Even though the average bra size seems to be increasing, for reasons such as obesity, plastic surgery, sometimes the birth control pill, etc., smaller cup sizes are getting more emphasis within the lingerie market.  Allow me to give you some tips on how to shop lingerie for your smaller bust.

3033 Petites Lacy Convertible Padded Bra by Triumph

First, you absolutely have to make sure you’re wearing the right bra size. As we all know, the majority of women (over 80%) are not wearing the right bra size. As a petite figure, it may be hard to come to peace with your bra size, but wearing the wrong size is definitely not helping.

Most people think when you have a smaller bust, you automatically need to add padding to make your breasts look bigger.  It is not always necessary because the lighter the fabric, the better and more natural a small bust will look.  So, choose fabrics like lace, which will make you feel sexy and free.

Another rule for shopping for petite bras: be aware that the more of your breasts we see, the bigger your chest appears. For example, in a balconnette bra (three-quarter coverage) or a demi cup bra (half coverage), the breasts are slightly more exposed than a full cup bra. This gives the impression of a slightly fuller chest rather than a flattened chest, making the most of your natural gifts.  (Avoid the tube bra because it flattens you.)

Great Expectations semi-sheer wire-free bralette by Blush

Also, the advantage with smaller breasts is that you don’t need that much support! So, you can opt for the fashionable triangle bra.  Plus, it creates spaces between the breasts, which creates the illusion of a fuller bust.

I hope those tips will enhance you confidence and help you embrace your petite bust!

Are you a small-busted gal? Tell us what your rules are when shopping for petite bras! Comment here below, or tell us on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page.

Jessica

jessica@nowthatslingerie.com

Image sources & references

Great Expectations Sheer Lace And Satin Wire Free Bralette By Blush Lingerie:

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221510-great-expectations-sheer-lace-and-satin-wire-free-bralette-blush-lingerie

3033 Petites Lacy Padded Push-Up bra with Convertible Straps by Triumph International:

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=3033-petites-all-over-lace-padded-underwire-push-up-bra

Featured Image:

(Left) Grenier Serenade Semi-Sheer Lace Bustier

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=7578-grenier-bustier

(Center) Triumph Seamless Push-Up Bra

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1738-push-up-collection-push-up-bra-triumph-lingerie 

(Right) Coquette Underwired Lace Demi Bra by Montelle

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=9012-coquette-underwire-lace-demi-bra-montelle-lingerie

Other sources

http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Flattering-Lingerie-for-a-Small-Bust

The History of Undergarments

What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word Lingerie? Lace, silk, or sheer fabrics with sexually appealing style lines and finishes usually come to mind when we refer to the term. In this century, Lingerie has been made out to be much more than how it started. But let’s take a quick look into the history of this industry; sometimes looking backward can help you understand how and why we’re moving forward.

Lingerie was worn and created with 3 basic purposes: To help with hygiene, to alter a woman’s outer body shaping, and for modesty. It wasn’t until the 19^th century that Lingerie became much more visually appealing. During this time, undergarments such as the corset became a lot smaller in size and shape and became a lot less bulky. The 20^th century was a little more daring as the industry began to experiment with the overall shape of the undergarments.

The Corset

Can you believe that today, there are over 45 types of undergarments classified as Lingerie? And most of these items usually incorporate fabrics such as Lycra, lace, polyester, silk, nylon, and satin! It’s interesting that despite all the changes in life, technology and the world over the past few centuries, the main purposes for Lingerie today are not much different than how and why Lingerie began to be such an important part of our every day lives. We still wear our undergarments to assist in giving us the type of shape, hold, or lift that we desire, except now the selection is so diverse, that we are able to choose whatever style we want for ourselves.

We also wear many of our undergarments to assist in personal hygiene, like helping create a buffer between your sensitive skin and your clothing.  (Natural fibers like bamboo and cotton come into play here, with hygienic properties like moisture absorbency, breathability – and bamboo is naturally antibacterial!) And, although some people have decided that modesty is over-rated and do not wish to wear undergarments for that purpose, many wear their undergarments for a mental comfort. The major change in the industry regardless of the purpose of the undergarment, has most definitely been the level of comfort of which the design, fabrics and shape has been given during production. There are so many different shapes and sizes, colors, fabrics, care instructions, and inner materials used so that the consumer can choose which of these things are most important to them at the time of purchasing.

