Common Bra Fit Issues & How to Solve Them

Wearing a perfectly fitting bra can be life-changing—it boosts comfort, enhances your silhouette, and even improves posture. Yet, many women own bras that don't fit right. Whether it's constant adjusting, digging straps, or spillage, dealing with an ill-fitting bra can be frustrating.

In this blog, we'll explore the most common bra fit issues and offer practical solutions to help you find your perfect fit.

The Band Is Too Tight or Too Loose

If your bra band feels like it's cutting into your skin or riding up your back, it's not providing the support it should. On the other hand, if it's too loose, your bra will lack stability and cause your breasts to sag.

Solution:

Too tight: Go up a band size (e.g., from 34 to 36), but keep the same cup size (e.g., from 34C to 36B).

Too loose: Go down a band size while increasing the cup size to maintain the same volume (e.g., 36B to 34 C).

Pro Tip: The band should sit snugly around your torso, parallel to the ground, and you can fit two fingers underneath.

Straps Digging In or Slipping Off

Straps that dig into your shoulders can cause discomfort and even shoulder pain, while straps that constantly slip off are annoying.

Solution:

Straps are digging in: It indicates that the band is too loose, forcing the straps to overcompensate for support. Try tightening the band or going down a band size.

Straps are slipping off: Tighten the straps slightly. If they still slip, consider a style with closer-set straps or a racerback design for added security.

Pro Tip: The straps should provide 10-20% of the bra's support. The band should do the heavy lifting.

Cup Spillage or Gaping

Spillage: If your breasts are bulging over the top or sides of the cups, the bra is too small.

Gaping: If the cups wrinkle or gap, they are too large.

Solution:

For spillage: Go up a cup size (e.g., from B to C).

For gaping: Try going down a cup size or opting for a different bra style (e.g., a plunge bra for shallow breasts).

Pro Tip: Your breasts should sit comfortably inside the cups with no bulging or extra space.

The Underwire Is Uncomfortable

An uncomfortable underwire that pokes, pinches, or digs into your skin is unfitting.

Solution:

Underwire poking: It may mean the cup is too small. Go up a cup size.

Underwire does not sit flush: It indicates that the cup is too small or the band is too tight. Try a larger cup or looser band.

Pro Tip: The underwire should sit flat against your ribcage without pressing painfully into your skin.

The Bra Rides Up Your Back

If your bra band rides up your back, it is too loose. This causes a lack of support and discomfort.

Solution:

- Go down a band size for a more secure fit.

- Ensure you wear the bra on the loosest hook when it's new. Over time, you can tighten it as the bra stretches.

Pro Tip: A properly fitting band should sit level across your back, parallel to the floor.

Center Gore Not Laying Flat

The center gore (the fabric between the cups) should sit flat against your chest. There is a fit issue with your bra if it floats or digs in.

Gore floating away: Go up a cup size for more space.

Gore digging in: Try a larger band size or a different bra style.

Pro Tip: A flat-laying gore indicates proper fit and support.

Bra Leaves Red Marks or Causes Irritation

Your bra is either too tight or made from poor materials if it leaves deep red marks or causes skin irritation.

- Opt for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or modal.

- Adjust the band or strap size for a better fit.

Pro Tip: A well-fitting bra should be comfortable for all-day wear without causing irritation.

Tips for Finding Your Perfect Fit

Get measured: A fitting every 6-12 months ensures you wear the correct size if your weight fluctuates.

Try different styles: Different bras suit different breast shapes. Balconette, plunge, full-cup, and T-shirt bras all offer different fits.

Measure yourself regularly: Bras stretch over time, so adjust the hooks as needed or invest in new ones when necessary.

Wearing a properly fitted bra can enhance your comfort, confidence, and well-being. If you're constantly adjusting or feeling uncomfortable, it's worth revisiting your bra size and style. Remember, the right fit makes all the difference!