How to find the bra fit for you

Measure twice to make your bra fit nice

A high-fashion model in swirls of red silk prances along the runway. Her hair has bounce and shine. A pair of diamond earrings bounce and glitter. She struts along in an attitude of feline arrogance. But she has a pair of something else that is not bouncing—her breasts. She knows the secret—the secret to a great bra fit.

Few women wear a bra that fits. Small-busted women and women with a more ample bosom face the same problems—too tight, too loose or too uncomfortable. Straps chafe. Hooks gouge. Cups aren't filled. Or, they are overfilled. The woes are endless but few women can go braless.

What are you using your bra to accomplish?

Today, there are sturdy sport bras that hold a woman's breasts firmly in place during activities such as jogging or tennis. There are smooth-topped bras that show no seams beneath knits and tee shirts. Lavish, lacy creations are perfect for nights on the town. Nursing bras offer easy access to baby's first beverage. Why are you wearing your bra? Is it for fashion or function?

Bras can be fun. Nowadays you can even be proud to show a decorative bra strap or two in those outfits that just don't allow you to hide them . Some decorative straps are studded with rhinestones, sequins or tiny flowers. Decorative bra straps made of ribbons of clear plastic give a see-through effect. The almost-invisible straps make wearing tank tops and tube tops less worrisome. Peace of mind comes with knowing your straps aren't showing—when they're not supposed to show.

Are you correctly measuring your breasts?

An accurate bra size is a mathematical computation related to cup size and the length of the band that encases one's upper rib cage. Bras band sizes are expressed in even numbers: 36, 42, 38, etc. Cup sizes—A, B, C, etc.,—reflect the fullness of the breasts. Find your perfect bra fit by performing this exercise:

• Measure your band size. Use a measuring tape to find how many inches is the circumference of your rib cage as measured beneath the bust while you are standing in a relaxed position.

• Measure your bust size. Use the tape measure to find the number of inches around the fullest part of your bosom.