The Perfect Fit

So what’s new to the lingerie industry?  The standard on fit. This system started in the UK and is very quickly becoming an important industry standard all over North America and the US. Basically, this entails the notion that anyone working in any Lingerie store will be able to properly size and fit any customer who walks through the door prior to purchasing. This is a system that was used primarily in smaller, more expensive boutique type Lingerie stores to enhance the over-all experience.  Now it has become so crucial to people’s lives that they have undergarments that are comfortable and fit properly to their body type and figure, even the bigger retail stores are inheriting this method; soon it will be a mandatory standard.  (The Bra Doctor approves.)

It is interesting to take a quick look into the history, to be reminded of things that are taken so easily for granted since they are just naturally a part of our every day lives.  Now that we have taken a glance at how it all began we are able to appreciate the advancements and all the industry changes that are even still adapting and working to take effect! This is certainly one industry that will forever be changing, growing, and learning from its past – for our benefit!

In which direction do you think the lingerie industry is going next?

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on Twitter and Facebook!

Kathryn

kathryn@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credits and Sources: 

Historic Eras of Undergarments
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingerie

Photo-The history of undergarments
http://www.ranksmercantile.com/product_info.php?cPath=14&products_id=176

Photo-The Corset
http://karleeaturner.blogspot.com/

Photo-The Perfect Fit
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2978-full-fashion-strapless-underwire-bra-triumph-lingerie

Featured Image – Kestos Vintage Poster
http://www.theadgallery.co.uk/Kestos-They-walk-in-beauty-1930s 

I would go to a large department store and get a 36C, based on a measurement from fifth grade when I first started wearing bras. In about eighth grade, I upped myself to a D cup after it was clear the C cup wasn’t working anymore. After a few years of falling out of the D cups, I headed back to the same chain store and got DDs. I figured that HAD to be my size – after all, it was the largest cup size they had available.  I had occasional moments of spilling out, but I reasoned that this was because of the bra style. So I started buying only full-coverage bras, which of course were practical, streamlined, and incredibly dull. I was resigned to a life of boring, plain bras- no cute demi-cups for me!

What I Used to Look like

Then, a change began. My friend was planning on going to a specialty bra fitter, much like our Bra Doctor, and wanted me to come too. I had just bought a slew of new bras, but I went for moral support, as my friend had said that the way they fit bras was much more than simply measuring.

I was in for a surprise. We went into the store and I saw bras of all styles and colors, in sizes I had never heard of before. 30G? 34 H? What were these sizes? At chain stores, I had noticed that the larger back sizes (the number) usually corresponded with larger cup sizes. I had no idea people could have a tiny back size and a large cup size.
As I waited by the dressing rooms, I saw countless women buying new bras, preaching the truth of their new-found sizes. They vowed to throw away all the bras they had at home, even tossing the bras they wore into the store in the trash, thrilled to finally be wearing the right size. I saw older women beaming with delight. Teenage girls who came in sulking left with their heads held high with new confidence.
I was extremely jealous. Though I was fairly confident in my sizing abilities, I had a sneaking suspicion that I too was wearing the wrong size. I insisted my friend come back with me the next week so I could get fitted myself.  When I did, the friendly saleswoman measured around my torso with a measuring tape, and then had me take off my bra (no shame allowed) so she could inspect the merchandise.

“34 F,” she proclaimed.

Demi Cup Bra I Loved in White

I gasped. 34 F? I was almost correct in the back size, but the cup size I was wearing was two sizes too small! With a flourish, the saleswoman went to find me new bras. She came out with a nude colored bra, a practical black, and a demi cup black bra with lace that I swooned over. After a life of plain full-coverage, I emerged with pretty, feminine, gorgeous bras that fit better than any I had ever owned.

