Wearing a wrong size bra is not only uncomfortable, it also causes a range of health problems. Studies have shown that lack of breast support often leads to breast pain, and 50% of women report it. An inappropriate bra that does not give proper support can also cause damage to the skin of the breast – usually considered stretch marks, due to skin stretching beyond its recovery point.
Unfit bras are also associated with neck, back and shoulder pain, bad posture, friction and abrasions, causing skin abrasions.
We also see that a bra that does not fit can cause permanent changes in the body, such as deep shoulder grooves that can be created by the pressure of the bra strap. The unfit bra is even related to the desire to shrink the breast. And 80% of women wear bras that don’t fit, which can be a major problem. In a study evaluating women’s bras that wanted to reduce breast surgery, everyone wore an unfit bra.
The lack of breast support and the difficulty of finding a fitted bra are also associated with reluctance to exercise and have significant long-term consequences.
Despite the considerable health effects, millions of women continue to wear unsuitable bras.
Forget the size of the cup
In 1935, the Warner Bros. incorporated the breast volume into the bra size and introduced the letter bra cup size system we use today.
This original bra size system rose to the D cup. But since the introduction of this system, body size has changed a lot. Many women now buy D cups or larger bras. Some bra companies use the same size system to make the bra a N cup.
The size of the bra is difficult to measure. The accuracy of the bra measurement is affected by breathing, posture and how thin you are. Researchers recommend that bra size measurements should be made on a fitted, linerless and thin bra. But most women may be installed in the store when wearing their own bra, whether it is suitable or not.
Bras produced by different manufacturers have inconsistent dimensions because there is no universal size or grading method. Unfortunately, bra operators have different experiences and do not have agreed skill levels or bras to qualify.
The bra market can be overwhelming and confusing. However, unlike shoes, the breast changes size, shape and position throughout the menstrual cycle and throughout life. The size of the female bra can be changed regularly. Despite this, women have limited guidance in assessing the fit of their bras.
Our research team works with most lingerie companies around the world to provide a scientific, evidence-based approach to bra development. We use 3D scanners and biomechanical techniques to understand the fit of the bra.