Fashion News

Are you wearing the right bra?

Research shows approximately 78 per cent of women worldwide are wearing a bra that doesn't really fit them.

Despite being an essential piece of our wardrobe, many of us wind up wearing ill-fitting bras – and that can be bad for our health.

How can wearing a bra that doesn’t fit properly affect your health?

Breasts are primarily made of glandular tissue and fat, and within them there are thin fibrous strands known as Cooper’s ligaments. Along with the skin, these are believed to provide only minimal natural support. Due to the weak natural support within the breasts, movement of the upper body causes them to move independently.

Some women experience movement-related breast pain, and motion can also lead to breast sag, so it’s as important to wear a supportive bra if you’re an AA cup as if you’re an E. Your sports bra is even more important. Effective sports bras that minimise bounce are crucial for reducing breast discomfort during exercise and preventing irreversible sagging.

How often should a bra be replaced?

It depends how often you wear it. If it’s your favourite and is worn a few times a week, expect to need to replace it in about six months. Eighty per cent of bust support comes from the under-band, so you need to ensure that remains firm. The same goes for sports bras as they endure more than your everyday bras and you want to be sure the band remains firm and tight.

If it’s a bra that only gets an airing a few times a year, count on having to replace it every year. Lingerie is better worn than not, as the elastic fibres perish when it’s not worn, so don’t save your favourites for special occasions.

What should women look for in a bra, based on their body and breast size?

The right bra is going to keep you comfortable, so don’t be afraid to spend money on a good one – it’s worth the investment.

If you have a larger bust, finding a supportive bra is even more important. Go for styles with thicker straps and a wider band with more hooks. But my most important tip is: get fitted professionally.

We recommend getting fitted for a bra once or twice a year. Your body is constantly changing, and without a properly fitting bra, you compromise your comfort – and the way your outfits look.

What are the signs of an ill-fitting bra?

Research shows approximately 78 per cent of women worldwide are wearing an incorrect size – that’s a lot of uncomfortable bodies! To ensure the fit is right, check that the bra straps aren’t rubbing or digging in and that the back of the bra is sitting level with the front.

For a perfect fit, your breasts should be fully contained within the cups, with the wiring flat against your body. If your breasts don’t fill the cups or there’s excess flesh spilling over the top and sides of the cups, you’re wearing the wrong size.

The underwire should also go around the entire contour of each breast. Once this is right, you can then work towards finding the perfect fit and style balance.

Words: Paula Svoboda

For advice on what workout bra is best for you, see the latest issue of New Zealand Good Health Choices. Don’t forget to visit our Facebook, and follow us on Instagram.

Related stories