Because of the correctly-fitting bras, my entire wardrobe went through a major upgrade. Button-down shirts that had popped open whenever I lifted my arms suddenly fit perfectly. My breasts looked shapely instead of saggy, and didn’t bounce around uncomfortably when I walked. I looked thinner, and the huge boost of confidence I felt from looking good made me stand up straighter and walk taller. I was converted into a brand-new, bra-obsessed woman.

This is why I became a bra blogger, so I could share my love of bras and lingerie with all of you. I would recommend any woman, young or old, to contact the Bra Doctor and get the right fit for their “ladies” and at last diagnose and solve the real reasons behind any bra fitting problems (e.g. “spillage”, red marks, etc.).

For a teenager, a special experience buying a great bra can make a changing body a positive experience. For an older adult, getting the right support can make her feel a renewed appreciation for her body. And for any woman, it will increase her confidence so she can take on her day, and the world.

Have any bra-buying experiences to share? Comment about it below, E-mail me or tell us on Twitter and Facebook!

Rachel

rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources:

Ill-Fitting Bra: http://www.legsandcospain.com/guides/ill_fitting_bra_files/image004.jpg

Bra style I loved:

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=7504-galloon-lace-balconette-bra

An example of "over-spill"

The main advantages of wearing this type of bra is that you avoid “over-spill” (bulge over the neckline of your bra) and ‘gaping button syndrome”, so your clothes will look and feel better, and make you look thinner and younger too! . They work by compressing and de-emphasizing the breasts using a combination of power-stretch fabrics, molding and cut. They’re designed to fit snugly and securely.

The underbust band and straps are the most important structural parts of this type of bra since they take the majority of the weight. Wider, padded straps and a leotard (“U”) back increase comfort and reduce the dreaded back bulge (plus help avoid “falling strap syndrome”). The cups are usually either wireless using seamed and molded panels to lift the breasts, or underwired with fully molded (contour) cups.  It’s important that the fabrics used in minimizer bras have a powerful amount of stretch and excellent recovery, since they’re required to compress without “slackening” and for the elasticity to not be compromised by frequent washing.  Another thing too, it helps if the cups are made from satin to eliminate any  “sticking ” or “bunching up” of your clothing during the day.

The 5363 Minimizer Wireless Bra from Naturana

With the newest minimizer bras, the construction is very similar in principle to sports bras, so a bra manufacturer who is known for their minimizers will usually also produce an excellent line of sports bras and full support bras.  One such manufacturer is Naturana Lingerie. They have a gorgeous and extensive minimizer range at Now That’s Lingerie as well as a great range of sports bras. Take a look at their 5363 & 5063  Minimizer Wireless Bra and it’s matching 0063 & 0017 High Rise Medium Full Control Panty Girdle available in four satin colors and two floral satin jacquards. Also in this range are two other great bra shapes – the 7363 Minimizer Bra (an underwired, molded version) and the 5663 Minimizer Front Opening Bra.

Sheer Tapestry Minimizer Bra by Olga Lingerie

Olga Lingerie’s 35984C Sheer Tapestry Minimizer is a sleek, seamless bra which claims to reduce bust projection by up to 1 inch! This underwired, molded bra in pretty floral jacquard has built up straps and a wide back band for added comfort.

The 841892 Splendid Curves Luxury Minimizer by Triumph is a stunning, seamless, satin underwire bra. It’s super-comfortable with slightly cushioned straps and a “U” shaped back and yet very pretty with little lace details to perfectly match its sexy lace panty – the 8442 Splendid Lace Maxi.

The 841892 Splendid Curves Luxury Minimizer by Triumph

So try out a gorgeous new silhouette with one of the minimizer bras available from NowThatsLingerie, I guarantee you’ll be very satisfied with the results!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

On a design level, it’s a huge technical challenge to enclose and support a semi-solid breast of varying volume and shape, plus its adjacent partner and incorporate wildly different torso circumferences too – but that’s exactly what bra manufacturers have to do! Add attractive presentation, functionality and fashion requirement.  It’s really quite a big deal.

Bra fitting is so personal and specific, it's important to go to a pro, like our Bra Doctor!

