Bra Adjustments ---Getting Hooked-Up Right

Ladies after you have measured and found your correct Band Size and Cup Size to find the proper fitting Bra it is now time to make any needed adjustments.

The three things you should consider in making these adjustments are:

1.STRAP: Straps are largely dependent upon the bra style and should be adjusted everyday. To fit properly the bra should fit level across your back. Do not tighten the straps so tightly that they dig into your shoulders, but tight enough to hold the bra in place. Please note that if your straps are always falling off your shoulders then your band size in too big.

2.CUP: Your breast should not be squished out of the cup nor should there be wrinkles in the fabric of the cup. If you are spilling out of the cup or being squished out of the cup of your bra, your cup size is too small and if there are wrinkles in the fabric of the cup then your cup size is too large. The exception to this would be the Demi Cup/Half Cup Bra. Also in the case of underwire bras they should fit comfortably around the breast not on top of the breast tissue. The wire should lay flat and not poke. Your breast should fill the cup without spilling out and your breast should fill the cup without extra space.

3.BAND: Your band should not be to tight or to loose. Your band should make a perfect circle around your rib cage. It should not be so tight that you can not fit a finger under the band or so loose that the band rides up in the back or the front. Clues to improper fit are that your bra in uncomfortable and you see rolls of flesh over the sides, try a larger size. Or if your bra rides up and breast peek out or the clasps come undone or the straps fall off your shoulders then your band size is too loose, try a smaller size.

If is so important to have the correct fitting bra. You feel better and look better in your clothes.

Bras-- Wirefree VS Underwire

When bras were first designed, their main function was to provide support to prevent backaches and reduce breast sagging. Today, there are many different types, designs, and styles of bras. While their main function is still to provide support, the different types also have secondary functions, such as enhancing the appearance of the breasts or an outfit. One of the biggest debates over bras is determining if underwire or wirefree bras are a better choice. Both types have their advantages and limitations, and many women own both types of bra. To determine whether underwire or wirefree bras are a better choice when bra shopping, women first need to determine which type of bra they need. Then they can examine the benefits and drawbacks of underwire versus wirefree bras. 

Accroding to bra type ,we have discussed in an other article: Different Types Of Bra 

Then come to advantages and limitations of wirefree and underwire bra .

Underwire Bras

An underwire bra is a type of bra that has a thin rigid material sewn into the underside of the cup of the bra. In the past, this rigid material was a wire, but now it can be made of metal, plastic, or resin. The purpose of the wire is to provide additional support for the breasts. Underwire bras are by far the most popular and best-selling type of bra on the market. This is because in addition to the support they provide, underwire bras have a number of other desirable qualities. In contrast, these bras also have several disadvantages and some consumers have concerns about their safety.

Benefits

Underwire bras have many benefits which is why they are the most popular bras on the market. The main benefits of underwire bras are that they provide superior support to the breasts and also enhance the appearance of the breasts under clothing.

Support

Larger breasts are heavier and require additional support. The underwire of the bra is very rigid and is able to provide this support. This can help to eliminate fatigue over the course of the day. Typically, breasts that are a cup size B or larger benefit from the support provided by an underwire. A-cup bras and training bras do not need underwire because the additional support is not needed.

Appearance

The wire in an underwire bra also functions to lift, separate, and shape the breasts. The underwire of the bra helps to maintain the shape of the bra and give the breasts a round appearance. This is often more beneficial for larger breasts, but also desirable when worn with shirts and tops that reveal cleavage.

Disadvantages and Concerns

One of the main disadvantages to underwire bras relates to comfort. The rigidity of the underwire can become extremely uncomfortable over the course of the day. Additionally, the wire can tear through the fabric of the bra or become bent out of shape and poke the skin of the wearer. Once this happens, the bra will need to be replaced.

Health Concerns

Underwire bras have also been linked to several health issues, with some being more common than others. The most common concern would be in the impact on lactation and breastfeeding. If a bra with an underwire is worn while a woman is lactating, then the added pressure on the breasts can cause clogged milk ducts. Breast pain, mastitis, and some allergies have also been reported from wearing underwire bras.

Wirefree Bras

Wirefree bras are also known as softcup bras and they do not have the rigid underwire sewn in. These bras are made entirely of fabric to provide support for the breasts. Though they are not as popular as underwire bras, many women prefer wirefree bras. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to suit any occasion or outfit. Like underwire bras, softcup bras do have their benefits and disadvantages.

