The fit of a bra
As a couture designer, the overall fit is what makes a garment look fabulous, however in my experience, a poorly fitting bra can often be found to be the culprit if this happy medium is not forthcoming. For clothing to look optimum especially when you are wearing one of my exclusive jersey designs, it does you and your dress wonders to have a properly fitted bra; it not only lifts your assets but your confidence also. Finding the right bra is not difficult; you just have to do a bit of homework first. Once you know the basics you can determine your correct size and decide what kind of style you want. Correct fit is the most important aspect of a bra, not just for comfort, but also for the best possible support and overall look. Styles and fabrics are important, too. These needs can differ with your body type, personality and dress. So ladies, take her is some advice from this couture designer who has been happily dressing women for over 20 years, how to have a proper fitting bra.
Measurement and Fit
Many women wear the wrong size bra. Don’t just guess and don’t go by feel alone; spend a few minutes with the tape measure and you’ll find bra shopping and fitting much easier. Be sure to measure in the right places to guarantee the best fit:
Band
Place a tape measure at the middle of your back and around the top of your bust. This your band width. Most stores carry bras with band widths from 30 to 40 inches around that have three different hook placements for wiggle room.
Bust
Next find your bust size by measuring around the fullest part of your bust (around the nipple) parallel to the ground. Bust size is accommodated through strap adjustment.
Cup
Determine your cup size by subtracting your band width from your bust size. The number difference between band and bust should range from 0 to 6 inches. This number than corresponds to the regulatory letter cup sizes (AA-DDD).
Band width – Bust size = Cup size
0 = AA
1 = A
2 = B
3 = C
4 = D
5 = DD
6 = DDD
The above sizing is a general overview up to DDD, if you are bigger in cup size I would recommend that you have a bra fitted to you first, to make sure that you not only have the coverage that makes you feel comfortable, with a larger cup size you may need a wider strap for support for your shoulders and back.
Coverage style
There are different levels of coverage, from total to scant, depending on your body, personality and what you’re wearing.
Full coverage
Offers the most possible coverage and support; best for full-figured and/or busty women.
Demi
Provides half the coverage of a full; better for smaller, slender women.
Multi-way. This style has movable straps that can be manipulated to accommodate asymmetrical or “complicated” tops and dresses; perfect for halter tops, racer backs and one-shoulder tops.
Push-up
The push-up creates lift and cleavage when you want it; great for evening wear.
Wireless
Features no under wire, for comfort with flexible, light support; best with blouses and sweaters.
Fabric
Different bra fabrics behave differently under clothing. Some work better than others to complete your look. The rule of thumb is to match the bra material to the clothing material. A satiny bra, for example, will look more seamless and natural under a silk top than a cotton bra, which may cause the top fabric to cling and stick.
Cotton
Works best under other cotton tops (T-shirts) and linen blouses.
Satin
Best with like tight and/or clingy dresses, tops and sweaters.
Blends (nylon, rayon, etc.)
Works well with most all clothing fabrics including jersey fabrics that I use.
Lace
Best for the bedroom; it often does disrupts the line of the clothing.
Whether you’re small, busty, or perky , the right fitting bra is equally essential for all women. Ensuring the best bra fit will benefit you, both physically and psychologically! I hope you enjoy these tips to help you look and feel great.
Remember, I am happy to consult with you to design and create a wardrobe that will have you looking fabulous!