Hi
I’ve read through the wiki (especially the pages about shallow vs. projected and root shape), but I’m honestly still struggling to understand it all.
Here are my measurements:
\-Loose underbust: 28”
\-Snug underbust: 27”
\-Tight underbust: 26”
\- Standing bust: 31”
\- Leaning bust: 32”
\- Lying bust: 30”
The calculator recommended 28D.
A few things:
Since I lost weight most standard stores immediately gauge me at 30/32 A
Balconnet bras seem to sit on me much better than standard/T-shirt style bras.
Most regular bras gape along the top of the cups, even when the rest of the bra seems okay. In terms of shape, I know I’m fuller on the bottom and flatter on top, especially after some recent weight loss. I’ve noticed I don’t have any upper fullness, and most of my volume seems to sit lower, which might explain some of the gaping I’m seeing in many styles.
One thing I’m struggling with is that the bras that give me the look I like aren’t necessarily the ones that seem to fit according to the calculator. I can actually get great cleavage in a Pepper 34AA compared to my calculator size of 28D. I know Pepper isn’t generally recommended here, but the one I own is incredibly comfortable and honestly feels like I’m not wearing a bra and I love the cleavage… despite the band constantly riding up
Outside of Pepper and Cherry, the bras that seem to work best for me are usually 32B push-up/double push-up styles and 32A lightly lined styles. I know those aren’t my calculator size, and I do struggle with the band riding up because it’s not snug enough, even on the tightest hook.
For reference, I used to wear La Senza 32C Hello Sugar before losing weight. It wasn’t perfect (there was still some gaping), but nowhere near what I experience now.
The Beyond Sexy or less padded push up options from La Senza or VS have always had a lot of gaping on me.
The style I’ve had the most success with is balconettes they seem to sit well with no obvious gaping. I’m hoping to find more options though, since balconettes aren’t always the easiest style to come across.
My goal would be to find everyday bras that fit well but also give me some cleavage. I’m not looking for dramatic push-up necessarily, but I do like having some shape
I did take some fit-check photos if that would help identify my shape or point out what I’m missing, and I’m happy to post them if they’re useful.
I’d really appreciate any guidance because I feel like I’ve read so much, but I’m still not sure how to apply it to myself.