Benefits

Comfort is by far the greatest benefit of a wirefree bra, and it is the most common reason women choose these bras over their underwire counterparts. They provide an average amount of support for all types of breasts. Because there is no underwire to bend or break, wirefree bras can also last longer and are easier to care for. Wirefree bras are also more flexible which makes them more comfortable for pregnant and breastfeeding women who tend to have sensitive and sore breasts.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage to wirefree bras is that they do not provide the same lifting and shaping effects that underwire bras do. When women are trying to enhance the appearance of their breasts or cleavage, it can be harder to do this with a wirefree bra. Though wirefree bras do provide a good amount of support, they cannot support larger breasts as well as underwire bras can.

Both bras have their benefits and drawbacks, and the choice really comes down to personal preference. 

Ways To Keep Bra From Slipping

Bra straps that constantly fall off your shoulders are an annoying and common bra problem. Here is some tips to keep it from slipping.

Women may be surprised to learn that their problems with bra slippage aren’t the result of an old, worn out bra. It is often caused by the straps being set too widely on the band of the bra, or by the cup size being too large for the wearer. When strap slippage problems occur, women can find a solution by crossing their bra straps or sewing straps holders into their shirts, as both solutions will physically hold the straps together. Devices to hold bra straps in place can be purchased or created by women with some sewing knowledge. Women may be able to prevent strap slippage by purchasing a properly fit bra in a special style where the straps are placed close together on the band. 

Causes of Bra Strap Slippage

When a woman has a problem with strap slippage on her bras, there can be a few different causes. It is not typically caused by old bras, where the bra elastic is stretched out, but rather an ill-fitting bra. The straps may be sewn too far apart on the band of the bra. Wide set straps are commonly used on bras intended to maximize cleavage, such as push - up bras. If this is a consistent problem, look for bras with the straps sewn closer together. Another cause of bra strap problems could be a cup size that is too large, meaning that the bust won’t fill out the cups enough to pull tight on the straps. This means that the straps are loose enough to slip down the shoulders. The straps may also be attached to the band with a small plastic ring. This ring allows the straps to shift and twist around, which allows them to slip down the shoulders.
 Tips to Keep Your Bra Straps from Slipping

Women have a few options to stop their bra straps from slipping. These tips involve looking at the style of a new bra before buying, changing the position of the straps, and adding strap holders to the bra straps themselves. These tips will all go a long way towards helping the average woman secure her bra straps without worry.

Look at Bra Styles

Wide set bra straps can slip down the shoulders very easily. Instead of having to deal with this style problem in a bra, pick out a bra with one of the three following strap styles: camisole, leotard, or racerback straps. 

Strap Style	Description
Camisole	Bra straps are sewn to the back of the band at a right angle; good for larger sizes
Leotard	Straps and band cut from a single piece of material; forms a U-shape on the back of the bra
Racerback	Straps extend up from a harness type band in the center of the back

These three strap styles aren’t the only styles used on bras. Other styles may also work well for women with strap slippage issues, and the best solution may be trial and error.

Hold the Straps Together

Some women purchase or improvise bra strap attachments to keep their straps in place by holding them together. One device, called The Perfect Strap, clips onto both straps and holds them together. A narrow piece of ribbon can also be used to hold the straps together. The straps can also be pinned together using a safety pin.

Sew Bra Strap Holders into Shirts

Some women also opt to sew simple bra strap holders into their shirts and blouses. This only requires a length of ribbon, scissors, metal snaps, thread, and sewing needle. Sew one half of a metal snap onto a corner of ribbon. Sew this corner of ribbon into the inside shoulder of a blouse or shirt. Sew the other half of the snap to the outside of the bra strap where it will meet the other snap on the inside of the shirt. Repeat for the other strap of the bra. When putting on a bra with a strap holder, press the snaps together and this will help hold the strap upright throughout the day.

Crossing the Straps

Some bras also come with adjustable straps that can be hooked and unhooked to put them in different positions. To keep straps from slipping down their shoulders, women can cross them in the back. This is a little awkward to put on, but helps revive an older bra with loose straps.

