The right bra can make all the difference in how an outfit looks and how your body looks. Finding the right bra for different outfits is critical. In some cases, you may need a specialty bra, while in other instances you just need a bra that fits appropriately and provides the right line and type of support. Any bra you wear should fit well, provide good support and be comfortable to wear for as long as you need.
Step 1
Make sure that you are wearing the right size bra. Bra fitting can be a challenge, especially if you do not wear a typical off-the-rack size. A good lingerie shop can assist you with fit issues.
Step 2
Measure yourself with a cloth measuring tape under the bust, at the fullest point of the bust and over the bust while wearing your best fitting bra. While you may see bra size charts that suggest that you add 4 to 6 inches to your underbust and subtract this adjusted measurement from your full bust measurement, this equation doesn’t work for most women. Most women will get a better fit out of their bras by subtracting the underbust or underbust plus only 1 or 2 from the full bust measurement. See Resources for more bra sizing assistance.
Step 3
Go bra shopping. Your bra band should be snug, and when new, fit on the loosest setting. The cups should fully contain the breasts and the center of the bra should rest snugly at the breastbone with no gapping.
Step 4
Choose several bras. Every woman should own a tee shirt bra or two, with molded cups, to wear under knit garments. You will also likely want a convertible bra. These bras offer multiple options: you can wear them as a strapless bra, a backless bra, a racer back or a halter to avoid bra straps showing through different garments. If you routinely wear deep V necks, consider purchasing a plunge bra as well. Regular exercise requires a good sports bra.
Step 5
Consider which bra works best with your clothes. In some cases, this will be obvious. Wear the bra that doesn’t show under a halter or strapless top. In others, it may be less so. While all of your bras should offer good support, some may create a different line than others. Look for a bra with very good lift for snugly fitted tops or empire lines.
Step 6
Check the fit and appearance of your bra under anything you wear. Be certain that the color does not show through your blouse or sweater. Nude bras are an ideal choice for many garments. Straps should be covered, and finer, softer fabrics may merit wearing a molded cup bra for modesty.
Warnings
- If your bra fits poorly, it can result in back pain and neck and shoulder discomfort, and it can affect the fit of your clothing.
