How to Put on a Bra Correctly — Step by Step (Bra Fitting Guide)

Why does putting on a bra correctly matter?

Many bra fitting problems (underwire pressure, slipping straps or lack of support) are not caused only by the bra size. Very often the technique of putting on the bra is crucial. When the breast tissue is positioned properly inside the cups, the bra can work the way it was designed to.

• it gathers and lifts the bust more effectively,
• prevents breast tissue from spreading toward the sides,
• reduces pressure from underwires in sensitive areas,
• helps smooth the line of the back.

It’s the first step toward comfortable support — just as important as choosing the correct bra size.

Step by step: how to put on a bra correctly

1) Loosen the straps and prepare the bra

Before putting the bra on, the straps should be loosened and the bra unclasped. This gives you enough space to position the body and the fabric correctly.

2) Fasten the band on the loosest hooks

Most bras have three rows of hooks. When the bra is new, fasten it on the loosest (outermost) hooks. This allows you to tighten the band later as the fabric relaxes with wear.

If a new bra already feels best on the tightest hooks, the band is probably too loose.

3) Lean forward and scoop the breast tissue into the cups

This is the key step. This movement is often called the “scoop and swoop” technique in bra fitting. In the Elomi video the movement is shown quite gently — in practice we recommend doing it a bit more thoroughly.

• hold each breast with your hand,
• scoop the tissue from the underarm area (and even slightly from the back) into the cup,
• arrange the breast inside the cup — don’t just drop it in,
• remember that breast tissue often migrates toward the underarms or back during the day.

This way the breast is placed not only forward, but also into the structure of the bra, where the cup can fully support it.

4) Lift the straps and adjust them individually

Bra straps should be neither too loose nor overly tight. Properly adjusted straps:

• help keep the bust lifted,
• support the band rather than replace it,
• reduce unnecessary pressure on the neck and shoulders.

It is completely normal for straps to loosen over time. Adjust them occasionally if needed.

5) Check whether the cups fit properly

After putting the bra on:

• the breast should sit fully inside the cup without spilling over the top,
• the underwires should lie flat against the sternum (with a few natural exceptions depending on breast shape),
• the cup fabric should remain smooth — without wrinkles or folds.

If something doesn’t look right, return to step 3 and scoop the tissue again. If the problem persists, the bra size or shape may need adjustment.

Common mistakes when putting on a bra

Breast tissue left at the side or back

This usually means the tissue was not properly scooped into the cup. This step is especially important for people who tend to store more tissue in the underarm area.

Straps tightened too much

If the weight of the bust is carried mostly by the straps rather than the band, try:

• loosening the straps,
• checking whether the band is firm enough and not riding up in the back.

Underwires pressing into the breast tissue

This may happen when the cup size is too small or when the breast tissue hasn’t been positioned correctly inside the cup before fastening the bra.

Common questions: how to put on a bra correctly

Should a bra feel slightly tight?
Yes — a bra should provide support. However, it should not cause pain or restrict breathing or movement.

Why do I feel pressure from the underwires?
Possible reasons include:

• cups that are too small,
• breast tissue not scooped fully into the cups,
• the wire sitting on breast tissue that should be inside the cup,
• a new bra that still needs time to adjust to the body.

Should you lean forward when putting on a bra?
Yes. Leaning forward helps the breast tissue fall naturally into the cups so it can be positioned correctly. This makes it easier to scoop the tissue from the sides and underarms into the bra.

Summary

Putting on a bra correctly is not just “fasten and go”. It is a technique that:

• allows the bust to sit where it can be properly supported,
• reduces pressure on the sternum and back,
• helps the bra function the way it was designed.

If you haven’t been using this technique before, you may discover that some of your bras feel too small in the cup once the breast tissue is positioned correctly.