How to Find the Right Bra
A woman’s bra size changes six to eight times in her life and on average 80 percent of women wear the wrong size. Wearing the right bra can make you appear thinner and can allow your clothes to fit better, whereas wearing an ill-fitting bra not only makes you appear “saggy,” but can also cause poor posture. What a pain in the neck (literally), so make sure you find a bra that is the right size for you.
The Right Size
Calculate your band size first by measuring around your ribcage, right beneath your breasts. Make sure the measuring tape is low and taut on your back. Take this number and add five. If the number is odd, round up. A simpler approach to finding your band size does not involve addition. Just measure yourself right above your breast. This number is not as accurate as the first though.
Calculate your cup size by measuring around the fullest part of your breasts. Once you have a number, subtract your band size from it and calculate your cup size:
- If the difference is less than one inch then you are a AA
- If the difference is one inch then you are an A
- If the difference is two inches then you are a B
- If the difference is three inches then you are a C
- If the difference is four inches then you are a D
For example, if your band size is 36 and the fullest part of your breasts are 38 inches, then you are a 36B.
The Right Fit
Aside from calculating your bra size yourself, you can also get professionally fitted the next time you are in your favorite lingerie boutique or department store. Just ask for assistance. Of course, the way a bra fits varies according to the style, manufacturer and fabric, so you need to be aware of not only your size, but also how to tell if your bra fits properly or not. Here are the ways to tell if a bra fits properly or not:
- There are no bulges or spillage.
- The center of the underwire should be flush against your cleavage area.
- The band should be below your shoulder blades, on the smallest part of your back, not riding up.
- The straps should not dig into your skin. If they are, your band may not be doing it’s job, and may need to be tightened to give more support.
- Your breasts should completely fill the cup, meaning there are no gaps or wrinkles.
- The underwire should surround and support your breasts, not poke them.
If you are planning on purchasing a bra online, check out www.figleaves.com to view more information on how to choose the right bra size. They even have a Bra Size Calculator to make your experience more enjoyable.
The Right Bra for Your Body Type
If you are a fuller busted gal, you need to try on multiple cup styles to find out which one offers the best support and the most natural shape. For the most part, you will need bras with full coverage and wide straps.
If you are smaller busted, you may want to opt for more defined cups, with shaping and padding. Victoria Secret.com is always a great place to shop when you want push ups with appeal.
You should refit yourself every year and with every weight change of five to ten pounds. Wearing the right bra size is vital to your overall style. It can make or break your look, define your waist, give you confidence and make you feel sexier than ever.