Ever wondered where your bra’s support actually comes from?
Most women assume it’s the underwire, but that’s a complete myth. The true powerhouse of your bra is the band.
How much support comes from the band?
Around 80 per cent of a bra’s support comes from the band that wraps firmly around your ribcage. This quiet hero distributes the weight of your breasts and keeps everything snug against your body.
If the band is too loose, your shoulders are forced to pick up the slack. That’s when you end up with sore shoulders, neck tension, and those dreaded red strap marks.
Do underwire bras give more support?
The short answer: no.
An underwire doesn’t provide extra support. What it really does is mould your breasts into a certain shape – and that has more to do with beauty ideals than with real comfort.
That’s why I design bras without underwires. You still get the support you need, but without a bit of metal poking into your skin or digging into your ribs.
Why do shoulder straps hurt?
Shoulder straps are not meant to carry your breasts. They provide only 10 to 20 per cent of the support and their main job is to keep the cups in place.
When you tighten them too much in search of extra lift, you’re basically hanging the weight of your bust from two skinny straps. No wonder your shoulders hurt.
How to tell if your bra really supports you
Here’s a quick test: slip your shoulder straps off and see what happens.
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If your bra stays put, your band is doing its job.
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If everything slides south, your band is probably too loose and you’re not getting the support you deserve.
Why a bra without underwire can be perfect
With the right fit and a strong band, you absolutely don’t need an underwire for proper support. In fact, a wire-free bra often feels much more comfortable, moves with your body, and spares you from annoying pressure points.
The bottom line
Your bra’s support doesn’t come from the underwire or the straps. It comes mainly from the band. So choose a bra that fits snugly around your ribcage, but still feels comfortable to wear.
Because the best bra adapts to you – not the other way round.
