Designer Genevieve Luciani Sena of the lingerie brand Curvy Kate has outlined the most common mistakes people make when choosing and wearing a bra, in recommendations reported by the Daily Mail.
She warned against assuming a single size fits across all brands, since sizing can vary not only between manufacturers but also between models from the same label, with differences especially noticeable between American and European brands.
A new bra should fasten securely and comfortably on the loosest hook, she said, because the band gradually stretches with wear and washing, leaving the remaining hooks to adjust the fit. Buying one that only fits on the tightest hooks leaves no room for that adjustment.
Tightening the straps is not the answer when a bra stops supporting the bust, she added. The band carries the main load, so once it has stretched the bra should be replaced; pulling the straps tighter will not fix the problem and may increase pressure on the shoulders.
One of the biggest mistakes, according to the expert, is ignoring the shape and position of the breasts. Fit is affected not only by size but by the distance between the breasts, their fullness, how far they project forward and how volume is distributed, so bras with different cup shapes and center-gore constructions should be tried on.
She also advised against fastening a bra in front and twisting it around the body, recommending instead that wearers lean slightly forward and gently guide breast tissue from the sides toward the center of the cups.
For sports bras, choosing one that is too tight is another error: yoga and running require different levels of support, and excessive compression can restrict movement and breathing, while too little support fails to hold the bust during intense activity.
Finally, she advised against drying bras in a tumble dryer, which she said quickly damages the fabric and reduces the garment's elasticity.
Originally reported by Lenta.RU