 

Conclusion

Bra straps commonly fall down the shoulders when they are sewn too far apart on the bra band, or when the bra cup size is too large and doesn’t apply enough tension on the bra strap when worn. Women have a few options available to them to keep their straps from slipping down. The best method for stopping slippage is to buy a properly fit bra. This may mean taking new bra band and cup size measurements. If this is difficult, women can make an appointment with a local retailer specializing in bra fittings to get their measurements taken. Other options to stop straps from slipping include getting a different style of bra, sewing strap holders into shirts, holding the straps together with a strap holder, and crossing the straps in an adjustable bra. 

Wide Bra Straps VS Thin Bra Straps

This guide covers the different types of bra straps and the benefits of thick and thin straps.

Women face many choices when shopping for bras. One of the most important features of a bra is the bra strap itself, and whether to choose wide or thin bra straps. There are various types of bra straps to consider, such as camisole and leotard straps. The right choice depends on the style of the outfit and the wearer’s preference. Some women may be aware of the advantages and limitations of both thick and thin bra straps. For instance, thick bra straps provide a lot of support, while thin bra straps are easier to conceal. 

Types of Bra Straps

There are a number of different types of bra straps, including leopard straps, camisole straps, and convertible straps. Each of these have their own advantages and limitations. A shopper should familiarize herself with the different types and how they are suited to certain outfits or body types.

Camisole Strap

A camisole strap bra is one where the straps are sewn onto the back of the bra at a right angle. This creates a box-like shape at the back and is the oldest style that is still in use. This strap is commonly found on camisoles which is where the name came from. In addition to working with any type of bra, camisole straps are also great for larger sized chests because the bra can have as many fastners as is needed. to provide support. These straps can be made out of elastic or a rigid fabric, and they are easy to alter.

Leotard Strap
Leotard straps are a comparatively new design. They are also known as U straps. These are curved like the back of a leotard. This type of bra strap is quickly becoming the most popular type. There is usually some elastic involved to ensure that these straps hold their shape. This also lets the wearer move around and raise her arms without the back band shifting and needing frequent adjustment. There are a few disadvantages to this type of strap though. The straps attaches to the back at an angle. If the straps are too wide they can fall off the wearer’s shoulders. Additionally, due to the design, this kind of bra strap has a limited number of bra fasteners.

Convertible Straps

Some straps are also convertible. This means they can be worn a number of different ways. This kind of bra has hooks in the front and back, so the straps can be taken off or rearranged. For instance, if the buyer has a halter top, she can take off one of the straps.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Thick and Thin Straps

Bras come with thick and thin straps, and there are benefits and drawbacks to both kinds.

Straps	Benefits	Drawbacks
Thick	Thick straps are often found on bras for women with fuller chests. They provide the needed support. The bra is comfortable and the straps do not dig into the wearer’s shoulders.	Thick bra straps may frustrate many women because they can be difficult to hide under camisoles and other tops. Although more designers are creating bras with thick straps, the majority of bras incorporate thin straps.
Thin	One of the benefits of thin straps are that they are very easy to conceal when wearing a variety of different outfits. This is especially true if a woman is wearing spaghetti straps or a similar top. Thin straps also tend to look sexier than thick straps do. This makes them perfect for a romantic evening or if a woman wants to wear clothing that lets the straps show.	Unfortunately, thinner bra straps can be uncomfortable for some women, especially for those with larger busts. If a woman really wants to wear thin straps, but they are digging into her shoulders, she may look into comfort strips that can be added to the straps. Since these are somewhat noticeable, a woman won’t be able to use comfort strips under spaghetti straps.

The width of the strap can be a difficult choice, because it can be like choosing between style and comfort. A woman should consider her outfit and her body type when choosing between wide bra straps and thin bra straps.

When To Replace Bra

There comes a time when it becomes beyond absurd and you begin to see signs that it’s time to shop for a new bra.

Most bras last up to one year, but this depends on a few factors. Proper care and cleaning of the bra is essential to longevity.

How Long Each Type of Bra Lasts 

The longevity of a bra depends on the type of material, the purpose of the bra, and how frequently it is worn. Most manufacturers recommend that women keep a few different bras and alternate them daily to increase longevity. Some bras, such as full support bras, are expected to be worn more often than other bras.

Everyday Bras

Bras worn by women on a regular basis, such as the training bra, light bra, padded bra, and full bra usually last between 1.5 to 2 years when properly cared for and rotated out on a daily basis. If the bra is rotated with three to four other bras it will last much longer. However, rotating one or two bras daily will shorten the lifespan of each garment a great deal. It is time to toss the bra when the elastic is stretched out or the bra feels loose when worn. This means it is no longer providing necessary support. Severely stained or worn out bras should also be tossed.

