From puberty to menopause and everywhere in between, your breasts will likely change a few times throughout your life.

If you’re like most women, you’ll probably wear a bra every day for much of your life. While you might prefer to go braless, we can’t stress the importance of wearing a proper-fitting bra enough when you do actually wear a bra. A bra fitting can help make sure you’re wearing the right bra size and help you feel confident in your lingerie.

Thinking your bra size may have changed recently? Here are five life events that can affect your bra size:

1.  Pregnancy

Pregnancy can have an impact on a woman’s breast size. Breast shape and size may change during and after pregnancy. Maternity bras are a great option to wear during pregnancy and nursing bras are often worn after if the woman plans on breastfeeding.

If you’ve recently become pregnant or had a baby (congrats!), you may want to get a proper fitting for new bras to make sure you’re comfortable and wearing the right bra size.

2.  Weight Loss

Does your bra feel too big? Weight loss could be the reason. With weight loss, you may notice that your current bras feel too big in the band. We recommend getting a bra fitting because it will help determine your new bra size. While you’re shopping, consider trying a bra in your bra sister size. If the cup fits fine, you may just need a smaller band size.  Keep in mind that any change in weight can affect a woman’s bra size – whether it’s related to weight loss or weight gain.

Related: How To Shop For Bras When You’re Losing Weight

3.  Weight Gain

Just like weight loss, weight gain can also have an impact on your bra size. Each woman stores weight differently. If you’re noticing a difference in the way your bras are fitting, it might be a good idea to get a bra fitting. Keep in mind that any change in weight can affect a woman’s bra size – whether it’s related to weight loss or weight gain, so a bra fitting is always a great place to start.

4.  Menopause

Did you know that menopause can change your bra size? It’s true. Menopause may change the shape and size of your breasts. A change in hormone levels can also make them feel sore and tender. In fact, it’s not uncommon for your bra size to increase or decrease during perimenopause and menopause. A study from The Netherlands reported that 18.6% of the women in the study found they needed to buy a larger bra (compared to 1.7% who reported needing to buy a smaller bra size).

5.  Hormones

The hormones in your birth control might be responsible for a change in your bra size. With birth control, there is no guarantee that your bra size will change. It’s different for each woman. Some women don’t see a change in their breast size, while others might experience an increase of 1-2 cup sizes or more after starting birth control.

Many women experience changes in their breast size and shape throughout their lives. A change in breast size and shape is typically normal, but if you do not notice something that doesn’t feel or look right, it’s best to talk with your doctor.

Related: Can Your Bra Size Change After Menopause?

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:

Aline T-Shirt Bra P5251 in Nude

Do you own a t-shirt bra? T-shirt bras are among the most popular bra styles in the lingerie industry. Women everywhere love the t-shirt bra for its smooth, seamless support. What else would you wear under fitted tops and dresses? T-shirt bras give you a clean line under clothing, so the focus is on you and not your bra.

Ready to learn more about the t-shirt bra? Read on for everything you need to know.

What’s a t-shirt bra?

Ever wonder ‘What is a t-shirt bra?’ T-shirt bras are the workhorses of most lingerie wardrobes. Many women choose to wear a t-shirt bra daily because it provides hidden support under most outfits. In addition to their versatility, t-shirt bras are designed for a plethora of breast shapes and bra sizes. There is truly a t-shirt bra out there for everyone.

What’s the difference between a t shirt bra and a contour bra?

Contour bras and t-shirt bras are essentially the same. Both bras are lightly lined and typically feature foam padding for opacity and coverage. The main benefit of a t-shirt bra is its minimalist design – most are constructed without lace so they don’t show under clothing. Contour bras have the same effect.

What does a contour bra do?

Like a t-shirt bra, contour bras are designed to enhance your shape without adding bulk. Their smooth, seamless cups look hidden under tight-fitting clothing – making them the perfect choice for fitted sweaters and bodycon dresses. Unlike unlined bras, t-shirt bras and contour bras create a symmetrical, rounded breast shape. Women with asymmetrical boobs sometimes opt for push-up t-shirt bras with removable padding so they can customize the fit for a more symmetrical look.

