Elaine’s Step-By-Step Guide and Checklist for a Professional Bra Fitting

First things first, I created this blog for bra hacks, tips, and a place for honest opinions. With that said, when was the last time you had a bra fitting? Or more importantly, have you ever been properly fitted for a bra?

If it’s been a while—or never—don’t worry. Most women have never been measured for the correct bra size. More often than not, we go to a lingerie store, try on a few bras, and take home the one that fits best. But what we think is best for our bodies isn’t always the case.

Why Don’t Women Get Fitted?

Many women don't get fitted for a bra because they underestimate how important it is to wear the right size. Ill-fitting bras can lead to discomfort, pain, and poor posture.

Some women feel self-conscious about their bodies or awkward getting fitted by a professional—I’ve felt this way too. It can be intimidating and make you feel vulnerable.

Often, it comes down to not recognizing the importance of a proper fitting, so we don’t prioritize it. Additionally, lacking access to a lingerie store that offers fittings can make it even harder to get fitted properly.

Through my mission with The Bra Recyclers, I’ve fitted hundreds of women over the past 15 years with bras recycled by our incredible community. When I say I’ve fitted a variety of body shapes and sizes, I mean it! Drawing from my personal struggles and my commitment to ensuring women in need receive the right bra, I want to share my expertise so you don’t have to face the same troubles.

Speaking from Experience - My First Bra Fitting

Over 20 years ago, I decided to get a professional bra fitting at Nordstrom in the Mall of America, Minneapolis. Known for its well-trained staff, the lingerie department seemed like the perfect place.

I was nervous but excited. The friendly fitter asked about my struggles and suggested a fitting. After measuring my band and cup size, she asked if I preferred unlined or padded bras. I said yes to padding because even slight breezes make my nipples come alive.

She brought several bras for me to try, but after about 10 bras and 30 minutes, I still hadn’t found the perfect fit. I was picky and didn’t want to settle. Then she suggested Anita bras, which are typically used post-mastectomy for comfort and have a pocket for a breast prosthesis.

These bras weren’t on the sales floor, so my fitter brought a couple for me to try. As soon as I put one on, I felt like I heard angels singing—it was incredibly comfortable and met all my criteria for a good fit. Hallelujah!

Without my fitter, I wouldn’t have found such a great bra. I would have settled for another misfit. If I could find that amazing fitter, I’d give her a big hug. She educated me on finding the right bra and gave me valuable tips.

So, ladies, take the plunge and don’t minimize the impact of a professional bra fitting!

My Top 6 Bra Fitting Tips

#1 Find a Reputable Bra Fitting Specialist

When looking to get fitted for a bra, I recommend visiting a reputable lingerie store with experienced fitting consultants. These stores include department stores with trained staff or specialty bra boutiques (check out our Ambassadors).

Professional bra fittings ensure you find the right size and style for comfort and support.

#2 Look for Shops Specializing in Plus-Size Bras

If you are a curvy girl and wear a plus-size bra (e.g., 40+ band and G+ cup). I recommend calling before you go to the store to ask what sizes they carry. This will save you a trip if they don’t carry your size.

#3 Be Open to Recommendations to Try Different Sizes

Don't be shocked when your bra fitter tells you your size for the first time. For years, I assumed I was a particular size because I thought we stayed the same size all our lives. Not so! Bra sizes can vary between brands and styles, so don't fixate on a specific cup and band measurement; instead, focus on fit and comfort.

#4 Take the Time to Try on Different Bras

Experiment with various styles like full coverage, balconette, or sports bras to find the most comfortable and flattering fit. You don’t know what you don’t know until you try it on. I used to stick to the same brand and style for years until I opened myself up to trying on different styles that were recommended by bra fitters.

#5 Ask Questions and Seek Guidance

There are no stupid questions. Don't hesitate to ask the fitter for advice on the right style and fit for your body type and preferences. Be honest about what you hate so you don’t waste time trying on bras you know you will not like.

