ESSENTIAL BRA GUIDE: FITS & SOLUTIONS
Our Essential Bra Guide for Perfect Fits & Solutions is your go-to resource for all things bra-related. Whether you're on the hunt for your perfect fit or you're simply curious about different styles, this bra guide and bra measurement guide will provide insights tailored for every woman. Learn all about our different bra styles and browse our wide collection.
MEASURING YOUR BRA SIZE
Knowing your exact bra size can make a world of difference in how you feel and look. Measuring your bra size at home is simple, and a sizing chart can assist you further. If you've ever wondered if you're wearing the right bra, you're not alone.
Signs of ill-fitting bras can range from discomfort to visible bra lines. Common issues with bra fits include the band riding up, straps digging in or the cups overflowing or gaping. Over time, wearing the wrong-sized bra can lead to physical discomfort and posture issues.
Determine Bra Band Size
To measure bra band size, use a soft measuring tape around your rib cage, directly under your bust and ensure it's snug for accurate measurement. The band provides most of the support, so getting the tightness right is crucial.
Bust Measurements
For an accurate bust measurement, measure around the fullest part of your bust while wearing a non-padded bra. This measurement helps determine the cup size in relation to the band size.
Determine Your Cup Size
Measuring cup size involves subtracting the band measurement from the bust measurement. The difference helps in determining the cup size, with each inch typically representing one cup size up.
USING A BRA SIZING CHART
Once you have your measurements, interpreting a bra sizing chart becomes easier. These charts help you find your size, but keep in mind that there can be brand variations in sizing charts. Always consult the specific brand's chart when making a purchase.
| Bra Size (Inches) | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | |||
| Bust | 30.5 | 31.5 | 32.5 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 40 | |||
| Waist | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26.5 | 28 | 30 | 32 | |||
| Hip | 32.5 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | |||
| Backwaist Length | 15.5 | 15.75 | 16 | 16.25 | 16.55 | 16.75 | 17 | |||
| Across Back | 13.5 | 13.5 | 14 | 14.5 | 15 | 15.5 | 16 | |||
| Shoulder | 4.75 | 4.75 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.25 | 5.25 | |||
| Neck | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.25 | 5 | 5 | 5.25 | |||
| Sleeve Length of Underarm | 16.75 | 16.75 | 17 | 17.5 | 17.75 | 18 | 18.25 | |||
| Armhole Depth | 7 | 7 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 8 | |||
| Upper Arm Circumference | 9.75 | 9.75 | 10.25 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | |||
| Wrist Circumference | 6 | 6 | 6.25 | 6.25 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |||
| S | 30-32 |
| M | 34-36 |
| L | 38-40 |
| XL | 42-44 |
BRA TYPES
Every woman's body and preferences are unique, which is why there are bras in many different styles. But how do you determine which is the right pick for you? Below, we dive into different types of bras to help you understand what style is best for you.
Bralettes
Bralettes are a blend of style and comfort. Often crafted from materials like lace, bralette designs can range from simple to ornate. Seamless bralettes offer a smooth appearance under clothing, while lace bralettes provide a stylish alternative to traditional bras.
Bustier Bras
Bustier bras are both functional and flattering. Often worn as bridal bustier bras for their slimming and smoothing effect, these bras also offer support. Strapless bustier bras are perfect under off-the-shoulder dresses or tops, ensuring no straps peek out.
Demi & Contour Bras
Offering a flattering shape, demi cup bras cover half of the bust and often come with underwires for added lift. Contour padded bras, on the other hand, have molded cups that offer a sculpted look, with underwire contour bras providing extra support and lift.
Full Coverage Bras
For those seeking maximum support and coverage, full coverage bras are the ideal choice. Supportive full coverage bras are great for larger busts, and smooth full coverage bras ensure an even silhouette. Plus size full coverage bras are perfect for curvier women, offering both comfort and style.
Mastectomy & Surgical Bras
Post-surgical periods can be challenging, but mastectomy and surgical bras help make recovery easier. Designed specifically for women who have undergone mastectomies or other surgeries, these bras offer support while also accommodating prosthesis.
Maternity & Nursing Bras
Pregnancy and post-pregnancy periods require special care. Maternity bras provide comfort during pregnancy, while nursing bras, also known as breastfeeding bras, facilitate easy feeding postpartum.
Minimizer Bras
For women with a fuller bust looking to reduce their silhouette, minimizer bras are a great option. These bras, especially non-padded minimizer bras, reduce the projection of the bust. They are designed to offer both support and a slimming effect for larger busts.
Push Up Bras
Want a bit of a lift? Push-up padded bras come with padding at the bottom or sides, offering an enhanced bust line. Gel push-up bras use gel padding for a more natural look, while deep plunge push-up bras are perfect for low-cut outfits.
Racerback & T-Back Bras
Struggling with slipping straps or needing more support? Consider racerback & T-back bras. Ensuring a seamless, strap-free look, they’re stylish and perfect for V-neck tees, tanks and more.
Sports Bras
An essential for any active woman, sports bras offer support during physical activities. High-impact sports bras are perfect for intense workouts, compression sports bras ensure the bust stays in place and moisture-wicking sports bras keep sweat at bay.
Strapless Bras
Whether it’s a tube dress or off-the-shoulder top, strapless bras offer support and provide an invisible look. Convertible strapless bras come with removable straps, while stay-in-place strapless bras ensure there's no slippage. And for outfits where even strapless bras are made visible, there are strapless bras with clear straps.
T-Shirt Bras
A staple in every woman's wardrobe, t-shirt bras are designed to be invisible under clothing. Seamless t-shirt bras offer a smooth look, while those with molded cups provide shape.
Wireless Bras
For those who prioritize comfort, wireless bras, also known as wire-free bras, are a must-have. Styles like soft cup wireless bras offer support without the use of underwires, making them a comfortable choice for daily wear.
FIT SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY NEED
Your bra should fit all your needs and tailor not only to your size but also to the unique challenges and demands of your body and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ve highlighted fit solutions that address common concerns and match them with the right type of bra. Here’s how you can ensure the best fit for every concern:
Back & Side Smoothing
Back and side smoothing bras eliminate bulges that can appear around the bra line. For a streamlined silhouette, bras that offer back and side smoothing are your best option. These bras typically feature wider bands and a seamless construction to prevent pinching or rolling. T-shirt bras and full coverage bras often come with these smoothing features, ensuring a sleek appearance under fitted tops and dresses.
Full Figure
Women with a fuller bust need extra support without compromising on comfort. Full figure fit solutions ensure that you get both. With a focus on larger cup sizes and bands that stay in place, these bras distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the shoulders. Opt for full coverage bras, minimizer bras for large busts and supportive wireless bras to cater to full-figure needs.
Ultimate Comfort
For those days when comfort is the top priority, bras designed for ultimate comfort are the way to go. These bras are made with soft materials, minimal seams and flexibility. Bralettes, especially seamless bralettes, wireless bras and maternity & nursing bras make great choices because they adjust to your body’s needs and ensure comfort all day long.
Ultimate Lift
Want more of an enhanced look? The ultimate lift fit solution focuses on bras that provide an uplifted and rounded shape to the bust. These bras often have specific design elements like padding in strategic places or specially designed underwires. Push up bras, especially gel push-up bras, are great for achieving that desired lift as well as demi & contour bras with underwires.
Incorporating these fit solutions into your bra search ensures that you're not just picking a size but also addressing the specific needs and demands of your body. Always remember, the right fit isn’t just about size, it’s about feeling fabulous and confident in every outfit! Shop our collection of bras and find a variety of styles from brands like Wacoal, Bali®, Maidenform® and more.
