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Plus (or minus) what? Comfiest band size for you
What is your personal equation for optimal band size? Are you happy with it or do you feel forced to make do because of what's on the market (e.g. not enough options for a true 26 band, or very heavy breasts requiring the tradeoff of a very very firm band)?
Also, how do you advise others about band size when bravangelizing? When I'm helping someone find their optimal fit, after debunking the +4/5 rule, I try not to be dogmatic about a specific starting point for band size based on underbust measurements. I basically say you want a number "close" to your real underbust measurement then give a little expose about different scenarios for different ribcage shapes, body composition/distribution of muscle and fat, breast weight, etc. and how this would influence whether you might want to try +0, or minus a couple inches, or plus a couple, etc. I find most people appreciate the detailed info and go on to find their personal "comfy point" pretty quickly. (Cup size/shape/etc. is a whole other kettle of fish obviously.)
Filed under Bra sizing and fit
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When bravangelizing with people who are a similar ribcage measurement to me, I like to have them try because I have 28 - 34s on hand. I prefer 32s and tight 34s (and really worn 30s) in spite of my really tight measurement being 27 and being really squishy (the absolute loosest I can get the measurement tape without it falling down is 33). A lot of people like getting close to their tight measurements but I don't and I might be an anomaly, but I suffered from too tight bands, but others might not. It has a lot to do with preference.
I'm not convinced there's a One Rule To Fit Them All.
The first bra a real fitter put me in is...minus an inch or so? And it is not an excellent feeling thing to wear. But I am made of muscle and the part of my sternum that is relevant collapses in so the firm measurement is pretty much the same as the "as tight as it goes" measurement. +1 is actually comfortable.
But then other people are squishier & need the support of the -1 or more. Anatomical factors are a consideration that are ignored by formulas entirely, hoping that everyone will be served close enough (just like everyone is a 32-38 A-D...)
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