50) ARE YOU WEARING THE WRONG BRA?

Strapline (Photo credit: Brett Jordan)

95% of women are walking around in bras that are in the wrong size! You may be thinking how is this possible?

The figure may seem outrageous, but when you consider the complexity of each woman's shape and the variations in bra shape, cut, style, manufacturers and material used, it is not surprising.  A woman's body shape changes due to water retention, dieting, exercise, weight gain or loss and the natural aging process. A bra that once fit perfectly will more likely continue to be worn beyond its proper fit.

When was the last time you bought a bra? Or are you still wearing a bra that is in any one of  the following conditions.

1) Straps are stretched and lost its elasticity.

2) Band straps are thinned out.

3) Underwire is protruding out of the bra padding.

4) Padding of bra is wrinkled and out of shape.

5) Bra has mildew.

6) Bra lining is torn.

For whatever reasons you are still keeping these bras, it is time to throw them away and look for a brand new bra. Most importantly, after reading this, you will be better equipped to select the right bra that fits you.

DOES YOUR BRA FITS?

A selection of underwire bras in a retail store (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Do you feel uncomfortable in your bra? A properly fitted bra is a comfortable one. It should be as though you are not wearing one. Visiting your favorite lingerie shop at least twice a year will ensure that your bra is still a good fit.

Bra manufacturers have their own ideas as to what the standard bra size is.  For this reason, the actual bra size you buy may vary. However, these are some guidelines to help you get a general idea of your actual bra size. You should always be willing to focus more on fit and comfort rather than your past history or projected bra size based on measurements with a tape measure.

Four Steps To Measure Your Bra Size

Step One- How to measure your band size

Using a tape measure, start by measuring under your bustline. Wear your best fitting, unpadded, under wire bra. Ensure that the tape is kept tight when you measure underneath the bust line. Check to see if it is straight across your back. (refer to picture line marked as "1") Note down the measurement.

Round up to the nearest decimal if it is less than 1/2 inches. For example, if your measurement is 32 and 1/4, round it up to 32. 

If is more than 1/2 inches, then you should round it up to the next decimal. For example, 32 and 3/4, round it up to 33.

To calculate your band size.
Below 33 add 5 inches. If the total is an odd number, round up to the next even number.
For example: Bustline is 32 plus 5 equals 37. Since 37 is an odd number, round it up to 38.

Over 33 add 3 inches. If the total is an odd number, round up to the next even number.
For example: Bustline is 38 plus 3 equals 41. Since 41 is an odd number, rount it up to 42.

Step Two How to measure your cup size

Next measure over the largest point of your bustline that include the nipples. Check to ensure the tape measure is straight. (refer to above picture line marked as "2") Note down the measurement.

To calculate your cup size.

• Subtract measurement number 1 from measurement number 2. 
• Then refer to the following chart to determine your cup size.

Example: Measurement 2 is 38 inches
                  Measurement 1 is 35 inches

38 minus 35 is 3 inches.  So this means that  you are a 35C.

Chart                                              Cup Size
0" larger than measurement 1   AA
1" larger than measurement 1   A
2" larger than measurement 1   B
3" larger than measurement 1   C
4" larger than measurement 1   D
5" larger than measurement 1   DD/E
6" larger than measurement 1   F

Common Bra Fitting Problems and Solutions

1) The back band rides up. This means that the band size of the bra is too big. 

Solution: Get a bra that has a smaller band size.

2) Shoulder straps leave indentations on shoulders. This means that your bra is too big at           the band and not big enough in the cup size. To compensate for the slack, you will pull the straps up too tightly for the support.

Solution:  Get a bra that has a smaller band size and a bigger cup size.

3) Part of the breasts are protruding from the bottom of the underwire. This means that the band size of your bra is too big and the cup size is too small.

Solution: Change your bra to a smaller band size and a bigger cup size.

4) Uneven silhouette when wearing fitting clothes. This means that the cups that are covering your breasts are too small. This causes part of your breast to spill out from the sides and have bulges in the wrong places.

Solution: Increase your cup size until your silhouette becomes smooth from all sides.

Photograph of a tape measure used in sewing. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

How To Wear A Bra and Fit Tips

Most of us would settle for bra that is close enough instead of searching for one that is perfect. Comfort is of the utmost importance. These are some tips on how to choose the right bra.

• Bend over before putting on the bra. 
• Stand up slowly and adjust the bra.
• Put a hand to each bra and position the nipple so that it is at the center of the cup. Check that the center of the bra lies flat against the breastbone. Ensure there is no gap.
• Check that the bra cups are smooth and not wrinkled.
• Turn to your side, look at the mirror to check whether the back of the bra hikes up. If it does, that means that the bra does not fit properly. The back strap of the bra should rest comfortably against the middle of your back.

My next topic for discussion is, "The side effects of wearing the wrong bra."

You may also like to read:
5) HOW TO PREPARE PURE NATURAL JUICES.
9) APPLE CIDER VINEGAR.
34) WHAT IS BB CREAM?
53) WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT A COSMETIC COUNTER

MY ART CORNER

 

CHILLIES

This was one of my earlier works using a pen.

Thank you for looking and taking the time to read my blog, I welcome feedback and your sharing in relation to today's topic.

Until my next post, Here's to your health!