If you are shopping for a bra for yourself (female or male -- doesn't matter) you should get fitted for a bra. We recommend getting fitted for a bra every 6 months to a year. Many people do not wear the right size bra. It is also a good idea to get measured and fitted for one at each new brand's store. Each brand runs a little different. The people who work at the bra shops are trained to fit people for bras. They also know what styles will be best on you and help achieve what you want. The shop workers are there to help you. A friendly reminder, the number is the band size and the letter is the cup size. In the USA, band sizes are all even numbers.
There are different types of bras and each one will fit differently. Bra styles such as full coverage, demi, push up, and so on are similar in what they do and how they will give support and coverage. Each serves a basic purpose and depending on the type you will get a different use.
- Demi = this is the least amount of coverage that allows the wearer to wear lower cut necklines. This style is great for shallow, settling, or breasts that do not need a lot of coverage. Try this on if you would like bras that have less coverage on the upper area of the breasts. This style also has straps that are slightly wider set, so if you have problems with the straps falling off your shoulders, look into a style of a demi that can cross the straps, or look for a different coverage.
- Push up = this is the most sought out bra for cleavage. This bra has a padding that pushed the breasts up and inward. This bra helps smaller busts to look more full. If you have a full bust already, this might not be the best option. Many companies do not carry larger sizes in this type, so it might be more difficult to find in larger sizes.
- Full coverage = this is the every day bra that gives you total coverage. This is great for those who require the most coverage and support. This is great for under t-shirts and other garments that are more clingy.
- Plunge = Some shops will sell special bras known as a plunge bra for low cut necklines so that the bra's cups won't show. This is not an everyday bra.
- Balconette bra = this bra is typically 1/2 or 3/4 the amount of coverage. This bra type creates a different shape than other types. This does not cover the whole breast.
- Strapless or multi way = this bra is for special tops where you don't want the straps to show. Each shop has their own styles of these some with more structure than others. These bras usually have grip strips made of silicone that helps keep the bra in place when you are wearing it. Ask the shop workers how it can be warn if you do not know. There are many ways to wear the multi way bras.
There are also structure differences in bras too:
- Underwire vs. Wire-free = Underwire helps with support. Most larger sizes will have a lot of underwire options. Wire-free bras are great for those who do not need the support or do not want underwire. If you experience wires that poke into you, you need to get a different size bra. If the bra fits you like it should, then the wires do not poke into you. Most companies use hypoallergenic wires. If you have an allergy to metals, ask the company or the shop workers.
- Lined vs. unlined = Lined bras have the reputation of making someone look bigger. This has been something I have seen in the shop I work at. Lined bras do not make you look any bigger. It is part of support. Many women see it as padding and think that it adds a cup or two to what they have already. This has been one of the most complaints I have heard. Lined bras help conceal the nipple and added support to the bust. Unlined bras are great for travel and those whom do not wish to have lined cups Sometimes these bras are very thin in the cup and can show the nipple. Ask the shop workers if they recommend which one for you. Remember each company has a different way of making them and you might have to go up or down in the cup if it is lined or unlined.
Support for the bra comes from the band. Many think that it comes from the straps. If the straps are not adjusted properly the bra won't fit correctly. Many people that come into the shop forget that the straps do not have to be tight to give support and that it does change how the bra looks, fits, and feels. When you up the bra on, if you put it on backwards then twist the band and pull up the straps, this is the method that gives a lot of stress on the bra's band and straps. This makes it lose support and stretch out the form quicker. The best way is to put on the straps then reach behind yourself to attach the band together with the hook and eyes.
The average person that comes in the shop will also go into the category of lack of care when it comes to their bras. Many people store the bras with the lined or molded cups inside out and folded inside of its self. This way of storage is not helping the lifespan of your bra. This way breaks down the cups and it loses support. Bra storage should be flat and unfolded this will help your molded/lined cup bras last longer ant protect the underwire so it will not poke through.
Bra Care:
- Rotate your bras. Shop workers will tell you to have 3 or more everyday bras so you can rotate them. Perspiration can deteriorate elastic, so bra professionals suggest to never wear the same bra two days in a row. The theory is to have one bra in the wash, one resting for the day, and one for wearing that day.
- Washing your bras should be ideally by hand due to the delicate nature of bras. Follow the washing instructions for the temperature of the water. Use a light gentle washing soap. If you use a machine, wash carefully due to the bra's structure. Use a mesh bag to help keep the bra together and not tangling around the agitator and the other garments you are washing. You should also hook your bras to prevent them from getting caught on the inside drum of the machine. Do not put bras in the dryer. Line dry your bras so that the elastic stays the way it should.
There are many shops and companies out there, do not give up on finding a bra that works for you. Each shop worker has special training for fitting bras, they are there to help. Females and males should be treated with the same professional care when it comes to fitting for bras. There is no judgment by the shop workers, at least at my place of work there is not.
Hope this was helpful information for those out there looking for advice and tips.
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