We’ve all heard the statistics about how many of us are wearing the wrong size bra, but do we actually do anything about it? During pregnancy, breastfeeding and beyond our boobs go through so many changes and not only that but our needs change so it’s even more important to regularly check our fit.
The difference a well-fitted bra can make to your figure, the way your clothes fit and your posture is, quite frankly phenomenal as I found out after a visit to Rigby & Peller. And as corsetiere to the Queen, what better place to visit for expert tips for this feature. The lovely Polly at the King’s Road store gave me some great pointers about how your bra should fit, when you should get fitted and the importance of not relying on a tape measure and size label.
It’s all about the fit
Today the focus is on checking your fit. So this weekend, take a minute to check yours. You might find a simple tweak of the straps or back fastening will improve the fit instantly, or you may need to think about going shopping (any excuse!).
Recognise any of these problems in the mirror?
The band rides up at the back
Either the back size is too big or your shoulder straps are too tight. Try loosening the straps to see how the under band feels. If it is taking most of the weight, your problem is solved. If you were relying on the shoulder straps to hold you up, you need a tighter back.
Shoulder straps dig in
This may be because the under band is too big and not giving you enough support, meaning that the straps are doing all the work instead. Again, try loosening the straps too see how the band feels. The straps shouldn’t be taking the weight.
Centre front is lifted
If the centre front is pushed away from your body the cups are probably too small, so try a larger cup size. If the centre digs in your back size is too big (allowing the wire to ride up and dig in).
The underwire digs in
Wire digging in or pinching the breast tissue under the arm suggests your cup size is too small.
Bulging cups
If your bust is bulging over the top of the cups you’ll need to go up a cup size.
The cups look baggy
Try a smaller cup size. However, if the cups fit snugly but crease where the cups meet the strap this may just be due to your shape. Post-breastfeeding you might find you’ve lost volume and where a plunge shape suited you before, a balconette bra will work better for you now as the cups don’t come up so high.
So this is what you’re looking for:
- The under band should provide 80% of the support. If you lift your arms up or move them around the under band should sit firmly in place and not move around.
- Shoulder straps should be snug but allow you to place two fingers between your shoulder and the strap.
- Underwire should sit completely around the breast tissue and not on it.
- The centre front should sit flat against your body in between your boobs.
If after readjusting your bra it doesn’t sit as mentioned above, then it’s time to go shopping…
Coming up:
A Rigby & Peller fitting: no tape measures necessary.
New & expectant mums: your bra-buying guide.
A really useful post, thank you! Three babies in five years means my shape seems to be constantly changing and it really helps to know what to look for in terms of fit – I think I need to clear out my bra drawer and go shopping, yay!