Guides: How should a bra fit?

Many women wear a bra daily, often for hours at a time. A well-fitting bra should feel supportive without discomfort, while an ill-fitting one can cause irritation, pain, or even posture issues. The key purpose of a bra is to provide proper support to the breasts, and this can only be achieved with the right fit.

Understanding how a bra should fit properly ensures comfort and prevents common problems such as gaps, bulging, or red marks. Below, we’ll guide you through finding the perfect bra fit, from measuring your size to identifying signs of an incorrect fit.

Finding Your Correct Bra Size

Wearing the right size is essential for both comfort and support. However, many women struggle with determining their correct bra size. The best way to ensure a bra that fits is to have a professional fitting. If that’s not an option, you can measure yourself at home.

To find your size:

Measure just below your bust to determine your band size.
Measure across the fullest part of your bust to find your cup size.
Compare your measurements with a size chart for the best fit.

If you're unsure, our size chart can help you calculate your correct bra size.

How Should a Bra Fit Correctly?

Whether you need a bra for larger busts or smaller sizes, the same fitting principles apply. There are five key areas to consider when determining how a bra should properly fit.

1. Band Fit

The band provides most of a bra’s support, so it should sit snugly around your body without being too tight. A band that’s too loose will ride up your back, while one that’s too tight may cause discomfort or red marks under the bust. Ideally, the band should fit horizontally and allow you to pull it a few centimeters away from your skin. If your band is slightly too tight, a bra extender may help.

2. Cup Fit

Cup size is crucial to achieving a well-fitting bra. A properly fitting cup should lie flat against your breasts without gaping or creating bulges. If the cups are too large, there may be excess fabric or gaps at the top when sitting. If they are too small, your breasts may spill out or create a "double-breast" effect.

3. Underwire Placement

For bras with underwire, the wire should lie flat against your ribcage and contour the sides of each breast without pinching. Where should the underwire of a bra sit? It should sit flush against your sternum and fully encircle your breast tissue. If the underwire lifts away or digs into your skin, the size or shape of the bra may not be right.

4. Closure Adjustment

Bra closures are adjustable to ensure long-term wearability. If your band size is correct, you should be able to fasten the bra on the loosest hooks initially, allowing for adjustments over time as the fabric stretches.

5. Strap Support

Bra straps should be adjusted so they provide lift without digging into your shoulders. Loose straps won’t support your bust, while overly tight ones can cause discomfort. If you find that straps dig in, wide or padded straps are ideal for larger bust sizes.

9 Signs That Your Bra Doesn't Fit Properly

Not sure if your bra fits correctly? Here are nine common signs that indicate your bra size or fit may be wrong:

Breasts are pushed together: If your bra doesn’t separate your breasts and causes them to press together, your cup size may be too small.
Wrinkles or gaps in the cups: Cup gaps indicate a size too large, especially if the fabric folds at the top or middle.
"Double-breast" bulging: If the top of your bra cuts into your breasts, creating bulges, the cup size is too small.
Loose band under the bust: If your bra rides up and fails to provide support, the band is too large.
Red marks from the band: Tight bands that leave marks indicate the need for a bigger band size or a bra extender.
Side bulges: If the bra creates bulges at the sides, the cups may be too small.
The bra rides up your back: This means the band is too big, and the straps are overtightened.
Fabric folds over the breast: This happens when the cups are too large and don’t properly mold to your shape.
The center gore doesn’t touch your chest: If the middle part of the bra lifts away from your sternum, the cup size may be too small or the band too large.

How to Make Sure Your Bra Fits Right

Finding a bra that fits well means focusing on band size, cup size, and overall support. If you're struggling to get the perfect fit, consider these final tips:

Try different brands: Bra sizing can vary, so don’t hesitate to explore different styles.
Adjust your straps and closure: These small tweaks can make a big difference in comfort and fit.
Check for signs of wear: Over time, bras stretch and may no longer provide adequate support.

If you're unsure about sizing, refer to our bra guide for more insights.

READ ALSO: How to wash your bra

By ensuring your bra fits correctly, you’ll experience better support, improved posture, and enhanced confidence every day. Explore Zizzi’s collection of plus-size bras to find your perfect fit today!