Your body is as unique as your style. And just like not all styles are made to suit everyone, not all bras are made to give the universal support and comfort we deserve.
Unfortunately, an ill-fitting bra is a far more common problem than you may think.
In fact, up to 80% of women are wearing the wrong-sized bra; with 70% of us wearing a size too small, while 10% of us are in a size too big. These numbers may be high, but there’s an easy fix to the discomfort.
Your bra needs to be a piece of clothing that you can wear and instantly forget about. If that’s not the case for you, here are 4 signs you need to look out for that indicate that your bra may be the problem.
1. You’re uncomfortable
Do you find yourself constantly adjusting? Does it feel like your bra just isn’t giving you the support you need? Maybe you’ve even experienced some chafing on your skin?
These are clear indicators that your bra doesn’t need to just be readjusted, it needs to be replaced.
If you experience constant spilling, from either the top or bottom of your bra, or if your bra is rubbing against your skin and causing dry spots or red rashes it’s time for a change. These signs may indicate that you’re in the wrong cup size or band size for you. If fixing these doesn’t fix the problem, then you may be in the wrong bra style for your body.
Whatever you do, never settle for discomfort with your innerwear.
2. Pain and poor posture
It’s an all too familiar feeling when you find yourself having to change how you sit or lounge to feel more comfortable in your bra. But that doesn’t mean this feeling needs to be normalized.
Although studies are inconclusive about whether or not an ill-fitting bra can cause neck or back pain, there are signs that existing pain can flare up because of the wrong bra. Especially for people with larger breasts who are less likely to be getting all the support needed from a bra.
If you are experiencing pain or even poor posture, it may be your bra indicating that it’s not the right fit for you.
3. It doesn’t pass the signs of an ideal
fit
If you have an inkling that your bra doesn’t quite fit right but you’re not sure where the problem lies, then a simple way to test your bra is by checking if it fits well.
The signs of a good bra fit start with the band. Your bra band should be tight enough to stay in place all day, but still loose enough to slide a finger between the bra and your skin easily. The cups need to contain your breasts comfortably, and the straps shouldn’t be digging into your shoulders.
But the most indicative sign that your bra doesn’t fit is that you just don’t feel right. So don’t ignore the signs, and make sure you’re in the right bra for you.
4. It’s past its expiration date
If you can’t remember the last time you refreshed your bra collection, there’s a high chance it’s time to retire your bra.
While the lifespan of your bra depends on how often you wear it, a bra with frequent wear isn’t meant to fit you the way it did when it was brand new after a few months. If you’re rotating between 4-5 bras on a general basis, then they may last for at least a year.
Your favorite bra (we all have one) that you wear almost every day may get stretched out within as little as a month! If any of this is ringing alarm bells, it may be time to take a look at your bras and check them for signs of stretching, hair-like threads of elastic jutting out, or faded color.
Getting a well-fitting, comfortable bra shouldn’t be difficult! Explore our full range of bras made to suit and support your curves. Whether you’re after a flirty, lacy bra or a dependable, everyday number – we have a variety of sizes, fits, and styles for you to find your ideal match.
What are your go-to tips for finding the right bra? Tell us in the comments below!