WHY THE RIGHT SIZE MATTERS
What’s your bra size? 32A, 34C, 38DD? And what’s with the letters and numbers?!
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Ask any bra fitter and they’re sure to tell you the majority of women leave with a different sized bra to the one they walked in with.
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So where are we going wrong?
One of the biggest reasons is that we simply don’t get fitted. Instead we make assumptions.
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For example, if you’re small you go for an A; average a B; bigger than average a C and so on. As you can see, our methods aren’t exactly the most scientific.
The reality is you could look on the smaller side but actually be a C.
Another is that our size isn’t static – it changes over time as we age, and with fluctuations in weight. If that wasn’t enough to deal with, some women’s breasts change size depending on where they are in their menstrual cycle.
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While the wrong bra may not seem like a big deal, it can cause some real physical problems.
Bras that are too tight can damage breast tissue and even cause breathing difficulties. Inadequate support can lead to neck, shoulder and back pain, as well as pinched nerves. You’re also more likely to see premature sagging, and nobody wants that.
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HOW TO TELL IF YOU’VE GOT THE WRONG FIT
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Wearing the wrong bra size can also seriously knock your body confidence. Whether you’re squeezing them in or falling short, neither’s a good look.
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Not only can it make your shape look a little odd when stripped to the bare minimum, but it also does nothing for your fully clothed silhouette. Think lumps, bumps and flattened boobs; a poorly fitted bra is definitely a no-no for your health and curve appeal. So, with that in mind, what are the warning signs you need to look out for?
SPILLAGE
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If your boobs look like they’re trying to escape under your arm or over the top of the cups, you’re underestimating your size. If back bulge is your problem, then you need a bigger band size.
WRINKLES
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If your bra fabric is wrinkled or baggy, your cup size is too big. While it’s tempting to go up a size when you’re below average, you won’t get the support you need.
RUBBING
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Nothing beats taking your bra off after a long day. But do you ever notice redness or chaffing in certain spots? Whether it’s underneath your breasts or on the ribs or shoulders, this is a sure sign it’s too tight.
SLIPPING
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If you’re constantly pulling up sliding straps, you’ve likely gone too big in the band, cup or both. Same goes if your bra rides up your back, or if your boobs get exposed when you raise your arms.
HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT FIT
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While a tape measure can tell you the right size in terms of numbers, it’s not always the key to finding the perfect fit. The only way to truly get your size spot on is through good old trial and error. Once you have a bra on, you’ll be able to tell if it fits in all the right places, provides the perfect level of support.
THE BAND
First up, the band itself. This should sit firm and straight. You should also be able to get two fingers under it but feel a little resistance. If it’s too loose, you need a smaller size. If you’re struggling to get your fingers in then you should try the next size up.
THE STRAPS
The straps are a key part of your bra. You’ll be forgiven for thinking that the tighter the straps the more support they provide, but they should actually sit comfortably on the shoulder without any pinching or sliding. Be sure to check they are equal on both sides.
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THE CENTRE
Also known as the ‘bra bridge’, this is the little bit of fabric nestled snuggly between your boobs. It should sit flat to your body without any room underneath but also not digging into your skin. If you can see a gap, you need to go up in size.
THE CUPS
If all the other elements are adjusted correctly, your cups should be smooth and perfectly moulded to the line curve of your breast. Remember the warning signs we mentioned above; any wrinkles or sagging, move on, girl.
THE WIRES
If you’re testing out a bra with wiring, be sure to check it fits properly. These should follow the natural curve at the base of your breast. If they’re sitting on it or too far below, they won’t do their job and this is where a large amount of support comes from.
