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how to find the right bra size

You’ve probably heard the statistic that 80-90% of women are wearing the wrong bra size. On the flip side, this means that 10-20% of women are wearing the right bra size. While that might seem small in comparison, rest assured more and more women are visiting local lingerie boutiques for professional bra fittings and that number is steadily increasing.

Even if you’ve recently had a bra fitting, there could be a few reasons why you’re doubting the size on the tag. We all know how bra sizes and styles can fit differently between brands. After all, your bra size in itself is a guide and not a set number.

So how do you know if you’re wearing the right bra size? Here are five significant signs:

1.  Your bra band doesn’t move throughout the day

Did you know that the majority of a bra’s support comes from its band? It’s true. The bra band accounts for roughly 85-90% of a bra’s overall support, making the fit of the bra band crucial.

To get the best fit, you want a bra band that fits snug on the loosest hook without feeling uncomfortably tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between your skin and the band. If you can fit your hand between your skin and band, your bra band is too loose. Try going down a band size and up a cup size and see if that fixes the fit.

Another way to test the fit? Raise your arms above your head like you’re stretching. If your bra band lifts up with your arms, you likely need a smaller band size. Remember: a bra band in the right size will stay put.

Lastly, check the fabric. With proper care, a bra with a power mesh band will likely last longer than a bra with a cotton or lace band, which could stretch out quickly with wear. Power mesh is also a sturdier fabric designed to support full busts and fuller figures, so it’s perfect for women with large cup sizes and/or large band sizes.

2.  Your straps stay on your shoulders

Many women believe that the straps are the part of the bra that keeps your bust lifted and supported, but that isn’t the case. Straps are designed to keep the cups in place. So if you’re relying on your straps for support, it’s probably time for a bra fitting and new bras.

To ensure your straps stay on your shoulders, adjust them so you can fit two fingers comfortably between your skin and the strap. Make sure the band remains horizontal to the body and parallel to the floor. You don’t want your bra brand riding up your back because your straps are too tight.


Related: Why Do My Bra Straps Fall Off My Shoulders


3.  You feel supported

When you’re wearing the right bra size, you just feel supported. What does this mean exactly? Well, at the very least you should be able to live your life without worrying about your bra band moving or your straps falling off your shoulders or your boobs falling out of the cups. Plus, you don’t feel the discomfort and pain that often comes from an ill-fitting bra.

4.  Your outfits fit better

Most garments are designed to be worn with bras. Unsurprisingly, a supportive bra can change the entire look of an outfit by lifting your bust and showing off your waist. If you’ve ever seen a before and after makeover, you know how powerful a proper fitting bra can be. Not only does the right bra size make you appear slimmer and more proportional, but it can also change your posture and the way you carry yourself.

5.  You’re taking care of your bras

If you don’t like your bras, you’re probably not taking good care of them. This is unfortunate because bras can be expensive and every woman deserves bras that they feel amazing in. Instead of reaching for a bra that doesn’t fit, do yourself a favor and only buy bras that fit well and feel good. And be sure to hand wash your bras and lay them flat to dry (with the cups facing up). You’ll be surprised how much longer your bras last when you take good care of them!


Related: 5 Tips To Keep Your Bras Looking New For Longer


We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!


Featured image lingerie:
Tess Unlined Wire Bra P5022 in Charcoal
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Published by

Katie Donnelly

Katie Donnelly is a full-time freelance writer, content manager, and founder of Katie Rose Creative. An experienced bra fitter, Katie has helped hundreds of people shop for lingerie. Her favorite bra is the Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra.

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