How to Choose the Perfect Bra: Tips for Your Body Type, Health, and Comfort Needs

A study says in India about 80 percent of women are wearing ill-fitted bras.

The same study also found that 70 percent of women wore bras that were too small, while 10 percent wore bras that were too large for their size. Well, wearing the wrong bra is not only discomforting and unappealing, but it can interrupt blood circulation and cause serious breast pain, back pain, and neck pain.

But the biggest question that every woman has asked at least once is – how to choose the right bra for her body type and health needs. Well, choosing the right bra size can be tricky, especially if both your breasts are of different shapes, which is a very common thing. 

Ideally, the perfect bra should pull up your soft breast tissue from the sides around to the front. The nipple should be exactly about halfway between your elbow and shoulder.

In this article, I will be sharing everything a woman should know when she buys her bra.

Things you should know to choose the right bra 

Fabric

The first and foremost thing that matters is the fabric of your bra. Since your bra is the closest thing to your skin in the tender area of your breasts; it must be made of soft fabric. A harsh fabric might result in chaffing or bleeding on your nipples, skin infection, and irritation. Always opt for comfortable and breathable fabrics. Cotton bras are a good choice; spandex is also a good choice.

Purpose of your bra 

The second thing you must consider while buying a bra is the purpose of your bra. For instance, your regular daily wear bra is different from your sports bra. Wearing a sports bra is very essential while working out to prevent breast sagginess, breast pain, and tenderness. 

Width of the Straps

The third thing you must check while buying a new bra is the width of the straps. The wider the straps the better the support. Your straps should not be too loose nor should they dig into your skin. If bras straps are digging into your skin, then you need a bigger size and if it’s slipping down then try a smaller size.

Check your band

While buying your bra, you also need to check the band. The band is responsible for about 90 percent of the support that bras offer to your breasts. A good bra should hold your breasts in place even if you remove the straps. In the correct band size, you should be able to slip in your finger.

Padded or non-padded

Choose the one that you are most comfortable in. Your bra should snug in your breasts but it should not compress your breasts or dig into your sides. If both breasts are of different sizes then you can keep one pad and remove another.

How to find the right bra size?

Bra size

Use a measuring tape to measure your underbust. If it is an even number add 4, and if it is an odd number add 3. This is your band size. Next, take the tape up and measure the fullest breast size. Now, subtract your band size from the fullest part size. This difference is your cup size. 1 = A, 2 = B, and so on. This simple technique will help you measure your perfect bra size. Make sure to hold the measuring tape just right. Don’t make it too tight or too light.

Bra band

Next check the bra band in the trial room. Your band should stand parallel to the floor. If it’s taking the shape of an arch or is lifting up in the back then you are not getting the right support. Try a different bra size.

Bra gore

The bra gore is the centerpiece between the two cups. The gore should lay flat against your chest. Since your bra band anchors your bra, your gore should not be floating off the body leaving your breasts with no support.

Choosing the right style for a small breast size

For women with small breast sizes, a padded bra is a good option. They may also try a demi-cup underwire bra for a good lift. There are also maximizer bras that come with extra padding to provide a fuller look.

Choosing the right style for a large breast size

For women with heavy breasts, non-padded bras are ideal. Always opt for full cups or full-coverage bras for complete support. A non-padded underwire bra is also a good option. In addition to this, you must consider wearing a sports bra for the best support during physical activities including walking.

Important tips for buying the right bra 

• Never go bra-shopping when you are in a hurry. You need to invest your time to find the right fit for your breasts. 
• Always take off your bra during sleep to avoid swelling, and improves blood flow.
• It’s okay to wear multiple sizes especially if you use different brands.
• Your cup size can fluctuate based on hormones and bloating.
• Remember your bra size is not permanent. So, measure your breast size every time before going bra shopping.
• Always use a sports bra for exercising or physical activities. Walking, jogging, gymming, or yoga, involves intense physical movements which can make your breasts bounce or move rapidly. This can lead to damage to your breast tissues. Wearing a sports bra during a workout can offer the right support.

Here are the different types of bras and the benefits of each:

