Band

A band that fits correctly lies flat against your back, and is level across your body without riding up or pinching.  It should fit straight across your back, parallel to the floor.  It should be snug, without being uncomfortably tight.  A good guideline is that you should be able to slide two fingers under the band in back, and one finger in the center in front. 

 

The band should also fit correctly when the clasp is on the loosest hook.  A bra will stretch slightly over time, and clasping it on the loosest hook when you first purchase it will allow you to tighten the bra as it loses elasticity and get more life out of your investment.

 

Underwire

The underwire of a bra should completely encircle the breast, giving them a rounded and defined look.  It should not poke or press into the breast tissue anywhere on the body, and should lie flat against the ribcage.

 

Straps

Your straps should rest flat on your shoulders, and sit far enough in that they do not slide or fall off.  If they are pressing down painfully or causing dents, your bra is not fitting properly.

 

Center Panel

In a bra that fits correctly, the center panel generally sits firmly against the chest, separating and defining your breasts.  There are some exceptions to this rule.  Some women who have very full breasts that sit close together are unable to achieve this fit.  Also, some wire-free and minimizer styles can fit differently, and in these circumstances it’s possible that the center panel does not sit firmly against the chest.

 

Cups

When the cups of your bra fit well, your breast tissue does not bulge or spill over the neckline or armhole of the bra.  The cups do not wrinkle, pucker, or gap away from the body, but fit closely to the breasts and contain them fully. 

 

 

HOW TO MEASURE >>