Finding the perfect fitting bra can be a challenging task for many individuals. Despite the plethora of options available in the market, there are several persistent issues with bra sizing that can make the process confusing, uncomfortable, and even exclusionary. In this blog post, we'll delve into the problems with bra sizing currently, and shed light on the need for change in the lingerie industry.

Inconsistent Sizing Standards: One of the biggest challenges with bra sizing is the lack of standardized sizing across different brands and countries. Unlike other types of clothing that typically follow standardized sizing charts, bras often have their own unique sizing systems, which can vary significantly between brands and even between different styles within the same brand. This can lead to confusion for consumers who may find themselves wearing different sizes in different brands, making it difficult to determine their correct size and find bras that fit well.

Limited Size Ranges: Another issue with bra sizing is the limited size ranges offered by many bra brands. Often, these size ranges focus on what is considered "standard" or "average" sizes, leaving out those who don't fit into these narrow categories. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with larger or smaller breasts in conjunction with smaller or larger ribcages. It can result in discomfort, poor fit, and lack of options for those who fall outside the limited size ranges. Did you know that the original cup and band sizes were based on a non-representative set of women in the 1930s?

Inaccurate Measuring Methods: Measuring for bra size is typically done using a tape measure to determine the band and cup size. However, this method can be imprecise and may not take into account other factors such as breast shape, density, and spacing. As a result, many individuals end up with bras that don't fit properly, leading to discomfort and dissatisfaction. Inaccurate measuring methods can also result in inconsistent sizing recommendations, further complicating the process of finding the right bra size.

Limited Representation of Diverse Bodies: Bra sizing systems are often based on outdated and narrow ideals of what a "standard" or "ideal" body should look like, excluding individuals who don't conform to these norms. This includes people with larger or smaller breasts, people with non-binary or gender non-conforming identities, and people with bodies that deviate from traditional sizing charts. The lack of representation can result in exclusion, discomfort, and negative body image for those who don't fit into the standard sizing options available in the market.

Limited Education and Awareness: Many individuals lack proper education and awareness about how to measure for bra size and how a bra should fit. This can lead to misconceptions and misunderstandings about bra sizing, resulting in ill-fitting bras that can cause discomfort, pain, and other health issues such as poor posture and breast tissue damage. For example, did you know that your bra band should not have more than a finger width of room off of your ribcage? And that the band should provide 80% of the support and not the straps? The lack of education and awareness about proper bra fitting further exacerbates the problem of finding bras that fit well.

Here are some other articles we love about the problem with bras:

https://thewalrus.ca/hope-youre-well-pandemic-bra/

https://www.npr.org/2014/08/05/337860700/bra-history-how-a-war-shortage-reshaped-modern-shapewear