4 Factors for Your Next Bra Fitting
Sometimes finding a bra that fits correctly can feel like chasing the Holy Grail: alluring and evasive. Statistics continuously show that 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. In our experience as professional bra fit specialists, we think the statistic might even be even higher. Despite the fact that there are hundreds of boutiques across the country fitting thousands of women a year, this number continue to be very high.
Unfortunately, few stores provide professional, knowledgeable bra fittings. Many department stores and chain lingerie boutiques still use measuring tape for bra fittings even though this method can be unreliable. In fact, using a measuring tape is just a small part of finding the right size and fit, and if you aren’t in the right size bra already, your measurements may be very misleading. True bra fit specialists recognize the many unique fitting concerns women have, and always fit the bra to the body. Unlike chains and department stores, these professionals never use measuring tapes. They have been trained to visibly size up a woman’s proper size and bra style.
If it's been a while since you were fit, (or you're not sure if you were ever wearing the right size to begin with), it’s time to get measured! It's important to keep in mind that seemingly small changes in your body can affect your bra size. Lingerie specialists recommend being re-fit with any significant weight change, pregnancy/nursing, surgery, hormonal fluctuation, even a change in exercise routine.
Professional bra fitters have the expertise to take into account the many factors that measuring tape won’t calculate like breast tissue density or two different sized breasts which is a very common occurrence. We always recommend seeing an expert professional bra fitter in a boutique that carries a wide variety of sizes and styles. Not only can they size you correctly, but they can also help you find the right style.
Discovering your true bra size and becoming comfortable shopping for lingerie can be life changing in many ways. Many women leave a bra fitting feeling empowered and more in control of their bodies, even if they didn’t walk into the store feeling that way. Moreover, they look thinner, more lifted, and are comfortably supported.
So, now that you’re ready for a professional bra fitting, here are four things to keep in mind when you come in for your next fit.
A Bra Fitter Is Here to Help You
Bra fit specialists are specifically trained to find every woman a perfectly fitting bra. They understand the many unique fitting concerns women have and always fit the bra to the body. Bras are designed to fit, support, and shape the breasts. They also enhance and support a woman’s natural curves and express a woman’s individuality. Just like clothing sizes, the sizes and standards of bras vary between manufacturers which can make it very difficult for women to find that perfect fit.
You should expect that your bra fitter will ask what about the bra you are currently wearing and listen to what you want in your next bra. Your bra fitter should teach you how a bra should fit, help you find a bra shape that suits your breasts best, and provide washing and wearing tips.
Time Well Spent
Most bra fittings take an average of 30 minutes or less. Professional bra fitters usually need a half hour to assess your size and shape, and recommend bras for you to try on based on your unique needs. Keep in mind that trying on bras is all about trial and error so it’s important to try a few styles and brands to find the perfect bra. Your patience will be rewarded as soon as you see yourself in the right bra.
All women are shaped differently, and all bras are cut differently. A bra that works for one woman will not necessarily work for another. A trained bra fitter will try their hardest to find the right bra, whether it be soft-cup, demi-cup, plunge, racerback, or full coverage, that works best for your shape.
Expect that you will need to try on several bra frames and styles to find your best fit, or that you might have to go to more than one store to find one. It’s important to keep an open mind and communicate your needs with your bra fit specialist. Bra fitting is a profession, and, just like doctors, fitters benefit from knowing more about you. Don’t be afraid to share your story with them, especially if there are any special circumstances like surgery, mastectomy/use of a prosthetic, nursing or pregnancy, or limited range of motion. Whatever the case, it’s the specialist's role to help you find a bra that fits you best and accommodates your needs.
The Proper Bra Is an Investment
Good bras are an important investment. Your bra is going to be on your body all day long, so you should invest in one that is comfortable, that makes you look good, and is going to last.
Most good bras have about 100 wears in them. Ideally a woman should have seven bras in her rotation- one for each day of the week. It’s not recommended to wear the same bra two days in a row because bras need time to rest in between wears.
Many women recognize the importance of investing in wardrobe staples like quality denim, because it’s a clothing item that they wear again and again. We can make the same argument for investing in proper foundation pieces. Wearing the right sized bra is perhaps the most important thing you can do to maximize your wardrobe. Not only will you feel great, but your clothes will fit better and look amazing.
Look Beyond the Label Size
Wearing the proper bra size is an act of self-love. The right bra lifts you up, gives you great support, and feels amazing. The size of the bra is just a mere number. Avoid attaching any meaning to the size you wear, and focus on how it makes you look and feel. This goes for clothing, too! If a size 16 looks great, fits you well, and makes you feel your best, then wear that size. Don’t squeeze yourself into something that isn’t right because a preconceived notion of “size”.
You are more than a label. Keeping a body positive attitude is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. If you’re ever tempted to stress out over wearing a 34F bra, all you have to do is glance in the mirror and check out how great that bra looks on you and let your cares melt away!
*This article is a guest post and is written by Ruth Brennan from Bits of Lace
2 comments
I totally agree with your tips!
ReplyDeleteKireiKana
I highly recommend a bra fitting, I always get fit every-time I buy a new bra ... for years I wore the wrong size bra and when I finally was fit for one, the band size was 2 sizes smaller and a larger cup than I knew...
ReplyDeleteAll places are not the same and I am choosy as to where I go when I buy a bra xox