THE RIGHT FIT

Bras are more than just support structures - they are our daily armour. While they are not always comfortable, with the right knowledge and care, they can serve you better. Consider this your ultimate bra manual.

- WORDS BY LETHIWE NHLANGOTHI

If you're anything like me, you have a love-hate relationship with bras. An undergarment that's meant to be comfortable and offer the support of a loyal bestie soon becomes tight and uncomfortable like it has a personal vendetta. As much as this undergarment is my least favourite closet item, I've come to realise that maybe I'm the problem. Maybe it's the way I wear, store and take care of my bras.

Many of us were never schooled on how to correctly wear a bra, care for it or even know when it's time to toss it. From finding the perfect fit to understanding why that pesky wire keeps poking out, a few tweaks to your bra habits could completely change your relationship with this piece of clothing.

Fit check: Are you wearing the right size?

According to lingerie experts, most women are wearing the wrong bra size. That go-to push up bra in your drawer may actually be betraying you rather than supporting you and your bust.

How to check:

• The band should sit firmly but comfortably around your rib cage without riding up.

• Your breasts shouldn't be spilling out of the cups (that includes any side-boob overflow).

• Straps should stay in place without digging into your skin and leaving deep marks.