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FROM THE TOP
Choosing a bra depends on your figure type
(whether small-chested or well-endowed) and on your wardrobe
needs (from low-cut, clingy knits to high-necked, tailored
wovens). There is a wardrobe of bras to choose from that covers
a wide variety of needs, from smooth satiny styles to wear under
silks and knits to strapless or convertible bras for that
special gown.
A GUIDE TO FIT
Getting the proper fit is critical. If there are
weight fluctuations or a pregnancy, the fit should be rechecked:
- To MEASURE BRA SIZE:
Always measure with the bra on. For band size (i.e.,
34, 36, 38, etc.), hold tape gently and measure around chest
directly above bust at underarm level. If measurement is an
odd number, add 1", For cup size, (i.e., A, B, C),
measure around fullest part of bust. The band size minus the
fullest bust measurement determines cup size.
FULLEST BUST MEASUREMENT
MINUS BAND SIZE |
CUP SIZE |
| 0" or less |
AAA |
| 0" to 1/2" |
AA |
| Up to 1" |
A |
| Up to 2" |
B |
| Up to 3" |
C |
| Up to 4" |
D |
| Up to 5" |
DD |
| Up to 5 1/2" |
F |
Add one cup size for each additional inch.
- To Put On:
Slip straps over shoulders, lean forward to fill cups fully;
hook fastener. Then straighten up to adjust straps.
- Check Front-to-Back Angle of Bra:Should
be straight or slightly longer in back.
- Center Front Fit:
Seam or closure should lie flat against breastbone, with no
gaps between caps.
- Frame/Sides:Should
lie smoothly, without binding or "cutting in," or flesh
overflowing.
- Straps:Should
support comfortably without cutting into shoulders.
- Cups:Should
fit smoothly, without wrinkling (try a smaller cup size) or
pulling (try a larger cup size). The breasts should fill the
cups without overflowing.
A BRA PRIMER
Bras are available in a range of styles and
fabrics to suit your wardrobe needs and your mood! Select
from tailored, sheer, lacy, stretch and combination styles
in silky soft DuPont TACTEL® nylon, satiny
ANTRON® nylon, cottony soft SUPPLEX® nylon or
luxurious MICROMATTIQUETM
microfiber polyester, often blended with LYCRA® brand
spandex for extra comfort, fit and freedom of movement.
CUP STYLES
| Seamed:
A basic bra for every figure that needs a little
more support. The seams define the bra's shape and
size. |
Padded and Padded
Push-Up: Bras with
fiberfill padding that add size, definition and a
natural, well-proportioned look to smaller
bust-lines. Padded push-ups go a step further,
offering maximum cleavage and curves. |
| Seamless:
For all figure types that need a smooth look under
clothes. Choose exact size, from light to full
support, as cups are molded into a permanent shape
and fit. |
Underwire:
Bras with soft, flexible wiring under each cup to
lift, separate and support the bust-line.
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| Contour:
A "lightly padded" bra with a minimal layer of
fiberfill to add definition and size to small
bust-line. and in-between sizes. |
Soft Cup:
A bra without underwires or padding. |
| Stretch:
Bras made of fabrics with LYCRA® lend a smooth,
sleek look and great freedom of movement, comfort
and fit. |
Demi-Cup:
A cut-away, contoured underwire bra that lifts and
reveals the tops of the breasts for a decollete
look. |
FRAME STYLES
Full Support:
Features banding under caps, substantial sides, and closures
with two or more hooks.
Light Support:
Features cut away sides, little or no banding under cups.
Front Closure:
To accommodate plunging or v-neck lines, a bra cut low
between the cups, with front hook or clasp.
BEYOND THE BASICS
| Strapless:
For strapless fashions, an underwire bra with wide
sides. Fabrics with LYCRA® brand spandex add extra
comfort and stay-in-place fit. |
Halter:A
bra with convertible straps that fasten behind he
neck, for backless dresses; can also be worn
conventionally, crisscrossed or one-shouldered.
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| Wide-Away:A
style with widely-spaced shoulder straps, for
revealing necklines. |
Sports Bra:
For working out, a support bra that allows a full
range of motion and minimizes bouncing. Quality
features include wider straps; cups lined in COOLMAX®
to wick moisture away from the skin and protect
against chafing and irritation; and cup and body
fabrics blended with LYCRA® for comfort and freedom
of movement. |
| Minimizer:
Designed to de-emphasize full bust-lines.
Non-constricting fabrics with LYCRA® give a smooth,
natural, flatter look. |
Racer-Back:
Like a racing tank swimsuit, a style with straps
that meet in a v-shape in back, between the shoulder
blades. Good for sleeveless tops. |
FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
Nursing: A bra
with specially-designed cups that open at the top for
nursing.
Mastectomy: A
bra with special pocketed sides to accommodate a prosthesis.
Bustier: A
lavish lace-trimmed, bosom-to-hip corset style garment,
usually with detachable garters.
Long Line: A
midriff-slimming bra with to-the-waist panels for extra
smoothing.
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