Shopping for a bra online can feel like trying to navigate a maze. There are so many different factors to take into account and a wealth of options to choose from. There are a number of choices to be made – you will need to choose a size, a colour and a style just to name a few. Not to mention various other decisions such as underwired vs wireless, padded vs unpadded, push-up vs plunge… you get the drift.
Fortunately, at Beija we have extensive experience when it comes to bras; we offer free in-store bra fittings, so we have met a lot of women and we understand the challenges of shopping for a new bra. Therefore, let’s break down the top 5 things to consider when shopping for a bra online. From size, shape and material to underwired vs wireless, we will give you the tools you need to select a bra that makes you look and feel fantastic!
1. Size
First and foremost, the most important factor to consider when buying a bra is the size. When buying a bra online, you won’t have the possibility of trying it on first for fit. Therefore, it’s crucial that you know your correct size and order accordingly. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. In fact, many women have never been properly measured or done a bra fitting, and are therefore unaware of their correct size.
This will present a problem when looking for a new bra, particularly when shopping online. Therefore, we recommend that you ensure you are wearing the correct size before making a purchase. Why not join us for a free, in-store bra fitting at our flagship store in Coal Drops Yard, Kings Cross St Pancras?
Alternatively, you are welcome to book an online, virtual bra fitting appointment with one of our experts! You can also use our bra size calculator to get a rough idea of your size. Again, the importance of correct sizing cannot be understated. When you are wearing an item of clothing for several hours every day, you want comfort to be a priority; a proper fit is the first step!
2. Material
Once you have your size all figured out, the next factor to consider is the bra’s material. As mentioned above, you will want the material to be comfortable if you are wearing it every day. Apart from size, the material is also one of the components that will influence your level of comfort.
At Beija, for example, we always use materials with superior quality, from suppliers and mills that are well known for their reputable and trustworthy standards. Additionally, bras are fundamentally made from elastane, which is not biodegradable. Therefore, our ethos is to buy less, but buy better – meaning invest in high quality products with a longer life.
To avoid wearing a bra that you can feel all of the time, avoid material that is too heavy or scratchy. Instead, aim for fabric that is light, airy and allows your skin to breathe. Bras designed this way (like ours at Beija) will ensure you hardly notice your bra after putting it on. So remember, when shopping for a bra online, make sure you take into account the material!
3. Underwired vs Wireless
Another aspect to consider when purchasing a new bra is whether to get an underwired or wireless bra. Wireless bras are those that do not have wiring under the cups, whereas underwired bras do. Depending on your circumstances, you might want to consider a wireless bra.
If you have a smaller chest, then you might find a wireless bra more comfortable – you are less likely to be able to feel it under your clothes. Beija’s X range, for example, includes several wireless bras, designed for smaller cup sizes AA – C.
On the other hand, women with larger busts might find the support and lift offered by underwired bras to be more comfortable. Our Beija Z range is perfect for women with larger cup sizes from DD – H, offering complete support and stability throughout the day.
Ultimately, there is no superior option – it is entirely dependent on your personal circumstances, even including your chest structure and rib positioning. If you would like to find out more about the differences between underwired and wireless bras, you can read our article on this topic.
4. Shape
Once you’ve got the comfort aspect nailed down, it’s time to think about style! Of course, you will need to choose how the bra looks by itself, whether that be in terms of colours, design, patterns etc. However, one commonly overlooked area is the shape. That is to say, how the bra will shape you and look underneath your clothes.
It’s worth having a think about what outfits you will wear your bras with, so you can think about how the bra can support and complement your figure – helping to create that elegant silhouette! Of course, when buying online this is easier said than done: which brings us onto our fifth and final point.
5. Try before you buy!
Simply put, the best way to evaluate both comfort and style is to try a bra on. You will be able to tell straight away if it’s a good fit, and the correct size. You will also be able to actually touch and get a feel for the material, something you cannot do over the internet.
We recommend that you keep the bra on for a few minutes and move around a bit, in order to get the most realistic idea of how the bra may feel day to day. Aside from the comfort, this is also a good opportunity to see how it will shape you under your clothes, perhaps even giving you a chance to try the bra with your favourite outfits!
Choose Beija
In summary, there are two main aspects to take into account when purchasing a new bra: these are comfort (how the bra feels) and style (the aesthetics or how it looks). Comfort is the most important aspect to take into account, whether you are shopping online or in-store.
As discussed, the comfort of the bra consists of several factors: first and foremost the size, followed by the material and whether or not the bra is underwired. Start by finding your correct cup size – why not visit our flagship store in Coal Drops Yard, Kings Cross for a free bra fitting? For those online, you can use our bra size calculator or book a virtual bra fitting with one of our experts.
Once you have determined your size, it’s time to think about aesthetics. As mentioned, although it’s tempting to focus on colours, patterns and styles (which are all important), don’t forget about shape! Think about what clothes you will wear with the bra and how it will complement your shape.
Finally, the best piece of advice that we can give to bra shoppers is try before you buy. This will make every other aspect of bra shopping on this list that much easier – and it’s also a fantastic experience! Even if you eventually end up making your purchase online, visiting a store is a good way to determine your correct size, find a material that feels good, decide between underwired vs wireless and evaluate the shape it creates!
