LOL... just a fair warning, it REALLY is a pain in the ass, I try to make all my straps detachable, the back ones and the halter because if I need to change quickly or come half dressed due to work issues and not wanting to put said bra on at work, whatever, so I'll get half dressed, having that flexibility makes my life soooo much easier!

i totally agree though, straight ribbon just doesn't do it for me. The first one I made, was very very cool, it looks awesome *minus the beading has stretched and settled so there are little bits of string poking through* :( anyway, the sides are very cool two ribbons going back to tie in the back on each side, cool open back with strap look... but they are just straight ribbon... and I hate it.

The second one I made is pretty comfy because I essentially didn't alter the back at all, I left the straps and made them look cool... it's very stretchy... heavy so I never go anywhere without a choli underneath it, but it really enhances it because it's tribal/gypsy with shells and tapestry and tassels.

Ok... great two extremes

I FINALLY made one that fits in the middle. And I did just that... elastic plus ribbon. Essentially though what it is is the side of the bra was left in tact... I folded the edge where the hook/eye part was over itself and with the metal O ring there..... For this one I can attach either a metal belt or black velvet ribbon for a softer look.

But the point isssss.... the elastic on the side bands are left in tact for flexibility and breathing room and the ribbon or leather or what have you creates the stability. I'll try to get pictures detailing it, I'm sure someone else has them somewhere too.

Anyway, my two... or three cents... I guess it's closer to 5$ worth but there you have it. trial and error at its finest. I'll never make another bra w/o elastic and something unstretchy!