Article

Bra Fitting Tips

Proper bra fitting is essential for comfort, support, and health. A well-fitted bra should:

  • Have a band that is snug and horizontal, not riding up the back. Snug enough to stay horizontal but allow some slight movement when walking or reaching overhead without slipping.
  • Have cups that fully enclose the breasts without spillage or gaping.
  • Have underwires that lie flat against the sternum and do not poke or dig in.
  • Distribute weight evenly across the shoulders and back.
  • Allow for easy movement and breathing.

See Wikipedia: Bra size for more on fit criteria and troubleshooting.

For more on underwires, see underwire, underwire myths, and underwire alternatives.

Self-Measurement

Self-measurement involves taking accurate underbust (horizontal) and overbust (vertical at fullest part) measurements yourself. While convenient for initial sizing or comparison shopping, it has limitations. Body shape, breast asymmetry, and measurement technique can all affect results. Remember to exclude any padding from your self-measurements.

Professional Fitting

Professional bra fitting is highly recommended after significant weight changes, pregnancy, surgery, or if you experience persistent discomfort. Even professional fitters may disagree, so always try on multiple sizes and styles. A professional fitter can assess your anatomy, breast shape, and recommend styles that suit your needs. See bra_sizes.md and sister_sizing.md for more.

Common Fit Issues

Common fit issues include:

  • Band rides up: Band is too large.
  • Cup spillage: Cups are too small or the band is too tight.
  • Underwire discomfort: Underwires may be the wrong shape, size, poking the ribs, or pressing against nerves. Try a different underwire style or design.
  • Straps dig in: Band is too loose, so straps take too much weight.
  • Gapping cups: Cups are too large or don't match your breast shape.

See Wikipedia: Bra size for more troubleshooting. If you're experiencing persistent discomfort despite a seemingly proper fit, see the next section.

Measuring Techniques

  1. Band Size: Measure under the bust, snugly and horizontally, around your rib cage, excluding any padding.
  2. Bust Size: Measure around the fullest part of the bust (equator), keeping the tape level with the plane of the band measurement below it for horizontal alignment.

Calculating Cup and Band Sizes Accurately

To accurately determine your bra size:

  1. Measure your underbust (snug, horizontal).
  2. Measure your bust (fullest part) ensuring the tape remains parallel horizontally to the underbust measurement.
  3. Calculate the difference between bust and band measurements:
    • In the UK/US system: Each inch above the band equals one cup size. For fractional inches, standard rounding often applies (e.g., 0.25"-0.74" rounds down, 0.75"-1.24" rounds up to a full adjustment). Note that different brands and systems may vary slightly.
  4. Try on multiple sizes and styles to confirm fit.

Common Fit Issues Summary

See above for troubleshooting common fit issues. For more, see Wikipedia: Bra size#Bad bra-fit symptoms.

Persistent Discomfort Beyond Underwire Poking

While adjusting underwires and trying different sizes can help, other factors might contribute to persistent discomfort:

  • Shoulder Strap Pressure: Straps may dig into the shoulders if they are too tight or lack padding. This often relates directly to band fit being slightly loose.
  • Band Fit Issues: A band that is consistently too high (digging in) or too low can cause shoulder strain and discomfort, even with adjusted straps.
  • Cup Spillage/Gapping: Tissue spilling from the bottom of cups causes friction against skin/undergarments. Gapping at the top means breast tissue isn't supported properly, leading to pinching or shoulder ache.
  • Wire Interference: Underwires can dig into ribs or press against spinal nerves if the cup fit is incorrect (too small or too large).
  • Fabric Pressure: Bra fabrics that are overly stiff or thick may cause pressure points on the chest wall or shoulders.

The Swoop and Scoop Method

To ensure all breast tissue is properly positioned in the cup, use the “Swoop and Scoop” method:

  1. Lean forward and let your breasts fall into the cups.
  2. Fasten the bra on the loosest hook.
  3. Use your opposite hand to gently scoop each breast from the side (scoop) and bottom (lift) into the cup. Check that no tissue spills over after each scoop.
  4. Run your finger along the inside top edge of the cup to check for spillage or gaps.

This method helps ensure a proper fit, especially for those with fuller or softer breast tissue.

Special Considerations

  • Breast asymmetry: Up to 25% of women have noticeable asymmetry. Some brands offer bras with different cup sizes for each breast, or you can use removable pads.
  • Body changes: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, weight changes, and age can all affect bra size. Re-measure regularly.
  • Sister sizing: If your exact size is unavailable, try a sister size (see sister_sizing.md).

Further Reading