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The phraseone size fits alldefinitely doesnt apply to eventhe best bras.
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Whatever youthinkyour bra size is, theres a high chance youre wrong.
Why do you need a well-fitted bra?
Youre also more likely get longer-term problems like poor posture and premature sagging, which can feel unpleasant.
Dorling Kindersley
How often should you get your bra size measured?
These fitters can also advise on the most flattering shape and style.
For those who want to do it at home, getting started is easy.
Heres how to do it:
Now before you think that youre all done, youre not.
While this gives you an approximate bra size, it wont necessarily be totally accurate.
Thats because boobs also vary in shapewhich is totally normal, by the way.
Dorling Kindersley
The only way to truly get your size spot-on is through good old trial and error.
Find a string or ribbon and wrap it around your ribcage, just under your bust.
see to it its snug but not too tight.
Mark where the two ends of the string meet and measure the length with a ruler.
This measurement is your band size.
Then wrap the same string around the fullest part of your bust and mark where the ends meet again.
sizechart.com
Measure the length and subtract your band measurement from it.
The difference between the two measurements will give you a rough estimate of your cup size.
For example, if your cups are overflowing, you may need a larger cup size.
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How should your bra sit?
First up, the band itself.
Your under-band provides 80 percent of your bra support, so making sure this fits perfectly is essential.
Your band should sit firm and straight across your back on the loosest hook.
You should be able to get two fingers at the back of the band but feel a little resistance.
If its too loose, you need a smaller band size.
If youre struggling to get your fingers in, then you should try the next size up.
Be sure to check they are equal on both sides.
Also known as the center gore, this is the little bit of fabric nestled snuggly between your boobs.
It should sit flat to your breast bone without any room underneath but also not dig into your skin.
If you might see a gap, you should probably go up in size.
If youre testing out a bra with wiring, be sure to check it fits properly.
These should follow the natural curve at the base of your breast, sitting in behind the breast tissue.
Remember the warning signs we mentioned above.
Spot any wrinkles or sagging?
Dont forget to swoop and scoop.
How to do it?
Now, gently bring all of your breast tissue toward the front of the cup.
Step 2: Repeat on the other breast.
Often women can fit comfortably in their bra size and their sister bra size.
So that may mean that its time you should probably start thinking about getting a new bra.
How do I know if my bra fits correctly?
How often should I be measuring my bra size?
How many bras should I own?
How often do I wash my bra?
You should wash your bra every three to four wears as a general rule of thumb.
Different bras can comfortably fit different breast shapes, so take note and shop accordingly.
(More on that later.)
Pentland says, A new bra will feel firm but not uncomfortably tight.
If the wires are uncomfortable, you are likely wearing too small a cup.
Also, remember a new bra will always soften after a few washes, making it even more comfortable.
Full and round breasts are equally full at the top and bottom.
There is often a larger gap between the breasts, which exposes more of your chest or ribcage area.
Most underwired stylessuch as balconette, full coverage, molded spacer, and padded half-cupswork well for this shape.
Molded styles can cleverly conceal the difference in sizing between breasts by providing an even, round profile.
