Different makes of bras, different styles can all fit very differently. It is not unusual to have several different bra sizes in your collection. We are all very unique individuals with our own body shapes. Ava & Belle believe that your bra size should only be used as a guide, and more importantly that it is the fit of the bra that is important. We want your shopping experience with us to be as stress free as possible. We have put together some tips to check that you are wearing a bra that fits you the way it should, as well as some common bra fitting problems.
After surgery, in the first few weeks, most ladies tend to wear a soft bra that isn’t too resistive or a front fastening bra that may be easier to put on. During this time many ladies also tend choose a bra with high cotton content. Some ladies who have had reconstruction surgery may still choose a mastectomy bra because of the added benefits of its support. A mastectomy bra may look like an ordinary bra but they tend to have some specific features. Mastectomy bras are not just for ladies having had breast surgery; sometimes they are preferred by non-mastectomy ladies for the support and comfort that they provide.
A mastectomy bra tends to feature:
Deep centre fronts which allow for better shape and definition through separation of the natural breast. A deep centre also allows for comfort and coverage of the breast form giving comfort and security.
Discreet integrated pockets in the cups of the bra designed to hold a prosthesis or breast form.
Most mastectomy bras are non-wired with a deeper underband helping the bra to stay in place, providing security and comfort.
Mastectomy bras tend to have seamless deeper sides which may conceal scarring and may also help to reduce irritation.
The straps of a mastectomy bra are often wider and may also be padded for extra comfort.
Some mastectomy bras also have an integrated camisole such as Tilly by Nicola Jane and Amber by Amoena, which helps to cover any high scarring and gives a little more coverage over the chest area in a discreet, feminine and elegant way.
In addition to their camisole bras both Anita and Amoena offer a camisole top which can be attached to their bras giving that higher coverage, on days where you may feel that you need it or as a feminine and elegant touch to your outfit.
Bra Fitting Tips
If you wear a prosthesis the fit of the bra should be against your natural breast to give support.
The UNDER-BAND
The underband should be firm but comfortable. It should not ride up, if it does ride up, then it is too big and therefore reduces the amount of support that you are getting from your bra. We would suggest dropping down a back size, however to compensate you would need to go up on the cup size.
If your underband is too loose you may find that your breasts slip or show underneath your bra. In this instance we would suggest trying a smaller underband, but to keep the same volume in the cup, you would have to go up on your cup size to compensate.
When a bra is new it should be fastened on the loosest hook and eye, so that when the bra stretches with wear, it can be tightened to maintain the support.
Bra Straps
If you experience slipping straps firstly ensure that they are tightened to a comfortable position, as they do tend to slip. You may find that a full cup style of bra may also centre the straps. If you find that your bra straps are digging in, it may mean that your underband is not giving you enough support. We would suggest trying a smaller back size or you could try loosening the straps slightly.
Cups
Your breast should be well enclosed within the cup. If your breasts are bulging over the cup, then try going up on the cup size. If the cups are gaping or there is excess material/wrinkling in the cup then we would suggest trying a smaller cup size whilst keeping the underband the same size.
Wired Bras
If you prefer a wired bra, once healed, ensure that the wires do not sit directly on to scar tissue or on your natural breast. It is also important to ensure that you do not show any signs of lymphoedema. With an underwired bra the wires should sit flat against the body, and the wires should sit around the breast tissue without digging in.
Bra sizes
From style to style and manufacturer to manufacturer bra sizes and fit can vary. It is unlikely that you will be the same size in every bra style therefore use your size as a guide only. A well fitting bra should feel comfortable and supportive. A good fitting bra can also improve your posture and silhouette as well as giving relief for the back helping you look the fabulous person that you are.
European/International sizing
Sometimes different cup grading is used, compared to the UK. For example the brand Anita do not recognise DD therefore you would need to order a D or an E cup. Having said that they are generous on their cups sizes so If you are a small DD cup we would suggest ordering a D cup, but if you are a fuller DD cup we would suggest ordering an E cup as an example. If you have any concerns or questions please contact Ava & Belle, we will be happy to help with any queries.
