When it comes to lingerie, there’s nothing more important than finding a bra that fits perfectly. Wearing a properly fitting bra will not only improve comfort and support, but it can make you feel much more confident too. As we know how tricky finding the perfect fit can be, we’ve put together our most common fit problems that may occur.

Firstly - The front of the bra:

• the underwire should sit flat against the chest
• your breasts should be completely secure with the underwire
• the cup cup should fit with no spilling out and should not sit away from the breasts

Secondly - The back of the bra:

• the straps should be parallel or slightly V shaped at the back
• the band should sit level without riding up at the back
• the under band should be comfortable and snug
• the straps should not dig into the shoulders
• the straps should sit central on the shoulders

If you do not feel comfortable, it may be because the bra that you have chosen does not suit your body shape. Try another bra style and see if you feel more comfortable.

A perfectly fitting underband will sit in a horizontal line around your body. If the underband is riding up at the back then it is too big.

To check if your underband fits, lift your arms in the air and check if your breasts spill out under the cups. Then fasten it on the loosest hook and eye and pull it out from the centre back.

If you are wearing the right size underband then it should not pull out more than 4cm. If you can pull the underband out more than this, you may need to go down a back size or 2.

0-4cm correct underband size
4-8cm go down one back size
8 – 12cm go down 2 underband sizes
12-16cm go down 3 underband sizes

If the straps dig in, it could be because your underband is too big and the straps are having to do most of the support work. The right fitting bra will rely on the band for maximum support and not the straps.

When you know your underband fits perfectly, you should adjust the straps so they sit comfortably on your shoulders.

The underwire should sit flat against your chest and the centre front has no gaps. If the underwire drags down at the front it could be too small.

If the underband lifts away at the centre front then your cups could be too small.

If the cups are too small, then your breasts may spill out of the cups or at the sides. You may need to go up a cup size or two.

If the cups are too big, then the cups will be wrinkled or creased. Try going down a cup size.

A perfectly fitting bra should have no overspill at the cups and the underarm.

It is perfectly normal for breasts to be different sizes, but some are more noticeable than others.

For the best shape and support, fit your bra to the larger breast. If you notice any creasing to the smaller cup you can always try adding a gel or a foam insert.

Try flexing the wires. If they’re flexible then the bra may be more comfortable but offer less support. If it’s rigid then it might be uncomfortable and dig in.

Wire flexibility can vary greatly between brands, so try a few different brands to see what suits you.

More weight is in the cup or the straps of the bra are worn. Try convertible bras with adjustable straps for a narrow V shaped, secure fit.

The band must be perfectly level front and back and fit snugly, thereby anchoring the breasts. Try reducing the band size and possibly increase the cup size too.

Bras with a wide back band will banish back fat by covering more area, which in turn will help to eliminate the formation of bulges. Your back band may also be too high and simply needs to be lowered by loosening the straps.

Contour / lightly padded cups help prevent the show through without creating a bulky effect.