as walking or doing chores around the house.
If you're looking for a soft bra for sensitive skin, go ahead and grab one of these wonder-workers. This is extremely important for those undergoing breast surgery who also have sensitive skin because you never want to be in a position where you need to constantly itch or adjust near wound sites.
Where Do I Find Modal Mastectomy Bras?
We know shopping for post-mastectomy bras can feel overwhelming, which is why AnaOno offers a full range of recovery wear and loungewear made from 100 percent modal for breast cancer patients, survivors and thrivers, or those who know the pain of an underwire or structured bra. We also have stylish bras that blend modal with soft, stretchy lace for the perfect blend of soft support, function, and fashion. We make it easy to find styles that look great and feel fantastic for the ultimate comfort and style you need no matter what stage of breast cancer or breast surgery recovery you are on. And did we mention they are all wire free and made with your needs in mind?
We've put together this must-have list for our favorite ultra-comfy, super stretchy modal styles.
The Molly.
The Molly Plunge Bra is loved for its deep plunging neckline and it looks great with your favorite low-cut top but feels as comfy as a lounge bra. Wire free, luxe, and super-soft, this bra will take you from daytime cute and comfy to nighttime sexy and smooth. It's flirty, fun, and fashionable, without any discomfort. Molly is a must-have post-mastectomy bra. It's also an excellent bra for recovery from radiation because of the breathable and comforting modal material that never irritates sensitive skin.
The Monica Full Coverage Bra offers the most comfortable, full-coverage support. It's so soft, you won't even know you have it on! This style is great for fuller busts since it has a slightly higher neckline compared to our plunging bras. It's super-supple on sensitive skin and is pocketed to accommodate breast forms, a prosthesis or F(oo)Bs™. It's sure to become your go-to for everyday barely-there wear both during recovery and long after you've healed.
The Rora Front Closure Bra was voted Best Post-Mastectomy Bra by InStyle Magazine and is the all-around favorite wire free front closure recovery bra. It offers an ideal fit and feel while you recover from breast surgery, including single or double mastectomy, and is a go-to for those looking for a comfortable, wire free, super-soft everyday front closure bra. It can even be worn beyond recovery thanks to its timeless, chic design. Nursing mothers and those with limited mobility from heart surgery, shoulder surgery or another major procedure also love the ease of the front-closure design. This universal style suits various breast surgery types, including reconstruction, flat, and au natural. This is one of our most popular picks for caregivers looking to provide support for a breast cancer patient, survivor, thriver, or previvor.
The Leslie Leisure Bra is a comfortable post-mastectomy lounge bra style for your rest days, everyday wear, or even a light workout. The design features sporty mesh panels that provide breathability and light support with double-layer super soft modal. It is stretchy enough to step into it and comes pocketed to accommodate your favorite prosthetics or AnaOno Breast Forms. It looks amazing on flat, unilateral, reconstructed, DIEP flap, and those who've had a lumpectomy or radiation. We designed the Leslie because we all deserve something soft, comfortable, and beautiful. Trust us, you'll treasure this bra as soon as you feel the super-soft modal against your skin.
The Delilah Pocketed Soft Cup Bra is the perfect everyday bra that is feminine, flirty, and fun. It is easy to pullover, pocketed and comes with removable modesty pad for a super-smooth finish. This wire-free post-mastectomy bralette made of modal and stretch lace has convertible and adjustable straps so you can customize your fit. Ideal for double and single mastectomies, breast reconstruction, DIEP flap F(OO)Bs, or unilateral and flat with breast forms, the Delilah is also the best sleep bra for other breast surgeries, such as augmentation, reduction and lifts.
The Cecile Modal Cami with built in shelf bra is the perfect addition (and alternative) to your post-mastectomy bra options and is a comfortable option for easy dressing and layering. This gorgeous, practical shelf-camisole will leave you feeling confident and your body looking beautiful. Versatile enough to wear at home, out running errands and bedroom. The Cecile can keep you comfortable during recovery as well as years after you heal. It's a stunning choice if you're recovering from a mastectomy, lumpectomy, reconstruction, or other breast surgery.
Shop the Cecile Modal Camisole
The Miena Robe is available with or without a drain management belt and is plush, lavish and functional. As the ultimate loungewear piece, this community favorite is thoughtfully designed to wear during treatment, recovery and beyond.
Find your Perfect Bra with AnaOno
The quest to find the softest bra ever can feel like a never-ending scavenger hunt. Refine your search by looking for a material that is guaranteed to keep you feeling great. You can never go wrong with the ultra-plush and incredibly luxe feel of modal material used in all post-surgery bras designed with intent by AnaOno. It will keep you feeling more than comfortable throughout your surgery, treatments, and beyond.
