Wondering why your bra rides up at the back? Use our simple checklist to ensure you're wearing the correct bra size.
✔⠀Check you are not wearing your bra straps too tight.
Some women try to lift their breasts higher by tightening the bra straps – this doesn't work (plus it's super uncomfortable!) A majority of the support from any bra is coming from the band, not the straps, so loosen the straps first to ensure the band is sitting straight across your back. (hint: If you're after more lift, try a push up bra instead!)
✔⠀If that doesn't fix the problem, move to a tighter hook.
The band around your bra should be firm, but not so tight that it digs in and it should sit flat across your back in line with your under bust and parallel to the floor. As a guide for how a bra should fit in the back, you should be able to fit two fingers in at the back under the band and one finger in the centre front.
If you're on the tightest hook and your bra still rides up in the back, you either need to go down a band size or your bra has stretched over time and you just need a new bra!
A back band that is too large will ride up your back and sit too high up. Why? The weight of your breasts are pulling down on the cups and straps, forcing the back band to ride up. This is why it can still feel tight, while in reality, you need to go down a band size!
Our Most Frequently Asked Questions About Bra Bands
Answered by our Fine Lines Lingerie Fit Experts
Q: Why is my bra band riding up?
A: If the back of your bra keeps creeping upwards, it’s a sign that the fit isn’t quite right. This can happen for a number of reasons; your band could be too loose so if it’s not snug, it won’t stay in place. Your straps could be too tight which can pull the band up at the back instead of distributing support evenly. Or, your bra could be too small, especially if the cups aren’t properly supporting your bust it could cause the band can stretch and ride up.
Q: How can I stop my bra from riding up?
Our Fine Lines’ fit specialists recommend these 5 simple solutions to stop your band from riding up:
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Adjust the hooks – Fasten a new bra on the loosest hook so you can tighten it over time as it stretches.
- Loosen the straps – Ensure they aren’t pulling too tight, which can cause the back to rise.
- Check your band size – If it’s too loose, try going down a band size (e.g., 14 to 12) for a firmer fit. Just remember about sister sizes, so when you go down a band size you need to go up a cup size for the same capacity (so, a 14C would size down to a 12D)
- Revisit your cup size – If your cups are too small, your bust may be pulling on the bra and shifting the band upward.
- Replace worn-out bras – If your bra has lost elasticity, it won’t offer the support you need and it’s time for a refresh!
Q: How do I know if my bra fits correctly?
A: To ensure your bra fits beautifully, keep these expert tips in mind. The band should sit firmly and level around your body—never creeping up your back. The straps need to be adjusted to provide support without digging in or slipping off your shoulders. Your breasts should be fully enclosed in the cups without spillage or gaping at the top or sides. The centre gore (the front part of the band between the cups) should sit flat against your body for a secure fit and if the bra has underwire, it should lay flat, not dig into the breast and feel comfortable with any movement.
Q: Where can I find the perfect-fitting bra?
A: Here at Fine Lines Lingerie of course! Your lingerie should feel like a second skin. If your bra isn’t fitting quite right, it’s time to explore our range of expertly designed bras, made to ensure the perfect fit for every shape and size. Try our best-selling styles like the Memory Strapless Bra, Memory Blessed Full Coverage D+ Bra or Supersoft Convertible Wireless Bra. The best way to solve all bra brand problems this is to get a professional bra fitting – or measure yourself at home using our Bra Size Calculator & Fit Quiz or our Australian bra sizing guide chart.
Ready to find the fit of your life with Fine Lines Lingerie?
