Bra problem

[TeaChocKitKat]

I've worn the same size bra since my early 20s (so a long time ago!). Recently some of my bras have been a bit uncomfortable and I've noticed a bit of spillage. I needed to buy a new bra to go with a particular outfit so decided to get a be a fitting appointment while I was in M & S. I was advised that my bra size is 2 cups bigger than I've always worn. I've bought 2 bras in the bigger size but OMG they are so uncomfortable, almost painful. They aren't leaving marks but my rib cage is suffocating! Are bras supposed to feel like this? Maybe I should split the difference and go for the cup size in between?

Could you measure yourself to give an idea of size? 1) Under bust fairly tight and 2) over bust bending over. The figure you get for under bust is the back size and each inch difference between back and over bust size gives the cup I.e. 1 inch = A, 2 inch = B, 3 inch = C, etc (D, DD , E, F, FF, G, GG, H and so on)

I've done that a couple of times pixie and have watched a couple of you tube clips etc on how to measure and keep getting the size they said in marks and spencer but they are so uncomfortable. I feel like I'm wearing a corset.
I've always worn 34 B and have been wearing 34 D today. It feels really tight under the bust which doesn't make sense as I'm still wearing 34.
I might try measuring again or get a second opinion in another store. I probably wasnt properly supported before but surely bras aren't meant to be this uncomfortable?!

Try a 36C.
But I don't get on with M&S bras at all, they vary so much from style to style.

Is the central gore sitting against your breastbone? If not then you may need a bigger cup size. Also depends on the style of bra

What dress size are you?

Go to John Lewis or Debenhams and get refitted.

I wore a 34B for years, not understanding why my boobs seemed squished to the centre. Finally bought a 36B and it's so much more comfortable and by boobs actually look in the right place. Try different sizes in the same make to see which is more comfortable

A B cup on a 36 back is not the same size as a B cup on a 34 back as cup size relates to back size. A 36B is both bigger in the back and the cup size

Baggypants - an 8 to 10

Are you sure you measure 34 under your bust (without adding extra inches)? I wonder if M&S have added extra inches when measuring and have given you a bra too big in the back and too small in the cup

P.s. I measure 36 under bust and am a size 20/22

If you’re an 8-10 you are unlikely to be a 34 back. I’m your size and pre pregnancy/breastfeeding I was a 30DD/E depending on brand/style/etc.

I’d guess you need a smaller back, a larger cup and a different style.

As above, it's unlikely you're a 34 (or 36!) back if you're an 8 or 10.

Try JL, or as you're likely to be a bigger cup, Bravissimo.

You need to get properly measured at bravissimo or a specialist bra fitter (independent lingerie boutiques). M&S is notorious for bad measurements, fitting and continuity.
If you're a size 8-10 chances are your back size is much much smaller and your cup size bigger. I'm a size 12 and my back size is 30! You can put your own measurements into a bra calculator on the Triumph website which can give you a better idea of your size (I've added a link). There is instructions talking you through how to do it.

But bras are not meant to be comfortable. They're meant to be supportive and structured. They shouldn't be causing you pain though. The support comes from the band NOT the straps so it does need to be tighter.

findtheone.triumph.com/en_uk/bra-calculator/

You won’t be a 34 at a size 8-10. I’m a 12-14 and wear a 32. You probably need a much bigger cup size and a smaller back.

However, M& S bras are so so uncomfortable for me and my friends have all said the same. I cannot wear them - even if they seem to fit perfectly they cause pain everywhere.

That Triumph calculator is bizarre. I'm a 32F, but based on the first set of questions that put me at a 36C, a few more questions I'm at 36DD!!

booborbust.com use this calculator