Lingerie Dilemmas Solved

Find Your Fit and Care for Your Delicates the Right Way

Heini Talip

We've all been there ladies. Sometimes you just have a bad underwear day. There's uncomfortable pinching or something is riding up. And how about laundry day? Your bra comes out of the washer all tangled up and those stains are still there. Worry no more, your lingerie troubles are over!


Find your right fit

Finding your right bra size is essential. Studies and surveys all around the world have suggested that more than 80% of women wear the wrong bra size. Reasons for this can vary. Bra manufacturers all have slightly different sizing charts, there are so many different styles that all fit differently and often women don't know how to measure themselves correctly. When buying a bra it's a important to take your time and try everything on. Buying a bra without trying it on first is a cardinal mistake. Use these tips when shopping for bras:

  • Measure your bra size by taking a measurement of your chest, right under your breasts and another measurement on top of your breast, from the fullest spot. The difference between these measurements will give you a result you can use as a guide. Use this chart to get an idea what size you are (or are close to, since these charts can vary greatly.)
  • Your bra should sit comfortably on you. If you feel any pain or pinching, the size is not right. If the straps dig into your shoulders or feel too loose, you are not wearing the right size. You should be able to lift the straps upwards a few inches and they should hold gently when released back.
  • Your tatas should feel snuggly surrounded by the cups but you should be able to fit your hand in there easily and your nipples should be touching the center of the cup.
  • Look at the back. If the back band is riding up from the middle, it's sign that you're in the wrong bra. Everything should be leveled.
  • The right bra should feel like a second skin, it sits on your contours. Take a side view and if your breasts look supported and natural, you've got it! Any sagging and bra lumps, not good.
  • Determine your size and use that as a starting point. Your actual size might not be the one the charts give you. The only way you will find the right fit is to walk inside that fitting room with a pile of bras.



Panties 101

Buying panties is just as important as bras. Not all panties will fit you right and sometimes it's a game of trial and error. If you are battling panties that ride up constantly, the problem is usually the fit. Try buying fuller styles, like briefs, boy shorts or hipsters with cotton and spandex to prevent it. Sometimes the elastic is to blame, it's too loose on your bum. Buy panties snug but not too tight. You should be able to move freely and feel comfortable. Don't just assume that you are a certain size. Buy panties just like you would other clothes. And don't keep your panties forever, they will eventually loose their elasticity, so shop for new ones periodically.


How to wash your lingerie

Your bras should be washed regularly. If you have a weekly laundry schedule, drop your lingerie there as well. Bras will collect sweat and dirt fast, since they are worn almost daily and so close to the skin. The best way to wash bras is to buy a washing bag. They are very affordable and will protect your garments from getting tangled up. Place the bras inside and close any back hooks, so they won't get stuck in the bag. You can wash one or two bras per bag. Sometimes it's better to wash bras by hand, specially lacy, silky or decorative ones. Preferably, air dry your bras rather than using a dryer.

Panties can be washed with your regular laundry without any major problems but if you have any stubborn stains (let's say, auntie flow made a surprise visit?) try soaking your panties in cold water before washing. This will dissolve most stains and you can even try to use some detergent straight on the fabric.


Sources:

www.realsimple.com

Published by Heini Talip

Heini Talip is originally from Finland and now lives in Texas. Her work has appeared in Daily Glow, Helsinki Times and Vegaia magazine. Her writing interests include poetry and lifestyle, health and beauty t...  View profile

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