In the jungle of choices, there may seem to be a surprising number of bra sizes and designs.
Finding the right bra for you and the right fit can make a difference to your comfort, quality of life and even your health.
Is it difficult to choose a bra? Check out our bra size and design guide
The important role of a bra is to support the breasts without putting undue strain on the back and shoulders. Both everyday and active movement in a bra should be comfortable and effortless.
Bras and other underwear are also personal items of clothing, and their fit and appearance are at their best when they give confidence and well-being.
How do I find the right size?
A bra is usually chosen using the bust measurements. First, take the measure from under your bust. The measuring tape should be close to the skin when measuring, but should not be too tight.
The measurement around under the breast, for example 85 cm, determines the centimetre measurement of the bra according to the EU size classification. This allows for a few centimetres of elasticity to one side and the other.
The second measurement is taken from the top of the breast at the highest point, when you are wearing a snug, comfortable bra with no pads.
The difference between the two measurements gives you the cup size. For example, if the difference is about 13 cm, your cup size is A. If the difference is about 17 cm, your cup size is C.
However, there are as many different kinds of breasts as there are people. The shape of the breast also has some influence on finding the right size. If the breasts are differently shaped, it is often recommended to choose a size according to the larger breast.
There are several models of bras
The Balconette bra is suitable for everyone, even for large breasts. The balconette, which is called "balcony", can fit even the largest bust. Balconette bra cuts are often beautifully feminine. The bra design provides good support and lifts the breasts straight up, leaving the upper part of the breasts slightly exposed.
The upper edge of the balconette is quite straight. The teardrop-shaped cup, cut deeper close to the bottom seam of the bust, is very suitable for small breasts if, for example, the balconette model leaves space at the top of the bust. A full-cup bust, on the other hand, covers the entire bust and comes higher than a balconette.
Strapless bras are often available in both full-cup and balconette models.
Push-up bras are quite open at the front, and the cut of the bra supports the breasts from the side on the underarm side. Push-up bras often have a heavy padding. They are suitable to support and accentuate small breasts, loose breasts or to guide outwardly turned breasts to the centre. Push ups can be worn on breasts of all sizes if desired. For example, they can be used to accentuate a party look with a dress, top or shirt.
The triangle bra is a traditional triangle bra with a classic design that has been around for decades, from 70s minibikini to lace, sheer mesh and seamless microfibre bras. Triangle shaped bras without padding are often lightweight. When desired, they are barely felt and visible under clothing. They can be worn with, for example, a v-neck sweater, dress or t-shirt.
The bralette bra is a topical, top-like design. The trendiest bralette is now soft and wireless, with more fabric. Bralette styles range from sporty bralettes to more feminine and formal lace tops. Bralette tops are designed to be comfortable and lightweight. The support and compression provided by the bralette is often discreet. The fashion now allows the bold bralette to be worn as a daywear piece, combined with a blazer or cardigan, for example.
Checklist for the bra buyer
Make sure the bra does not ride up from the back. A suitable bra has a straight line.
Notice that the wires do not rise above the breasts. The correct position is nicely and discreetly under the bust. The supports should not feel pressing.
Think about what kind of clothes you are going to wear the bra with. For example, if you are a fan of white clothes, go for skin-coloured underwear.
When trying on and choosing your bra, attach the hooks to the outermost part. The bra will often give a little slack in use and you can tighten it later if necessary.
Check that the bra does not come loose underneath the clothes. In most cases, the best fitting bras sit well and are unnoticeable.
The cup of the bra should not come away from the skin. The cup size and bra design are correct if there is no empty space between the breast and the cup. Also, the breast should not spill over or under the cup.
Straps should not pinch or sink into the back and shoulders. Adjust them so that they are at the same height and do not press against the skin.
Bra care instructions
Let the bras rest between uses in a dry and airy place. Bras retain their shape and elasticity better when given a break from use.
It is advisable to wash the bra every 1 to 3 uses. Wash the bra gently by hand or at low temperature in a machine using the delicate wash programme. Use a wash bag when machine washing. Use a liquid laundry detergent for delicates. Do not use fabric softener.
Do not tumble dry bras. Dry bras on a clothes rack, hanging them in two layers between cups, or alternatively on a flat surface.
Find the perfect bras just for you. Check out our selection of sustainable bras.
