We reveal the secrets of a comfortable and well-fitting bra
The following information will help you find the right fit and size.
The Band
- Make sure the back of the band is level with the front of the bra and parallel to the ground. If it is higher in the back, you may need to go down a band size or readjust the strap length.
- The bra band provides up to 80% of the support for your breasts. Make sure the band runs snug around your body. The band is too loose when it rides up your back and too tight when it leaves deeper marks.
The Cups
- A bra that fits well encircles and contains your whole breasts. Feel around the cup to ensure a good fit. If you spill over at the side, the cup is too narrow. If your breast tissue is peeking out the side of your bra,, the cup is too narrow. If you feel soft breast tissue beneath cups, the band is usually too big.
- The underwires should not dig into your skin. If they do pinch, the cups are either too small (the underwire cuts into your breast tissue) or too big (the underwire comes up too high under your armpits).
- The top of the cup is supposed to lie flat against the skin. If your breasts are spilling out over the top, choose a bra with a larger cup. And, if the cups gap, try a smaller size or a model with shallower cups.
- Most women have a somewhat larger and a smaller chest. Select the cup size of the larger chest and tighten the straps a little more on the smaller side. With a larger difference between the two breasts, choose a bra with removable push-up pads and then take out the pad on the bigger side and put it on the smaller side.
The Center Front
- The gore (space between the cups) should lie flat against your chest. If the gore doesn't fully touch your body, the cups are usually too small. The only exception can occur on wireless bras as these styles lack underwires to press the gore against your sternum.
Adjustments in Band Size and Cup Size
Important: Not all cups with the same letter are the same! For example, the cup of a 70A bra is not the same as that of a 80A bra. Bra sizes that are the same in breast volume are often referred to as "sister sizes". Sisters sizes demonstrate that if your bra size provides the correct cup volume but you want to change the band size, you will also need to change your cup size accordingly to find the right fit.
- If your cups fit but the band is too narrow, we recommend a wider bra band and smaller cups. As an example, lets start with a 70A bra. For a better fit, you would try a 75AA.
- Conversely, if the cups fit but the band is too lose, we recommend a smaller band and bigger cups. As an example, let's start with a 80AA bra. Try a 75A for a better fit.
We know how difficult it can be to find a bra that fits well. So, please contact us with any questions you may have.
Would you like a personal fitting? We offer personal bra fittings in our showroom in Basel. Book your appointment here.