Sports Bras

While these bras aren’t worn as often as everyday bras, they do wear out quickly. This is because they are made only of a cotton/spandex blend, and see heavy usage during workouts. These bras start to lose their supportive elasticity after six months to a year, depending on how often they are worn. They should be tossed when the elastic begins riding up in the back, or the bra no longer keeps the breasts from moving during a workout. Stained, warped sports bras should also be replaced.

Adhesive Bras
These bras aren’t worn very often, so they can last for a very long time. Since they are used infrequently, their longevity is measured in number of times worn. Adhesive bras and other silicon based products for the bust can usually be worn up to 90 times with proper care. When the bras start to crease, tear, or look flattened, it is time to replace them. 

Signs To Replace Bra

1. It used to be white 

After time and many wears and washes,white get dingy and colors fade.If your bra is no longer shiny and  new ,it is time to replace  it .

2.Supportive or support-less 

 A proper fitting bra size is like your best friend.It should always support you.If you start feeling let down.time to let it go.

3.Wired out

Underwires are actually quite comfortable .If yours feels more like a torture device,it has probably been through one too many tumbles or is the wrong bra size. 

4.Making adjustments

We love that you can adjust the straps for a perfect fit and we wish all tank tops and camis came so well equipped ,but after a lot of wears ,even that feature can become inadequate .

5.Over-exposed

Constantly fooling with slider thingy to make it feel the right bra size ? Don't bother .Replace!How many guys have seen this bra ?Now add three for the actual number and trade it in for a new model thats a better bra size .

     Women need to replace their bras when their bust size changes. This happens when a girl or woman outgrows her training bra, becomes pregnant and start developing milk, or gains or loses weight. Changes in size can make a bra too loose to provide support or too tight to wear comfortably. Obviously, bras that are damaged in any way should be replaced.

Different Types Of Bra

When bras were first developed in the 1920s, they were simply undergarments that provided strong support for women's breasts, preventing problems like sagging breasts and backaches. Today, designers and manufacturers worldwide have added to the value of a bra by offering women close to 20 different styles to fit their needs:

1. Training bra. This type of bra is designed for preteen or teenage girls who are in the early stages of breast development. It is smaller than standard bra sizes, and its cups come without underwire support. Aside from providing some measure of breast support, it helps young girls to become accustomed to wearing a bra.

2. Full cup bra. This bra provides full support, as it comes with underwired cups and covers most of the breasts. It is recommended for all women, and especially for those with heavier breasts.

3. Demi cup bra. A demi cup bra covers only half the breasts, with its cups coming up above the nipples. This bra is suitable to wear with clothes that have plunging necklines. It is supportive, yet provides maximum exposure of the breasts.

4. Padded bra. This bra comes with padding inside the cup linings, adding volume to smaller breasts. Padded bras are popular with teenage girls, who may otherwise stuff their training bras with tissues to make their breasts look fuller.

5. Underwired bra. Bras can come with or without underwire in their cups. An underwired bra provides strong support to the breasts and also maintains the shape of the bra. Some women claim that underwired bras lift their breasts, while others find these bras uncomfortable or painful.

6. Strapless bra. Strapless bras come with no straps or straps that can be removed. This style is very useful for clothes that bare shoulders, such as tube dresses and halter tops.

7. Convertible bra. This bra comes with detachable straps that can be arranged according to one's needs. It is usually worn with clothes that reveal the back and shoulders, such as backless dresses with halter top necklines.

8. T-shirt bra. T-shirt bras are made without a raised seam in order to appear invisible when worn under a body-fitting t-shirt.

9. Minimizer bra. This bra is commonly sought after by large-breasted women who wish to reduce the appearance of their breasts by a cup size or two.

10. Maximizer/Push up bra. These bras lift the breasts and emphasize cleavage through their unique structure and extra padding. The padding may come in various forms, such as water sacks or silicone inserts. The goal is to give a fuller, more natural look to breasts of all sizes.

11. Sports bra. Sports bras are made for active women who engage in rigorous physical exercise. They are designed to be comfortable and supportive by holding the breasts in place during motion, therefore reducing damage to soft tissues of the chest. These bras are usually made of stretchable material to provide a snug fit.

