Find the Perfect Fit in a Bra

 Whether you choose a bra to enhance, minimize, support or show off your bust, fit is crucial. It's the key to keeping you comfortable and supporting your breasts properly. Here are a few steps to finding the ideal bra.

Use a measuring tape to measure around your bare rib cage, just beneath your naked breasts. This number indicates the band size most appropriate for your figure.

Measure the widest part of your bust, sliding the tape around the middle of your back. Hold the tape as level as possible to ensure accuracy.

Note the difference between the two measurements. Use the following as a guide, and try on a range of sizes above and below your measurement: If your bust measurement is up to 1 /2 inch larger than your band size, then your cup size is an AA. A measurement of 1 /2 inch to 1 inch more than the band size indicates an A cup, 1 to 2 inches indicates a B cup, 2 to 3 inches indicates a C cup, 3 to 4 inches indicates a D cup, and 4 to 5 inches indicates a DD or E cup.

Select a range of bras according to your band and cup size.

Try on a bra. Place your hands through the straps and bend over to allow your breasts to fall into the cups. The cups should contain your breasts ‘unless you're trying a demibra or an enhancing bra ‘and should center your nipple in the fullest part.

Close the bra using the middle hook. Look for a band that fits snugly but doesn't cut into your rib cage. If it's too tight, try adjusting the hook closure before proceeding to a larger size.

Adjust the straps so the band fits comfortably under the breasts and around the rib cage. If the bra seems to slip forward, if you find yourself pulling up on the straps, or if it feels as if your breasts are falling out of the bottom of the cups, the band size is too big.

Check the fabric or bridge between your breasts. This should lie flat on the breastbone. If it sticks up or stabs your breastbone uncomfortably, try a larger cup size. If it puckers, try a smaller size.

Move up a cup size if your breasts bulge from the bra. Move down a size if you notice wrinkles in the cup material.