Common Bra Fit Problems & Solutions

A great bra should feel like it's barely there. If you're experiencing discomfort, you're not alone. Explore our expert guide to diagnose and solve the most common bra fit issues.

Illustration of a bra band riding up a woman's back.

Band Riding Up

Cause 1: Band is too large. Go down a band size (e.g., 38C to 36D).

Cause 2: Straps are too tight. Loosen your straps.

Cause 3: Bra is old. Elastic wears out. Time for a new one! Shop our sales.

Illustration showing a bra band digging into a woman's sides.

Band Digging In

Cause 1: Band is too small. Go up a band size (e.g., 34D to 36C).

Cause 2: On the tightest hook. A new bra should fit on the loosest hook. Try a wider setting.

Illustration of bra straps digging into a woman's shoulders.

Straps Digging In

Cause 1: Straps are too tight. Loosen them until you can fit two fingers underneath.

Cause 2: Band is too loose. The band isn't doing its job, forcing straps to carry the weight. Go down a band size.

Cause 3: Straps are too thin. Shop bras with wider, cushioned straps.

Illustration of a bra strap slipping off a shoulder.

Slipping Straps

Cause 1: Straps are too loose. Tighten them gradually.

Cause 2: Cup size is wrong. Cups that are too small or too big can cause straps to widen and slip.

Cause 3: Bra is old. The elastic is worn out and has lost its grip.

Unsure of your size? Use our Size Calculator.

Illustration of side spillage from a bra cup.

Bulging Sides

Cause 1: Band is too small. A tight band can squeeze tissue outwards. Try a larger band size.

Cause 2: Not enough coverage. You may need a style with more side support. Try Full Coverage styles.

Illustration of 'quad-boob' or overflowing bra cups.

Overflowing Cups

Cause 1: Cup size is too small. This is the classic "quad-boob" sign. Go up one cup size.

Cause 2: Improper "Swoop & Scoop". Make sure all your breast tissue is properly placed inside the cups.

Illustration of gapping bra cups.

Gapping Cups

Cause 1: Cup size is too large. This is the most common reason. Re-measure with our calculator.

Cause 2: Cup shape doesn't match breast shape. Try a different style for your bust type. For shallow busts, try a T-Shirt bra. For fuller-on-bottom shapes, a Minimizer can help lift and fill the cup.

Cause 3: Improper "Swoop & Scoop". Ensure all breast tissue is properly positioned in the cup.

Illustration of an unsupported, drooping bustline in a bra.

Dropping Bustline

Cause 1: Unsupportive materials. The bra's structure can't handle the weight. Choose styles with a firm band, wide straps, and full coverage cups.

Cause 2: Cup size or style is wrong. A cup that's too big gives no lift, while one that's too small causes spillage. Re-check your size.

Illustration of an underwire poking into the breast or armpit.

Poking Underwires

Cause 1: Cup size is wrong. If it's too small, the wire sits on your breast. If it's too big, it digs into your armpit. Try one cup size up or down.

Cause 2: The bra is old or damaged. A bent or broken wire can't be fixed and is a safety risk. It's time for a new bra.

Solution: Choose bras with a padded underwire casing for extra comfort, like our Lace Collection.