How to Choose the Right Bra

Most women are unaware that they are not wearing the right size bra or struggle to find bras that fit. Instead, we suffer with ill-fitting and uncomfortable shapes - which not only look unflattering, but can cause long-term problems such as back and neck pain. To add to the problem, most women will change bra size up to four times during their lifetime. And with people getting larger, the problem is getting more acute as retailers have to keep up with changing lifestyles and body shapes. According to research, the average woman is now 4cm taller than that in 1951, and two dress sizes larger.

So, where to start? Your best bet is to go to a good department store for a proper fitting. Any trained sales assistant will take your measurements (under and around the breasts to give the chest and cup size) and will be happy to show you a selection of bras in different styles. As you are probably well aware from going to various fashion stores, different manufacturers have different takes on sizes - so you might be a size six in one brand, but a size eight in another. The right bra will provide the right amount of support, without the straps digging into your skin, pinching or riding up at the back.

When trying on a bra, experts advise to "scoop" the breasts into the bra cups before doing up the fasteners, as this will give a truer picture and a better fit. Of course, it's not a case of one size fits all - you will need a selection of different bras to suit different outfits. And don't be surprised if you're one size in one particular style, say a balconette, but another chest or cup size in a different style like a strapless. It's a mistake that many women make. However, don't be pressured into buying lots of bras that you don't want. And be sure to try out different stores for advice - it can differ widely.

For women with smaller breasts, there are a range of padded styles available from the likes of Elle "the body" McPherson's Intimates range and Victoria's Secret. Women with larger breasts are better off opting for unpadded styles. Calvin Klein and Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten range have pretty but unfussy bras suitable for young girls.