How to choose the perfect bra
A lot of women actually don’t pay much attention to their right sizes of bra. However, a bra that is too big or too small not only doesn't make you look good but mainly makes you feel uncomfortable. Also, if doesn't fit properly, it can cause shoulders pain, irritate the skin or even damage the breast tissues. A woman with large breast can end up with back problem by wearing a bra that doesn't give enough support.
1/ Finding out your bra size
A bra size can change from year to year, depending on multiple factors such as hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause, etc...), weight gain or loss. Here is a quick and accurate way to find out what your size is:
With a clothes measuring tape, measure your bust, directly below your breast, around your rib cage. This will determine your band size. The tape needs to be hold straight and quite tight, preferably straight on the skin.
Measurements are being taken in inches. A 30 inches for example, would be a 8 in NZ/AUS Sizing.
30 = 8 ; 32 = 10; 34 = 12; 36 = 14; etc...
Now, to find out your cup size, measure over the fullest part of your breast. Each inch above your band size equals one cup size.
For example, if you measure 32 inches over the fullest part of your breast and 31 under the breast, you will need to substract 32-31= 1. Your cup size is A. If the difference was 2, your cup size would be B, if the difference was 3, your cup size would be C, etc...
2/ Try your bra on the right way:
To try a bra on properly, lean forward, swoop and scoop your breast tissue into the cups, then, fasten the back. Stand up and adjust the straps, making sure that all the breast tissue is were it should be.
3/ Signs that a bra doesn't fit:
A bra is too small if your boobs are spilling out of your cups or if the straps are digging into your shoulders. Also too small if you notice any kind of pinching in the backband, or rolls of skin that bulge beyond the edge. You should be able to comfortably fasten a bra on the second or third hook. It's too small if only the last hook will do.
A bra is too big, if you notice gaping in the cups or if the straps are sliding down. The bridge of the bra (centered between the cups) should sit flat against the skin.