Studies: Many Women Wearing Wrong-Size Bra
Studies show that 7 out of 10 women in the United States wear the wrong size bra, according to the folks who make the Wonderbra.
One possible reason is that a woman’s figure tends to change over time. Yet, a lady may not realize she needs to update her bra size.
The average American woman’s bra size has increased from a 34B to 36C over the past 10 years, according to Goddess Bra Co., which sells full-figure bras. But all those 34s may not know they’ve become 36s.
Never fear. Nancy Brennick, Wonderbra fashion director, comes to the rescue with these tips for a good bra experience:
How do you know you have an improper fit?
Straps continuously slip off your shoulders. The back band rides up. Cups are wrinkled. Underwire pokes into the body.
How do you determine your true size?
Measure snugly around your rib cage, just under your breasts. Then add 5 inches to get your band size (34, 36, 38, etc.). If the total number is odd (37 for example), round up to the next even number (38).
For cup size, measure around the full bustline. If it’s one inch more than the number above, you’re an A-cup; two inches, a B-cup; three inches, a C-cup and so on.
How do you insure a proper fit?
If it’s a back-closure bra, always hook it on the middle hook, considered the true hook.
Check for proper support from the band around the rib cage, not the straps. Ideally you should be able to drop the straps off your shoulders without losing support.
If the band rides up your back, you may need a smaller size.
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