Bra basics for getting the right fit

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

By Gretchen McKay, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Most of us choose our bras based on price, style and general comfort. But only an experienced bra fitter can tell you if your bra truly fits -- that the band fits snugly but not too tight and the support comes from cups and band instead of the straps.

Here are the basics of measuring:

Measure the rib cage under the bust, making sure the tape is snug and straight against the back, and then add 5 inches to that number to obtain the band size. If the number is odd, round up to the next even band size.

For example, if your rib cage is 29 inches, your band size is 34; if it's 30 inches, your band size is 36.

Then measure around the bust at the fullest point. The difference between this number and step one (the band size) is your cup size, with one inch of difference equal to one cup size. One-half to one inch = A cup, two inches = B cup, etc. Less than one-half inch is a AA cup, and 5 inches is a DD cup.

Most fine department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's, offer free fittings on a walk-in basis. You can also be fitted at no cost at upscale lingerie stores, including the Pussycat in Squirrel Hill, Lady Godiva Lingerie in Penn Hills and all Victoria's Secret locations.

Once fitted, though, beware of buying another bra based simply on size, as one maker's 34B might fit like another's 36C. And don't take that size as gospel for the next decade -- gaining or losing even five pounds can alter your shape significantly. That said, it's probably not a bad idea to stock up when you find something that fits well, because styles very often are discontinued.

One final tip: Always wash your bra in lukewarm water by hand or in a lingerie bag with a gentle detergent such as Forever New. And be sure to air-dry.

Sampling of local fitters

The Pussycat, 5824 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill; 412-521-5977; www.AnotherPussycat.com.