Related: Contour Bras vs Push-Up Bras: What’s The Difference?

Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra P13122 in Black | Lynn Push-Up Strapless Bra P13112 in Black | Lynn T-Shirt Bra P13011 in Nude

What is the best t-shirt bra?

There are a lot of great t-shirt bras. Some of our favorites include the Tess T-Shirt Bra, Marion Contour Padded Bra, Matilda Push-Up Bra, and Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra. Nude and black t-shirt bras are among the most popular, but don’t be shy about choosing a t-shirt bra in a fun color if you’re up for trying something new. Colorful bras are actually a lot easier to wear than you’d think!

How should a t shirt bra fit?

To get the best fit, choose a t-shirt bra with a snug band and cups that completely contain your breast tissue. Make sure you can fit at least two fingers between your skin and the band and two fingers between your skin and the strap. Extra space within the cups can cause the cups to gap, so opt for a demi t-shirt bra or balconette t-shirt bra if your breasts are shallow or bottom heavy. Full coverage t-shirt bras cover the breasts completely. Racerback t-shirt bras have a front closure – making them a great choice for women with narrow shoulders or limited mobility.

How to wash a t shirt bra

Like other bras, t-shirt bras should be hand-washed in cool water with a delicate laundry detergent. If you choose to wash your bras in the washing machine, be sure to wash them in mesh bags to prevent the cups from getting crushed in the wash. To dry your bras, simply lay them flat to dry with the cups facing up or hang them to dry (drape them over a hanger so the center gore lies on the hanger). Avoid fabric softener and the dryer as the heat from the dryer can cause the cups to become damaged and the elastic to break down.

Related: Bra Care 101: How To Wash Bras

Parfait Matilda Contour Plunge Bra P5311 in Bisque | Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze

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 T-Shirt Bra P50212 | Tess Hipster P5025 in Bare

Have you ever had a bra fitting? If not, you’re missing out.

Bra fittings are essential for finding bras that fit. A bra fitting involves taking your measurements (typically overbust and underbust), determining your bra size, and hand-picking bras for you to try on in store – all under the expert care of a bra fitter who has extensive training in bra fitting and lingerie care.

For bra fitters, bra fitting is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling parts of their job. It doesn’t matter how old you are – a proper-fitting bra is life-changing. Ask a bra fitter what her favorite part of her job is and she probably won’t be able to give you just one answer. But most bra fitters will tell you that there is nothing more amazing than the moment a woman realizes just how beautiful she is – especially when it’s through the power of lingerie.

Bra fitters hold a unique place in the lingerie industry. Their old-school job is part bra fit expert, part product guru, and part therapist. Local lingerie boutiques know just how important a good bra fitter is. A talented bra fitter can have a substantial impact on the lives of the women in the community just by helping them find bras that fit.

Of course, if bra fitting was easy, everyone would be a bra fitter. Just like any job, some days are harder than others, but each and every day is rewarding in and of itself.

Ever wonder what being a bra fitter is like? While no two days are the same, here’s a typical day in the life:

9:30 AM

Pre-opening prep commences. We just received a big shipment from one of our favorite brands. We’re short staffed this morning, so unpacking and stocking the racks is up to the two of us. We quickly get started on unwrapping and re-hanging the new lingerie. I take a minute to examine the new bra and babydoll. They’re both beautiful and the fit looks promising. Typically, we (the staff) try on new products as soon as we receive them so we can see how they fit. But this morning we don’t have a free minute to try anything on, so we’ll have to wait until our first fitting to see the fit.

9:55 AM

We have a crowd of customers waiting outside, so we open a little early. We greet the first customers of the day and quickly finish tidying up the store.

