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how to tell if your bra is the wrong size

Are you wearing the right bra size? Most of us just assume that we are. We get measured once (or even, worse, just guess!) and then buy the same size for years on end. If that sounds about right, it may surprise you to learn that a whopping 80% of women wear the wrong bra size. So, the chances of you having an ill-fitting bra are extremely high.

So, where should you start? Well, the best way forward is to get fitted by a professional. Once you’ve been measured, you can be sure that the size is right for you. In the meantime, look out for any of these telltale signs.

1.  You get strap marks after a long day.

After a long, hard day, you get home, you slip off your bra in relief. But what’s the notice in the mirror? If you have strap marks, the chances are that your straps have been digging into your skin throughout the day. These pieces of materials should sit comfortably on your shoulders and, importantly, offer you the support you need. If they are not doing that, something is most certainly wrong.

2.  The band sits too high on your back.

Many women are unsure of where the bra band should sit on their back. If you find that this strip of material is riding high up your back, it could be that you’re wearing the wrong size. The band should sit horizontally on your back and not dig into your skin. It should also be flat and straight at all times.

3.  There’s no space beneath the band.

While we’re on the subject of the band, you need to make sure that you have some space beneath it. You should, in theory, be able to slip two fingers underneath it with no problems at all. Make sure that you try this when you’re wearing your bra. If you can’t do so, it could well be that the bra is too tight for you. Yikes!

4.  You have a gap inside the cups.

One of the easiest ways to see that you’re wearing the wrong cup size is simply to look. If there is a gap between your breasts and the material, you’re likely wearing a cup size that’s too large for you. If the tops of your breasts are ‘spilling’ over the cup, it’s likely that the size is too small. Your breasts should sit comfortably inside the cup without any gaps.

5.  You wear it on the tightest hook.

When you put your bra on, which hook do you use? If you’re always used to hooking it on the tightest one possible, you may want to consider changing bra sizes. For the most part, women only need to use the middle hook on their bra clasp. This one should offer both the right level of comfort and support. Simple.


Related: 6 Signs It’s Time To Buy New Bras


how to tell if your wearing the wrong bra size

6.  You have an ‘underboob’ situation.

Take a look in the mirror and lift your arms up. If you get some underboob popping out of the bottom of the cups, that could well be a sign that the bra itself is too large. Your bra should rise with your breasts rather than them essentially ‘popping out’ every now and then. It’s that easy to remember.

7.  The underwire hurts your sides.

The underwire or ‘bone’ of the bra should never cause you any pain or irritation. That right there is the golden rule! If you find that the wiring is digging into your sides or breasts, it means that the size of the bra is off. The last thing you need to do is walk around all day long in pain because of your bra. It’s not healthy! Instead, make sure that you’re wearing one that truly fits.

8.  You’re conscious of wearing a bra.

Are you aware of your bra as you go about your day-to-day business? When you’re wearing the correct size, it shouldn’t both you throughout the day. You might even forget that you’re wearing it, for example. So, if all you can think about is the fact that you have a bra on, something is wrong. It’s worth getting fitted, if just for peace of mind.

9.  You’re always trying to adjust it.

When something is not the right fit, we will do everything we can to try to make it work. With that in mind, if you’re constantly adjusting your bra to try and get it to fit you, that means that you need a new one. After all, you shouldn’t have to make continuous changes to the garment all the time.

10.  You feel seriously uncomfortable.

Finally, perhaps the biggest telltale sign that a bra is wrong for you is this: it feels wrong. It may sound overly simplistic, but it’s the truth. Your bra should never make you feel uncomfortable. So, if it does, it’s time to do something about it. The sooner you find the right size for you, the better!

what percentage of women wear the wrong bra size


Related: Is Your Bra Too Small?


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:
Parfait Tess Unlined Wire Bra P5022 in Charcoal
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Published by

Charlotte Grainger

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer and digital journalist. Her main areas of interest are health, lifestyle, and relationships. When she’s not writing, she loves reading, gymming, and socializing.

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