Wearing the Wrong Bra Size: How to Find the Right Bra

Apparently, 8 out of 10 women are wearing the wrong bra size. Learn how to select the correct band and cup size for you.


It was like any other day. I was shopping and went to Victoria's Secret for one of their semi-annual sales. I began trying on my bras only to discover from one of the sales associates that I had been wearing the wrong size! I could not believe it, but after doing a little research I realized that I was certainly not alone.

Why is Wearing The Right Bra Size so Important?

Bras offer support. Logically, if you are wearing the wrong size of bra you are compromising that support. Back problems can often result when your breasts do not have the proper support. You will only achieve this level of comfort if both the band size and cup size are correct.

What is Band and Cup Size?

The Band Size can be measured with a measuring tape. Measure around the chest below the bust. If the measurement is an even number that is the size band you are looking for, but if it is an odd number you need to add one inch to it as the band sizes are all even. To measure your cup size, use the tape measure and then subject the difference in inches from your band size. Each inch indicates one cup size. There are charts you can look at to help illustrate this sizing.

Getting Fitted

Although you can measure yourself, as indicated above, take the guessing work out of the equation. If you go to any lingerie shop they can measure you. I know for many women this seems a little embarrassing. You know how tall you are, how much you weigh, why do you need someone to tell you what size bra to wear?

Well, look at the statistics, for whatever reason, most women obviously aren't clear on how to determine that size. The additional benefit for getting fitted is that the associate will also show you how to wear the bra.

How to Wear Your Bra?

Believe it or not, this is a serious question. If you have the correct bra size, you should be wearing the bra on the last hook as the bra will stretch out after time and you will need to go to the next notch. If you are starting with the bra on the tightest setting, there is nowhere to go.

You should also pull the bra band down in the back and the straps should be relatively loose. A common misconception is that the bra straps should pull up the breasts. many women wear them tightly and they dig into the skin. This is not the way to go! The support should come from the band and cup itself.

Sure Signs Your Bra Doesn't Fit

Lift your arms, is your breast covered or is it sticking out? If it is sticking out the size you are wearing isn't correct. Put clothes on;do you look normal with the bra on or is the shape off? Woman often "spill out" is their cup size is too small. I think it is much easier to tell if your bra size is right by just putting on a tee-shirt.

Select the Right Style of Bra For You

* Full Coverage provides the most support and obviously coverage. If you have a larger cup size this style might be right for you.
* Demi plunges down and is ideal for v-neck shirts or lower cut tops. If you are worried about spilling out than this isn't the bra for you.
* Push Up gives you a real lift and has a lot of options with padding as well. This style offers good support and a great sexy look.