Are you wearing a ‘Plus Size Bra’ or one with ‘standard’ fitting? Is it a large or small cup size? What about the back size – Is it comfortable all day long? Do you stick with this size because “That’s what I’ve always worn”?!

Are you sure your current Bra is the right size Bra for you?

Here’s a simple checklist to help you find out:

1) Hook the bra together so it hangs around your waist. 

Make sure the straps are loose, you can tighten them later if you need to. If you have trouble hooking a bra behind your back, you can hook the bra at the front and then twist it around your waist so the hooks are at your spine.

2) Lean forward and pull the bra up from the front only, sliding your arms through the straps.

The cups may feel empty or a little too big at this point, but that's perfectly normal. The band should be snug and low on your back.

3) Lean forward and using the opposite hand, reach into the bra and pull the soft flesh near your armpits into the cup.

Pull all the soft flesh up and forward. Then hold the bra in the centre between the two cups and jiggle it. 

4) Check the fit and tighten the straps.

Straps should not be so tight they dig into your shoulders but also note there should be no slack.

Does the bra pinch your breasts or make it look like you have 4 boobs?! Then it's probably the wrong size. Your nipples should be about halfway between your shoulder and elbow. If your breasts are spilling out of the sides of your bra, you definitely need another size.

5) Remember your bra size is not permanent and will change along with your body.

Just because you are a 40F now doesn't mean you will always be a 40F! If you've gone through a major body change or your bra doesn't feel right, take your bust  measurements again. 

Get refitted if your weight has fluctuated more than 10 pounds, you've had a baby, started exercising regularly, or have completed hormone therapy

6) Get to know your breasts.

The size and shape of your breasts may impact your bra size and influence which style is most flattering to your body. Breasts and bodies come in every shape and size. Instead of worrying that your breasts don't look like a Victoria Secret Model's, concentrate on dressing for your body and finding what looks best on you. 

Examine detailed fitting guides that recommend bras for many different shapes and types of breasts. They make suggestions for women with prominent breast bones, large areolas, distended stomachs, and more. 

7) Consider the function of the bra you are buying.

Is this an everyday bra to wear under a t-shirt? Do you wear a lot of low-cut shirts or are you planning to wear a backless dress? Maybe you can only afford one bra and need something with versatility? There are tons of possibilities for different styles, cuts, and fits. 

Check out our guide to the pros and cons of different bra styles, and on which bodies and breast shapes they work best. 

A wire free bra can be a great everyday bra to wear under T-shirt or with other form-fitting clothes, as it will be almost invisible underneath. 

8) Buy a sports bra for exercising. 

If your breasts bounce or move too much during activity, the supportive ligaments begin to break down. Bouncing can also become very painful, and the discomfort may eventually prevent you from participating in activities. 

Check the impact or intensity level when shopping for a sports bra. A low-impact bra works great for yoga or hiking. A high-impact bra is necessary for activities like running. 

Smaller-breasted women are usually comfortable in compression bras and look like a cropped tank top. For fuller  busted women, a bra that cups and encapsulates each breast may be more comfortable and inhibit bouncing. These bras have wide straps and clasps. 

You may also find a bra that combines compression and encapsulation, which will give you the best support overall. 

Whatever your choice of Plus Size Bra, Natural Curves have a wide selection of large cup sizes (up to N cup) as well as larger back sizes (up to 56”).

Click here for our Guide To Plus Size Bra's.