According to a 2008 study, a staggering 80% of young women wear the wrong bra size, and it is believed that many continue to wear the wrong size throughout their lives. In fact, the number may be even higher than originally thought. The author of “The Bra Book: An Intimate Guide to Finding the Right Bra, Shapewear, Swimsuit, and More,” Jené Luciani Sena, shared that out of the hundreds of women she has fitted for a bra, she confidently believes that 9 out of 10 were wearing the wrong size.
The shocking truth is that bra sizes are not standardized. Each brand considers their sizing to be their intellectual property, making it nearly impossible for consumers to find the right fit based on size alone. This lack of consistency in sizing leads to women sticking with the size of the first bra they find that fits, further complicating matters.
Adding to the complexity is the fact that breast size fluctuates throughout a woman’s lifetime. Some women also experience changes in breast size throughout their menstrual cycle. So finding the right bra size becomes even more challenging.
But it’s not just about looks and comfort. Wearing the wrong size bra can have a negative impact on your health. Breast surgeon Dr. Paul Banwell explains that breasts are heavy, and not wearing the correct bra can affect your posture, leading to hunching, shoulder pain, and back pain.
Dermatologist and functional textile expert Dr. Erum N. Ilyas highlights the effect that poorly fitting bras can have on the skin, including chafing, inflammation, skin tears, bruising, yeast infections, benign skin growths, and itching.
So how do you find the right bra size? There are several signs that indicate you are wearing the wrong size bra. If you find yourself fidgeting with your bra because it is uncomfortable, that’s usually the first sign. Other signs include trying to adjust the underwire or bra band, gaping cups, breast tissue spilling out, and straps sliding down the shoulders.
To find your bra size, experts recommend getting measured by a professional at a department store or lingerie shop. However, you can also measure yourself at home. You need to take two measurements to determine your band size and cup size. To find your band size, measure around your ribcage just under your bust and round the number to the closest whole number. Then, add either four inches (for an even number) or five inches (for an odd number). To determine your cup size, measure around the fullest part of your bust just above the nipple line and subtract the band size. Each inch of difference represents one cup size.
When trying on bras, there are several signs to look for to ensure a proper fit. The band should feel comfortable and not dig into your skin. The front of the bra should sit flush against your skin between your breasts. The cup or wire should fit around your breast tissue, not on it. If the wire is sitting on your breast or if your breast tissue is spilling out, consider going up a cup size. The bra straps should not be able to be pulled more than one inch away from your body.
It’s important to note that your bra size may vary from style to style, so pay closer attention to the fit and feel rather than the label size. Use the concept of “sister sizing” if needed, meaning if you go up a band size, go down a cup size, and vice versa.
Comfort should always be your priority when buying a bra. If you don’t like underwires, try foam-shaped options. If you have sensitive skin or are going through menopause, opt for natural fabrics like cotton and silk that allow your skin to breathe. And always wear the right bra for the occasion to avoid pain and stretch marks.
Lastly, reassess your bra size any time you gain or lose weight or experience a life change such as pregnancy or menopause. Regularly check how your bras fit, as they will lose their shape over time. Washing bras in cool water with gentle detergents and laying them out to dry can help prolong their lifespan.
In conclusion, finding the right bra size is essential for both health and comfort. Take the time to measure yourself correctly or get professionally measured, and pay attention to the fit rather than relying solely on the size on the label. Your body will thank you.
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