Until the 1930′s, bra sizes were sized S, M & L but with the technical sophistication of emerging bra designs, this sizing system just wasn’t sufficient any more. In 1932 S.H.Camp and Company correlated the size and shape of a woman’s breast to letters of the alphabet. Warner’s were the first to adopt these new cup sizes for their bras, which is the same A through D system that we use today.  Just after World War Two a proper band sizing system was created by manufacturers in the USA.

By the 1940′s, bras had designated sales areas within department stores with their own special fitting rooms and manufacturers established  fit training courses for their saleswomen.

A balconette bra ad from 1958

So after seventy years why do manufacturers’ standard cup sizes vary so much?

Well, sizing systems vary from country to country, and secondly, bras can be graded very differently too. In Europe the torso is measured in centimeters and rounded to the nearest multiple of 5 cm, whereas in the States they use inches and round up to 2 inches (=5.08cm). Grading between cup sizes can be either 2 cm in Europe or 1 inch in the States (=2.54 cm) or even graded up by as much as 3 cm (as with some French brands). The smaller sizes are less affected but as soon as you get to the D’s and above the variances in cup size between brands can be substantial.

Also the general sizing system is insufficient too because the volume of the breast isn’t taken into consideration, only it’s diameter. Bras need to be close fitting – but women’s breasts vary wildly in size and shape, most breasts are asymmetric and can change depending on the time of the month and with fluctuations in weight. With off-the-shelf bra sizes it’s very difficult to accommodate all these inconsistencies, and bra fitting instructions also conflict between manufacturers! Methods conceived in the 1930′s have been gradually doctored and revised without any overall guidelines.

So it’s not surprising that 80% of women wear the incorrect bra size! How can you possibly get it right? Well that’s why it’s essential to be fitted by a professional with knowledge and experience of the different brand characteristics and can actually assess the fit of the bra on you. Once you’re familiar with the size you take in a brand, it gets easier! Don’t forget, though, that sizing may also vary within a company’s different styles, based on the cut, shape, fabric, and other important considerations like the width of the underwire that is used.

So, as Rachel did in her last blog, why don’t you take the mystery out of bra sizing! Do yourself (and your body) a favor get yourself fitted by our very own Bra Doctor at Now That’s Lingerie!

Have fun!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

Facts and figures from Wikipedia: History of brassieres – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Bra fitting image from The Daily Mail: www.dailymail.co.uk

1948 Triumph Seamless Bra with Convertible Straps with Racer-Back Attachment

Welcome back!  In impatient anticipation for nicer weather, Spring cleaning is already underway in my closet and dresser, as I sort out my bulky winter clothes and warm fleecy PJs  from my warm-weather nightgowns and comfy pants.  More importantly, I’ve gone through my lingerie drawers to clear out anything that had been washed and worn to its fullest extent or no longer fit.  Sadly, this included one of my old favorites (emphasis on “old”) that I’d meant to get rid of last year but never could bring myself to abandon.  Yes, sometimes the best thing to do is to say good-bye and start fresh!  I always get the same questions from my friends and customers: how often should you replace your bras?  Here are a few tips and guidelines for knowing when and how to renew your lingerie.

How often should I get fitted for bras? In the years I’ve spent bra fitting, I can safely say a woman should get fitted for a bra at least twice a year (every six months).  During this time, it’s important to try on ALL of your bras to make sure each one of them fit.  Anything that is uncomfortable, feels like it is not supporting you or has been overly washed or stretched should be tossed in the garbage.

Why should I get my bra size checked twice a year? Weight fluctuations from hormones, holidays (e.g. extra portions), weather (Winter=hibernation time), exercise, nutrition, age, lifestyle change (e.g. having a baby, getting a promotion) all contribute to your ever-changing body.  Your breasts may not only change size, but they may change in shape, too. This could mean you’re not getting what you need from your bra – support for all-day comfort (and obviously to prevent your breasts from sagging in the future), and the right shape or style of bra that will be best for your body.