1. T-Shirt Bra: This type of bra is seamless and smooth, making it a great option for wearing under-fitted clothing. The smooth cups and seamless design prevent visible bra lines and offer a smooth silhouette.
2. Sports Bra: Sports bras are designed to provide support and stability during physical activity. They help reduce breast movement and prevent pain or discomfort during exercise.
3. Plunge Bra: Plunge bras have a lower neckline, making them a great option for wearing with low-cut tops or dresses. They provide lift and support while also creating cleavage.
4. Push-Up Bra: Push-up bras feature padding in the cups, which lifts the breasts and creates cleavage. They are ideal for wearing under clothing with lower necklines.
5. Balconette Bra: Balconette bras have wider-set straps and a lower neckline than full-coverage bras. They provide lift and support while also creating cleavage.
6. Strapless Bra: Strapless bras are designed for wearing with strapless clothing. They have silicone or elastic around the edges to keep them in place and prevent slipping.
7. Convertible Bra: Convertible bras have straps that can be adjusted or removed, making them versatile for wearing with different types of clothing. They are great for wearing with strapless or off-the-shoulder tops.
8. Full-Coverage Bra: Full-coverage bras have cups that fully cover the breasts and provide ample support. They are ideal for women with larger busts and can help prevent sagging.
9. Bralette: Bralettes are a more relaxed, casual type of bra that provides minimal support. They are often designed to be seen and can be worn as a fashion accessories.
10. Maternity Bra: Maternity bras are designed for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They have wider straps and more support to accommodate changes in breast size and shape.
11. Underwire Bra: Underwire bras feature a wire in the cups that provide additional support and lift for the breasts. They are ideal for women with larger busts or those who need extra support.
12. T-Back Bra: T-back bras have a T-shaped back strap that helps to prevent straps from slipping off the shoulders. They are a good option for wearing with tops or dresses that reveal the back.
13. Wireless Bra: Wireless bras do not have an underwire and instead rely on the design and material of the bra to provide support. They are ideal for women who prefer a more comfortable, relaxed fit.
14. Racerback Bra: Racerback bras feature a crisscrossed back strap that helps to prevent straps from slipping off the shoulders. They are a good option for wearing with tops or dresses that reveal the back.
15. Longline Bra: Longline bras extend down the torso and provide additional support and shaping for the waist and back. They are ideal for women with larger busts or those who want to create a smooth silhouette under clothing.
16. Adhesive Bra: Adhesive bras are designed for wearing with backless or strapless clothing. They use adhesive on the cups to stay in place, providing support without straps.
17. Shelf Bra: Shelf bras are a type of lingerie that features a band that sits under the bust and provides lift and support. They are ideal for wearing with lingerie or revealing clothing.
18. Minimizer Bra: Minimizer bras are designed for women with larger busts who want to create a more streamlined silhouette. They reduce the appearance of the bust by redistributing breast tissue.
19. Padded Bra: Padded bras have added padding in the cups to increase the size of the bust and create cleavage. They are ideal for women who want to enhance their natural shape.
20. Peekaboo Bra: Peekaboo bras have cut-out designs or transparent fabric on the cups to reveal a hint of skin. They are a stylish and sexy option for lingerie or special occasions.
21. Soft Cup Bra: Soft cup bras do not have underwire or padding, and instead rely on the fabric and design of the bra to provide support and shape. They are ideal for women who prefer a more natural and relaxed fit.
22. Multi-Way Bra: Multi-way bras have straps that can be adjusted or removed, making them versatile for wearing with different types of clothing. They can be worn with straps, as a halter, or strapless.
23. Demi Cup Bra: Demi cup bras have cups that cover only half of the bust, leaving the top of the breasts exposed. They are ideal for wearing with low-cut tops or dresses.
24. Crop Top Bra: Crop top bras are a type of bralette that offers minimal support but is designed to be seen. They have a short length and are often made with lace or decorative fabric.
25. Nursing Bra: Nursing bras are designed for women who are breastfeeding. They have flaps or clips that allow for easy access to the breast for feeding.
26. Comfort Bra: Comfort bras are designed for women who need a supportive and comfortable fit. They often have wider straps and a relaxed fit, making them ideal for everyday wear.
27. Magic Bra: Magic bras are designed to provide a flattering and lifted shape, often using innovative materials and design techniques. They can be seamless, wireless, or feature special padding or shaping elements.
28. Halter Bra: Halter bras have straps that wrap around the neck, providing support from the neck rather than the shoulders. They are ideal for wearing with halter tops or dresses.
29. Bandeau Bra: Bandeau bras are a type of strapless bra that is designed to be worn around the torso. They provide minimal support and are ideal for wearing with strapless or off-the-shoulder tops.
30. Clear Back Bra: Clear back bras have a transparent back strap that is designed to be worn with backless clothing. They provide support and prevent straps from slipping off the shoulders.
31. Sports Bra: Sports bras are designed for women who are active and need extra support for their breasts during physical activity. They often have wider straps, a snug fit, and extra support features such as encapsulation or compression.
32. Convertible Bra: Convertible bras have straps that can be adjusted or removed, making them versatile for wearing with different types of clothing. They can be worn as a standard bra, halter, criss-cross, or strapless.
33. Push-Up Bra: Push-up bras have padding in the cups that increases the size of the bust and creates cleavage. They are ideal for women who want to enhance their natural shape and create a more dramatic look.
34. Strapless Bra: Strapless bras are designed for wearing with strapless tops or dresses. They have a band around the torso and cups that provide support but do not have straps.
35. Bridal Bra: Bridal bras are a type of lingerie that is designed specifically for wearing under wedding dresses. They often have a smooth, seamless design, and can be worn with or without straps.
36. Full Coverage Bra: Full coverage bras have cups that fully cover the bust, providing extra support and a smooth silhouette. They are ideal for women with larger busts or those who want a more modest look.
37. Seamless Bra: Seamless bras are designed for wearing under close-fitting clothing. They have a smooth, uninterrupted design that helps to eliminate visible lines.
38. U-Plunge Bra: U-plunge bras have a U-shaped neckline that makes them ideal for wearing with deep-plunge tops or dresses. They often have a balconette or demi-cup style for added cleavage.
39. Strapless Push-Up Bra: Strapless push-up bras have padding in the cups that increases the size of the bust and creates cleavage. They are designed for wear with strapless tops or dresses.
40. High Neck Bra: High-neck bras have a higher neckline that provides additional coverage and support. They are ideal for wearing with high-neck tops or dresses.
41. No-Bounce Bra: No-bounce bras are designed for women who are active and need extra support for their breasts during physical activity. They often have wider straps, a snug fit, and extra support features such as encapsulation or compression.

Your Takeaway!

Wearing the right bra size is as important as wearing a bra. It helps shape your breasts and protects them from a number of issues. Bring home a measuring tape and measure your perfect breast size at home. This will help you pick the right bra, whether you buy it online or offline.

The last thing to note is that bras don’t last forever. You need to take good care of your bras, wash them carefully, and change your bra collection regularly for a better fit.