How to Choose the Right Bra
Did you know that 8 in 10 women are wearing the wrong bra size? And they are completely unaware! It is understandable, though, given how difficult it is to find a bra that fits properly. Brands have different sizing, and there are significant distinctions between cup sizes and the sort of bra you are going for.
A well fitted bra is like a good friend: difficult to find, yet always supportive and never fails to lift you up.
Wearing the proper bra is important as not only will it improve your posture and comfort but also boost your overall confidence. Furthermore, it helps with preventing future health problems by reducing premature breast sagging and preventing bulges around the chest from forming. Breasts are an important aspect of a woman's beauty, and a well fitting bra will definitely enhance your body.
But before that, how do you know if you are wearing the wrong size?
Here are 3 obvious signs that you are wearing a wrong bra:
There should not be gaps at the top of your cups and your breasts should not spill out the sides of your bra. This is a regular problem caused by wearing cup sizes that are too big or small. Let’s allow our breasts to rest comfortably in the appropriate cup size.
2. Soreness while moving or red marks upon removing your bra
If your skin feels irritated and sore with movement or after removing your bra, it is definitely not the right fit! Your bra should provide support and comfort throughout the day.
3. Bra moving up your back
A bra band that moves up your back is an indication that it is too big, causing your breasts to weigh down on the cups and drag the band upwards in the back. If you are experiencing this, your bra is not right and does not provide adequate support.
Now that you know the telltale signs of a wrong fitting bra, it is time to learn how to choose one that fits perfectly!
Step 1: Measuring
The first and most crucial step is finding out which bra size is right for you based on your measurements. We look at the band size and the cup size while sizing a bra.
So, what is the difference? The band size is the numerical part of the size while the cup size is the alphabetical part. A 75C bra size, for example, has a 75 band size and a C cup size. To establish the correct size, both sizes must be measured independently.
To measure your band size:
- Wrap a measuring tape around the band on your chest. (Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground!)
- Make sure it is the appropriate fit, not too loose or too tight.
- In centimetres, round your measurement up to the nearest number. That will be your band measurement.
- Find your band size according to the chart below.
For instance, if your measurement is 73 centimetres, according to the chart, your band size is 75.
To measure your cup size:
- Wrap the measuring tape over your breasts in the middle at nipple level. (Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground!)
- Ensure that the tape is wrapped appropriately, not too loose or too tight.
- In centimetres, round your measurement up to the nearest number.
- Take the cup measurement and subtract it from the band measurement. Your cup size will be determined by the difference in centimetres.
- Find your cup size according to the chart below.
For instance, if your band measurement is 73 centimetres and your cup measurement is 88 centimetres, the difference will be (88 - 73 cm) 15 centimetres. This will result in a C cup size according to the chart.
Thus, with a band size of 75 and C cup size, the final bra size will be 75C.
Tip: Go braless or wear light clothing when doing measurements to ensure a more precise fit!
Step 2: Getting the Right Fit
1. While trying on a bra at a store, pull the bra up from the front only, putting your arms through the straps as you do so. Use your hands to support the bottom of the cups. It is fine if the cups feel empty or a touch too big at this point.
2. Bend over slightly at 45 degrees and gently scoop your breast from under the armpit with your opposite hand in a sweeping movement and let the delicate flesh fill nicely into the bra cup. Repeat this process on the other side.
3. Straighten your upper body to hook the bra. The band should fit snugly around your waist and sit low on your back.
4. Slide your hands into the bra cups to push your breasts into a position that fits comfortably into the cups. Make sure that the underwire and back hook are in line. Check the fit and adjust the straps if necessary. Straps should not be so tight that they dig into your shoulders, but they should also not be too loose.
5. Lift your arms and move them around to see if your bra stays fitted on your body. If it does not stay firm in place, you may have to readjust the bra or get a different size.
Ask yourself:
- Are my breasts completely covered by the cups?
- Is the bra comfortable to move in?
- Is the bra properly positioned on my back?
If you answered ‘yes’ to all three questions, you have found the right fit!
Remember: Everyone’s Body is Different
Your bra size will never be permanent and fluctuates along with changes in your body. Take your measurements again if you have had a significant bodily change or if your bra no longer fits. Different bra brands also carry different sizes so make sure to double check before making a purchase.
Breasts and bodies vary in shapes and sizes. Rather than stressing about whether or not your breasts resemble those of a model, focus on finding a perfect bra for your body and what looks best on you. Shop now with your right size!
Still uncertain after going through the steps above? Head down to one of our Young Hearts Lingerie stores to be professionally fitted!
Written By: Yeo Hwee Jun