Going bra shopping is surprisingly difficult. With so many different styles, details and types to choose from, how will we ever know which one to go for?
According to a study conducted by Victoria's Secret, 80 per cent of us aren't aware of our true breast size. Some people go their entire lives without ever knowing whether they're a B cup or a double-D.
Size isn't the only thing we should watch out for when buying a bra. Some styles can actually hinder your breast growth and development when worn on a long-term basis. Here's how.
People with a bigger bust should seriously consider limiting the length of time they wear sports bras and tankinis because... there's a scientific reason for this!
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Tyla spoke to certified bra fitter Olivia Hogan for more information. "If you have a bigger bust, wearing sports bras every day is definitely not recommended", she said.
"They work by compressing your chest, which over time can damage your breast tissue and affect your lymphatic system".
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She continued. "When shopping for bras, look for the ones that have a high centre plate (this is the middle of the bra that joins the two cups together).
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A lot of people shy away from underwire as it is deemed uncomfortable but this only happens when your bra is ill-fitting. To get the best support, underwire should encapsulate the whole breast and sit behind the breast tissue".
People with smaller boobs should seek to avoid plunge bras and instead opt for a balconette. But why?
"It depends on how the bust sits", Olivia said. "People with smaller breasts may find that they aren't able to fill out a plunge bra and there can be some gaping over the top. You won't get the support you need from a plunge bra.
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Balconettes are supportive for most breast shapes as they lift the bust up".
A supportive bra isn't simply about the bust. Bad backs and strained shoulders can also be caused by an ill-fitting bra.
"Your bra band supports 80% of the bust weight. Ideally it should fit right to the body so when pulled away the gap isn't greater than an inch.
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You should always wear new bras on the furthest hook, and work your way in as the band stretches".
In other lingerie news, we finally found out why bras have little bows on the front!
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash