If your bra straps are always digging in, slipping off, or causing shoulder pain, something is not right. The perfect bra should feel like a second skin—secure, comfortable, and supportive. Discover how to fix the three most common bra strap problems so that you can feel comfortable and confident with every wear.
Problem 1: Your Bra Straps Are Digging Into Your Shoulders
If your bra straps feel like they’re digging into your shoulders, you’re likely over-relying on them for support. This is often a sign that your bra band is too loose, forcing the straps to do all the heavy lifting. You can fix this by:
- Checking Your Band Size: The band should provide the majority of the support, sitting snugly around your body without bowing up. If it’s too loose, try going down a band size while adjusting the cup size up (for example, a 14B would size down to a 12C – sister sizes).
- Opting for Wider Straps: Thin straps can put extra pressure on your shoulders, so we recommend going for a bra with wider, cushioned straps for better weight distribution like our Memory Blessed Full Coverage Bra.
- Try a Bra with a Racerback or Cross-Back Design: A racerback or bra with a criss-cross strap conversion helps distribute weight more evenly, reducing shoulder strain.
Problem 2: Your Bra Straps Keep Slipping Off Your Shoulders
Straps that constantly slide off your shoulders are not only annoying, but they also mean your bra is not providing the fit and support your body needs, leaving you feeling uncomfortable throughout the day. Here’s what might be causing it and how to fix it:
- Try Tightening Your Straps: Over time, straps stretch out and need to be regularly adjusted so they maintain the right level of support for your bust.
- Check Your Shoulder Shape: If you have sloping shoulders, regular bra straps may just naturally slip. To solve this, we recommend opting for a racerback or cross-back convertible bra to help keep them in place like our Memories Balconette Contour Bra.
- Ensure You Are Wearing The Right Cup Size: If your cups are too big, your bra won’t sit correctly on your body, which could be another reason for your bra straps to slide down. You can check if you are wearing the correct cup size at home by using our Bra Size Calculator &Fit Quiz or our Bra Sizing Guide.
Problem 3: You Are Getting Sore Shoulders from Your Bra
While ongoing shoulder pain from your bra is uncomfortable, it also causes unnecessary strain on your shoulders and upper back. This pain is often caused by improper fit, and while there are a couple of quick adjustments you can make at home, ultimately, we recommend seeing one of our expert bra fitters in-store to be professionally fitted.
- Loosen Your Straps: Bra straps that are too tight can put unnecessary strain on your shoulders. Adjust the sliders down so they still provide support without digging in.
- Reassess Your Band Fit: If the band of your bra is too loose, your shoulders will bear more of the weight. A well-fitted band should stay in place and do most of the supporting work.
- Consider a More Supportive Bra: Full-coverage bras like the Bodysense T-Shirt Gel Bra with its 2-ply wings, wide gel elastic, and concealed underwire help distribute weight more evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders.
Your dream bra shouldn’t leave you with a sore back or shoulders. If your straps are digging in, slipping off, or causing discomfort, it’s time to reassess your fit. Whether you need a wider strap, a better-fitting band, or a completely new style, the best way to solve all bra strap problems is to get a professional bra fitting—or measure yourself at home using our Bra Size Calculator & Fit Quiz or our Bra Sizing Guide.
Ready to find the fit of your life with Fine Lines Lingerie?