The Best Way to Put Your Bra On

Bras are essential to many women’s wardrobes, providing support, shape, and style. But let’s face it: putting one on can sometimes feel like a wrestling match with a stretchy band of fabric. Whether you’re a bra beginner or a seasoned pro, knowing the best way to put your bra on is key to comfort and support. In this article, we’ll break it down step by step, with a fun twist to keep things light and engaging. We’ll also cover the common pitfalls to avoid, so you can ensure your bra game is always on point.

The Bra Dance

Putting on a bra is like performing a mini dance routine. There’s some twisting, some turning, maybe even a little shimmying, and finally, the grand finale—a perfectly fitted bra that makes you feel confident and comfortable. But just like any dance, mastering the art of putting on a bra takes practice and a little know-how.

So, let’s dive into the choreography of bra-wearing, step by step.

The Right Bra for You

Before you even start thinking about putting your bra on, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re wearing the right size and style for your body. A bra that fits well will be much easier to put on and more comfortable to wear. If you’re unsure of your size, it’s worth getting measured by a professional or using an at-home measurement guide. Different bras serve different purposes, so whether you need a sports bra for high-impact activities or a lacy number for date night, choose one that suits your needs.

Pro Tip: When shopping for bras, consider trying on a few different styles to see which one feels the most comfortable and supportive.

The Classic Hook-and-Eye Method

Now that you’ve got the perfect bra, it’s time to put it on. The classic hook-and-eye method is the most common and straightforward way to get your bra on. Here’s how:

Step 1: Start by placing your arms through the straps. Let the bra hang loosely around your torso with the cups in front.

Step 2: Reach behind you and grab the band. This might require a bit of flexibility, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

Step 3: Hook the band at the back. Depending on your bra, you might have one, two, or three hooks. Start with the loosest set of hooks, as the bra will naturally stretch over time, and you can tighten it as needed.

Step 4: Adjust the straps. Once the bra is hooked, adjust the straps so that they sit comfortably on your shoulders. They should be snug but not digging into your skin.

Step 5: Shimmy and adjust the cups. Lastly, make sure the cups are sitting correctly and that your breasts are fully enclosed. A quick shimmy or a little adjusting might be necessary.

Pro Tip: To avoid wearing out the band too quickly, don’t pull it too hard when hooking it. A gentle tug should do the trick.

Woman doing her bra up at the back.

Fasten Your Bra at the Front, Then Swivel It

If you find it tricky to reach behind you to hook your bra, there’s an alternative that many people swear by: fastening your bra at the front and then swiveling it around. This method is especially handy if you have limited flexibility or just prefer a simpler way to get the job done. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Position the bra backwards on your torso. Start by placing the bra around your waist with the cups facing backward. The band should be in front of you, making it easy to reach the hooks.

Step 2: Hook the bra in front of you. Fasten the hooks while the bra is still around your waist. This is often much easier than trying to reach behind your back.

Step 3: Swivel the bra around. Once the hooks are securely fastened, gently rotate the bra around your torso until the cups are in front. Be careful not to stretch the band too much during this step.

Step 4: Pull the bra up into place. After swiveling, pull the bra up so that the band sits snugly under your bust and the cups cover your breasts.

Step 5: Adjust the straps and cups. Slip your arms through the straps and adjust them so that they sit comfortably on your shoulders. Finally, make any necessary adjustments to the cups to ensure everything is in place.

Pro Tip: To avoid stretching the band unevenly, swivel the bra slowly and carefully. This method works best with bras that have a bit of flexibility in the band.

Woman adjusting her breasts in her bra.

How ‘Not’ to Put Your Bra On

We’ve all been there—those days when you’re rushing out the door, and your bra is just not cooperating. Here’s what not to do:

Don’t pull your bra over your head. Bras are not designed to be stretched this way, and forcing them over your head can strain the band, warp the cups, and compromise the overall fit. This can lead to discomfort and reduce the lifespan of your bra.

Don’t step into your bra and pull it up. Stepping into your bra and pulling it up like a pair of underwear can also stretch the band in ways it wasn’t designed to handle. This method can cause the bra to lose its shape, leading to a poor fit and less support.

Don’t ignore twisted straps or bands. This can lead to an uneven fit and potential irritation.

Don’t yank the straps too tight. This can cause the straps to dig in and leave you with uncomfortable red marks.

Warning: Using improper techniques to put on your bra can result in a less supportive fit, discomfort, and even damage to the bra itself. Take the extra time to do it right, and your bra will thank you with better support and longer wear.

Conclusion: Mastering the Bra Routine

Putting on a bra might seem like a small part of your daily routine, but it can make a big difference in your comfort and confidence. By following the steps above and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll ensure that your bra fits perfectly and supports you throughout the day.

Whether you prefer the classic hook-and-eye or front fasten and swivel, practice makes perfect. So, next time you’re getting dressed, take a moment to appreciate the little dance that is putting on your bra—and enjoy the comfort and confidence that comes with it.

Amy x

Amy Jaffers - Sports Bra Expert

Amy Jaffers

Amy is the face behind Sports Bras Direct, Australia’s largest sports bra website. She's a mother of two, outdoors lover and sports bra expert. Her life mission is to help active women get the support they need as well as assisting women in need through her charitable donations.

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