How to Spot a Bad Bra Fit (And What to Do Instead)

Think your bra is fine? You might be surprised…
We get it. Life is busy. Between work, family, and everything else, finding time for a bra fitting often drops to the bottom of the list – if it makes the list at all.
Most of the women who walk into Mish suspect their bra isn’t quite right, but they’ve been putting up with it for so long, they barely notice. And for every woman who comes in, there are many more out there living in bras that rub, dig, ride up, or just don’t support – thinking it’s just the way it is. Spoiler alert: it doesn't have to be!
So if you’ve ever thought:
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“It’s not that bad”
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“I just don’t have time”
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“Nothing ever fits me properly anyway”
…this one’s for you.
Here are five signs your bra might not be doing its job – and what to do instead.
1. Your straps keep slipping (or digging in)
If you’re constantly hoiking your straps back onto your shoulders, chances are your band is riding up and might too wide for your frame. If your straps are digging in and leaving red marks, then the band clearly isn't pulling its weight and the straps they’re probably doing too much of the heavy lifting! Did you know the band should be offering 80% of the support leaving just 10% for each of the shoulder straps.
What we want: Your band should do around 80% of the work – snug, supportive, and sitting firmly on your ribcage. A proper fitting will get this balance just right.
2. You’re getting back bulges or side spillage
A band that’s too tight or a cup that’s too small will make breast tissue spill out where it doesn’t belong – creating the dreaded side-boob or even 4 boobs! But a back bulge can often be caused by a band which is too loose and ridding up .
What we want: A well-fitting bra will smooth and support without squeezing. At Mish, we’ll help you find styles that work with your body, not against it.
3. Your underwire is digging in
Wires that sit on breast tissue instead of around it can be downright painful – and sometimes even cause bruising, sore patches or blocked ducts.
What to do: You may need a different cup size, wire shape, combined with a smaller band. Not every bra is right for every body – that’s where our experience comes in.
4. The centre doesn’t sit flat
If the centre of your bra (the gore) is floating off your chest, it’s a sure sign your cups are too small, the back is too big or the style isn’t suited to your shape.
What to do: Try a large cup, smaller band (or both!) – but better yet, pop in and book a fitting with us. We’ll match the style to your breast shape, chest wall shape and your lifestyle.
5. Your boobs just don’t feel supported
When women come in and see us, one thing many say is "I just want them to be there!" Whilst grabbing their boobs and lift them up and in! So if that is you, or if you’re bouncing more than you’d like, if your bra shifts as you move, then something’s off.
What to do: Book a fitting - You deserve to feel lifted, supported, and confident in your bra – every day. From sports bras to everyday favourites, we’ll help you find the one.
Give Yourself Permission to Feel Better
You don’t have to put up with bras that don’t fit, support, or make you feel good. And you definitely don’t have to keep pushing yourself to the bottom of your own priority list.
Getting fitted might feel like a luxury – but it’s more like putting on your own oxygen mask first. A few minutes of your time can make a huge difference in how you feel every day.
And if you think there’s no bra out there for you, trust us: there is. You just haven’t been to Mish yet.
Ready to Feel Better in Your Bra?
Come and see us in-store at Mish, Wadebridge – or book your fitting online. It’s quick, private, and free.
Because when your bra fits, everything feels better.