Hidden talent: when Anastajza isn’t busy being a fabulous styling assistant, she designs custom lingerie. It makes her a super expert on a necessary evil, bras. With Valentine’s Day just a few days away we thought it would be a good time to write about finding the perfect fit. Enjoy her wisdom, Foxes. xo
The process of finding the perfect bra is tedious. Mostly, because we never learned to fit ourselves correctly, yet it really is a skill worth knowing because the right bra is the foundation of a winning outfit. It can make you look perky and slim or disastrously double boobed…no one wants that, especially on Valentine’s Day!
A note before you get started. You’ll need a cloth measuring tape and a bosom buddy…measuring yourself is tricky! Make sure you’re wearing a non-padded bra (or no bra if you feel comfortable). With those tips, here’s how to measure correctly in just three easy steps.
1.Measure Your Band
Measure around the bottom of the band, directly under your bust. The measuring tape should be level and very snug around you. Round to the nearest whole number.
2. Measure Your Bust
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest. This is usually at nipple level. Do not “squeeze” the tape around your bust. Hold it loosely. Round to the nearest whole number.
3.Do the Math
Subtract your band size from your bust measurement and refer to chart. Example: 37 inches (bust) – 34 inches (band) = 3 inches. That’s a 34C. If you need help refer to the chart!
So… Does it fit???
Just like shirts, pants and other items of clothing, bras are not all made the same. Different companies might have tweaked the sizes just a tiny bit so ALWAYS try on a bra and test it out. To really put it through its paces, do these simple steps in the dressing room:
- Bend forward at the waist, then slip on the bra and hook it. This ensures your breasts are completely in the cups.
- Adjust the band. The back of the bra should be level with the front. If it is not, adjust the hooks
- Make sure the bra isn’t too loose. You should be able to slide only one finger underneath the band.
- Fix falling straps. First, tighten the band, then shorten the straps.
- Try a close-fitting shirt over the bra. If the cups pucker or your breasts bulge, you’re not wearing the correct size.
- Look at yourself sideways in a mirror. Your breasts should sit halfway between your shoulders and elbows. If not, you need a more supportive and better-fitting bra.
- If you need to go down a cup size for fit, go up one band size, and vice versa. For example, if a 34C is too big for you, move to a 36B.
- For the best wear over time, choose a bra that fits perfectly when secured on the outermost hook. Bras loosen as you wear them; checking this fit allows you to keep the band tight by adjusting closure toward inner hooks.
With these tips you will be perfectly perky. Use your newfound power wisely and have fun on Valentine’s!