What Is A Bra Fitting Specialist and What Do They Do?
Having a stranger assess your top-less body may sound like a nerve-wracking experience. But the fact of the matter is, we can all benefit from having a professional help us out in the bra fitting department. You may have heard of bra fitting specialists and wondered: What do they do? Should I make an appointment with a bra fitter? How can bra fitters help me?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these helpful pros.
What is a bra fitting specialist?
A bra fitting specialist is someone who has expertise in — you guessed it — the way bras fit. That means they’re able to determine your correct size, diagnose any fit-related issues you’ve had, and recommend specific products that are tailored to your breast shape, size, needs, and preferences.
While the training will vary from store to store, bra fitting specialists have all been through some kind of educational program. Some fitters go through highly extensive programs to get certified, and some may even participate in an apprenticeship program to learn the ropes. Either way, you can rest assured that bra fitting specialists have been coached on properly taking someone’s measurements and helping to solve common bra fit issues. They also will be well versed in each of the specific lines their store carries, which is helpful when you’re buying bras from different brands (which may fit differently).
What do bra fitters do?
The first thing bra fitting specialist will do is determine your bra size.. This will likely entail busting out a measuring tape to determine both your band size and cup size. Some specialists who have been at this for years may even be able to assess your size pretty accurately with a simple once over!
But there’s so much more to a bra fitting specialist’s work than measuring and calculating. A well-trained specialist will take note of a number of other factors, such as whether your breasts are firm or soft, whether they point outwards or downwards, how they hang, and if they’re dense, or fuller on the top or bottom. They’ll also take into account whether one breast is noticeably larger than the other, or whether you recently gave birth or are nursing. All of these elements are key because they come into play during the next phase of the fitting when the specialist begins to suggest bras that are well suited to your bust.
While you’re trying on bras, some specialists may be able to educate you on certain bra knowledge, such as how each part of it functions, how it should lay against your body, and the best way to adjust the straps or hook-and-eye closures for a flawless fit.
Related: 5 Reasons Not To Be Shy About Getting A Bra Fitting
Getting the most out of your bra fitting
You can find bra fitting specialists at a wide range of retailers, but your best bet is to choose one at a department store or local boutique that carries an array of brands. That way, you can figure out how your size may vary a bit from line to line, and also get exposed to multiple lingerie companies that may work well for your particular body.
Another thing to keep in mind: Try to trust your fitter. They’ve spent a lot of time getting to know the inventory at their particular store, so they probably have a good handle on which bra brands and styles are going to flatter your shape. Even if they make suggestions you’re skeptical of, give them the benefit of the doubt. That means trying on that demi cup bra or longline bra that they bring into the dressing room, even if you don’t think it’s going to work — because you may be pleasantly surprised!
Final tips
Now that you know what a bra fitting specialist can do, what are you waiting for? It’s time to hunt one down, book your appointment, and prepare for perhaps the most informed bra shopping experience yet. If you’re feeling shy about the experience, remember: these pros are used to seeing women stripped down to their unmentionables day in and day out. They’re not there to judge you, but to help you feel and look your very best.
Related: Here’s How To Find A Local Lingerie Store You Will Love
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your wedding day, 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!
