I remember the first time I got to pick out a bra. I was kind of excited, kind of embarrassed and I made my mom buy it while I waited far, far away. Now that I've moved past that awkward pre-teen stage, I have no problem finding a good bra.
While almost all women wear bras, I was shocked to find out that 80 percent of women wear the wrong size. Here are nine signs your bra doesn't fit quite right:
1. You spill over
One huge sign that your bra is the wrong size is if your chest is spilling over the top. If this is happening to you, you might need to go up a cup size or two. You'll be way more comfortable, and the fit will be much more flattering.
2. You have it clasped on the tightest clasp
Contrary to popular belief, you should actually clasp your bra on the first clasp when you get it, instead of the second or third. As time goes on and your bra stretches out, you'll eventually make it to that last clasp.
3. The back band is up by your shoulder blades
Your bra band should sit at your middle back - not between your shoulder blades. If your bra is riding high on your back, you'll want to loosen your straps or go down a band size.
4. You have marks where your straps are
Don't let your bra straps dig into your shoulders. If your straps are leaving painful red marks, either loosen your straps or buy a bra with a smaller cup size. The smaller cup size will take some of the pressure off your shoulders and better support your chest.
5. There's room between the cup and your breast
This one is obvious, but you may want to tighten your straps or buy a smaller cup size if there's a lot of room between your breasts and your bra.
6. Your back is bulging
No one likes feeling that extra back flab when your bra is digging into your skin. Either go a size up on your band, or clasp it on the first clasp if you're not already.
7. Your straps are too loose
There's nothing more annoying than bra straps that fall off of your shoulders. Instead of pulling them up all day, just tighten them until you can fit two fingers comfortably and snugly between your shoulder and strap.
8. You haven't been properly fitted
Even though it might be a little awkward, it's so important that you take the time to get a proper bra fitting. Go to a trusted bra store and have a specialist help you. They'll be able to tell you what size you are and what type of bra would work best for you.
9. You've been wearing the same bra for years
Bras change over time, and not for the better. If you can't remember the last time you bought a new bra, it's definitely time for a new one. How frequently you purchase a new bra depends on how many you have in rotation and the quality of those bras, but bra expert Bobbie Smith suggests replacing them every eight months.
If you show any of these signs, it's definitely time to upgrade your bra. Happy shopping!