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Buying a new bra is a task many women put off. Whether it's the expense, the feeling that it's self-indulgence, or just not having the time to try one on to find a proper fit, bra shopping is not always at the top of everyone's list. Still, there are times when new bras are simply a must-and it's not just when your bras get so disreputable-looking that your husband makes fun of you. Knowing when to get a new one is the key to helping you keep bras that fit and are comfortable. These tips should help you find the right bra for your size and shape. Don't forget to pick up a training bra for your teenager and teach her the importance of proper fitting support.-
You haven't purchased a bra in the past six months. Is the expense keeping you in bras that are wearing out? Sure, you can spend $50 or even $100 on a bra pretty easily, but there are plenty of cute bras available for under $30. If you'd spend it on a manicure or a couple of movie tickets, you should be able to spend it on
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You have a special occasion coming up. If you're a bridesmaid in a wedding, or you're going to a formal dance, you may need a strapless or convertible bra .
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You're pregnant . No, you don't need a nursing or maternity bra yet-but your breasts are going to grow a surprising amount over the next nine months. Chances are you'll need to size up twice during your pregnancy. And even if you were an "A" cup to begin with, you're going to need an underwire for support now. Be kind to your breasts during pregnancy and nursing-good bras can minimize post-baby sagging. Bali , Playtex , and Calvin Klein offer some comfortable choices for this time in your life.
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You've been wearing an ill-fitting bra. If your bra is puckered, oddly stretched, the back strap is riding up, or you have that magical bra line visible over your chest-you need a different bra. Be honest with yourself-as much as you'd like to be a C, are you really a B? Or, conversely, is a D cup just too small? Your bra should be supportive without being constricting, and should not gape away from your skin at any point when you are standing up straight. Check out full-figured or plus-size bras for a good fit, or get seamless bras if you wear t-shirts often. And stop worrying about size! Don't be afraid to seek out plus size lingerie. Comfort in a bra is where it's at.
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You've washed your bras repeatedly in the washing machine. Bras should be hand-washed. If you do not have the time, then at least use a lingerie bag for them as it will protect the straps and hooks from getting caught while washing or drying. Bras washed in the machine and without protection need to be replaced far more often.
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6. The underwire does not lie flat against your skin . The underwire should be perfectly flat and just underneath the breasts. If it starts to pucker or punch through the cloth, then it is time to replace the bra. If you have to adjust the underwire back to it's proper position at some point during the day, guess what? Time for a new bra.
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The bra is beginning to get holes under the arms or in the cups. Any visible wear in the cloth is a sign the bra needs to be replaced. A bra with holes is not useful as it could tear completely during wear. Nothing is more slovenly than underwear with holes-the same applies to bras. Even if no one sees you in your bra, you'll feel ridiculous every time you put it on, and that's no fun. DKNY and American Eagle offer some versatile everyday choices that won't starve your wallet.
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The size and elasticity are different than on a new bra of the same type. This test holds true especially for sports bras. Holding your sports bra up to a new version of it should look the same in size and shape. If not, your bra has been worn too much and is stretched out. Try Champion or Adidas for a new sports bra.
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You have lost or gained weight. The breasts are largely fatty tissue, and even adding five pounds can make significant changes in their size, warranting a new bra. Anytime you lose or gain more than 10 pounds, you should get fitted for a new bra to make sure you are getting the right size. Celebrate your new shape with a new bra and lingerie. Don't forget to shop for new swimwear for your new size, maybe try a string bikini.
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You are ready for a new look! Don't wait until your old bras are embarrassing. Get one anytime you feel you need a quick pick-me-up. If you've been wearing plain cotton, get some fun lace bras or sheer bras. Add a bit of spice to you look with some exotic lingerie or an open cup bra. Or, if you've been wearing animal-print push-up-padded bras, try something simpler like mesh bras - you might find that you like it. Elle MacPherson , Aubade and BarelyThere Bras offer some sexy bra choices that you deserve.
Getting a new bra doesn't have to be a hassle. If you find a bra you really like, it's a good idea to buy several at once in case it's discontinued. There is no need to go through the pain of finding a new style and size each time you need one. Once you find the right size you can add new styles to your bra collection. The possibilities are endless, from sexy lingerie including open and revealing styles, to traditional ones. Browse a variety of different styles and brands to find choices that you like, and happy bra hunting! Keep this advice in mind when shopping for a bikini or other types of swimsuits!
Additional great bra brands include:
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 16)
1. What to do about a bra when you have had a mascetomecy? Where do you go to get fitted?
Posted at 2:07PM on May 12th 2008 by Bev Cooper
2. I have gained a lot of weight but not so much in
cup size. I need a 50 A....but are impossible to
find. Any suggestions??
