BRA FITTING 101
At Trousseau, we are passionate about helping women find the perfect fit.
There is a skill and “science” to finding the right bra for each woman. Why is being properly fitted so important? Maybe you’ve heard the statistic that an estimated 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. In our experience, that’s usually true.
Wearing a bra that doesn’t fit can actually affect your health, possibly causing neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain or even headaches. In too many cases, women are in a bra with a band size that is too large and a cup size that is too small. In a bra that fits correctly, your breasts are supported from below and not from the straps. This will alleviate most of the pressure placed on the shoulders.
In addition to helping with health related issues, the right size bra will boost your confidence! Bras that are too small or too big can make your breasts look lumpy and bulky. A bra that fits correctly will give you a lift that allows you to look your absolute best.
Letters & Numbers
Each bra size is composed of a letter and number. The number corresponds to the band and the letter corresponds to the cup. One quirky little trick of bra sizes is that cup sizes aren’t consistent no matter the band.
The rule is that as band goes up, cup goes down and as band goes down, cup goes up. For example: in a 34D bra, the cup is the same size as that in a 36C or a 32DD. When you hear about “sister sizes” this is what they’re referring to. (We don’t recommend sister sizes, however because being in the right band is extremely important.) 90% of the work of the bra comes from the band so it needs to be just the right amount of hold. Tight enough that it’s doing its job, but not too tight that you want to rip it off your body.
Not A Typical Cup Size?
Traditional department stores carry a limited cup size range. While bras can be purchased in a wider selection of sizes from an online retailer, since every brand and manufacturer sizes their pieces differently this can waste time and be a frustrating experience.
If you want to get the best fit the first time, come in and see us. We will fit you in a bra that matches your style, shapes your body in a flattering way, and feels like a dream all day long.
What to expect at a bra fitting
We Don't Use a Measuring Tape
Your breasts are not a mathematical equation that can be calculated by a tape measure. They are a unique and intimate part of your body. A measuring tape cannot tell you what style of bra is best for your body type, nor can it measure moveable parts.
We Don't Judge
A bra-fitting is extremely personal. Our job is to create a comfortable atmosphere, and find the best-fitting bra/undergarments for your body type. Our professional fitters understand that being vulnerable or insecure in front of a stranger is a fear among many women.
It's Quick and Painless
Once inside the fitting room, you can expect your fitter to ask you to remove your blouse. The purpose of removing your blouse is so that your fitter can get an idea of your proportions, how your current bra fits, and what improvements can be made.
What Does a Perfect Fit Look Like?
To get a perfect fit, we look at three things:
1. The band should form a straight line around your torso. If it's higher in the back and lower in the front, the band is too big.
2. The wires in between your breasts should lay flat against your sternum. If there's any space, the bra is too small in the cup
3. Is there any spillage over the edge of the cup or space at the top of the cup? If so, the cup is the wrong size or it's not the right bra for you.