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Fashion

Perfect fitting bras and panties 101

Check out our guide to finding the right bra size and panty shape for your figure.
By Elizabeth Cabral
Woman measuring bra size
Why do some women always look so well put together? Sure, they have style, but they're also likely wearing the correct bra and panty size. The right bra, panties and support garments make all the difference in how your clothes fit and look—and also how comfortable and confident you feel. Unsupportive bras, slipping straps, and visible panty lines will be a thing of the past with these lingerie fitting tips. Bra fitting: If you have a small chest Look for a demi-style bra that's a horizontal-shaped half-cup and covers just over your nipple. They provide a subtle, natural boost. If you want a bigger boost, add up to a full cup size with either a seamless, padded and molded bra or a style with removable gel inserts. Bra fitting: If you have a big bust Stick to bra styles that have a fuller-cut cup with wide, no-dig straps and substantial underwires. For more support try a seamless minimizer that smoothes and shapes your chest while reducing your bust size up to one full cup. If you have a thick tummy For comfortable, light shaping try microfibre and spandex high-waisted briefs. If you're wearing body-hugging clothes, get a total tuck with a one-piece brieflette—a body-suit style bra and panty that shapes your entire middle. If you have a bigger bottom Avoid panty lines by shaping and lifting your bum with seam-free shorts. Or streamline your silhouette from waist to knees with minimizing, seam-free leggings.
Fit solutions: Try these simple tricks for quick lingerie fixes.
Problem: Spilling out of the top or sides of your bra. Why: Cup is too small. Fix: Go up a cup size or try a style with more coverage. Problem: Rippling or wrinkly bra cup fabric. Why: Cup is too big. Fix: Go down a cup size or try a demi cup (half) style. Problem: Bra back is riding up. Why: Either your straps are too tight or the cups are not supportive enough. Fix: Loosen straps, or try a firmer support style. The back of your bra should be sitting level just below your shoulder blades. Problem: Digging straps. Why: Straps are too tight or you may need more support. Fix: Loosen straps or try a style with wider padded straps. TIP: Your breasts aren't necessarily the same shape so make sure you adjust your straps individually. Problem: Visible panty lines. Why: Bulky fabric or loose-fitting panties. Fix: Look for seamless briefs that cup your cheeks without riding up, or try a thong.

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