An interview with a dude who knows bras

When I got the chance to ask bra-fitting expert Don Allen a few questions, I thought, “Why not?” I believe that I’m often wearing a bra that doesn’t fit, so if there are a few key things to check for when I try one on, I’d like to know.

Don works for Olga and Warner brands of bras, so there is a plug at the end. But still, useful info. Read it!

Whitney: What’s the first thing that in-the-know-bra-fitters look for to determine if a woman is wearing the wrong bra size?

DA: A bra-fitter is going to take a look at you in your current bra and is going to look for three things:

* Does the gore, the center part of your bra in the front, lay flat against your body?
* Does your bra sit comfortably around your body without riding up your back or pinching? If your back panel is riding up your back, the band size is too big. If it’s pinching then the band size is too tight.
* Are the breasts contained without any spillage? No “double bubble” at the neckline or underarm spillage

These key factors will help determine if you need to go up or down a cup size or increase the size of the bra band.

Whitney: I’m afraid to buy bras online because I’m not convinced that the sizes are standard across brands. Are they?

DA: It’s best to go into a store and try a bra on first before purchasing on the internet to ensure that you have the correct fit. This is especially important if your breasts have changed in size recently to due becoming pregnant or giving birth – every bra company fits slightly different. When you are in need of replenishing your current bra wardrobe but don’t have time to run to the store, this is a great time to shop online.

Whitney: Pregnancy and nursing can change your breasts so much. I feel like I haven’t been a stable size for more than 6 months at a time for the past 4 years. I’m recently completely done with these activities. (Pats self on back.) What beautiful bra should I treat myself to?

DA: If you are average-figure, we are just about to launch the new Warner’s Elements Of Bliss Lift Wire-Free Bra. This bra features light contour cups that provide support and shaping with a beautiful accent, a cotton-candy lining. The bra’s super-soft pads provide an age-defying lift and add just the right amount of oomph under your fall wardrobe while giving your décolletage an amazing look under cocktail dresses and tops. It’s just what you need as you are getting your body back to its pre-pregnancy shape.

If you’re full-figure, check out our new Olga® Wire-Free collection. The bras provide amazing support without wires, which is going to be extremely comfortable for a new mom. We haven’t forgotten that a full-figure woman still wants to feel beautiful underneath it all, so we’ve included a variety of luxurious details in the Wire-Free collection such as satin trims and lace accents. The collection is the perfect marriage of comfort, support and beauty.

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Note to readers: I don’t know what full-figured means. I have “big ones” but am petite overall. Does anyone know if “full-figured” means overall big ladies or just big boobs/booty?