Bra Hazards

Fashion Hazards

Fashion hazards won't hurt your body, but they'll hurt your image. Here are a few fashion-related bra hazards to watch for:

• Improper fit: It's not just about the cup size. You'll need to make sure your cups, band and straps are working in harmony to make you look your best.
  • Cup: There's nothing worse under a stretchy t-shirt than the "four-boob" look. If you try to fit into a cup that's too small, that's exactly what will get. Other bra hazards in the cup realm include side spillage and even bottom spillage. If you're spending a lot on a bra, make sure you're getting the perfect fit! You'll be much more comfortable and your body will look younger and in better shape instantly. Misplaced breasts can quickly kill a look.
  • Band: A band that's too loose won't do much to support your breasts, and a band that's too tight will give you the dreaded "rolls" above and below the fabric. Get help measuring yourself for your next bra to make sure you get the right cup and band size.
  • Loose straps: They'll make your girls go around unsupported, lower than you want them, and give you a less than appealing silhouette. Make sure your straps are tightened and your bra's the right size.
• Clear straps with a strapless top: You can see them. No, really. Clear straps work best with tank tops, where they may "peek" out from time to time. They're not well-suited for tube tops, halter tops (unless you have clear straps in halter form).
• Details: Don't wear a sheer or thin top with a bumpy, lacy bra. They'll work best for you under a sweater, for example. Surprise your lover by wearing your frilly bra under something super casual, like a sweatshirt. Your torso should look smooth—not lumpy and bumpy at the hand of your decorated bra.

Just Too Darn Sexy

If you want to be left alone by potential suitors, one bra hazard is letting details slip out. Got a silky purple bra with rhinestone straps? Don't advertise it, for goodness sakes! Well, not unless you are on the prowl. Otherwise, your hint of sexy lingerie is a physical bra hazard, alright. The physical threat is for others, though, because you'll be beating them off with a stick.

Nursing Bra Hazards

There's a nasty infection you can get if you're breastfeeding (and sometimes when you're not, though it's most common in breastfeeding moms). It's called mastitis, and two bra-related things can contribute: How tight the bra is and if there's underwire.

If you're shopping for nursing bras ahead of time, keep in mind you'll be wearing roughly the same band size as you are when you're pregnant, but two cup sizes bigger. That will give your breasts enough room to produce the milk they need to without putting too much pressure on them. As for underwire, it's amazing how many nursing bras come with it, but it, too, can contribute to mastitis. Untreated, the infection can require surgery or become deadly.

Lack of Support

Lack of support was mentioned above, but the whole point of a bra—other than looking sexy—is to give your breasts the support they need to relieve stress on your back and shoulders, prevent sagging, and keep you feeling your best and walking with perfect posture.

If you play sports, it's especially important to invest well when it comes to purchasing sports bras. Cheap ones may seem better because you can buy more at once and really amp up your athletic wardrobe. Don't do it; there's no wiggle room here for being frugal. A good bra is an investment. Buy cheap yoga pants instead. Check out the Oprah-recommended Enell bras with the front closure and beautiful colors.

The Bottom Line

Basically, bra hazards all come down to fit and details. Make sure you have a professional take your measurements, then try on the bras because different brands fit differently. In other words, if you're a 34C in one brand and it fits like a dream, don't count on every other 34C to fit just as well.

Keep your details in the form of lace, bumps, rhinestones, etc, to yourself and your lover. Details are important again when you make the transition into being a breastfeeding mom, so remember to be picky then too.

Bra hazards won't be an issue for you if you're meticulous when it comes to choosing a bra—no matter what its function may be.