Bra shopping is one of my least favorite things to do. It’s so hard to find the perfect bra.
After I outgrew training bras, there were so many decisions to make. Underwire or no wire, lining or no lining, padded or not padded, full coverage or demi…so much trial and error.
Getting my first professional bra fitting was a game-changer that provided me with almost a decade of wearing the perfect bra until that style was discontinued. It just so happens that was around the same time that I had to start researching maternity bras and nursing bras.
Fast forward to the present, I’m waiting for my new bras to be delivered. I took my own measurements and researched what styles I needed to fit my current stage of mom bod. It was a whole process but hopefully, the knowledge I’ve gained can help connect another mom to her perfect bra.
1. Finding Your Bra Size
Stores like Victoria’s Secret or Macy’s offer bra fittings. But you need to be comfortable with someone else measuring you. My first fitting was at a department store where I worked. The bra fitter found my size, which brands and styles would suit me, and ordered my bras all while I was there. However, if you don’t want the pressure of buying after a fitting or you just don’t have time for one, you can accurately measure at home, too.
My last bra shopping excursion was such a pain that I opted to measure myself this time around. Armed with a measuring tape, I locked myself in my bathroom. To find my band size, I measured around my rib cage where I want my bra band to fit and added four inches (five if the measurement was odd). Then I measured around the fullest part of my bust. To get my cup size, I subtracted my band size from my bust measurement. You can read in more detail how to do your own home fitting here.
2. Take a Look in the Mirror
You have your bra size so you’re ready to shop for bras, right? If your body has gone through some significant changes since the last time you bought a bra, it may be time to get to know your body again before you purchase a new bra.
Stand in front of a mirror and take note of the size, shape, and spacing of your bosom. These are major factors that can determine what style of bra will fit comfortably on your body. In addition to style, consider bra strap widths and side panels for added support and shaping.
3. Meet Your Match
Once you figure out your breast shape and the styles that fit it, start shopping around. If you’re like me, most stores will only carry a limited selection in your bra size, so do some extra research on brand fit and read a lot of customer reviews before ordering online. Like with all women’s clothing sizes, you’re going to get a different fit across brands for the same bra size. This is where knowing your bra sister size comes in handy in case you have to go up or down a size.
My favorite style of bra is a lightly lined t-shirt bra with an underwire. It used to fit perfectly on my pre-motherhood chest. Now, a plunge-style bra will give me the comfortable lift that I need. Fortunately for me, I was able to find t-shirt bras with a plunge cut so that I get the best of both worlds.
A well-fit bra is supportive, comfortable, and confidence-boosting. Bra fitting and shopping can be daunting tasks, but when done right, the result is a bra that you will love.
