Do you go through your day feeling the need to unhook to unwind? Are you constantly looking forward to the relief of removing your bra? If your answer to either question was yes, chances are your bra doesn’t fit you right. The wrong size lingerie can lead to stress on muscles and breast tissue, resulting in back problems and shoulder pain. Consider these tips for your next purchase to ensure you've got a bra that treats you just right.
Bras vary widely in fit, even within the same size across different brands and styles. Experts advise knowing both your true size and your sister sizes. Your sister sizes are bras with the same cup volume but with a different band size as your current bra.
Bra too tight – Move down a band size and up a letter on your cup size.
Bra too loose – Move up a band size and down a letter on your cup size.
Current Bra Size (with a 32 band) |
Sister Size Up |
Sister Size Down |
32B |
34A |
30C |
32C |
34B |
30D |
32D |
34C |
30DD |
If a bra in your regular size isn't perfect, your sister size is a great place to start looking for the right size. For example, if your current size is 32B, your sister sizes would be 34A (sizing up) and 30C (sizing down).
While cups hold the breasts in place, the band provides a majority of the actual support. Straps aren't just there to lift; they help keep your cup flush and shape your breasts. A soft, comfortable and correctly fitted band can completely change your bra experience. Keep in mind that a well-fitted band and cup mean you should be able to go strapless and still have your bra stay in place.
Breast asymmetry is super common and should be taken into consideration while picking your size. If your breasts aren't the same size, opt for the larger size when choosing a bra. This simple adjustment can make bra shopping less complicated and more comfortable.
Another bra red flag is straps that dig into your shoulders. This might signal cups that are too small or a band that's too big. If your breasts spill over the edges, it's time for larger cups. Straps slipping could indicate cups that are too big.
In conclusion, the key to a blissful bra experience lies in finding the right size and understanding how each element contributes to support. By keeping these tips in mind, you can navigate the world of bras with confidence and ensure you get fit with a bra that knows you. Most brands also have a Bra Size Calculator that can be super handy to find the right fit.