Breast Cancer Awareness: Focus On Fit
by Lisa Siegel

Early Detection is Key
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which makes this a great time to encourage women to do their monthly breast self-examinations, schedule a yearly gynecological visit, and have a mammography if you are forty or older (thirty-five if you have a history of family breast cancer). Ninety-five percent of all breast cancer is curable if detected early.

In conjunction with taking care of our bodies, why not make this a month to revamp our lingerie drawer as well? Shake out the “tired and true” undergarments and assess them for fit and form. This might be a good time to rethink measurement as well. Our bodies do change (and, sadly, gravitate) with age. Last year’s bras might need tossing in lieu of new ones. You might be surprised at what a difference the right sized bra makes underneath your clothes.

Sizing Counts
First, get a measuring tape. Stand in front of a mirror and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust line. Write down this number, as it will determine your cup size. Second, measure around your ribcage directly underneath your bust. This number will determine your band size. If your band size measurement is between 27 and 31 inches, add five inches to determine the band size. For example, if you measured 27 inches underneath your bust, then your band size is a 32. After 31 inches, add 3 inches for your band size. For example, if you measured 33 inches underneath your bust line, then your band size is a 36.

Now to determine the cup size, compare the band and the cup measurements. If the measurements are the same number (a 27 ribcage and a 27 bust line), then your cup size is an AA. If the cup is 1 inch more than the ribcage, then your cup size is an A. If the cup is two inches greater than the ribcage, then you are a B cup. If the difference is 3 inches, then you are a C cup. If the difference is 4 inches, then you are a D cup. Accuracy with these measurements will mean a better fit.

Proper Bra Fit
Look in the mirror at your current bras and determine if they cause bulging or ride-up. Bulging means your bra is too tight. You should have a smooth contour line. Your breasts should not bulge out over the bra itself. If your bra rides up in front, then it is too small. The underwire should sit underneath the breast. If your bra rides up in back, then it is not giving enough support. The band should sit level across your shoulder blades. If it rises up in back, then the front of the bra will drop, causing sagging. If the back band is not level, then increase the band size. If the band is level and there is still sagging, then increase the cup size. Also, when trying on new bras, measure based upon the last fastener. As fabric loosens over time, you will need to tighten up on the remaining hooks for more support.

Fun Bra Styles
Once you take care of the fussy details like the proper size and fit, then you can enjoy a wide range of styles. Try a demi cup for plunging necklines; a smooth tee shirt bra for a smooth line underneath tissue fabric tees; gel padded for those looking for a fuller figure; and a full cup for more coverage. Strapless and convertible bras allow for coverage even when shoulders and necklines are exposed. Push-up bras might do well with eveningwear, particularly those with jeweled straps or lace insets. Racer back sports bras always provide the right support for active women. Fabrics range from smooth cotton, stretch, lace embroidered and satin. Make what’s underneath as important to your wardrobe as the clothes themselves. And don’t forget to take care of your health. Have a great month!

Lisa Siegel, Writer
Lisa lives in Atlanta, GA and is a "Totally Mom" to two school aged boys.