Here’s To Fix Bra Straps That Fall Off Your Shoulders
Let’s be real: There’s hardly a more frustrating undergarment issue than when your bra straps keep falling off your shoulders. No matter how much you tighten them, they always seem to be too long — and as a result, you’re constantly having to pull them back up again. Not only is this is a nuisance, but it’s also a concerning indicator that you aren’t getting the support (or lift) you need.
There are a number of reasons why your bra straps may be too long. Luckily, there are also a number of ways to fix this problem. Read on for everything you need to know about this common fit issue.
If your bra is the wrong size
Very often, strap slippage is a sign that you’re not wearing the correct bra size.
First, you’ll want to check and make sure your bra band fits properly. Note that bras are designed in a proportionate manner. As such, the smaller the band, the more narrow the straps will be set, and the larger the band, the wider they will be set. So if your straps tend to fall off your shoulders, you probably need a smaller band size. Keep in mind, though, that when you go down in band size, you’ll likely need to also go up in your cup size to accommodate for this change (this is called your bra sister size). Your bra band should fit snugly, but you should still be able to comfortably slide a finger underneath it. It should also lay flat against your body and parallel to the floor all the way around your torso.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re wearing the right cup size. Just as a band size that’s too big can cause problems with strap slippage, so can a cup size that’s too big. When the cups are too roomy, your breasts aren’t capable of adequately filling them out, and therefore, will not keep the straps in place. Try your sister size and see if that solves the issue.
Have you been fitted by a professional in the last six months? If the answer is no, consider stopping by your local department store or lingerie boutique to get measured. That way, you can ensure you’re not dealing with strap issues due to wearing the wrong size.
Related: Ill-Fitting Bra Symptoms: Are You Wearing The Wrong Bra Size?
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If your bra is the wrong style
Not all bra styles work for all women. If it seems like your bra straps are always slipping off you may need to consider a different style — particularly if you have narrow or sloping shoulders. The strap placement on some bras, such as balconette bras, tends to be rather far apart, which may make them feel too loose and fall off your shoulders.
You can also consider racerback bras and Y-back bras, which tend to solve the issue of strap slippage since the straps come farther inward on the shoulders and meet in the upper back. Leotard back bras tend to be a stellar option for resolving this problem as well. Note that convertible bras can be worn with a criss-cross back, which is ideal if you have narrow shoulders and your straps tend to feel too loose. A halter bralette is also an excellent choice that solves this problem. You can even purchase a clip accessory that gathers your straps together in the back, thus keeping them in place.
One final note: If it seems like your bra straps are always too long, your bra may simply not be in the right position. When you’re putting your bra on, be sure to reach around and adjust the band so that it rests flat right underneath your shoulder blades — if it’s rising up, your straps will have too much slack and feel loose as a result. Also, keep in mind that you will probably need to tighten or loosen the straps every time you wash your bra, as cleaning it can cause the adjusters to move. If none of these solutions help your situation, you can always get your bra straps shortened. A tailor will be able to do this if you don’t feel confident sewing them yourself at home.
Related: What Does A Racerback Bra Do?
Nouveau Racerback Padded Bra A1531 | Nouveau Hipster A1535 in Black
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!
