Finding the perfect bra can be daunting for most women. There are a wide variety of bra sizes, styles, and brands on the market, and not all bras are created equal. It can be hard to know if you’re truly wearing the right bra. The challenges can be even more significant for those with asymmetrical breasts, as finding a bra that complements your unique body shape becomes even more difficult.
In this post, we’ll examine the common signs that you’re wearing the wrong bra and offer expert tips and advice on finding the perfect fit for your body. So say goodbye to the “necessary evil” and hello to ultimate comfort and support.
5 Signs that You May Need to Rethink Your Bra Choice
1. Straps that slip or dig into your shoulders
One of the most common signs that you’re wearing the wrong size bra is straps digging into your shoulders or slipping off. This can happen for various reasons, such as a bra being too loose or tight even after being adjusted as much as possible.
Shoulder straps are an essential component of a bra. So, if they are slipping or digging into your shoulders, it can cause discomfort and even pain throughout the day. At the same time, you won’t get the crucial support bra straps are supposed to provide.
2. Cups that gape or wrinkle
Do you ever notice your bra cups gaping or scrunching up when you look in the mirror? This isn’t just unflattering—it’s a sign that you’re wearing the wrong size bra. This issue occurs when the cups are too big for your breast size or aren’t designed to match your breast shape.
Think of it like trying to fit a round button into a square hole; even if the size is close, it just doesn’t work. Similarly, if your bra cups aren’t the right size or shape for your breasts, they can’t provide the support and shaping you need. This can lead to discomfort and make you feel self-conscious, even when fully dressed.
Find a bra that actually fits you with Symmetrista
3. A band that rides up
The bra band should fit snugly and securely around your body. If the band constantly rides up or down from its original position, it’s a sign that the bra may not be the right size or type for you. This issue can affect your overall proportions, making the bra noticeable even under clothing. Besides the unflattering appearance, an ill-fitting band can cause your breasts to sag over time and may lead to chronic back pain.
A well-fitting bra should have a band that sits comfortably around your ribcage—neither too loose nor too tight. It should stay in place without riding up or down, providing you with the necessary support and comfort throughout the day.
4. Underwires that poke or dig
Underwires that poke or dig into your skin clearly indicate a poorly fitting bra. The underwire is crucial for providing additional support, lift, and shape to the cups. However, if it doesn’t fit properly, it can cause discomfort and even pain.
It’s important to note that this issue can occur if the cup size is too small, the wires are damaging and oddly sticking out or in the bra, or the cups themselves are not the right shape for the wearer’s breast shape. At times it can also be that only one of the underwires is problematic.
To ensure your underwires fit well, they should rest comfortably against your breast tissue without digging or poking. Properly fitting underwires will offer the necessary support and lift, resulting in a comfortable and supportive fit. After all, it’s about both how it looks and feels.
5. Cups that are too small
Another sign that you may be wearing the wrong bra is if the cups are too small and do not fit correctly. This can be easily spotted by observing your breasts overflowing the cups’ top or being compressed together. This is not only super uncomfortable but can also result in a less-than-ideal shape for your breasts under your outfit, as the cups cannot support and shape them correctly.
Additionally, small cups can be identified by the straps digging into your shoulders and the band riding up your back. These are clear signs that the bra itself isn’t for you.
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s time to reassess your bra(s) and invest in better-fitting ones. Not only will those provide comfort and support, but they also enhance your overall appearance and confidence. Women wearing the right bra will find that when you feel good, you look good, too.
Choosing the right bra size is not just about aesthetics. When women wear an ill-fitting bra, it can lead to shoulder pain, breast pain, neck pain, and subsequently, poor posture and even headaches. For those who enjoy active lifestyles, wearing the wrong size sports bra can exacerbate these issues by not providing the necessary support during physical activities, leading to discomfort and potential injury.
How to Measure Yourself at Home
To purchase a new bra that offers the best breast support, you need to know your correct size. With just a few simple steps, you can measure yourself at home.
- Start by measuring your band size: wrap a soft measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, just under your bust, and take the measurement in inches. This number is your band size.
- Next, measure your bust size by placing the tape around the fullest part of your chest, ensuring the tape is level and not too tight. Subtract the band size from this measurement to determine your cup size. Each inch difference typically corresponds to a cup size, with one inch being an A cup, two inches a B cup, and so on.
Conclusion
Bra shopping can be a challenge for many, but it can be especially difficult for those with asymmetrical breasts. Asymmetrical breasts, also known as uneven breasts, are characterized by having one breast that is a different size or shape than the other.
This can make it hard to find a bra that fits comfortably and evenly distributes the volume of your breasts. One cup may fit perfectly, while the other is too big or too small. Finally, you find another bra close to being “it.” However, one of the underwires just keeps digging into your underboobs.
But there is a solution! At Symmetrista, we understand the unique challenges that come with asymmetrical breasts and have designed bras specifically to address these issues. So, if you constantly feel you are wearing the wrong bras, it’s time to switch to bras specifically for asymmetrical breasts.
FAQs about choosing the correct bra size
How do I know if I'm wearing the wrong bra size?
There are several signs that indicate you might be wearing the wrong bra size, including straps that slip off your shoulders, cups that gape or wrinkle, a band that rides up or down, underwires that poke or dig into your skin, and cups that are too small. If you experience any of these issues, it's a good idea to reassess your bra size.
How often should I measure myself for a bra?
It's recommended to measure yourself or get professionally fitted at least once a year, or whenever you experience significant changes in your body, such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or hormonal changes. Regularly checking your bra and cup sizes ensures that you continue to wear a bra that fits comfortably and provides proper support.
What should I do if my breasts are asymmetrical?
Asymmetrical breasts are common, and finding the right bra can be more challenging. Look for bras with adjustable padding or bras designed specifically for asymmetrical breasts. You can also add removable pads to the smaller cup to create a more balanced look. Brands like Symmetrista offer bras that address these specific needs.
Why does my bra band ride up, and how can I fix it?
A bra band that rides up is usually a sign that the band is too loose or the bra is too small overall. To fix this, try tightening the band or consider trying a smaller band size. A properly fitting band should sit snugly and securely around your ribcage without moving up or down.
What is the best way to care for my bras to ensure they last longer?
To extend the life of your bras, it's best to hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent. If you use a washing machine, place bras in a lingerie bag and use the delicate cycle with cold water. Always air dry your bras to maintain their shape and elasticity.