11:00 AM

My first fitting of the day. My customer needs new bras. She asks if we do bra fittings and I say yes. She’s surprised that our bra fittings are free. I tell her that bra fittings are free at most lingerie stores  – we want our customers to wear bras that fit well and feel amazing on. The fitting takes about thirty minutes from start to finish – including trying on the bras. She can’t believe her bra size (her new bra size is a 30F – she had worn a 34C for years!) and is thrilled to finally have bras that fit. She ends up with the Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra in cameo rose and the Charlotte Padded Bra, which she buys in multiple colors. We talk about how to wash her new bras and she picks out a gentle lingerie detergent and mesh bag at the register.

12:00 PM

The store is busy! Both me and my coworker are running around like crazy pulling bras for our customers in the fitting room and ringing up customers at the register. Our store is in an area with a lot of foot traffic – busy days are normal for us!

Related: Ask A Bra Fitter: What Are Bra Fittings Like?

12:30 PM

Lunchtime. I have just enough time to catch my breath and grab a sandwich from the little cafe next door. The day is going by so fast!

2:00 PM

My second fitting of the day. My customer is shopping for new sports bras. She thinks her bra size has changed since her last fitting, so I suggest getting a fitting today and she agrees. It takes a few minutes to get her measurements and determine her bra size. As I’m leaving the fitting room to grab bras, she tells me she wants a supportive, wireless sports bra that feels secure on. I pull a few options and she ends up loving the Wireless Sports Bra. We discuss color options and she opts for the black and gray. She hasn’t bought new underwear in a while, so she stocks up on new undies too.

3:15 PM

My customer is shopping for a lingerie gift for a bridal party. I show her a beautiful silk robe, several different panty options each embroidered with an “I Do” on the hip, and a gorgeous babydoll and robe set in ivory lace. She picks the babydoll and robe set and I wrap it in a pretty box for her. She tells me she stopped in today because she was looking for something unique that can’t be found at Victoria’s Secret or a department store and that she’s thrilled with what she found. I hope the bride loves it!

4:00-5:30 PM

Another busy period! My coworker and I balance bra fittings with helping customers on the sales floor.

6:00 PM

Time to go home. Our closing team comes in to help our night customers and close the store. I update them on the new shipment and fill them in the day so far. Today was a great day. Looking forward to being back tomorrow!

Related: 10 Bra Fitting and Lingerie Store Secrets Professional Bra Fitters Want You To Know

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!

Can’t make it to a local lingerie store or department store? Online swimsuit shopping might be the next best thing. While we always recommend visiting a local lingerie or swimwear boutique for a new swimsuit – especially if you’re shopping for a bra-sized swimsuit – sometimes it’s just not an option.

Here’s how to shop for plus size swimwear online:

1.  Read the product info carefully

Looking for a swimsuit today with removable straps? How about one with padded bra cups or a back hook and eye closure? Sometimes it’s hard to tell if a swimsuit top has the design features you like – this is why it’s important to read the product info. You should be able to find the product features, fabric content, and fit info in the product description on the page. Be sure to read it carefully and zoom in on all of the pictures so you can get a better idea of what you’re ordering.

2.  Read the reviews

Reviews are the unsung heroes of online swimsuit shopping. Most brands do a great job of providing enough product information to help you make an informed decision, but you’re doing yourself a disservice if you’re not reading the product reviews. They are full of feedback from women who have purchased the swimsuit you’re considering. There’s a lot you can learn from reviews, so don’t forget to read them before adding an item to your shopping bag.

3.  Double check the sizing

This is probably the most important tip – and one that is often overlooked. Swimsuit sizing can vary from style to style and brand to brand. A S, M, or L in one brand might fit completely different in another. The same applies to plus size swimwear.

If you’re shopping for bra-sized swimwear, pay close attention to the brand’s sizing. For example, Parfait uses UK bra sizing for lingerie and swimwear. This means that the letter (or cup sizes) look different after a DD cup. For example, a US DDD is actually an E cup in UK sizing. Also, a US F cup and a UK F cup won’t fit the same – the UK F cup will be bigger because of the bra size conversion.

