How to choose the right bra for your body type
Finding a bra that truly fits is one of the most transformative things you can do for your everyday comfort. Yet most people are wearing the wrong size or style without even knowing it. This guide walks you through the most common mistakes, what to look for, and when a bespoke handmade bra — crafted in Oslo, Norway from eco-friendly lace, cotton, or mesh — is the best solution.
Common bra fitting mistakes
Most bra fitting problems come down to a few recurring issues:
- Wrong cup size: The cup is too small if the fabric pulls or gaps, or too large if there's excess space. Cup size is relative to band size — they work together, not independently.
- Wrong band size: The band provides 80% of the support. If it rides up at the back, it's too loose. If it digs in uncomfortably, it's too tight.
- Poor fit in the straps: Straps should not be doing the heavy lifting — that's the band's job. If your straps dig in or fall off your shoulders constantly, the band fit needs attention first.
- Wrong style for your shape: Different silhouettes suit different body types. A balconette works differently from a full-cup or a bralette — and the right choice depends on your shape and needs.
What to look for in a well-fitting bra
- Comfort: A good bra should feel comfortable all day. No digging, no pinching, no constant adjusting. Comfort and elegance are not opposites — especially in handmade lingerie.
- Fabric: Natural fibres like cotton, lace, and mesh breathe better and are kinder to sensitive skin. Eco-friendly, sustainable fabrics are also better for the planet — a core value of slow fashion and ethical production.
- Shape and support: The bra should lift and support without distorting your natural beauty or silhouette. The centre gore (the piece between the cups) should lie flat against your sternum.
- Movement: Try moving around — raising your arms, bending forward. A well-fitting bra stays in place and moves with you, whether it's for everyday wear or a special occasion.
Our top picks
Looking for a beautifully crafted bra? Try our Highcup Bra and Brazilian Panty Set for a lifted, elegant silhouette, or our Classic Lace Bra and Thong for timeless, delicate style — both handmade in Oslo.
When a bespoke bra is the best solution
Off-the-rack bras are made for a narrow range of standardised sizes. If you fall outside that range — or simply between sizes — you may never find a perfect fit from a shop. A bespoke, made-to-order bra is sewn specifically to your measurements, your shape, and your preferences, using sustainable materials like organic cotton, delicate lace, or soft mesh. The result is a level of comfort and sensuality that simply cannot be replicated by mass production.
At Pastel Artwear, we create bespoke lingerie and underwear in Oslo, made to your exact measurements using sustainable, ethically sourced fabrics — part of our commitment to small-batch, ethical production. Explore our handmade lingerie collection or read more about our materials and sustainable approach.
