Get the size right. It’s not just the cup that is important, the band also plays a critical role in supporting your breasts and if you get this wrong it may lead to shoulder pain, rib pain and numerous other issues. All bra sizes are made up of two components. An even number that represents the band size (32,34,36 etc.) and a letter that indicates the cup size which is determined by the breast itself. So how do you ensure that you have the right measurement? Using a soft measuring tape, wrap it around your rib cage, just under your bust, ensuring that the tape is level and not too tight. Once you have the measurement, round it up to the nearest whole number. If this happens to be an even number, then that is your band size. If it is an odd number, round it up to the next even number and that will be your band size. On to the cup size, wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, once again, keeping it level across your back. Make sure that the tape is not too tight and comfortably accommodates your breasts, then round that up to nearest whole number. THE FITTING Band: Once you have selected a bra based on the measurements, check that the band fit is snug, but not restrictive and that it stays in place without riding up. The band must be level around your rib cage, not too high and not too low. Move your fingers below the band to ensure that there is not too much slack. The Cup: The cups should hug the shape of your breasts, containing them without spillage, gaps or wrinkles. If there is spillage over the top or sides of the cup, then the cup is probably too small. If there are gaps or empty spaces in the cup, the cup is likely too large. If you are wearing a bra with an underwire, the wire must lie flat against your body to support the entire underside of the breast and must not rest on the breast tissue. The Gore: The gore or centre piece between the cups, must lie flat against your breastbone. Where the gore is standing away from your body or digging in, it is not the right fit. The Straps: Straps must support your breasts without digging into your shoulders. The bra should fit on the loosest bra fitting, which is where you should start on a new bra. This can be adjusted as the bra stretches with washing and wear. Remember, the band should be doing most of the holding up, not the straps. Straps should not feel too tight or too loose. Overall Fit: The bra should feel comfortable and supportive throughout the day. Lift your arms above your head, if your breasts slip out under the band, then the size is too large. You should be able to move freely without the bra feeling uncomfortable or shifting out of place. Check the fit under a fitted T-shirt or your lowest top to see if any lines or bumps are visible. If the cups look fake if the bra shows above the neckline, then consider a different style of bra. FIT FOR PURPOSE Various styles and designs are available, it is important however, that when choosing a bra, you are selecting one that will not cause discomfort in whatever activity that you will be engaged in. The Playtex range offers four options that are designed around body type and to suit your needs for the occasion. The Cross Your Heart range does not have underwire support and lifts and separates for more natural curves under clothes while providing a comfortable fit. If you are attending a formal event, you may consider the Glamour B-G range that is designed to support a more glamorous you. If you are facing a long day ahead, the Everyday Comfort option might be the way to go, providing comfort while supporting your natural curves and targeting those areas that need it the most. The Solutions collection is designed to cinch, contour, smooth, reduce and support. The range includes compression garments that refine your silhouette while keeping you comfortable.
