If you are like me, you've been wearing a bra for so long that you just grab the old comfy one and throw it on.  It's usually a few years old and stretched out but bra shopping is no fun and the familiar one is the easy go to.

But here's the thing, chest size fluctuates all the time.  Weight gain, weight loss, time of the month, salt intake, etc, can really change things.  People asked me if I had a boob reduction when I was 20 and started weight training seriously, and two people recently asked me if I had work done on my breasts.  Hate to disappoint, but it is simply fat gain.  :) Yes, it was guys, and fortunately, I didn't get a comment about my slightly rounder pooch.  

 Of course, it's no fun having the "four boob" bra look or cups that are too loose, not to mention an indent on the top of your shoulders from supporting breast weight. 

So here is a reminder on the correct way to measure for the perfect fit.

For the Body size:

1.  Measure under the bust around the bottom band of your bra keeping the tape measure parallel to ground. The result will be your body size.  If the number is odd, round up to the even number.

For the Cup size:

Measure around the fullest part of your bust.  Subtract your body size for this bust measurement.

The difference determines your Cup size.  

1 inch equals an A cup

2 inches equal a B cup

3 inches equal a C cup

4 inches equal a D cup

5 inches equal a DD cup

I found this amazing video that demonstrates how to fit a bra beautifully.  For our larger size ladies, it really can make a difference in the amount of pressure on your shoulders when you have the right bra.  

Thank you to the lovely nurse and model at the University of Iowa Healthcare for being our brave leaders.  This video explained bra fittings in greater detail than others I have seen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIcwLBt4S64

Here is a second one from SimplyYoursLingerie that I also think is just terrific.  They really get into the size of the band and how a too large band will ride up the back and make your shoulders take more of the weight.  (That is my usual problem)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYRxUb21Yg0

Let's get the pressure off of our shoulders and stop those bra ride ups, ladies.

xo Jamie

Hope this was helpful!