Feel like something is holding you back from your flawless fit? Here’s how to spot common issues and how you can fix them.
THE BAND KEEPS RIDING UP AT THE BACK:
Why? The band of your bra is most likely too big. How to fix: Go down a band size to give you a snug and supportive feel. When it fits right, it should sit level across the back and not rise up.
THE STRAPS KEEP DIGGING IN OR FALLING DOWN:
Why? The band is probably too loose, meaning that the straps have to work twice as hard. The support should mainly come from the band, and if it doesn’t, that’s when the straps overcompensate. It may also mean your straps are too long. How to fix: Adjust the fit of your band so it’s tighter, or go down a band size. Once it feels snug and sits straight across the back, it should be supporting you correctly. If your straps are still falling, you can easily adjust them to your desired length.
YOU'RE SPILLING OUT OF THE CUPS:
Why? Your cup size is too small, pressing your breast tissue higher. How to fix: Try moving up a cup size, or a sister size.
YOUR CUPS ARE GAPING OPEN:
Why? Your cup size is too big, so you have excess room in each cup. How to fix: Try a smaller cup size, and go for a fit that hugs your natural shape.
THE CENTRE GORE ISN'T LYING FLAT ON THE CHEST:
Why? Your cup size may be too small, or the band may be too loose. How to fix: Try on a bigger cup size, or if this still doesn’t feel right, see if a tighter band works.
THE UNDERWIRE IS SITTING ON THE BREAST TISSUE
Why? You may have the wrong cup size, or the style isn’t quite right for your frame. How to fix: First, try a bigger cup size, remembering that the underwire should sit comfortably under the bottom of your breasts, as though it’s gently holding them. If it’s still not sitting quite right, experiment with different styles and shapes of bras.
YOU'RE GETTING RED MARKS OR DISCOMFORT AFTER TAKING YOUR BRA OFF:
Why? Your bra is probably too tight, or the straps are over-adjusted. How to fix: much pressure or digging into your skin.
Your body changes – and your bra should too. Regular measuring ensures you’re well supported through every stage of your life. Here’s when you may want to re-measure:
WEIGHT FLUCTUATIONS
Even a little loss or gain in weight can change how your bra may fit. It’s best to get refitted as soon as possible, before it feels uncomfortable.
PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM
We recommend switching to wireless, soft support maternity bras during your pregnancy, and then getting a fresh measurement once you’ve given birth to ensure you’re supported through your journey to motherhood.
STARTING OR STOPPING HORMONAL CONTRACEPTION
Even little changes to hormone levels can affect the size of breasts. That’s why we recommend getting a re-measure if you’ve recently started or stopped taking hormonal contraception.
MENOPAUSE
Your breast size can shrink and increase during menopause. It’s often linked back to the hormonal shifts your body goes through, and about 1 in 5 women report needing a new bra size during this time. We’re here to help make sure you’re supported and comfortable as your body changes.
AFTER BREASTFEEDING
No matter what surgery you have undergone, whether cosmetic, reconstructive, or for treatment, your breasts will most likely change in shape and size. To support your body we always recommend getting a fresh fit in a post-surgery bra once you’re fully recovered.
ROUTINELY EVERY 6-12 MONTHS
Our bodies go through a lot, day to day. Little changes, without us even knowing, can result in a change in size and shape. That’s why we’d recommend measuring every 6 to 12 months, to make sure you’re always feeling and looking your best.
Even the best bras can feel a little “off” if you’re not perfectly fitted. And the most common culprit? You most likely have the wrong band size. When it comes to bras, the band does the heavy lifting, so it needs to fit like a hug that stays put. We often see that some people have too loose of a band – creating the overall fit to be thrown off. As well as people who have tightened theirs too much, creating an overall uncomfortable feeling. Another common issue, which is a little easier to fix straight away, is the straps. Your straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders without slipping. Too loose and your band has to work twice as hard, and too tight and you’re going to get that uncomfortable chaffing feel. Many people also make the mistake of wearing the same size for years without checking, or choosing style over fit. Every single body is different in its own unique and beautiful way – and it may just be that your dream bra is yet to be discovered (ps. We can totally help with finding yours, though, in our bra hub).
We’re here to help find your perfect fit at home, with questions answered by our bra experts.
1. HOW DO I MEASURE MY BRA SIZE WITHOUT A TAPE MEASURE?
Don’t worry too much if you don’t have a tape measure to hand. You can still go through all of the steps we outlined previously but using a piece of string or ribbon instead. Rather than reading the number, you’ll want to mark it on the string or ribbon. Once you’ve finished, compare the mark you made on the ribbon to a ruler, and you should have a perfect measurement. Make sure to hold the string/ribbon close against your skin without sagging, or pulling it too tight.
2. HOW TIGHT SHOULD A BRA BAND BE?
A bra band should feel snug around your body, like a gentle hug. It’s there for support, and should feel comfortable, so make sure it isn’t digging in or sliding up or down.
3. WHY DOES MY BRA RIDE UP AT THE BACK?
A bra usually rides up or shifts when it’s too big for you. Try a smaller band size if this is happening to you.
4. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET FITTED FOR A BRA?
We recommend getting fitted or re-measuring every 6 to 12 months. Want to leave it to our experts? bra fitting and we’ll be more than happy to welcome you into the store.
5. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CUP SIZES?
Your cup size is the volume of your breasts, not the size. So, a D-cup in one band may hold the same volume as a C-cup in another band size. That’s why sister sizes exist.
6. CAN YOUR BRA SIZE CHANGE?
Yes! Even small lifestyle changes can affect your breast size and shape. From hormone fluctuations and weight changes to pregnancy and more, it’s always best to re-measure to ensure your perfect fit.
7. WHAT IS A SISTER SIZE
While the band size shifts, the cup volume stays exactly the same – giving you a fit that moves with your shape.
8. SHOULD I MEASURE MYSELF WEAR A BRA OR NOT?
We would recommend wearing a lightly lined, unpadded bra. This way, you can accurately see where to measure.
9. HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CUP IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL?
If your cup size is too small, you’ll most likely see spillage above the cup, or have digging around the band. This is a sign you probably need to size up. If it’s gaping, or leaving space at the top, it’s most likely too big.
10. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UK AND US BRA SIZES?
You can see our conversion chart for accurate UK to US sizes.
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