Posted at 2:14PM on May 12th 2008 by Beatrice
3. Hi Bev...most comprehensive breast centers (such as where you go for mammograms) have excellent handouts with information regarding prosthetics, bras, etc. post surgery. If you're not sure if there is a comprehensive breast center in your area, call a large GYN practice in your area and they should know. Best of luck!
Posted at 2:15PM on May 12th 2008 by tennrn01
4. I think buying a new bra is essential to well-being. I bought one that was my size, because I swore up and down that I was larger. Turns out, I was much smaller. I feel much better.
Posted at 2:16PM on May 12th 2008 by peachpitt23
5. I wear an underwire. What do you do when the sides just don't fit - that is where I carry my weight.
Posted at 2:16PM on May 12th 2008 by cindy
6. I am looking for a 36 DDD bra and finding it has become very difficult. Usually the DDD starts in 38.
Posted at 2:19PM on May 12th 2008 by MLWhinery
7. When you've had a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery on one breast and the othr is still intact, where do you go to get proprly measured and fitted for a bra?
Posted at 2:27PM on May 12th 2008 by Gloria Howell
8. Bev and Gloria- if you have a Nordstrom store near you they have a prosthesis specialist in their lingerie department. Call to schedule and appointment.
Posted at 2:30PM on May 12th 2008 by whatev
9. Beatrice,
Try Lane Bryant. They tend to carry larger sized bras and may have or be able to find what you are looking for/need. Best of luck!
Posted at 2:34PM on May 12th 2008 by NAS
10. I am a bra fitter who has worked in this field for 30 years. Ladies, for ALL of your lingerie needs, please go to a professional bra fitter. I work for Mary Del Corsetieres in Palos Heights, IL. The store has been in existence since 1939. We know what we're doing. We are also certified mastectomy fitters. This is where you come for experience and customer service. We will measure you and fit you into the correct size bra. You may not be the same size in every bra so it's important to have a fitter who is trained in fitting different styles and sizes.
To the lady who needs a A50. We have B50 bras and our seamstress can alter the bra to fit you at no charge. Please come to see us. We can help.
Posted at 2:35PM on May 12th 2008 by Irene Barnish
11. My cups pucker at times..on breast is larger than the other. I've never had a bra where the straps stay up either...very frustrating. What am I doing wrong?
Posted at 2:37PM on May 12th 2008 by linda
12. Bev and Gloria you can look for breast prosthesis & bras at www.amoena.com/us look under store locator and it will direct you to the nearest fitter.
Posted at 2:39PM on May 12th 2008 by Kathy Dibben
13. i just got these breast implants last week at the doctors office and he has told me that I should not be wearing a bra for a few weeks until the stitchings heal. However, I have no support without a bra and I was wondering if any of you all had suggestions that would help me be more comfortable and have support.
Posted at 2:40PM on May 12th 2008 by Faye
14. I finally bought a couple of expensive bras from Victoria Secret,(I used to buy cheap ones from Walmart)but the straps keep falling throughout the day and I have to keep adjusting them over and over again. They fit perfect everywhere else. Anyone have any suggestions. Signed, Frustrated
Posted at 2:41PM on May 12th 2008 by Carrie
15. Zohra and Cindy, I found a this website last year and have been ordering my bras from it since. Not like some of the really big places, but it was just right for me. http://www.limageplus.com I really like it a lot. I bet they can even find the 50A that someone asked about. Ladybug1
Posted at 2:44PM on May 12th 2008 by LadyBug1
16. Another source of awesome bras is Essential Bodywear. They sized me, I tried one on, jumped up and down, and my tummy jiggled but my boobs budge! They bounce even in sports bras, but not in the regular black bra I tried on. And, it was really comfortable.
Posted at 2:45PM on May 12th 2008 by lichelle Crevison
17. WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO MEASURE YOURSELF FOR A BRA?
Posted at 2:46PM on May 12th 2008 by APRIL
18. The best place to get fitted after a mastectomy is a large department store near you, if they have a senior clerk who does the measuring and suggesting most of the time. The next best place is a specialty shop just for mastectomy supplies, etc. There is usually one in most mid-size towns. They have a limited supply of brands, which are often more expensive than what you get in a department store, but most of the time they fit better. Don't hesitate to turn down any suggestion if the bra does not feel good while you are in the store. Good luck!
Posted at 2:47PM on May 12th 2008 by dimi
19. The purple bra that was shown before, what brand is that. It was lovely.
Posted at 2:48PM on May 12th 2008 by annie
20. Helen Hirsh is a great place to get bras in Northern NJ. They will measure you and the products they carry are top of the line.
Posted at 2:49PM on May 12th 2008 by Diane