Smart Ways to Find the Correct Bra Fit

According to an article in The Times a ridiculously large amount of women are wearing the wrong bra size. So how do you know if you've got it right? Basically, you should feel comfortable in your bra. It shouldn't be too tight or leave red marks behind. Nor should it be too baggy. If you can easily fit more than two fingers under the band of your bra than it may well be too big.

Underbust Measurement

- Using a tape measure which shows inches, measure the circumference of your chest, just under your breasts.

- If you get an even number, add four inches to it.

- If you get an odd number, add 5 inches.

This number will be your underbust size.

So, if your measurement is 28 inches, add 4, making you a size 32. If you measure 31, add 5, making you a 36.

Overbust Measurement

Measure round the fullest part of your bust to find your Cup Size.

Let's use me as an example.

- The circumference under my bust is 26 inches.

- So I add 4, giving me an underbust measurement of 30 inches.

- My overbust measurement is 31 inches, which is 1 inch more than my underbust measurement.

- This means I am a cup size B.

- Ergo, my bra size is 30B (almost impossible to find in shops, but that's another story).

Problem solving:

Bra rides up at the back

- move the hook-and-eye closure to a tighter setting

- loosen the straps

- try a smaller band size (e.g. 34" instead of 36")

The band digs in

- go one band size larger

- choose a bra with a vertically wider band

The sides bulge

- move up one band size

- opt for a style with more cup coverage

The cups overflow

- go one cup size larger (e.g. C to D).

The straps slip

- tighten straps

- opt for bra with wider straps

- choose fully adjustable straps (instead of ones which can only be adjusted up to the top of the shoulder)

Bra leaves red marks on your shoulders

- loosen bra straps

- opt for one with wider or padded straps

Underwires pinch or hurt

- go one cup size larger (e.g.B to C)

- try a non-underwire soft cup style

There are many different styles available and moulded cups can give as much support as underwire bras!