Full-busted customers love the option of buying bra-size swimwear because they know they’re getting a swimsuit top that will fit like their favorite bra. By buying a bra-sized swimsuit, you’re ensuring that your bust is getting the extra support it needs and the peace of mind that you won’t have to worry about a wardrobe malfunction later.

Related: Bra-Sized Swimwear: How To Get The Perfect Fit

Keira Halter Neck Bikini Top S8071 | Keira High Waist Bikini Bottom S8075 in Twilight

4.  Check the return policy

Hopefully you won’t need to return your order but it’s a good idea to check the store’s return policy before placing your order just in case. The store you’re shopping at might charge a return shipping fee or they could offer free returns. Do yourself a favor and check the return policy before purchasing so you aren’t surprised later.

5.  Give yourself time to try everything on

Plus size swimwear can be difficult to shop for. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to try everything on. Make it easier by taking note of the styles you liked and didn’t like and separating your keep pile from your return pile as you try things on.

Also, if you’re having a rough day, consider trying your order on when you’re feeling better. You might look like a goddess but not feel like it because you’re having a bad day. Wait until you’re in a better head space and then try everything on.

So there you have it – a quick guide to shopping for swimsuits online. Of course, online shopping does have its perks, but it doesn’t compare to shopping at a local store. For a local lingerie or swimwear retailer near you, check out our store locator here.

Related: 6 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Swimsuit

Keira One Piece Swimsuit S8076 in Twilight

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

Featured image swimwear:

Keira Halter Neck Bikini Top S8071 | Keira High Waist Bikini Bottom S8075 in Twilight

Wondering where to shop for plus size bras? We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’re sharing the styles our plus size customers love and where to shop for them!

What is a plus size bra?

Plus size bras are designed for curvaceous and voluptuous women. They may feature design features such as wider straps, multi-seamed cups, multi-hook and eye closures, and power mesh bands for an ultra-supportive fit. Plus size bra sizing typically starts at a 38 inch band and goes up to a 44 inch band and larger. Cup sizes can vary – a woman can wear an A cup or a J cup and still fall within plus size bra sizing if she wears a 38-44 or larger band size.

Looking for a plus size bra that fits beautifully and feels amazing on? Read on for our top picks!

Charlotte Padded Bra

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Charlotte Highwaist Brief 6917 in Dusty Rose/Black

The Charlotte Padded Bra is one our favorite plus size bras to recommend. Charlotte fans love the flattering demi cups, wide set straps, and retro-chic design. The high-quality design and beautiful contrasting matte and glossy satin fabrication make this bra look much more expensive than it is.

Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra

Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra P5351 | Sandrine Hipster P5355 in Cameo Rose

The Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra creates a stunning shape under clothing. This romantic style features a plunging neckline, a wide lace underband with a multi-hook and eye closure and boning for smooth shaping, and delicate, lacy straps. Gorgeous when worn as outerwear or under a favorite top!

Marion Unlined Wire Bra

Marion Unlined Wire Bra P5392 | Marion Hipster P5395 in Black

Looking for a lacy plus size bra that you’ll want to wear every day? The Marion Unlined Wire Bra will be your new go-to. We love the sexy, low-cut fit of this lovely plus size bra complete with wide, padded straps for comfort and a power mesh and lace band for support.

Casey Plunge Molded Bra

Casey Plunge Molded Bra 2801 | Casey Boyshort 2805 in Black/Rose Print

Microfiber and lace combine in this stunning plunging plus size bra – making it one of the most comfortable t-shirt bras you’ll ever put on. The contour cups of the Casey Plunge Molded Bra are constructed in a way that won’t add bulk to your bustline. Instead, they focus on enhancing your shape – not hiding it – while simultaneously creating a symmetrical, rounded shape under clothing.

