When was your last professional bra fitting?

Why is it every time I am having my mammogram or physical it feels like it was just yesterday I was there having that done? But, in reality - it's usually been a couple of years. Same goes for replenishing my bras!

I usually wait until they become uncomfortable and/or it's noticeable they are no longer doing their job. I need to follow my own advice and do this more regularly as good fit in our clothes starts with a proper foundation...

Almost a decade ago, while taking Stacy London's "Style For Hire" training workshop in New York, I was fortunate enough to attend a talk from the same bra expert Oprah had enlisted for her "bra revolution" episode. Here are some of the main takeaways:

Interesting tidbits:

- 8 out of 10 people are wearing the wrong size bra

- we can look up to 5-10 lbs lighter if the bra is fitting properly. Conversely, the wrong size can make you look up to 10 lbs heavier - yikes!

- the fullest part of the breast should lie between the elbow and shoulder

- a bra shouldn't be uncomfortable, but you should be able to feel it. If you can't feel it, it isn't doing its job. Kind of like a shoe - you know it is there, but hopefully it is comfortable!

- a bra can be worn 2 or 3 times before washing, but it should rest between wears

- experts say we should be fitted for a bra every 6 months. (Note: personally I average every 2 years so - I doubt I will ever meet the 6 month mark, but I can definitely improve and become more regular).

Signs you need a new bra:

- the band rides up in the back

- the bust spills over the top of the cup

- cups wrinkle or gape

- straps fall off the shoulder which is an indicator that the bra band is too big around the back

- if the centre gore of the bra isn't laying flat against the chest it is most likely the wrong cup size

Tips for building a bra wardrobe:

- the expert suggested that since there are 7 days in a week we should consider having at least 7 bras in the wardrobe

- if 7 is too much, you should consider a minimum of 3: the one you are wearing, one in the drawer and one in the wash. Note: if you have only 3, you will need to replace more frequently

-types of bras to consider having in a wardrobe: seamless bras for everyday (at least one in nude), strapless, a feel-good one that you like the look of, convertible (t-back option) and a sports bra

Admittedly, this photo was taken for a blogpost I wrote after my most recent bra fitting (which I believe it was September 2019 - I'll blame the pandemic for my extra long time-lapse). It's on my to-do list to get done over the next few weeks as I am really noticing it's beyond time. I'll keep you posted if discover anything worth sharing!

I'll likely go to Nordstrom again as I am frequently there shopping with clients and they have some brands that work well for me. When was your last bra fitting? Have some go-to favourtie brands? I'd also love to hear!