Will The Bra Fitter See Me Braless?
There’s a reason why many women aren’t wearing the right bra size: many of them aren’t getting a professional fitting. Getting measured by an expert every six months to a year is the only way to guarantee you invest in bras that work well with your breast size and shape. Still, lots of women put it off either because they don’t realize that their bras aren’t quite fitting them flawlessly, or because they’re intimidated by the whole experience.
If you’ve never had a fitting done, you might have some concerns. For example: Will the fitter see me bra-less? Of course, all bra fittings will vary from store to store — a fitting at a large department store will likely be much different than one at a small independent lingerie boutique — there are certain aspects you can count on.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the answer to this common question:
Do I have to take my bra off for a bra fitting?
Real talk: There’s nothing comfortable about being seen in your skivvies by a stranger. So it’s no surprise that so many women are hesitant or nervous about bra fittings. We have some good news for you: You don’t necessarily have to take your bra off for a fitting. It’s easy for a fitter to measure you with your bra on. It’s part of the fitter’s job to make sure you feel totally comfortable throughout the experience. So expect her to wait outside the dressing room while you take your top off, and you can let her know when you’re ready for her to come in and start measuring.
While it’s OK to keep your bra on for a fitting, it’s not advisable to get fitted over a dress, blouse, or sweater. After all, it’s next to impossible to get accurate measurements with that extra layer of fabric — and that’s the whole point of a fitting: to know your correct size!
Related: Ask A Bra Fitter: What Are Bra Fittings Like?
Pro tips
On the day of your fitting, be sure to wear your best fitting bra (if it’s too loose or too tight, the fitter might not get accurate measurements). If you’re having fit problems with your bra, such as gaping in the cups, a center gore that won’t lay flat, or a band that rides up a little, be sure to point them out. Your fitter will not only be able to explain why this is happening, but also suggest different styles that will work better for you based on the issues you’re facing.
Don’t be surprised if the fitter determines your size simply by looking at you — some are so well-trained that they don’t need a measuring tape (but will likely use one anyway just to confirm their estimate).
Be sure to note if you’re looking for bras for a specific purpose, whether it’s everyday T-shirt bras for work or a special occasion plunge bra for a particular dress. Once the fitter has determined your size, they can bring some suggestions into the fitting room. Try to stay open-minded — even if you’ve been wearing the same style or brand for years, a fitter may propose new ones that are better suited to your breast shape, size, and overall needs.
So, now that you know you don’t have to go bra-less for a fitting, are you ready to get measured? Hopefully, this guide has quelled some of your fears about the experience — after all, a fitting should be enjoyable. Knowing your true bra size is crucial to ensure you get adequate support, prevent any discomfort or pain, and that your clothes fit well and look as flattering as possible. And luckily, you can keep your bra on in front of the expert.
Related: What To Expect At A Professional Bra Fitting – And What To Bring
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!