Adriana Lace Bralette

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 | Adriana Bikini P5483 in Pearl White

Our guide won’t be complete without a bralette. If you’re searching for a plus size bralette that is both beautiful and supportive, you’ll love the Adriana Lace Bralette. This bralette (and the Dalis Bralette) are the only bralettes you’ll need in your lingerie wardrobe. They offer lightweight support and shaping for those days when you just don’t feel like wearing a bra. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear to bed or while lounging around at home. How amazing is that?

Where to shop for plus size bras

Your local lingerie boutique is an excellent place to shop for plus size bras. They carry a large selection of bras in a wide range of sizes. Many lingerie boutiques stock lingerie in 30-44+ band sizes and A-K+ cup sizes. Lingerie boutiques also have great relationships with the brands they carry – which makes it easier for them to track down hard-to-find sizes and re-order sizes that they’re sold out of. Plus, their bra fitters are trained on fitting women of all shapes and sizes, so you know you’re getting the best fit!

Related: 8 Rules For Buying Plus Size Lingerie

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:

Marion Unlined Wire Bra P5392 | Marion Hipster P5395 in Tango Red

Just when you think you’ve figured out your bra size, it changes. If you’re struggling with finding a supportive DDD bra, we’re here to make it easier for you.

In this guide, we’re sharing the bra sizes that come after DDD and answering some of your most common DDD questions. Without much further ado, let’s get right to it!

Is a DDD cup size the same as an E cup size?

Yes, a US DDD is the same cup size as a UK E.

Why do some US lingerie brands use the size DD/E on their bra tags?

We think this is confusing too. Some US lingerie brands list a DD cup size as DD/E on their size tags. So if you see a DD/E on a bra that uses US bra sizing, keep in mind that the bra is a US DD. If you’re looking for an E cup, you’ll want to size up to a US DDD.

Should I buy US or UK bras?

This is entirely up to you! MOD By Parfait uses UK sizing, so if you usually wear a DDD in US lingerie brands, you’ll want to opt for an E cup size in our lingerie.

Why does bra sizing change after DD?

When it comes to US and UK bra sizing, the bra cup size (the letter) is the same for both US and UK sizing up to a DD cup. After a DD cup, US and UK bra sizing starts to look a little different. If you wear larger than a DD cup, you’ll need to convert your bra size from US to UK bra sizing or vice versa to get the right size. Remember: a US G cup will not fit the same as a UK G cup – though they have the same letter, a US G will fit smaller than a UK G cup.

Bra size tags for US and UK lingerie brands might look different, but it isn’t to confuse you. To convert your bra size to the right size, we’ve created a helpful chart here to make it easy and save you time. Once you’ve figured out your size in a brand, you can usually keep buying that size until your bra size changes or the lingerie brand discontinues that bra style.

Here are the bra sizes that come after US DDD or (UK E):

DDDD/G (US) or F (UK)

DDDDD/H (US) or FF (UK)

I (US) or G (US)

J (US) or GG (UK)

K (US) or H (UK)

L (US) or HH (UK)

M (US) or J (UK)

N (US) or JJ (UK)

O (US) or K (UK)

What is the bra sister size for DDD or E?

Do you wear a 34DDD or 36DDD bra? For a 34DDD, the bra sister sizes are 36DD and 32DDDD/G (US) or 32F (UK).

Where to buy DDD bras

Your local lingerie boutique is the perfect place to shop for DDD bras. They stock a wide selection of 30DDD, 32DDD, 34DDD, 36DDD, 38DDD, 40DDD, and 42DDD bras, among many other sizes. They also carry an assortment of DDD strapless bras, so if you’re wondering where to find DDD strapless bras, now you know where to go! Plus, they have expert bra fitters on site ready to help you find the bras of your dreams. We can’t think of anything better than that!

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:

Nouveau Strapless Bra A15312 | Nouveau Brazilian Thong A15314 in Black

The secret’s out: Local lingerie boutiques are among the best places to shop for lingerie. Why do we love local lingerie stores so much? Well, they have on-site bra fitters trained to help you find bras that fit beautifully and make you feel amazing. Plus, their selection of bras for all sizes (from AA to K cup and beyond!) can’t be beat.

