Size is one of the key pieces of information you need to know about bras. However, did you know that around 8 out of 10 women are wearing the wrong bra size? And yet, a well-fitting bra makes all the difference: it enhances your silhouette, keeps you comfortable throughout the day, and helps maintain good posture. Choosing the right bra is therefore essential.
To find out if you're wearing the right size, just observe how your bra sits on your body… Here are a few key indicators!
1. The Band: it should stay horizontal
The back of your bra should remain straight and parallel to the floor, without riding up toward your shoulder blades. If it does, it may be a sign that your band size is too large and the straps are compensating for the lack of support. A quick tip: you should be able to slide two fingers under the back band—no more.
2. The Straps: not too tight, not too loose
Straps are not meant to carry all the weight of your bust—they complement the support provided by the band. If they’re too tight, they may leave marks and feel uncomfortable on your shoulders. If they’re too loose, they may slip off and fail to support your bust properly.
3. The Cups: neither empty nor overflowing
Cups should hug your bust without compressing it, and without creating wrinkles in the fabric or unwanted gaps. If your bust spills out from the top or sides, you probably need a larger cup. Over time, this can cause discomfort or even injury, so be careful. If the fabric gapes, the cup is too large.
4. The Underwire: it should frame, not cut
The underwire should follow the natural contour of your breasts, from underneath to the sides. If it sits on your breast instead of your ribcage, your cup is too small or misaligned. A properly positioned underwire doesn’t hurt, doesn’t rub, and should feel invisible.
5. The Center Gore: it should touch your sternum
This small piece in the center of the bra should lie flat against your sternum. If it lifts away, it’s usually a sign that the cup is too small or the shape doesn’t suit your bust. A gore that lies flat indicates good support and an optimal fit.
Want to learn more about choosing the right bra?
Find out which bra to choose for sagging breasts to restore support and comfort, and learn how to calculate your bra size to finally find the lingerie that perfectly suits your body shape.