12. Built-in bra. A built-in bra is one that comes with the clothing, eliminating the need for a separate bra. This style can be found attached to the insides of swimsuits and tube tops. Some built-in bras are just horizontal, elastic fabric, but others have padding and underwired cups as well.

13. Shelf bra. This bra covers only the lower part of the breasts, leaving the nipples and upper part of the breasts exposed. It is not supportive and is worn in sexual situations.

14. Peephole bra. A peephole bra features holes around the nipples. Its loose coverage of the entire breasts is insufficient to provide significant support. This type of bra is also worn in sexual situations.

15. Maternity bra. Women's breasts become more sensitive, heavier and larger throughout pregnancy. Maternity bras are adjustable and can expand to take these changes into account.

16. Nursing bra. These bras are worn to ease the breastfeeding process. They are made with flaps that can be unclasped or pushed to the side, keeping the breasts supported during breastfeeding.

17. Mastectomy bra. A mastectomy bra is intended for women who have undergone the removal of one or both breasts due to cancer treatments. Here, the cups are made with pockets to keep breast prostheses in place and simulate the existence of breasts.

Choosing a suitable bra is indeed a challenge these days. One bra does not fit all, and hence, it is best to invest in a good set of bras that cover one's usual range of activities. For instance, a regular jogger should purchase a good sports bra, while a more social woman should spend on convertible bras that fit her many formal evening outfits.

This article is not written by me ,but I add some photos to make it can be easily understood.

Panty glossary -full types of panty

Trying to pick your perfect panties? Here's your easy guide to what panty design terms mean, and what the cuts can do for you. Take a look, and then choose your look...sleek or lacy, demure or racy...smooth microfiber or soft cotton.

Full to Moderate Coverage Panties

Traditional Brief:

Panties that give you generous coverage, front and back. Typically the waistband comes to the natural waistline. Has a low leg line with a squared off appearance.

Modern Brief / Low Rise Brief:

Provides smooth, generous front and back coverage. The waistband sits 1-2 inches below the natural waistline, for a lower rise than traditional briefs. The low leg line has a squared off appearance.

Hi-Cut:

Gives coverage in back, leg-lengthening higher-cut leg openings in front. Full rear coverage comes to the natural waistline. The leg opening hits the high point of the hip.

French Cut:

Designed to flatter legs. Panty gives full rear coverage that comes to the natural waistline. The leg opening hits the high point of the hip and is positioned more to the front than a standard hi-cut.

Control Brief:

Looks like a brief or hi-cut, but also slims you. Can be as smooth as a conventional panty or include control panels for extra trimming.

Hipster:

A panty with a lower rise than a brief or hi-cut, for less show-through with low cut pants and shorts. Hipsters usually sit 3 inches below the natural waistline. Provides full seat coverage. The hipster has a lower leg line that is squared off in appearance.

Shorts

Boy Short / Boy Brief:

The boxy design is cute and comfortable. Boy shorts have a variety of rises in the waistline (sit at the natural waist to 3 inches below the natural waist). The leg line typically hits below the buttocks, but some are more "cheeky". Typically Boy Shorts have a fabric hem instead of leg elastic.

Girl Short:

Squared off like boy shorts, but a little more lacy and racy. Instead of the leg line hitting below the buttocks, the girl short usually shows part of the butt cheek.

Moderately Revealing Panties

Bikini:

Typically sits 3 inches below the natural waistline, making bikinis a good choice for lower-cut pants. Full seat coverage plus a scooped-out leg line.

String Bikini:

The same rise and coverage as a bikini, but the front and back panels are connected with a small amount of material or "strings" at the sides, for a flirtatious look.

Low Rise Bikini:

Has a very low rise, typically 4-5 inches below the natural waistline. Combines full seat coverage with a more scooped out leg line.

Revealing Panties

G-string:

Full coverage in front, but only a very thin (string-like) band of fabric in the back that rests between the buttocks. Comes in a variety of rises in the waistline (from just below the natural waist to 4 inches below the natural waist).

Tanga:

"V"-shaped for "very sexy". Tanga has the same V-shaped coverage in the front and back. Typically shows off about half of the buttocks. A European-style cut of panty.

Thong:

Gives full frontal coverage, but in back just a narrow piece of fabric rests between the buttocks. Comes in a variety of rises in the waistline (from just below the natural waist to 4 inches below the natural waist).