Debenhams has been running a campaign urging women to get measured for their bras. The service is completely free, and I buy a lot of my underwear from Debenhams already, yet I had never been fitted myself. I am ashamed to admit it, but I just never prioritised it highly enough.
The fitting
To trial the service, I went to the Oxford Street branch of Debenhams and got fitted for a bra. My fitter was fabulous, friendly and a real expert. She started off by measuring under my bust and asking what size I currently wore. To be honest, she could pretty much tell what size I was just by looking (some men claim to be able to do that, but they would lose against this lady I tell you).
My fitter went to get me some styles to try in two cup sizes. After trying on a couple of styles it became clear that in bras with padding I would require one size, but on those without straps I would need a slightly smaller size. I had no idea about this before, my bra shopping consisted of a 'best guess' approach which, when you think about it, is just silly. We wouldn't guess at our shoe size, so why guess at our bra size? The difference with your boobs of course, is that the size changes; perhaps because of weight loss/gain or just as another part of that dreaded ageing process. We should be getting measured at least once a year if not more regularly than that and I certainly will in future.
The one thing that stood out at my fitting, is that you really get the first class treatment. You need never leave the changing room with your fitter fetching you the sizes and styles you need. The best bit is that the bra fitter will come and check the fit of the straps and ensure the cup is supporting you where it should. Did you know that when you buy a bra, it should always be worn on the last hook? This is because bras stretch over time and you may need to start wearing it tighter to compensate. The back of the bra should also always be in line with the front. If the back rides up, this is a sign that the bra is too big.
As it turned out, I had (like many women) been wearing bras with the wrong cup size. I am a cup size bigger than I thought I was, meaning I could now shop from the 'fuller bust' section. Get me! The proof of the value of getting measured came afterwards though. I thought I would go and browse the store and try on some bras in my new size on my own. Every single bra fitted perfectly, which is something that has not happened in a long time.
My Choice
I chose to take home a bright patterned set by Masquerade. This bra stood out for me as it was super summery and unlike anything I already had in my collection. I also thought it might look cute if you caught a glimpse down my shirt! Underwear can be seen but still subtle, after all, good underwear should make you feel sexy.
What do you think of my choice?
Also, leave a comment below letting me know when you last got measured. It would be really interesting to know who else has let this important task slip.
Check back later this week for some lingerie buying tips from Debenhams Head of Lingerie Buying.
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8 comments:
Last measured about a year ago - I say measured, I went into M&S and they looked at me and told me (and I was the size I thought I was). These ladies are good at their jobs!
I got measured about a month ago in Orlando Florida (USA) at a Bali store. I found out that I was actually a 32B and not a 34A, which is what I had been purchasing. I bought 3 new bras that day and they all fit me perfectly. I am so much happier now!
I have no idea...i just guess realise, afraid that I may have changed size...
I got measured a couple of years ago, and was amazed at how much more comfortable I felt. Blog entry about it here, if you're interested: http://snailrind.livejournal.com/59591.html
I didn't know we should be measured every year, but it makes sense, and I'll definitely be doing that from now on.
Like you, I liked the personal service, because, unlike you, I don't know much about underwear and am easily daunted by fashion.
Incidentally, I think your summery bra set looks beautiful. :) I am inspired to get all adventurous about my bra shopping and buy one that has an actual colour!
Snailrind.
Absolutely love the set you picked, so summery! Was it expensive? I usually go to M&S to be measured & they do know their stuff, think its about that time of year that I go again, thanks for the reminder ;)
I went to Debenhams to get measured today and thank god that I did! The lady was very helpful and explained what she was measuring and how loose and unsupportive my current bra was. I went from wearing a 38B to a 36DD!!! Amazing how bad we can be at guessing bra sizes! EVERY woman should get this done! I know it makes sense to get it done every few years/every year, but I think once is enough if you aren't keen in the first place. I'm so comfy now and bought 2 new bras after getting fitted. Just had a clear out of my old bras. :D Feels great. (I'm 18)
It's amazing how different the size we should wear and the size we are wearing can be. Thanks for your comments ladies.
It's good to hear that people are having positive bra measuring experiences, I have not been so lucky. I gave up on M&S and gave Debenhams in Cardiff a go last week and the Bra fitter there gave me awful advice. She brought bras for me to try other than the ones which I asked for and advised me to buy the bra which I told her I could barely breathe in! She was pushy, far too personal and intrusive and clearly underqualified. I feel that there is an inconsistancy in training as I had far more luck finding the right size by myself in a comfy change room in John Lewis with respectful and professional staff and won't be returning to Debenhams.
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