BRA FIT GUIDE
Finding the perfect fitting bra
A well-fitting bra is one of the most essential pieces in any wardrobe. However, with the vast array of styles, fabrics, and fits available, finding the perfect bra can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the key elements of a perfectly fitted bra and how to ensure you're wearing the one that truly works for your body.
Understanding the Importance of Fit
Finding the perfect bra is about more than just knowing your size—it's about understanding your unique body shape and how a bra can provide support, enhance, and flatter your natural form. With the right fit, your bra should never dig in, cause discomfort, or feel like it's constantly shifting.
THE BAND
The band is the foundation of support for your bra, so it should fit snugly around your rib cage. It should lie flat against your skin, running straight across your back. A bra with a band that’s too loose will ride up and fail to provide proper support, while a band that’s too tight will dig into your skin and feel uncomfortable.
PRO TIP: When adjusting the straps, make sure they aren't carrying all the weight—your band should be doing most of the work.
CUP FIT
The cups should fully encompass the breast, with no gaps or spillage. Your breast tissue should be comfortably contained without spilling over the top or sides, but the cup shouldn’t feel too tight either. If you find that the cups are gaping, it could indicate that the bra is too big, and if you're spilling out, it’s likely too small.
PRO TIP: Try gently scooping your breasts into the cups to ensure a smooth fit.
STRAPS
Straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders, without digging in or slipping off. They are designed to offer additional support, but they shouldn't bear the majority of the load. If your straps are too tight, they can cause discomfort, and if they are too loose, they will fall off and leave you with inadequate support.
PRO TIP: Always adjust the straps after securing the band to achieve the perfect balance of comfort and support.
UNDERWIRE
If you're wearing an underwired bra, ensure the underwire sits flat against your rib cage and does not poke or dig into your skin. The underwire should encircle your breast fully, extending to the side of your chest, but not pressing into your breast tissue.
PRO TIP: You should feel a firm but comfortable band around your ribs, and the underwire should never be painful.
Common Bra Fitting Mistakes
Many women unknowingly wear the wrong size or fit, leading to discomfort or lack of support. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
Wearing the wrong band size: If the band rides up your back, it’s likely too big. If it's tight and uncomfortable, try going up a size.
Wearing the wrong cup size: If your cups are gaping or your breasts spill over, it's a sign that your cup size isn’t right. A common mistake is wearing a cup that’s too small, thinking it's giving you better support.
Tight straps: Straps that are too tight will create marks on your skin and might not give you the support you need. Conversely, straps that are too loose will fall off your shoulders and lead to discomfort.
How to Tell If Your Bra Fits Correctly
Here are a few quick checks you can do to ensure that your bra fits correctly
BAND CHECK- The band should be parallel to the ground and should not ride up in the back. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably under the band in the back but not in the front.
CUP CHECK- The cups should fully contain the breast, without any spillage or gaping. If you lean forward, your breasts should stay securely in the cups.
STRAP CHECK - The straps should not be digging into your shoulders, and they should be adjustable for a customisable fit.
MOVEMENT TEST - Jump up and down or move around to test the fit. A well-fitting bra should remain in place without needing constant adjusting.