If you typically shop online or at Victoria’s Secret for lingerie, you might want to give your local lingerie boutique a visit. Aside from their large size range and expert staff, they’re an excellent alternative to Victoria’s Secret.

Looking for a local lingerie store? Here’s how to find the lingerie stores near you:

1.  Use our local lingerie store locator

The easiest way to find a local lingerie boutique is by typing your address or just your zip code into our store locator here. Our store locator will help you find a store within 50 miles of the address you type in. You’ll also find the store’s full address and contact info (phone number and email), so you can contact them if you’d like.

The best feature of our store locator is the ‘Get Directions’ option listed below the store name. When you click on this, Google Directions pops up with the address that you entered and the store that you want to visit. Perfect for anyone on the go who doesn’t have time to type in directions!

2.  Search on Yelp

Yelp is a useful tool for finding local lingerie shops. Simply type in “lingerie store” and your zip code and Yelp will do the rest. Yelp looks for stores that sell intimates and lingerie close to your address. They also include reviews of the stores, so you can see what other people are saying. If you’re looking for something specific – like a store that caters to large cup sizes or a store that carries beautiful bridal lingerie – you might find your answer in the reviews!

Related: The 7 Stages Of Bra Shopping

Elissa Strapless Bra P5011 in Black

3.  Try a Google search

Google can help you find local lingerie stores near you, too. Just type in “lingerie stores near me” and your zip code and the stores closest to you will come up in the search results. Google doesn’t filter out stores, so you’ll likely find a mix of local lingerie stores, department stores, mall stores, and chain stores on the list.

4.  Ask your friends where they shop for lingerie

Do you know where your friends shop for lingerie? If not, ask them for recommendations! Chances are they have a go-to store that they visit a few times a year for lingerie. On the off chance that they don’t have a favorite store, why not find a lingerie boutique that looks promising, plan a girl’s day, and go shopping together? Perfect!

We hope this helps you find lingerie stores near you. Do you have a favorite local lingerie boutique? Leave us a comment with your thoughts in the box below!

Related: How To Build A Lingerie Wardrobe You Love

Matilda Contour Plunge Padded Bra P5311 in Bisque

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:

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Dusty Rose/Black

Are you looking for a swimsuit top that is as supportive as your favorite bra? A bra-sized swimsuit top or one-piece swimsuit might be just what you need. Bra-sized swimwear is sized according to your bra band and cup size – it’s not like the S, M, and L swimsuits you see in most clothing stores.

Plus, bra-sized swimwear has the supportive construction that full busts and plus size busts need. The additional design details (underwire for breast separation, boning on the band to keep the top from rolling up, a hook and eye closure or a sturdy hook closure that keeps the band in place) aim to support large cup sizes while still looking like swimwear. If you wear a D, DD, or DDD cup or larger, bra-sized swimwear is your best bet for a supportive fit that won’t let you down.

Bra-sized swimwear can be challenging to get right. Wondering how to get the perfect fit? Read on for our top tips!

1.  Get a bra fitting first

A bra fitting is key to finding the right bra-sized swimsuit top, so do yourself a favor and get a bra fitting first. You might be wondering how a bra fitting can help with swimsuit shopping. Here’s how: When you’re shopping for swimsuit tops with bra sizing, you’ll need to know your band size and cup size. Bra fitters know how to fit for bra sized swimwear. A fitting will help determine what your bra size is and which bra styles suit your breast shape best.

2.  Try on different styles

Bra-sized swimsuit tops can be found in demi, halter, strapless, and full coverage styles, among others. If you want to make shopping for a new swimsuit even easier, figure out your bra size and breast shape first. Your breast shape will help determine which swimsuit tops will fit you best. Then, try on a bunch of different swimsuit top and bottom styles. The beauty of a bra-sized swimsuit is that the bottoms are typically sold separately instead of as a set. This means that you can purchase different sizes for the top and bottom – making it easier than ever to get a custom-fit swimsuit that you’ll wear for years.

