The band test
The band carries 80% of bra support. It should sit horizontally across your back at the same height as the front. Two fingers should fit underneath — no more.
Signs the band is too big
It rides up your back, the underwire pokes forward, you constantly tighten the straps for support, or the back gore (centre piece) does not sit flat against your sternum.
- Band rides up at the back
- Center gore does not lie flat
- You tighten straps for lift
- Back hooks slip up
Signs the cup is too small
You see "double bust" — bulging over the top or sides of the cup. Underwire sits on breast tissue rather than your rib cage. The bra leaves red marks where the cup edge sits.
Signs the cup is too big
Wrinkles or empty space in the cup, the cup edge stands away from the body, or the underwire gapes forward.
Strap check
Straps should not dig in or fall off. If straps are doing all the lifting, the band is too loose. Adjust band first, straps second.