#6 Get Fitted Regularly

Purchasing a bra can seem like a mini-investment. So, if you experience significant weight changes or life events that may affect your bust size, get fitted or measure yourself to establish a new baseline.

Caralyn Mirand, undergarment educator and Recycling Ambassador at The Bra Recyclers, shares her recommendations for fitting over on her blog, What to Expect at a Bra Fitting:

“I like to recommend getting a bra fitting at least once a year, some bra fitters I’ve spoken to recommend every 6-8 months, depending on life changes. We are constantly growing and changing, sometimes our bra sizes do too - and that’s okay! If you’ve had any significant change in weight or hormonal changes, it’s time to get re-fitted.”

Measuring Your Bra Size at Home

But for those who still don’t want to have a professional bra fitting, there are great sources online that will help you get a pretty accurate measurement.

I learned so much about bras and fitting myself over a decade ago from Tomina Edmark, owner of Herroom.

Her simple approach to explaining anything and everything about bras made it so easy for me to help others find the right size bra and style.

Her step-by-step bra size calculator is an easy way for you to measure yourself.

1. Measure Your Band Size

Measure your band size by wrapping a measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, just below your bust. For example, here we have measured 34″ for the band size.

2. Measure Your Cup Size

Measure your bust size by wrapping the tape around the fullest part of your bust. For example, here we have measured 38” for the bust size.

3. Calculate Your Cup Size

Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement to determine cup size.

In this example, we’re subtracting 34” from from 38”. The difference is 4” which equals a D cup.

So by using our cup size calculator, our lady would be a 34D. This would be your baseline size.

8-Step Checklist for Finding the Right Bra For You

© Pro_Vector / Adobe Stock

Following tips for a professional bra fitting is important to finding the right bra.

However, since bras vary in shape, size, and quality, understanding what makes a good bra is equally important.

Knowing the various parts of a bra can help you determine how each impacts the fit and comfort.

For example, women with larger busts might need extra support, and it's important to note that the band provides most of the support in a bra.

Understanding the role of cup construction can also be vital, as it affects how well the bra contours and supports different breast shapes and sizes.

✅ Ensure the Band is Not Constricting

There is no worse feeling than feeling like you are being squeezed to death. The band should be parallel to the ground and snug around your ribcage.

✅ Your Boobs Should Not Spill Over

The cups should fully contain your breasts without any spillage or gaps. I will note that there are certain styles, like plunge bras, where it looks like your breast will run out; if you have a larger cup, you might want to take a little extra care when leaning forward or dancing the night away.

✅ Center Panel Should Be Flat

The center gore/panel should lay flat against your sternum/breastbone. If it is not flat, then the cup could be too small.

✅ No Wrinkly Cups

Your breast tissue should fill your cups. There should not be any gapping, meaning you should not be able to put your whole wallet in the bra and still have room for your breasts.

✅ No Slipping, Sliding or Digging

No, these are not the rules for your kids' playground. Straps should be adjusted comfortably without digging into your shoulders.

✅ Stick and Stay

The bra should stay in place when you move around. When trying on your bra, raise your arms, move around, dance, etc. Your bra should stay in place when you perform normal activities. Give your bra a test drive.

✅ No Poking Allowed

The underwire should encase your breast tissue without poking or digging into your skin. This can be very uncomfortable. Your breast size and shape can impact how your underwire fits you. So, trying different styles is always good when finding the most comfortable underwire bra.

✅ Love It Or Leave It

If you have any doubts and don’t love it, don’t buy it; leave it in the store. Bra shopping can be an emotional journey, and we just want to be done with it. If you don’t feel good about how you look and feel in the bra, that is not the bra for you. Don’t throw your money away!

Remember that a well-fitting bra can enhance your comfort, confidence, and overall look!

If you have a bra cemetery in your drawer, it is time to clean it out and recycle your bras. You will make room for the right-size bras and help women and girls in need.