Sunday, November 25, 2007

correct bra sizing

most women are wearing the wrong bra size, so i've decided to write a post on how to find the correct fit.
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there are two elements to your bra size: the band size (ie. 32, 34, 36) and cup size (ie. A, B, C). you will need a measuring tape to determine your bra size.
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1. band size:
using a soft tape-measure, measure around the ribcage directly under the bust. be sure the tape is smooth across the back and level with the front. add 5 to this measurement to obtain your band size.
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for example: if your ribcage measurement is 29" + (5) = 34" band size. if the resulting band size is an odd number like 33", you can usually go to the next even band size (34").
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2. cup size:
measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust, holding the tape measure straight but not tight. subtract your band size from this measurement.
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the result would be your cup size. if the different is:
less than 1" to 1" = A cup
more than 1" to 2" = B cup
more than 2" to 3" = C cup
more than 3" to 4" = D cup
more than 4" to 5" = DD cup
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for example: if your band size is 34" and your bust measurement is 35", you wear an "A" cup.
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Tips:
you should take your measurements while you are wearing a non-padded underwire bra or a tight-fitting seamless t-shirt.
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because standard band sizes are even numbers only, if you have an odd-numbered band size, you may need to go up or down a size depending on how you like your bra to fit.
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ensure the right fit:
now that you have your measurements, knowing how the bra should be positioned on your body will also help you find the perfect bra.
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here are a few key questions to keep in mind when you're trying on bras to ensure that you get the right fit:
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band
q. can you fit two fingers under the band comfortably?
a. the band should be fitted, but not cutting into your skin. it should sit lower on the back than in the front and sit comfortably below the shoulder blades. the back of the bra should not ride up above the bra line. it it does, adjust the straps. if the bra still rides up, try a smaller band size.
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bra straps
q. are the straps adjusted for individual comfort?
a. straps should be adjusted to give support to the bust without cutting into the shoulders. if the straps are falling down, you may not be filling up the cups. try a smaller cup size.
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cups
q. do the cups fit smoothly?
a. the cups should be filled out so they fit smoothly. if there are wrinkles, you may need a smaller cup size. in the case of cotton/spandex underwire bras, there should be a little excess fabric in the cups to allow for shrinkage. if there is overflow at the top, under the arms, you should try a larger cup size.
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tip: 34D, 36C, and 38B are the same cup size. if the band is not snug enough, try a smaller band size and a larger cup.
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underwires
q. do the underwires completely surround the breast tissue?
a. all pressures should lie on the underwire to support the breasts without digging in at the sides. underwires lie flat against the chest. if the underwire is standing away from the body, suggest a bigger cup size. underwires should completely surround the breast tissue to provide support.