Let's think about underwear as being the foundation of your outfit, if the foundation is sloppy, what's on top is going to be a disaster, plain and simple. (FreeDigitalPhotos.net)
Let’s think about underwear as being the foundation of your outfit—if the foundation is sloppy, what’s on top is going to be a disaster, plain and simple. So how do we build a strong foundation? Let’s start with the bra.
We’ve all heard it before: The vast majority of women are wearing the wrong size bra. If you happen to be one of the rare few who actually do have the right size on, chances are you’re still having issues with fit or style. Here are some common problems you may have encountered:
Problem: The double-bubble. This refers to when the top of a bra cuts into the breast, creating a bulge on top; it can also happen on the sides.
Solution: Get a bigger cup and/or loosen the bra straps.
Problem: Headlights. Also known as “show-through” of the nipples. As fabrics have gotten thinner and more clingy in recent years, this has become an issue. Failure to fix this problem will result in a sloppy, careless appearance and a lot of stares. Believe me, it’s not a good look.
Solution: A lightly padded or “cup bra” (the kind without padding but with a firm, thicker material) will solve this. Thick, textured sweaters also work well for days when you don’t feel like putting the armor on.
Problem: Straps keep falling.
Solution: Here’s the obvious one: Try tightening them first. If they’re still falling, it’s because the bra is either a) old and stretched out, in which case it’s time to replace it; b) the straps may be positioned badly for you, in which case you should try a different brand; or c) you have very sloping shoulders, which may require you to try several different makers and styles to find the best one for you.
Look for styles with the straps closer to the neck. Racer-back styles are great, or you can also purchase one of those little bra clasps that clip the straps together at the back for a T-shape.
Problem: Back rides up.
Solution: Either the band is the wrong size (too large) or stretched-out, or the straps are too tight. In some cases, it may also mean that the style does not offer enough support if you’re on the larger side, which would require looking for a stronger bra with solid support.
Problem: Uncomfortable underwire. The underwire pokes you under the arm.
Solution: Either the cup size is too small or it’s a bad cut for you. Most likely it’s the latter and is often a sign of inferior quality. If the size is right, try a different style or a different brand.
Problem: Gaping bridge. This refers to the bridge across the middle in the front not lying flat against your body.
Solution: Usually this indicates the cups are too small. But before you try a bigger size, check to make sure you’re “all in” (see below).
How to Put On a Bra
This may seem elementary, but after years of working in high-end lingerie, I’m always amazed at how few women actually know how to properly put on a bra. The correct procedure is as follows. With the straps already over your shoulders, bend over so that your breasts fall into the cups naturally. Secure the clasp, and (still bending over) adjust your breasts with your hands, using a scooping motion, so that they’re completely inside the cups and not squeezing out underneath or at the sides.
Now that we’ve done a bit of problem-solving, next week we’ll focus on how to determine your true size, and then find out which styles to look for.
Jasmine Antoinette is a writer and former fashion designer living in Vancouver.
