7 signs you're wearing the wrong bra size (and how to fix each one)
Straps digging in, a band that rides up, cups that gap: your bra is telling you something. Here's what each sign means and the simple fix.
In this article (7 sections)
An uncomfortable bra is so common that many women assume discomfort is simply part of wearing one. It isn't. Almost every everyday complaint has a cause you can spot in the mirror, and most come down to the size or the style. Here are the seven signs we hear about most.
1. The band rides up at the back
If the back of your bra creeps up towards your shoulder blades, the band is too loose. Because the band does most of the supporting, a loose one lets everything drop forward. Fix: try a smaller band, or use a tighter hook if your bra has stretched.
2. Your straps dig into your shoulders
Red marks on your shoulders usually mean the straps are doing the band's job. Fix: a firmer, better-fitted band takes the weight off. Then loosen the straps until you can slide one finger underneath.
3. Straps keep slipping off
Often a sign the straps need tightening, or that the band is too big and pulling the straps outwards. Wireless and racerback styles can help if you have narrow or sloping shoulders.
4. The cups gap or wrinkle
Gaps at the top of the cup can mean the cup is too big, or that the shape doesn't suit you. Fix: try a smaller cup, or a padded, moulded style that holds its own smooth shape.
5. You're spilling over the top or sides
This is the classic sign of a cup that's too small. Many women wear a cup size too small without realising. Fix: measure again (our two-minute guide shows you how) and trust the new number.
6. The underwire pokes or digs
Wires should sit flat against your ribcage and surround your breast tissue, not rest on it. If they dig in, the cup width is wrong. Fix: a different cup size, or switch to a soft wire-free style.
7. You can't wait to take it off
The simplest sign of all. A bra that fits should feel comfortable from morning to night.
If more than one of these sounds familiar, it's worth measuring again. Our Fit Finder will give you your size and show which of our bras are in stock to fit it.
