Do you know your bra size?
29/01/2010
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Do you know your bra size?
A recently reported 70% of women are being fitted with the wrong sized bras. Celebrity bra fitter Mary McCleod from Rigby and Peller share their expert tips for perfect fitting bras.
Top tips
Mary appreciates that not all women have the time or money to be measured by an independent bra fitter, so she has compiled some top tips for our viewers on how to know to get 'that perfect fit'.
When purchasing a bra, make sure the wire is not sitting on the breast tissue, as this will cause discomfort. If any part of the wire is sitting on soft tissue then it's not the right size.
The back band needs to be really firm - but not so firm that it's digging in. Always ensure that you leave enough room so that you can slip two or three fingers under the band and be able to move them around freely.
Adjust the bra straps so that they are firm. The straps help to keep the bust uplifted. If the straps are firm, then bra is a good fit - women who are constantly pulling up their bras are probably wearing the wrong size.
Bra maintenance
Don't be afraid to invest; if you find the right size and the bra is comfy then you have no need to keep purchasing multiple products.
Feel and touch the bra to see if it is made from quality material. Make sure that the underwire is cushioned and feels nice against the skin.
Take good care of your bra - if it's well cared for then you get a lot more mileage out of it. Hand-washing is always better and reduces the risks of damage to the material. A good quality bra should have the life-cycle of around six months.
Have different bras for different occasions. Have a strapless bra for strapless dresses, and have plunge bra for when you're wearing items such a V-neck tops and a Balconette bra for square neck tops. If you have a bra for each occasion then there is no reason to have more than 5 to 7 'normal' bras that you can alternate.
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