22504145 Seamless Dominique Bra by Change of Scandinavia, available from 30-40 D, DD, E, F, G, H!

What kinds of bras are most important for me to renew?  Every day basics, like seamless bras in classic beige, white or black that you can wear under any top, or any comfy bra you know you can wear with a variety of your tops and dresses.  Versatility is key. I love convertible bras that give me the option of crossing my straps or wearing it halter-neck, so I can take it anywhere with me and wear it any time.  I would also look for something that has seamless or nearly seamless bra cups so you can wear it under almost anything, anywhere.  These are the MOST important since you wear them often, and should wash them (hand wash, please!) every 2-3 wears. Sports bras, since they must be washed after every wear, should also be replaced if you do ANY kind of exercise.  I have three sports bras because if I may not have time to wash it right away after exercising, at least I have no excuse to NOT do my workout since I have a choice of other sports bras to wear the next time!

5620 Max Support Sports Bra by Naturana, available from 34B to 42DD

What should I look for when I try on my old bras? Check out some of my other blogs about common bra fitting problems (listed below) to make sure you are wearing the right bra for you… but nothing compares to a free consult with me, your Bra Doctor, if you’re experiencing any bra discomfort and are unsure of the cause or source.

Common Bra Fitting Problems & Solutions

Common Bra Fitting Problems & Solutions Part 2: The Back Band

Common Bra Fitting Problems & Solutions Part 3: The Straps

E-mail me at bradoctor@nowthatslingerie.com with your questions anytime, and please leave me your comments below!

See you next time for more bra fitting tips!

Bra Doctor

2978 Strapless Bra by Triumph

Finding the right strapless bra is not always easy.  Petite women and fuller-busted women alike have particular difficulty finding a strapless bra.  For A or smaller B-cup busts, some strapless bras can flatten out the breasts or they may not fill the cups completely; for D or DD cup wearing women and beyond, into E, F, G, H, etc, it may seem impossible to get any support from a strapless bra.  Here are a few quick, general tips to choosing a good strapless bra.

General Tips:

Look for silicone lining inside the back wings and band of the bra.  There are usually two strips of silicone per side inside the band, one at the top and the other along the bottom, to help the strapless bra stay put, like a no-slip grip.  Some strapless bras also have a silicone strip along the bottom, right beneath the underwires, for extra support.

Make sure the back band is sufficiently tight, but not asthmatically so, when you notch it at the LOOSEST hook. This is to make sure your bra will hold up properly; if your back band is too loose, it will not support anything and will move around too much when you move.  After a few wears and washes (by hand, please!), the back band will stretch slightly and you may find yourself using a tighter configuration for your back adjustment.

Tips for Petite Women: look for bras that have a pockets inside of the cups where a pad can be inserted or removed.  Depending on your choice of neckline, you may opt for a slightly more push-up effect for a lower-cut bodice, so you would have the option of inserting your removable cookies (pads), or another type of removable pad (fabric, silicone, water, gel).

2640 Strapless Bra with Removable Pads by Triumph

Tips for Fuller-Busted Women: Even if you find a strapless bra that fits you perfectly, you may still feel uneasy about not having any straps, since it’s an unusual feeling.  I may opt to wear clear straps with my strapless bra for more dance-oriented occasions if I’m wearing a lower-cut dress, for example… we ladies must avoid these sorts of fashion mishaps, particularly public ones!  Also try to go for a strapless bra that has a wider bra back hook and eye closure, for extra support.  Most strapless bras in DD cups and higher usually do have a three-hook-width bra back closure, which entails a slightly wider back band, to help minimize unsightly bulges, slim out the torso and keep your girls up where they belong!

Stay tuned for more useful lingerie tips from your Bra Doctor!

Have a question for me about bra fitting?  E-mail me!

Warners Elements of Bliss Wire-Free Contour Bra

Since I spend a lot of time working in the bra fitting room with women to find their bra sizes, I always hear firsthand accounts of women’s history of bra difficulties.  Many of you have told me that the discomfort from wearing underwired bras have you converted into wire-free bra wearer instead.  Women of all ages, shapes and sizes have become increasingly fond of these comfortable soft cup bras, also known as wire-free (or wireless, but this word always reminds me of my internet service) bras.

