When you get back home tonight, take a good look at the bra you’re wearing. (You could sneak a peek now but it may look odd if you’re in an open-plan office!) More than 70% of women around the world are believed to be wearing the wrong size bra!

In fact, Woolworths technologist Dominique Nielson, says here in SA this figure could be much higher for women who’re not getting the correct support!

Un-bra-lievable!

Nieslon has told ECR Life editor Anisa Ussuph: “A lot of people will go in and buy the same bra they’ve been wearing since they were teenagers without even considering looking at something else.”

She says there’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to body shapes and types of bras but you do need to walk into a store and try on different styles to find the one that works for you: “Your best bet would be to try on the bra and find how it fits you.”

She says we don’t expect every pair of jeans to fit everyone so why do we assume it’s true for bras? They come in different sizes and styles, plungers and props ups, padded and underwire, sports and strapless and so on.

Nielson also points out: “Every woman’s body is different. Every breast shape is different. The woman first needs to understand in her mind what she wants from the bra. Does she want a sports bra, does she want a plunge bra for a fancy function or does she want a full-support bra? Then go and look at the ranges on offer. “

Unfortunately a lot of bras come in packages so often many of us would check out the model on the cover and say “That looks great!” and whip out our wallets. Nielson says to make sure you’re getting the right bra for your bod, you need to go in and try on different styles. Woolworths offers a bra consultant service in its stores* so help is on hand if you need pro advice.

How do you know you’re wearing the wrong one?
Hard to believe but wearing a bad bra can actually trigger headaches! US health experts point out that an incorrect size or fit can result in chronic headaches, back pain, tingling in the arms, breast pain and restricted breathing. They say look out for the following – if the signs ring true, it’s probably time to consult a professional:

1. Spillage. If your breasts spill over the top or sides of your bra, your bra needs adjusting or you may be wearing the wrong type/size.

2. Puckering. If cups wrinkle or pucker, you should’ve gone for a smaller size.

3. Riding up. Experts say a bra should fit snugly. If it creeps up your back, you probably need to replace it with one with a tighter band.

4. Jutting. If the underwire is sticking out, throw out the bra.

5. Grooves. If the straps dig into your shoulders and back, you’re likely wearing the wrong size or have gone for the incorrect style.

So, what makes a good bra?
The next time you’re out shopping for a little out-of-sight number or two, here’s what you need to bear in mind. The perfect bra:

** Is a great fit. It’s the correct size and fit for your unique shape.
** Offers good support.
**Serves your needs. If you want to unleash that sexy siren within, you won’t go for a sports bra. Rather, a push-up bra becomes your best friend!
** Is made of good quality material such as latex-free elastic. Many women are allergic to latex and the last thing you want is to take off your bra after a hard day at the office to find the map of the world in red splotches! Besides, latex-free elastics last longer compared to elastics containing latex. Nielson says latex deteriorates quite quickly especially in our heat and humidity.
**Looks good. Nielson says you can often just look at a bra and see if it’s been poorly made. You know that it’s not going to last very long and it’s not going to be very comfy.

How often should you change your bras?
Your bra does have a shelf life you know. It’s easy to hold onto your favourite favourites but girl, you’ve got to learn to let go!
Nielson says: “It’s not only because of the quality and construction. It’s also because a woman shouldn’t been wearing the same size bra forever and ever.”

Our bodies are changing all the time. You may’ve put on a few kilos after the festive season or you may’ve lost some. And these weight fluctuations affect your bra size. Nielson says you should take advantage of bra-fitting services and have yourself measured every six to twelve months.

She also points out that materials used to make bras are delicate and are not meant to last forever. Not all stores do rigorous testing on the fabrics used to make bras so you’re not always guaranteed superb quality.

If you follow the wash instructions on the label and if you’re wearing the bra every second day or so, Nielson says the bra should last you on average about six months to a year.

Caring for your bras
Check the labels! Many bras are not machine-washable. Nielson says that’s because the wires that a lot of the manufacturers are using don’t stand up to machine-washing. You may’ve learnt this the hard way, mourning your favourite lacy number that’s been bent out of shape after a wash. If it says hand wash only, don’t pop it into the machine.

If it’s okay to machine-wash, remember to close the hook before you put it in so it doesn’t snag on anything.

Also, put your bras into a laundry bag or even a pillow case before putting them into the machine, to further protect them.

So, take a good look at your underwear drawer tonight. Try on your bras, see whether the fit and the style is right. Remember, choosing the right bra style is as important as choosing the correct size. And if you’re not sure, get professional advice. There’re plenty of pros out there!

*Professional bra consultants are available at all Woolworths stores.