Underwire Bras
Science may not be as extensively interested in aesthetics as it is about health. But are underwire bras merely designed to improve a woman’s appearance? There has been so much fuss about the benefits of this latest “bra” trend. However, while some people doubt the underwire bra’s functionality, majority of women seem to think that it is a fashion must-have.
From the viewpoint of those who love the underwire bras, no other bra type can offer the same maximum breast support and body shape enhancement than the underwire bras. True enough, bras that feature underwires serve to boost a woman’s chest, especially those with smaller breast sizes. But it does not mean that large-breasted women who are pretty contented with their breasts sizes do not benefit from underwires anymore. Underwire bras have wires that offers breast support from underneath. Since, women who are more “endowed” need better support, then, they are better off wearing the underwire bras.
Choosing a good-fitting underwire bra is basically the same way you would choose a non underwire bra. Your breast shape and size do matter. Make sure that you know what your actual size is. Since the underwire is another thing to consider, it is best that you try the various underwire bras before deciding on buying a particular one. Ending up with the right pair should mean that the wires should have the circumference that will allow them to “carry” or support the entire breast. You will know that you have chosen a smaller cup size when the wires will press on the sides of your breasts.
Some bras have wires that extend along the breasts’ entire circumference excluding the top part. This is easier to assess if you have the right size. Your breasts should feel comfortable within the wires. Overly tight underwire bras will cause breast tissue to spill over the top and sides of the bra. Moreover, red marks will appear underneath the breasts when you choose a band size that is smaller than what you really need.
Since underwire bras are somewhat rigid, they are not particularly advisable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Prolonged use may result in blocked ducts or mastitis. Also, even if the regular underwire bras are said to be capable of providing great bust support, they should not be made to take the place of sports bras during physical or athletic activities. Sports bras have their own distinctive characteristics of breast support, but if you insist on the underwire, there are underwire sports bras available in the market as well.
Generally, the underwire bras are considered to be more durable than the other bras. However, this does not mean that they last through each woman’s lifetime. At some point, wires will eventually poke out from the fabric. If you have been using your pair for years, it probably has served you well enough. Do not attempt to repair underwire bras. Wires may pierce your skin if you keep using your worn out bra.
Taking care of the underwire bras is basically the same as taking care of your non underwire pairs. However, you have to protect underwire bras in the wash. It is not advisable to place them inside the washing machine or dryer. The materials are not intended to be machine-washed because they tend to get worn out sooner. Also, the underwire may come loose and are likely to move in places which they are not supposed to be in.
Choosing the right bra size is like choosing the right shoe size. If the bra fits well, then no one else really has to know what size you are.