RISING
WOMEN EXPERT ADVICE...
Bra Beautiful
There is nothing worse than a bad bra to ruin the perfect
Christmas outfit, or any outfit for that matter! Bra wrinkles, seam lines, breasts that
‘bulge’ awkwardly, straps that won’t stay in place, and bras that are just
plain uncomfortable are all reasons to run for a cover-up. There is no reason to have bras
as one of your pet peeves, the solutions are easy, and it all starts with buying a bra
that FITS!
Do you remember your first bra buying experience back when you were a
‘tween? It was probably very embarrassing and you just wanted to grab the first bra
that ‘sort of’ fit and get out of the store! Sadly, this same bra shopping
technique follows most women right through adulthood; we buy what seems to fit and then
stress over why our breasts look ‘weird’. Proper sizing is key to shapely
breasts and comfort.
So, ladies, whip out that tape measure and let’s get towork! Bra
sizing involves two measurements: the band size and the cup size. The band size, or back
size, is the distance around your ribcage, directly under your breasts (figure 1-A). Take
this measurement in inches (rounded up to the nearest inch) and add 5. For example, if you
measure 31”, then your band size will be 36”. For band or back measurements of
33” and larger, only add 3.
Next, your cup size is determined by measuring loosely around the
fullest part of your bust with your bra on (figure 1-B). Subtract your band size from this
measurement. For example, if you determine your band size to be 36” and your bust
size is 40”, the difference is 4”. Check the chart below to determine your cup
size.
When dealing with fractional measurements, it is usually best to round
up to the next number to ensure a comfortable fit. Bra bands that are too tight can cause
rubbing and redness. You should be able to run your finger easily under the front band.
Cup sizes that are too small create an overflowing effect and diminish a smooth bust line.
The edges of the cup should lie flat against the breast and the breast should fill the cup
completely. If there are gaps between the breast and the cup, reduce the cup size. If it
is still impossible to find a bra that gives you the perfect smooth line, consider having
one altered. Darts in the band or cup can go a long way toward a great bra.
Now that you know your size, picking bras to suit your wardrobe is the
next step. A comfortable, full-cup bra with sufficient support should be the first bra you
buy as it fits well under sweaters, t-shirts, and sleeved styles. This bra will be the
staple of your lingerie wardrobe as it will not only give you a great bust, but it will
also alleviate the stress on your back and muscles created from wearing a uncomfortable
bra for extended periods. Next, tackle the less conservative styles you love to wear.
Strapless dresses of course need strapless bras, however these bras
also work well with sleeveless, wide neck, halter, and off the shoulder styles. Wearing a
strapless bra under these styles eliminates the ‘hide the strap’ fight.
Racer-back bras are also good for sleeveless styles as they are designed with the straps
pulled together at the center of the back. They provide support that you may not get from
a strapless bra and the straps don’t slip. A convertible bra is an excellent choice
as it functions as many bras in one. The straps can be modified to change the bra into a
strapless, racer-back, halter or even one shoulder style.
Sexy, low cut necklines just scream cleavage. Enhance your bust with a demi cup bra or a push-up bra. These bras are designed to show what you got with the use
of additional padding and a lower cut cup. This is a great bra for eveningwear or when you
want the added attention.
Last but not least, your wardrobe must include something sexy and
alluring! Panther print, velvet, sheer, you decide. Skip the functionality with these ones
and let your inner goddess let loose. Besides, lacy bras should not only be worn to please
your husband or boyfriend, they should be a celebration of you as a woman.
And as women, our breasts are something to celebrate. They draw in as
much attention as our face. We spend hours and lots of money trying to find that perfect
lipstick or eye shadow, so why not do the same for our bust? Bra buying is an essential
female activity and we should take the time to look for bras that functional, attractive
and also flattering to our figure and style of clothing. So get shopping ladies, the
perfect fit, style and comfort is out there, don’t settle for less.
Written by Rising Women's Panel of Experts
media@risingwomen.com
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