Why Your Bra Might Not Be Shaping Properly (And How to Fix It)

We all experience bra fit issues every now and then. Whether your bra size has changed, your usual style just isn't cutting it anymore, or your new bra isn't fitting as well as you'd hope, there can be a few reasons why your bra just isn't cutting it.

A common bra fit issue is dealing with a bra that doesn't provide the shape you're looking for. This can be due the wearing the wrong size bra, wearing a style that doesn't suit your breast shape, or a combination of the two.

Bra not shaping properly? Keep reading below for our tips for better bra fit and shaping.

1. The Right Bra Size

The first step to having a bra that shapes properly is wearing the correct bra size. A bra that doesn't fit properly will never provide the support or shape you're looking for. Here are a few common bra fitting problems to look out for:

• Cup Spillage: If your breast tissue is spilling out over the tops or sides of the cups, this is a sign that your cup size is too small. Your bra cups should fully encapsulate your breast tissue with no spillage.

• Cup Gapping: If you are experience cup gapping or wrinkling in the cups, your bra cup size is likely too big and it's time to size down.

• Slipping Straps: If your bra straps frequently slip off your shoulders, this could be a sign that you are wearing the wrong cup size which can cause the straps to sit too wide and slip more easily. Your shoulder straps should always sit comfortably on top of your shoulders.

• Band Riding Up: The bra band provides the majority of the bra's support. If your band is riding up in the back or rolling up, this is a sign that the band size is too big, meaning that your bra is not providing adequate support or lift.

• Underwires Digging In: If you wear underwire bras, the wires should hug directly underneath each breast and lie flat against the ribcage. If they don't, this is likely a sign that your band or cups are the wrong size.

If you are experiencing any of these bra fitting problems, it's a good idea to remeasure your bra size.

2. One Size Doesn't Fit All

It's also important to note that bra sizing is not standardized. There can be variation in sizing between brands, which can be a cause for frustration. A 36DD in one brand may not fit the same as a 36DD is another. There are varying sizing systems and each brands use different fit models and design methods, leading to slight variations in fit.

Many online brands also offer free shipping and free returns, so if you are trying a brand for the first time, consider ordering two or more sizes to see what works best. It's best to check the brand's size chart and consider their unique fit recommendations to find your best fit. In Glamorise bras, bra size is measured by taking first the band measurement, wrapping a tape measure directly above your bust and under your arms, and second by taking your bust or cup measurement, by wrapping a tape measure across the fullest part of your bust. Plugging these measurements into our Bra Size Calculator will determine your best fit.

3. Style and Shape

Different bra styles are designed for different purposes, and not every bra style will work for everyone. Different bras create and accentuate different breast shapes. It's best to try on several different styles to see what works best for your breast shape.

Glamorise carries a wide array of styles designed for different purposes. Some common bra styles are listed below:

• Wireless Bras: Wire-free styles offer comfortable support without underwires, often creating a more natural shape and lift.

• Underwire Bras: Wire bras are designed to provide ultimate lift and support and can accentuate a more rounded bust shape.

• Minimizer Bras: Minimizer styles are designed to limit the projection of the bust and redistribute breast tissue to create an overall smaller bust appearance.

• T-Shirt Bras: Some of the most popular bra styles, T-shirt bras offer a rounded, natural bust shape with no seams or lines.

• Sports Bras: Most frequently worn for working out, a sports bra is a more supportive bra style that offers a more compressive fit to limit bust movement and bounce during higher-impact activities.

So, when shopping for a new bra, consider what kind of shaping you want from your bra and go from there. Try on a few different styles to see what works best for you and provides the shape and support you're searching for.

Finding Your Fit

So, if you find your bra doesn't provide the shape or support you need, take these few steps to find a better fit. Start by remeasuring your bra size. Wearing the wrong bra size means your bra will not provide the support you need. Use our Bra Size Calculator to easily find your band size and cup size. Once you know your size, try on a few different styles to see what works best for you and meets your needs.

Bra shopping doesn't need to be stressful. Simply knowing your proper size and the style and shape you want gets you halfway to finding your best fit. A great-fitting bra should make you feel comfortable and confident all day long.

About the Author

Maeve Gesualdi is a Fordham University alumna where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Fashion Studies. Based in New York City, Maeve is part of the marketing team at Glamorise. Maeve regularly interacts with customers via social media and product reviews, as well as with influencers and models. She is constantly getting feedback on our products as well as gaining a better understanding of what women in our category struggle with and/or look for when searching for a bra. Aside from writing, she is passionate about all things travel and fashion.