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Every woman has that one sad bra stuffed into her intimates drawer that’s fraying on its edges. It might even have an underwire that’s burst through its seams once or twice. Maybe it’s the bra you wore on the day you got promoted—or met your spouse. Who doesn’t have a good luck bra? It can be hard saying goodbye to a beloved bra, but it’s important to ask yourself, “Does this bra serve a purpose in my lingerie wardrobe?” We’ve made it simple for you. See below for 5 ways to tell if it’s time to move on and invest in a new bra:
1
Have you worn it in the previous year?
There were 365 opportunities to wear this bra over the last year. Haven’t worn it once? It might just be taking up space. As always, there’s an exception to this rule. Let’s say you have a halter-cut gown that requires a certain scoop-back, strapless bra—or maybe you want to hold on to a maternity bra for your next pregnancy. If that’s the case, hold onto it and store it properly.
Otherwise, toss it.
Tip: With 3 to 4 bras in your rotation, your bras should last you roughly one year. Write the month and year you acquired each bra on its care label to make sure you stay on schedule.
2
Has your body changed?
Every woman’s body has its own unique evolution. More bluntly: We all gain and lose weight in different places. For some it’s in the belly and for others it’s the breasts. Then, of course, there’s pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes in the body, which can send its weight distribution into a frenzy. What’s important is that the breasts feel supported and comfortable during these changes. Our rule of thumb: It’s important to be honest with yourself about your body.
Tip: If you have gained or lost even just 7lbs, your bra size can change drastically. Out with the old and in with the new!
3
Has it lost its snap?
Elasticity is an important factor in a well-fitting bra. In fact, all of our bras are made with a considerable percentage of Spandex to ensure a snug fit for as long as possible. It’s easy to tell if your bra has lost its elasticity: If you find that the straps loosen significantly with each wear and that the back band keeps riding upwards, it’s time to throw it out. An appropriate-fitting bra is a comfortable bra and shouldn’t be sliding around under your clothes.
Tip: Have you spied any little threads or “hairs” of fabric that fray? That’s a sure sign your elastic has called it quits.
4
Do your cups runneth over?
Cleavage. Some love it, others avoid it like crazy. But it’s a little more complicated than that. You see, there’s cleavage and then there’s spillover. Different cuts may have different fits but even at their most lifted, the breasts shouldn’t be hanging over the front of your bra cups. Breasts feel their best when they are supported and lifted, but if your cups are too small, the desired effect can sometimes go awry.
Tip: Keep a close eye on your breast size during monthly hormonal changes. You want to be sure that your bra fits you well at all times of the month, no matter what fluctuations you endure.
5
Are you just not feeling it?
One thing about style remains forever true: It constantly changes. Just ask any woman about her prom dress. You may have loved brocade 15 years ago, but perhaps these days you like something a bit more pared down and less fussy. If looking at your bra in your drawer makes you feel disappointed or regretful about your purchase, it’s time for something new. The past is the past. Onward!
Tip: Take a look at each bra in your wardrobe and ask yourself, “Would I be sad if I never saw this bra again?” If the answer is “no,” then toss it!
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