Studies show that most women often wear the wrong size bra, even though it is an integral piece of clothing. Considering there is very little awareness of how to choose a bra, it has been neglected for far too long. Women are realizing the need to ensure they wear the right bra. A good bra helps you be comfortable, enhances the look of your outfit and also lets you go about your daily activities.

Here are our tips on how to buy a bra and the common bra types you can consider:

1. Get your measurements right
The right fit is everything. Remember that your bra size is never stagnant. It can change every year with fluctuations in your weight as well as hormonal changes in the body. Also, measuring your bra size is really simple. Use a tailor’s measuring tape to measure the fullest part of your breasts and the area of the rib cage just where your breasts end. The first number is your cup size and the second is your band size. Now each inch counting forward from your band size represents the cup. So, if your band size is 34 and your cup size is 35, then you are 34A.

If taking measurements is confusing, do not hesitate to ask the shop assistant for help.

2. Wear the right clothing
When buying a bra, you should ideally wear the outfit that you plan to wear with that bra in order to see if it fits right. If you have no specific outfit in mind, then your best bet is a simple, light-colored T-shirt. A T-shirt will show you how visible your bra seams are in the most flimsy of clothing.

3. Note if it feels ill-fitting
When buying a bra, the most important consideration should be comfort. If it feels uncomfortable, it is not right for you. Do not buy into myths that it will eventually grow on you or fit well with time. It should fit well the first time around.

4. Check for discounts
Finally, bras are expensive to buy and there is no harm in checking for discounts. Most lingerie discounts are available online more frequently as compared to in stores. In order to be able to buy lingerie online, it is important to know your correct size. Once you do, you can avail of many discounts such as buy 1 get 1, 50% off, and many more. Make sure the website you are buying from has a good return policy in case the bra does not fit well.

5. Common bra types to consider
There are many different styles of bras designed for specific outfits. However, some common bra types should be owned by every woman in her wardrobe. Here we take a look at some of these common bra types that are a must-have:

• Mesh sports bra
• Cotton bra
• Lace bra
• Racerback bra
• Padded bra
• T-shirt bra (seamless)
• Strapless bra

This guide should be a good starting point to help you settle on the right bra for your body. Also, keep in mind that the material the bra is made of is extremely important for your comfort.