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How do I choose a bra that fits properly and flatters my figure?
By RWM Experts
Good question! 90 percent of women wear bras that don’t fit well, offer
little support and displace the breast tissue, pushing it under the arm or
flattening it around the breast wall. This in itself is unappealing and
unhealthy!
Take a moment to read some interesting bra facts:
- Breast sizes are growing. The average size has gone from a 34B to a 36C
over the past 10 years. Twenty years ago a DD cup was unusual; now G cups
are not uncommon.
- Bra-wearers are getting younger. Twenty years ago, 12 and 13 year olds
bought teen bras, now 8 and 9 year olds are in the market.
- Although the demand for larger bras is at a premium, the bra industry is
still years behind in offering selection for the bigger busted woman.
An ill-fitted bra has some of the following “symptoms”:
a) your breasts droop and take on a funny shape;
b) and/or they bulge over the top of the cup;
c) and/or the center does not touch the breastbone;
d) and/or your bra bunches in the cups;
f) and/or your bra rises up at the back.
If these sound familiar, burn that bra now!
To make sure you have the right size, first check that the back of your bra
does not ride up. In this case, the underband may be too big and you need a
smaller size. But make sure your finger can pass under the band in front.
Your bra should be comfortable but not tight, otherwise you need a larger
band size or you must fasten your bra at the next looser hook.
Next, pay close attention to the coverage over the breasts. Your bra should
flow smoothly around the breast, without any bulges or excess space. In this
case, try a larger cup size, for example: from B to C or D to DD.
Adjusting your straps also makes a world of difference in allowing your bra
to sit properly without riding up or causing the “droop”.
For a small bust, half cup bras are very flattering as the padding at the
sides and under the bust give maximum lift. Avoid bras that have square-cut
bust lines; they’ll flatten you even more.
Beyond the fit, your bra collection has to include a wide variety. To keep a
streamline look in a suit, choose a bra with a bit of uplift and firmer
control. A soft, seamless bra is ideal for t-shirts and clingy tops.
For more practical beauty advice, send your questions via email to
experts@risingwomen.com
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