3.  Shop in store so you can try everything on

Shopping for swimwear in store has a few perks. At a local boutique, you can get help from a lingerie and swimwear fit expert and also try on swimsuits before making a purchase. Lingerie experts also know the fit of each brand. This can save you from trying on sizes that won’t work out in the fitting room.

Related: How To Find The Most Flattering Swimsuit For Your Shape

4.  Only buy online if you’re familiar with the brand

Who doesn’t love online shopping? But if this is your first-time buying bra-sized swimwear, you might want to shop in store instead. We recommend only buying online if you’re already familiar with the brand. If you buy your bras regularly from this brand and love the way that they fit, go ahead and order online with confidence.

5.  Know how to care for your swimsuits

Bra-sized swimwear is an investment. You’ve spent time shopping for the perfect swimsuit – now it’s time to wash it. Remember: Your bra-sized swimwear will last longer if you care for it properly. To avoid damaging your swimsuits in the wash, be sure to wash in cool water with a gentle detergent and always hang your swimsuits to try. Also, be sure to avoid hanging them outside as the sun can discolor and fade swimsuits over time.

Where can I buy swimwear by bra size?

Your local lingerie store is a great place to shop for new bras and swimwear. You could also try department stores like Nordstrom, Hudson’s Bay, and Lord & Taylor for a superb selection of swimwear by bra size. For a list of local stores, check out our stockist list here.

Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

Featured image swimwear:

Keira Halter Neck Bikini Top S8071 | Keira High Waist Bikini Bottom S8075 in Black

Do you wear a bra to bed? Some women feel comfortable wearing a bra to sleep, while others wouldn’t dream of sleeping with a bra on.

It might seem like a terrible idea to keep your bra on but wearing a bra to bed does have its perks. Read on for the pros and cons of sleeping with a bra on.

Pros

1.  Provides lightweight support

If you’re choosing to wear a bra to bed, it’s best to look for a bralette that is lightweight and constructed in a soft, stretchy fabric. Bralettes provide comfortable support and can be worn as sleeping bras and lounging bras. We love the Serene Unlined Triangle Bra in Ivory, Sea, or Black – it’s so comfortable you won’t want to take it off!

2.  Keeps your breasts in place

A good bralette will keep your breasts feeling supported and in place during the full eight hours. Be sure not to choose anything too restrictive as you want to focus on comfort first. Also, avoid anything with a lot of seams, cut-outs, and straps. Minimal, simple designs with comfortable fabrics are key here.

3.  Can provide comfort for sore breasts

Bralettes can provide comfort for sore, tender breasts. They’re great for wearing while you’re on period or for when you want the freedom of a wireless bra. Of course, bralettes aren’t miracle workers – they won’t relieve the pain completely – but they may help a little.

Cons

1.  Bras with underwire can cause discomfort

We wouldn’t recommend wearing a bra with underwire to bed. The underwire may dig into your skin as the bra moves while when you’re tossing and turning in your sleep. Underwire bras can also be made of sturdier, supportive fabrics (like power mesh, for example) that provide more support than you might need at night.

2.  Ill-fitting bras can do more harm than good

Bras that are too small or too big may cause more pain than anything else. You could experience skin irritation, soreness, and bruising, among other concerns if you wear a bra that doesn’t fit to bed. Instead of a wearing a bra that doesn’t fit, you could try going braless instead.

3.  You’ll have to try on a bunch of bras before you find the right one.

It can be challenging to find a comfortable bra that you’ll actually want to wear to bed. You might need to try on a few bras before you find a good one. We recommend visiting a local lingerie store for a fitting and help with finding a comfortable bra for bed (if you decide that you want to wear one). The bra fitters at your local lingerie boutique will ensure that you’re wearing the right size and make suggestions on the styles and fabrics that are best for sleeping bras.

