Ever noticed unsightly creases in your cups or gaping in your bra? When your cups don’t fit quite right, they can wrinkle, gap or fold, creating a less-than-perfect look underneath your clothing. A bra that fits properly should sit flush against your bust creating a smooth silhouette. There are several reasons why your bra cups might be puckering and simple solutions on how to fix it, because you deserve lingerie that fits like a dream. 

The 5 Most Common Causes of Puckering Bra Cups 

Problem 1: The Bra Cups Are Too Big 

One of the most common reasons for puckering cups is that they’re just too large. If there’s extra room in the cups, your breasts won’t fill them out, causing fabric to wrinkle. This is more common if your weight has fluctuated or if you’re wearing a style with more coverage than you need. We recommend sizing down in the cup or trying a different style bra; a demi or plunge styles like our Attitude Scoop Plunge Bra that provide a closer, more contoured fit 

Problem 2: The Bra Straps or Band Are Too Loose 

If your band is too loose or your straps aren’t adjusted properly, the cups may not sit smoothly against your breast which can leading to puckering. A secure band provides most of a bra’s support. If it’s too big, your cups won’t fit as they should. When you purchase a new bra, the band should fit snugly on the loosest hook and your straps should be just tight enough to lift without digging in.  

Problem 3: The Bra Style Isn’t Right for Your Breast Shape 

Not every bra style works for every bust shape. If you have shallower breasts, bras with fuller cups may gap at the top so balconette bras are great for shallower busts. Similarly, if your bust is more bottom-heavy, a bra with an open top may leave empty space so full-coverage styles or bras with moulded cups work well for rounded or fuller breasts. 

Problem 4: The Bra’s Fabric Has Stretched Out 

Over time, bras will naturally lose their elasticity. If your once-perfect bra is now puckering, the fabric might have stretched out, causing the cups to lose their shape. If your bra is old or worn out, it’s probably time for a refresh. 

Problem 5: Posture Matters 

Did you know how you sit and stand can impact how your bra fits? Slouching can cause your breasts to settle differently, leading to extra space in the cups. When you put your bra on, try the “scoop and swoop” method, where you lift your breasts into place inside the cups (leaning forward can also help) to help achieve the perfect fit.  

Our Most Frequently Asked Questions About Puckering Bra Cups 

Answered by our Fine Lines Lingerie Fit Experts 

Q: What does it mean when your bra cup puckers? 

A: Puckering in the cup usually means the cup size is too large for your bust, leaving excess fabric that doesn’t sit smoothly – particularly if it’s an unpadded or soft cup bra. It can also indicate that the bra style isn’t the right match for your natural breast shape. 

Q: How to fix a puckered bra? 

A: If your bra cups are puckering, start by adjusting the straps. Sometimes, a little extra lift can smooth out minor gaps. If that doesn’t do the trick, we recommend trying a smaller cup size or a different style bra. Lightly padded or moulded cups like our Attitude T-Shirt Bra can also help create a seamless look and eliminate puckering. 

Q: How do you get ripples out of a bra? 

A: Rippling or wrinkling in the cups can happen when a bra has lost its shape over time. Try gently steaming the cups or reshaping them with your hands after washing. If the ripples persist, it could be a sign that the fabric has stretched and it might be time to invest in a new bra. 

Q: What does it mean if your bra cup wrinkles? 

A: Wrinkling can occur when the cup is too big or not structured enough to properly support your bust. It can also happen if your breasts have a softer shape and don’t naturally fill out a firmer cup. Opting for a padded bra with a contour cup like our Memories Balconette Contour Bra can help provide a smoother, more sculpted fit. 

Whether you need a smaller cup, tighter straps or a completely new style, the best way to solve all bra band problems this 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?