Some ladies haven’t ever had a bra fitting, or at least not for a very long time. Maybe you are wondering what you are in for, when you book in, or ask for a bra fitting at Stephanie’s.
Well, firstly, it will be a pleasant, and relaxed experience. You can try on as many garments as you like. The whole point of a fitting is for you to see what different styles can do for you (and to ensure you are wearing the right size!)
So… we start by looking at the bras in the store. You can tell us what you like and don’t like. Of course, like dresses, bras can be better on the body, than they look hanging in store. It’s good to keep an open mind, and maybe consider something that isn’t in your usual range.
Then we go to the fitting room to begin with some measurements. The measurements we take are a guide that helps the fitter get started. We take two measures – one around the ribs, and one around the bust. We are looking to get the right size in the band, eg, 14/16/18 etc, and then the cup size, eg B, C, D etc.
Once one bra has been selected to try, we will show you the best way to put on a bra – many ladies are unfamiliar with this (shoulder straps on first, then clip behind the back) – to help the bra fit properly.
Now it is time for you to put the bra on, and once you are wearing it, the fitter will offer to adjust the bra to get an exact fit. This will involve moving the straps and clips, tightening or loosening as needed, until you are perfectly comfortable.
After the first bra has been tried, this gives us more information on the best fit. Is the band too loose or tight, is the cup not exactly right. Should the straps be more comfortable? So we are looking at both the comfort, and the style, that works for your body shape. The first bra points us in the right direction. At this point, we might try two or three more different looks, and we will narrow down the right fit, and a look you like. Often the first bra you try on turns out to be the right one. However, it doesn’t hurt to compare looks, colours, and brands.
So, from here, it is a matter of trying different options until you are satisfied with all aspects of the garment – shape, comfort, look and support. And of course, price. The fitter will advise you on why some bras cost more than others, and what you are getting when you pay more for a garment. Your budget is important, and you are welcome to enquire about the price of each garment during the fitting.
Trying on different brands and styles, and having a think about it, and narrowing it down to your favourite preferences, will take a little time. It can be useful to tell the fitter if you have a time limit, or if you are not in the mood for trying on too many garments. Some people just don’t like trying on too many styles, and that is your choice, of course.
However, if you have time, our fitters like to show you how different types of bras can work with your figure. It can be useful to see what a contoured, minimiser, push up, balconette, strapless, non wire bra, etc look like on you. A fitting is a chance to ask questions and try options. Stephanie’s fitters enjoy the opportunity to introduce you to alternatives, and show you the many different types of undergarments, fabrics, shapes and profiles available.
A good fitting service will involve putting a garment (eg tee shirt) on over the bra to show you the shape that you are getting. After all, a bra is mostly seen only by the profile and shape it gives you under your dress, shirt or tee. So, the bra needs a road test.
How long does all this take? Well, we like to allow 20 minutes at least. That’s 20 minutes uninterrupted. It’s always good to turn off your phone, and concentrate on yourself. A bra fitting is a chance to learn about new looks, fashion, fabrics and underwear performance. You can use the time to think about your lifestyle, and your wardrobe.
Do you want a bra for work, exercise, a special occasion? You might need more than one bra for different requirements.
If you are shopping for a special occasion, it is good to bring the outfit in to the store, and try different undergarments with the dress.
If you are getting a dress tailor made, the dressmaker will usually suggest that you have the bra and underwear chosen first, and then the dress can be cut to fit your exact and final shape.
So, a bra fitting is an opportunity to chat with a trusted and experienced person, who is interested in your needs and comfort. Many ladies conclude a fitting at Stephanie’s by saying “That wasn’t as bad as I thought”. There can be some self consciousness attached to trying on underwear, but our fitters love to help, and will ensure that a bra fitting is practical, informative and a pleasant experience.
We always conclude our fittings with a talk about how to look after your new garments. We give washing and care tips, to ensure you get value and long life from your purchase.
Stephanie’s keeps a customer record of your purchases, and any styles on your wish list. We can then refer to this on subsequent visits to the store.
For more information, or to book your complimentary fitting, call Stephanie’s on 4661 9532.