Bra-fitting Expert: Interview with Cyla Weiner
In 1975, sisters Cyla Weiner and Helen Kestler opened Sylene, a women's lingerie boutique in Chevy Chase, Maryland, a suburb of Washington, D.C. Cyla brought her bra-fitting expertise to the boutique. Recently, she took some time from her busy schedule to answer some questions for LoveToKnow Lingerie readers.
Finding a Bra-fitting Expert
LoveToKnow (LTK): How did you get started in bra-fitting?
Cyla Weiner (CW): Bra-fitting is in my family. I grew up in this business in New Jersey and I founded Sylene of Washington more than 30 years ago.
LTK: How can a woman find a bra-fitting expert in her neighborhood?
CW: I recommend that a woman check around and see if there are any small lingerie shops that specialize in bra-fitting. At the Sylene website, we also have bra-fitting tips available online for those who cannot go in for a personal fitting, which is the preferred method.
Bra Buying 101
Common Sizing Mistakes
LTK: What are some common mistakes women make when shopping for bras?
CW: Women typically buy the wrong size. The most common mistake is band size. Style is also an issue that leads women to purchasing the wrong bra. If you find the right bra for you, your clothes look better, you look slimmer and you feel good about yourself. You're also much more comfortable.
Getting the Right Fit
LTK: What steps are taken to properly measure a woman for a correct-fitting bra?
CW: To ensure the perfect fit, one needs to be measured in three places:
- Underneath your rib cage
- At the apex of your bust
- Underneath your arms above your breasts
LTK: Does a woman's body change that much during her lifetime that she would need to be fitted more than once or twice?
CW: Absolutely, your bra size can change six to eight times during your lifetime. Weight makes a big difference up or down. Depending on the person, five to 10 pounds can change your bra size. Other life factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding and an exercise program also make a difference in your breast size and can require a new size or even a different style of bra be worn (i.e. a nursing bra).
LTK: Do bra styles differ between regular and plus-size women?
CW: Yes, to some degree they do. Bras need to have enough support and be properly constructed to give the right look.
Special Circumstances
Different Breast Sizes
LTK: Some women have breasts that are different sizes. How can this be accommodated?
CW: There are many different things one can purchase to take care of this problem. One solution is soft shapers, which are available in different thickness. Another great item available is called a breast balance shaper. This is made out of silicone and feels very natural and soft.
Breast Surgery
LTK: What about women who have had a mastectomy or other breast surgery? How should they be fitted for a bra?
CW: Sylene of Washington specializes in fitting women who have undergone breast surgery. We went to the White House and fit Nancy Reagan for her first State dinner after her mastectomy. Getting the right bra is the most important part of the process. There are many types of prostheses available to accommodate all types of breast surgery. Breast augmentation also requires getting fit for the right type of bra.
Sports Bras
LTK: There's been debate whether sports bras really do the job. What is your opinion?
CW:Sport bras are like sneakers. If you're doing yoga you don't need as much support as if you were running every day. One needs to purchase the right bra for the activity level you are pursuing.
A Flattering Fit
Cyla explains how a properly fitted bra can provide a flattering look for any woman: "The perfectly fitted bra can make you look slimmer, let your clothes fit you better, give you a smaller waistline, and give you a great boost of confidence. If you wear a pretty bra it can also make you feel sexy. A good bra wardrobe is really important for every woman. There's no need to not have the perfect bra for every item in your closet. Bras are fun, can look great, make you feel good and give you plenty of support."
For More About Sylene
For more about Sylene, Cyla and Helen, visit the Sylene website. You can learn more about the story behind the brand, utilize helpful tools, like their special bra finder, and shop from a wide selection of bras, panties, shapewear, and swimwear online. With the right fit and style, every woman can look and feel beautiful in her foundation garments.
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