5 Common Problems With the Thin Strap Bra

The thin strap bra is a staple for many of our favorite summer tops and dresses. It offers a feminine look, and it’s also a great option for women who have limited mobility or upper body strength issues. However, it’s important to know that these styles may be less supportive than other bras and can leave red marks on the skin if worn incorrectly. If you’re having trouble with your thin strap bra, there are some simple fixes that can help you feel better.

1. Your Band Is Too Loose

The band of your bra provides 80% of its support, so it’s important that it fits firmly against your body. If you’re finding that your shoulder straps are digging into your shoulders, it’s a sign that your band is too loose. Try a smaller band size to ensure that your breasts are supported properly.

2. Your Cup Is Too Big

When your cup is too big, the material or lace may crease over your breasts, especially on the smaller breast. This can cause a gap in the front of your bra and can be uncomfortable. If your bra is causing a gap, try a larger cup size.

3. Your Straps Are Too Narrow

If your straps are narrow and you’re experiencing a lot of up-and-down movement, it can be a sign that you need wider straps. Narrow straps aren’t designed to hold heavy busts, and they can stretch out or break if you wear them for long periods of time. Look for a padded strap that will offer extra support and prevent slipping or stretching out over time.

4. Your Straps Are Too Tight

If you’re wearing a bra and finding that your straps are digging into your shoulders or leaving behind painful red dips, it’s likely that your bra is too tight. The problem is that your breasts are exerting more effort than they should, which causes the straps to dig in and make marks on the skin. Rather than pulling your arms down to your side, try a wider strap or a bra that has adjustable straps so you can adjust them to your ideal fit.

5. The Bottom Edge of Your Cup Isn’t Following the Bottom of Your Breast

The bottom edge of your cup – whether it’s wired or an ordinary seam – should always follow the bottom of your breast. If you’re wearing a bra that doesn’t do this, it could be because the cup is too small or shallow for your breasts. A larger cup size will correct this and ensure that your breasts are supported properly.

To determine your bra size, stand up straight without a bra on and run a tape measure around your back where the band of your bra sits. Be sure that the tape is going in a smooth, even line and that you can comfortably fit two fingers beneath it. Then, take your bust measurement (step 2) minus your band measurement (step 1) and refer to the chart here to find your cup size.