Staying Fit
We spend way more time pondering our shoes than our bras. And yet that little piece of fabric helps shape and lift while improving the look of every top, jacket, dress and outfit we own. But here’s the thing: None of us is ever sure we’re wearing or buying the right bra. Standard advice has always been “go to a store and get fitted by an expert.” Sure, maybe back in the pre-COVID days. But now many of us shop for bras online — or would like to try. Here’s how to bust out of your rut with 10 tips.
1. The best bra fitter is your mirror
It’s tough, but take a good look at the bra you’ve been living in before you shop online. If your breasts are overflowing the cups or getting squished or flattened; if your bra cups are wrinkled or gaping; if the band is or straps are always hooked and hiked to the limit; if your bra accents back fat or feels scratchy or stiff; if wearing your bra causes neck or shoulder aches ... it’s the wrong bra! Your lingerie drawer may be packed with cute, pricey bras, but if they’re not working for your breasts, body and wardrobe it’s time to toss or donate and go shopping.
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2. DIY measurements are simple
Store fitters seem to know mysterious bra secrets that we don’t. But really, finding your correct size takes no more than a sewing kit tape measure (use a length of ribbon or string and a ruler if you don’t have a tape). Start by wearing your usual bra and check tape placement in the mirror as you go. Measure the band size first by wrapping the tape under your bust where the band sits. Keep it level all around and taut (but not too tight) and round up to the nearest whole number. Next, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust. Round to the nearest whole number. Get your cup size by subtracting the band size from the bust size; each inch equals one cup size. If the difference in inches is 1 inch, you’re an A; 2 inches you’re a B; 3 a C; 4 a D; 5 a DD or E; 6 a DDD or F; 7 a G; 8 a H. Remember, this is just a general guide. Breast size after age 50 can fluctuate from weight gain or loss, bloat, hormonal ups and downs or even exercise (especially upper body weight training and swimming!). Don’t be surprised if your size is different than what you expected.
Paramour Women’s Peridot Lace Trim T-Shirt Bra in Mink (left); Soma Intimates Embraceable Perfect Coverage Bra in Mochaccino
Target; Soma
3. Trust online quizzes to solve problems
Don’t depend solely on bra measurements. Digital bra Q&As that analyze everything from breast shape and spacing to what’s wrong with your old bras are a great partner to measurements. They can diagnose bra problems and help you find better solutions. One of the most popular bras for women age 50-plus now are so-called T-shirt bras like the Paramour Women’s Peridot Lace Trim T-Shirt Bra in Mink ($22, target.com), the Soma Intimates Embraceable Perfect Coverage Bra in Mochaccino or Warm Amber ($44, soma.com) or the Lively The All-Day T-Shirt Bra in Toasted Almond or Jet Black ($45, wearlively.com, not pictured). Not all T-shirt bras are labeled as such, but all have smooth but shapely cups that are foam lined or molded. This makes a confident base for everything from tees to silky blouses and clingy knits or sweaters, and prevents nipple show-through. The cups may be underwire or be wire-free, and coverage varies from full cup to subtly sexy (but still practical) demi cups.