An underwired bra is not in itself uncomfortable, but if you’re wearing the wrong bra size or bra style/shape for your body, then chances are the underwire will poke into you or rub against you uncomfortably.  Wire-free bras eliminate any potential issues with underwire – however, beware committing the same bra fitting mistake twice.  If you switch to soft cup bras, but not change your bra size, just your bra style, you may still be wearing the wrong size, which was possibly the problem in the first place.  If you are having bra pain for any reason at all, consult me and I can help you figure out what the problem really is before the issue gets compounded.

Bra companies have recognized the growing popularity of wire-free bras.  Whether you wear an A cup, a D cup, a DD cup or even an E, F or G cup, you can find the comfort of a wire-free bra along with the support you need.  Here are some of my customers’ recent favorite wire-free bra styles:

Naturana Regal Embroidery Soft Cup Bra

1) Bra Doctor’s Sleek Simplicity Wire-Free Cross-Over Bra: Made with a comfortable stretch microfiber, this light support bra is seamless for your tighter tops and offers a natural look.  Some of my clients use theirs for yoga too, but you can wear yours any time of day or night.

2) Naturana’s Regal Embroidery Soft Cup Bra: This beautiful non-underwired bra is stylish, supportive and comfortable, and available in an extensive size range, from 34-48 B to E cups!  My fuller-busted customers appreciate the ultra-supportive cups, comfortable straps, and of course, the sensual embroidery of this bra.

3) Warners Elements of Bliss Wire-Free Molded Contour Bra: This bra gives you uplift, a sleek, rounded look and serious comfort, with a lined cups that help minimize the appearance of your nipples under your clothes.  Available from A to C cups.

Click here to see some other wire-free bras I like on Now That’s Lingerie.

Have a bra fitting question for me?  I’d love to help!  E-mail me at bradoctor@nowthatslingerie.com.

5. Lifting Hide-A-Strap – Make your favorite bras tank-top-friendly in seconds!  Just gather your straps and secure them with this durable plastic figure-eight piece.  Gives your breasts a natural boost in any bra and helps prevent falling bra straps.

4. Body Tape - The quick multi-purpose fix for fashion emergencies, this dual-sided adhesive sticks to anything without irritating or leaving marks on your skin or clothing.  Ideal for plunging necklines or backlines, strapless wear, to seal the space between gapping buttons in your tops, and to quickly alter pant, skirt or dress hems.

3. Shoulder Cushions – Eliminate discomfort from indentation or marks  from your bra straps with these slim and comfortable silicone shoulder cushions.  Ideal for fuller-figured women to help increase support and ease pressure on your neck, shoulders and back.  Also helps prevent your bra straps from slipping down your shoulders.

2.  Bra Back Extenders – Easily add an extra one to three inches to your bra back band for a more precise, comfortable fit.  Ideal for when your bra cups fit but your back feels snug.  Just hook onto your back band and adjust as needed, no sewing necessary! Available in 1 hook, 2 hook, 2 hook Special European, 3 hook and 4 hook widths.

1. Magic Sponge – This aptly-named dual-sided clothing sponge by Forever New Fashion Essentials instantly removes marks on your clothes caused by deoderant, cosmetic powder, dust and more.  Flexible and compact to fit in even the smallest purse, so never leave home without it!

Do you have a more specific question? Let me know!

Bra Doctor

bradoctor@nowthatslingerie.com

Sleek Simplicity collection by Bra Doctor Lingerie, available exclusively at Now That's Lingerie.com

Welcome back!

It’s sure been awhile, but many exciting things are happening at once.

It’s the first anniversary of the online launch of Bra Doctor Lingerie, so to celebrate, Now That’s Lingerie.com is offering 25% off all Bra Doctor styles!  So far, the feedback has been very positive, and we can’t wait to hear what you have to think about our collections… with even more new styles to come.

Enjoy browsing, and let me know what you think!

More news to come very soon…

Your Bra Doctor
bradoctor@nowthatslingerie.com