Choosing A Bra — Helpful Tips

Choosing a bra depends on your figure type and on your wardrobe needs from low-cut, clingy knits to high-necked, tailored woven dresses. There is a wardrobe of bras to choose from that covers a wide variety of needs, from smooth satiny styles to wear under silks and knits to strapless or convertible bras for that special gown.

Selecting the proper bra fit is critical while choosing bras. If there are weight fluctuations or a pregnancy, the fit should be rechecked. To choose a bra size, always measure with the bra on. To select the band size, hold the tape gently and measure around chest directly above bust at underarm level. If measurement is an odd number, add 1". For selecting cup size, measure around fullest part of bust. The band size minus the fullest bust measurement determines the cup size to select.

To put on, slip straps over shoulders, lean forward to fill cups fully; hook fastener. Then straighten up to adjust straps. The front-to-back angle of bra should be straight or slightly longer in back. Straps should support comfortably without cutting into shoulders. Bra cups should fit smoothly, without wrinkling or pulling. The breasts should fill the cups without overflowing.

You can select bras made of fabrics with LYCRA® that lend a smooth, sleek look and great freedom of movement, comfort and fit. Or pick a Demi-Cup with contoured underwire bra that lifts and reveals the tops of the breasts for a decollete look.

For nursing you should choose a bra with specially designed cups that open at the top for nursing and, for mastectomy choose a bra with special pocketed sides to accommodate a prosthesis is the best choice.

About The Author:

Darlene Thompson is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.bra-n-bras.com. As in independant consultant, she has been designing womens support under garments and bras for almost a decade.