When sitting at your desk during the workday, the last thing you want is your bra to be uncomfortable or dig in. If your bra feels comfortable while standing but hurts when you sit down, there are a few reasons this could be the case.
Let's go through why your bra hurts when sitting down for long periods of time and how you can fix it.
The Standing vs. Sitting Test: Why Your Bra Hurts at Your Desk
Experiencing your bra uncomfortable by end of day is common, especially if you are sitting for long periods of time throughout the day. When sitting down, your ribcage positioning, posture, and pressure points change. Experiencing rib cage pain from your bra while sitting down may also be more common if you have a shorter torso.
Below are three of the most common reasons your bra feels tight when sitting down and causes pain.
3 Reasons Your Bra Digs Into Your Ribs and Stomach
1. Your Bra Band Size Is Too Small
If your bra feels comfortable while standing up but the band digs in uncomfortably while sitting, this is likely a sign that your bra band is too small. You should be able to fit one or two fingers comfortably underneath your bra band while wearing it. If you can't do so, sitting down will cause extra pressure across the band as the rib cage expands.
2. Rigid Underwires Are Wrong Size or Shape
Your bra underwires may shift onto other pressure points and dig into your rib cage differently when sitting down versus standing up straight, especially if they are the wrong size or shape for your body. If the wires don't fit properly and hug the breast tissue, this can cause discomfort as the wires shift onto pressure points when sitting down.
3. A Cup Size That Is Too Small or Too Large
If your bra cup size is too small, this can cause the breast tissue to push outward and in turn cause the wires to sit uncomfortably low on the rib cage and dig in. On the other hand, if your bra cups are too big, your bra band will shift and dig in uncomfortably when you sit down.
What to Look for in a Bra for All-Day Comfort While Sitting
If you sit for an extended period of time throughout the day, finding the right bra that won't dig in or sit uncomfortably on your rib cage is key. Experiencing bra pain while sitting can be exacerbated if you have a short torso as well. These are a few bra styles to look for if your current bra isn't comfortable while sitting.
Bras with less fabric beneath the cups are a great option if you have a shorter torso and your bras usually feel uncomfortable when you sit down. These bras simply have less fabric that will move around when you sit down, and are more comfortable for all-day wear as a result.
Flexible, wireless bras are another great option for all-day sitting comfort. These bras are comfortable for extended wear with no rigid underwires that will dig in when you sit down.
Aside from opting for certain styles that work better for your body shape, having a bra that fits well is key for a comfortable fit. You can always remeasure your bra size to ensure you have a good fit, or get a professional bra fitting for your new bra.
Best Glamorise Bras for Comfort While Sitting
If you sit for long periods during the day while at work or otherwise, opt for one of these Glamorise styles for better comfort, all day long.
Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Support T-Shirt Bra
Price: $60
Review: 4.0 / 5
This classic T-shirt bra features seamless cups, a soft narrow band under the cups, and cushioned straps, making it an excellent option for all-comfort while sitting.
Glamorise MagicLift Moisture Control Bra
Price: $60
Review: 4.2/5
The MagicLift Moisture Control Bra is another great option for comfortable wear while sitting throughout the day. Not only does this bra have moisture-wicking fabrics that are soft and breathable, the wire-free design means no uncomfortable underwires digging into your ribcage.
Glamorise Front-Closure WonderWire Bra
Price: $43.40
Review: 4.8/5
If you opt for underwired support, the best-selling Front-Closure WonderWire Bra is an excellent option for everyday wear. The underwires on this bra are cushioned for poke-free support, and there is no rigid band under the bust that will fold over or dig in uncomfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my bra feel fine in the dressing room but dig in when sitting down?
If your bra feels comfortable while standing in the dressing room but digs in when you sit down, this is likely a sign that your bra is the wrong size or it's the wrong bra style for your body shape.
Is a wire-free bra better for short-torso plus-size figures?
Generally speaking, yes, a wire-free bra is better if you have a shorter torso and are plus-size. Wireless bras will be more comfortable when you sit down.
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.
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