Bras, briefs and swimwear... it's all about the fit

Properly-fitting undergarments make a huge difference to how you look in your clothes and seven out of 10 women are wearing the wrong size bra.

DO YOU SUFFER THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS?

•STRAPS FALL OFF SHOULDERS: Bra is too big around the torso

•WIRES DIG IN UNDER THE ARM PIT: Bra is too big around the torso.

•BRA DIGS IN UNDER THE BUST: Shoulder straps need tightening.

•BACK OF BRA RIDES UP: Bra is too big around the torso.

•BREASTS BULGE OVER THE TOP OF THE BRA AND UNDER THE ARM: Bra cup size too small.

•ONE BREAST LARGER THAN THE OTHER: 90 per cent of women have one breast larger than the other. This is easily overcome by wearing a stretch bra cup to mould to each breast.

A new bra should be tried on in the store as sizes can vary from the make of the garments and the cut. For example, strapless bras are small in the cup.

Briefs that fit and have smooth edges enhance the bottom and provide a good shape for skirts, shorts and pants. Briefs that cover up to the tummy button provide a smoother line than bikini style briefs in some clothing.

Does your swimsuit or bikini flatter your figure and fit you properly?

A swimsuit must fit firmly when it is dry. Baggy swimwear drags when wet, giving the wearer a saggy bottom. Not a good look. All swimwear eases when wet. To achieve a perfect fit, most swimwear manufacturers now offer bikini and one-pieces in bra-size fittings. Various makes cater for longer torsos, and fuller bust sizes.

The Anne of Craicor staff have a wealth of fitting and fashion knowledge they can share with you. It is worth the drive to Kerikeri!