Remember

These might not apply if you’ve recently had a breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery. It’s best to consult your doctor because they’ll have suggestions for what you should wear while you’re healing and after you’re done healing. Also, be sure to talk with your doctor before you start wearing a bra to bed.

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:

Serene Unlined Triangle Bra A1562 | Serene Bikini A1563 in Sea

Ever wonder why your bra size changes from brand to brand or style to style? Here’s the reason: Your bra size is more of a guide than a set rule. It gives you an idea of what size you should start with in the fitting room, but it doesn’t mean that you’ll necessarily be taking that size home with you.

We know how complex bra sizing is and how hard it can be to understand. In fact, it involves factors that you might not even be considering when bra shopping, which is why we always recommend getting regular bra fittings and visiting your local lingerie boutique for help. But there’s a chance you’re reading this article because you’re genuinely curious about the world of bra sizing and you’re having trouble making sense of it all. Don’t worry, this article was written for you.

In this guide, we’ll be talking about the basics of bra sizing – how to determine your bra size, how to read your bra size tag, and how to figure out your bra sister size.

Ready to begin? Great! In order to understand how bra sizes work, we must first understand what is needed to determine a bra size.

How to determine a bra size

Your bra size is a combination of a few factors: your underbust measurement, overbust measurement, breast shape, breast root width, and your personal fit preferences, among others. All of these are taken into consideration when determining which bra size will work best for you in any bra you try on. A good bra fitter won’t try to sell you a bra if you feel it’s uncomfortable or too snug. Instead, she’ll consider your personal fit preferences and look for the styles and brands that are comfortable and fit you well.

The underbust and overbust measurements are the two most common measurements taken during a bra fitting. Your underbust measurement is taken below your bust with the tape measure parallel to the floor. Your overbust measurement is taken at the fullest part of the bust, also with the tape measure wrapped around the bust and parallel to the floor. If you’re measuring your bra size at home, these measurements should be taken in front of a mirror so you can make sure everything is lining up properly. For more on what a proper fitting bra looks like, check out our guide here.

How to read a bra size tag

When it comes to bra sizes, the number on the tag is the bra’s band size and the letter on the tag is the bra’s cup size. That being said, the band size is not necessarily your underbust measurement. For example, you might measure 32 inches under your bust, but you may wear a 34 inch bra band. On the other hand, some women prefer a snug band, so they opt for a bra where their underbust measurement and band size is the same number.

Related: Why Do I Wear The Same Bra Size In Every Brand?

What is bra sister sizing?

Bra sister sizing involves finding two alternate bra sizes – one with a band size bigger than yours and the other with a band size smaller than yours. When calculated correctly, you’ll find that your bra sister size has relatively the same cup volume as your current size, but a different band size.

For example, the bra sister sizes for a 34D are 36C and 32DD. The bra sister sizes for a 36DD are 38D and 34DDD/E.

You might buy your bra sister size if you fall in love with a bra that doesn’t come in your regular size or if you don’t like the fit of the band in your regular size.

How to determine your bra sister size

Using our chart here, find your bra size on the bra size chart. Now look for the bra size that is one band size bigger and one cup size smaller than your bra size – this is your bra sister size with a bigger band. Then, starting from the beginning, look for your bra size with one band size smaller and one cup size bigger – this is your bra sister with a smaller band size.

You’ll find that if you wear a 40DD, your bra sister sizes are 38DDD/E and 42D. Anyone who wears a 32C, will find their bra sister sizes in a 34B and 36A.

Don’t have time to convert your bra size to your bra sister size? We’re got you covered. For a quick and easy way to figure out bra sister size (no math required!), check out our helpful bra size chart here.

Related: Q&A: Bra Sister Sizing Frequently Asked Questions

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:

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Charlotte High Waist Brief 6917 in Red/Black

Casey Plunge Molded Bra 2801 | Casey Boyshort 2805 in Black/Rose Print

Marion Unlined Wire Bra P5392 | Marion Hipster P5395 in Black