Beneath the surface: The importance of a well fitting Bra
- Alison Sheath
- Apr 1, 2024
- 4 min read
In the bustling world of fashion, we often overlook the importance of our underwear choices, particularly bras. However, the truth is that a perfectly fitting bra can make a world of difference in how you feel and how you look in your clothes. From comfort to confidence and even health, the impact of wearing the right bra cannot be overstated. In this post, we will look further into why finding the perfect-fitting bra is essential for every woman.

First up some statistics: P. Smith - Dec 20, 2023, Statista.com
In the UK, the average bra size is 36DD
Around 80% of UK women are wearing the wrong size bra
The number of M&S underwear users is 9.6 million!!!
The leading price bracket for bra expenditure is £15-£30
The UK bra market is a significant segment of the overall lingerie industry, which was valued at around £3.26 billion in 2020 - Statista.com
While exact figures may vary, the bra market in the UK has seen steady growth over the years, driven by factors such as evolving fashion trends, changing consumer preferences, and advancements in lingerie technology.
One of the most immediate benefits of a perfect-fitting bra is comfort. An Ill-fitting bra can be very uncomfortable, causing irritation, digging straps, and even back pain. On the other hand, a bra that fits well will provide the right level of support without feeling too tight or too loose.
Wearing a bra that fits perfectly can also do wonders for your confidence. When your breasts are properly supported and lifted, your posture improves, and your silhouette appears more defined. You will notice a difference in how your clothes fit and how you carry yourself. No more worrying about spillage or bulges ruining your outfit. Instead, you'll exude confidence knowing that you look and feel your best from the inside out.
Beyond comfort and confidence, the importance of a perfect-fitting bra extends to your overall health. A bra that doesn't fit properly can lead to a host of health issues, including back and shoulder pain, poor posture, and even skin irritation. Plus, wearing an unsupportive bra can accelerate the sagging of the breasts over time. By investing in bras that fit well and provide adequate support, helping to distribute your breasts' weight evenly, and relieving strain on your shoulders and back, you're not just enhancing your comfort and confidence, but also safeguarding your long-term breast health.
Now that we've established the importance of a perfect-fitting bra, how do you find one?
The key is to get professionally fitted. Many lingerie stores offer complimentary bra fitting services, where trained experts can help you determine your correct size and style. I recently discovered after many years that I am one of the 80% of UK women wearing the wrong size bra........ and I was very shocked to discover what my actual size is. Now I am someone who will get measured every year (experts recommend every 6 months) but I have always relied on M&S and have done so since my very 1st bra, but now I would highly recommend visiting a lingerie specialist.
My last Marks & Spencers visit in 2023 had me in a 40B - this was the size I was measured at and have been wearing for the last year but after a recommendation from a friend, I decided to pay a visit to the ladies at the Wacoal factory shop in Desborough. Where I was blown away, not only by the amazing service I was given but also that I actually need a 38DD! That is a big size difference and OMG from the moment I put on my new bra, it felt amazing. I've been wearing padded, non-wired bras since well before I had my little boy (around 8 years) because I found wired ones soooooooo uncomfortable (no wonder as I was in the wrong size) but now I am in a wired, lacy bra which is not only supportive but also beautiful. *This is my personal experience, not me telling you to avoid buying M&S lingerie.

If you want more detail on the topic of perfect bra fitting, I found a great article on Womenshealthmag, that talks you through step by step, how to measure yourself along with tips from the professionals on how to determine whether the bra you have on is the correct one for you. These tips were mirrored by the ladies at the Wacoal store.
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If you are local to Northamptonshire, I highly recommend a trip to the Wacoal Factory Shop, the ladies were so helpful and knowledgeable and because it's a factory shop you can purchase at some great discounts too. Plus they stock Fantasie and Freya amongst other brands, which have a really beautiful range of bras and swimwear.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping, is that bra sizes can vary between brands and styles, so it's essential to try on different options to find the best fit for you. Additionally, pay attention to how the bra feels and looks under clothing. The goal is to find a bra that feels like a second skin, providing support without being restrictive. So, take the time to find bras that fit you well and invest in your comfort, confidence, and health. You deserve it!
I would love to hear your bra stories and your experiences with measuring......have you found your perfect bra yet? leave me a comment below xxx

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