Bras: Buying Tips
Bra buying might seem so simple as to be obvious. It isn’t. There’s more to it than fashion. There are different bras designed for different body types, bras for sports and activities, and a variety of fabrics for different purposes. No one bra can do it all.
Buying a bra may seem simple, but it is actually quite complex. There are different styles of bras designed for specific body types, fashions and activities and they come in a variety of fabrics. Despite popular misconceptions, no one bra can “do it all”.
Size matters
An ill-fitting bra isn’t just uncomfortable. It can make you look lumpy in exactly the wrong places. Make sure that doesn’t happen to you. Make sure your bra fits correctly. It may be worth getting a professional to fit your bra. If you’ve been wearing the wrong size bra for years, you wouldn’t be the first woman to do so. Nearly every major department store has a fitter. If you’re in a hurry, at least be sure to check your measurements. Bras are like shoes, though. You have to try them on; one 36C is not necessarily going to fit the same as another.
Taking Measure of Yourself
The first step in measuring yourself to fit your bra is to stand straight and relax. Don’t inhale and hold your breath, you’ll expand you’re ribcage. Next, use a soft tape measure and measure all the way around your body, placing the tape measure right beneath your breasts. Add five to the number, rounding up if necessary to the next even number. That’s your band size.
In order to measure your cup size, measure around the fullest part of your bust (across the nipple) without puling tight. Make sure the tape measure goes all the way around the back. Do this while wearing a bra. Next, subtract this from your band size. This tells you your cup size; 0=AA, 1=A, 2=B, 3=C, 4=D, 5=DD and 6=DDD.
A bra that fits properly will support you, giving you a flattering shape and ensuring that your clothes fit properly. Too many women make the mistake of buying bras that are too big around the rib cage or too small in the cup, which can cause “four-breast syndrome” wherein your breasts spill over the cup, thus ruining the look. Bras may also differ in fit and size according to the brand. it’s not safe to assume that you don’t need to try bras on when you know your size
Safe and Secure
Your underwear plays a vital role in making you feel and look your best. When you try on a bra, don’t just stand still in it. Walk around. Raise your arms. Move! It’s important to find out if it’s still comfortable when you’re moving, as life is not lived standing still.
Bra Styles
There’s a bra for every occasion. Choose one that’s appropriate for what you’ll be doing and what you’ll be wearing on the outside. If, for example, you’ve chosen a strapless dress, you’ll need a strapless bra.
