Eight out of ten women are wearing the wrong size bra. To find out if you are one of them, answer the following questions. If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, you’re wearing the wrong bra.
Do your bra straps dig into or slip off your shoulders?
Does your underwire poke into your body?
Does your bra ride up in the back?
Do you sag under your clothing?
Do you feel like removing it before the day is over?
Do the buttons on your blouse gap at the bustline?
Do you spill out?
Have you recently gained or lost more than ten lbs?
Maidenform bra-fitting expert Pattie Ficorilli explains that “a bra that fits properly should be so comfortable, you shouldn’t even feel like you have one on.” She offers these simple steps on how to find the right-sized bra.
Most women measure their ribcage under their chest to get their band measurement. To double check the measurement, wrap a tape measure around your back, under your arms and across the top of your chest. “Your ribcage expands and contracts when you breathe so by taking both measurements you’ll get the best indication of your band size for a more comfortable fit,” said Ficorilli.
For the cup measurement, with your bra on, wrap a measuring tape around your back and across the fullest part of your bust and take a gentle measurement. To get your cup size, subtract your band measurement from this measurement.
If the difference is 1 inch = A cup; 2 inches = B; 3 inches = C; 4 inches = D; 5 inches = D D; 6 inches = D D D. For example, if the cup measurement is 39 and the band measurement is 36, there is a 3-inch difference, which makes the size 36 C.
Every woman wants a perfect fitting, comfortable new bra. Once you have confirmed your size, try these options:
A push-up bra not only gives a boost, but also provides confidence. Every woman needs a comfortable, everyday t-shirt bra to give them smooth lines. The Maidenform Dream Bra minimizes back bulge because the elastic is encased in soft fabric and lies flat against the skin.
“The key to looking great is to start with the right bra,” adds Ficorilli. “When women look and feel their best they exude confidence.”
Flawless fit is more than band and cup measurements. Ms. Ficorilli also suggests that women adjust their shoulder straps snugly. “The straps are key — even if the bra band and cups fit properly the straps will slide off your shoulders if they are not adjusted correctly,” she says.
And then there is the hook. Another little known secret is that a bra that fits well should be fastened on the middle hook. If adjusted properly, bulge will be minimized because the bra will be even in front and back.
