A bra, short for brassiere or brassiere is a form-fitting undergarment designed to support or cover the wearer’s breasts. But, the bra has been modified to serve multiple functions such as enhancing cleavage, downplaying a heavy bust and even being invisible.
Now an item of vanity and a multi-million dollar business, choosing a bra can be somewhat confusing. The most important criteria while choosing a bra is the right fit. Every woman should ensure that they get themselves professionally fitted. Wearing the right sized bra not only ensures comfort but is also important from a wellness perspective.
The most important criteria while choosing a bra is the right fit. Every woman should ensure that they get themselves professionally fitted. Wearing the right sized bra not only ensures comfort but is also important from a wellness perspective.
Why it’s important to choose the right bra
A badly fitted bra provides insufficient support, that causes the trapezius muscle (that supports the arm) to tighten and become unable to hold the weight of the breasts. This can lead to shoulder, neck and back pain because of muscle strain. To avoid such issues, follow these tips to check for the right fit when purchasing a bra.
Tip 1
Loosen the straps to their maximum length. Lean forward into the cups and hook up the bra at the back if you can. If not, fasten the bra at the front and then turn it around, but be careful as this may strain the elastics. Then, put the straps on your shoulders.
Tip 2
Adjust your breasts inside the cup by scooping them up so they sit comfortably inside the bra in a natural position. To do this, slip a hand into the cup and lift the breast upwards and forwards. Your breast should fit fully inside the cup with the bra resting comfortably outside.
Tip 3
Hold the wires under the breasts lean forward and gently shake the bra the left and right. Your breasts will fall into the cup and sit higher when you stand up straight.
Tip 4
Remember that it’s the bra band that provides most of a bra’s support, not the straps. 80% of the support a bra gives comes from the underband. If your straps are too tight the back of the bra will ride up and affect your posture. Adjust the straps so that they sit comfortably on your shoulders.
Tip 5
Look at the shape it creates for your bust, when looking down at your bust from the top, the two mounds should not be pointing outwards.
Tip 6
Check your bra fit from all angles, looking at your side view in the mirror your breasts should not be sagging but look lifted up from the rib.
Tip 7
Ensure that your bra straps are adjusted to ensure that your breasts are lifted and look perky.