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How to find the right bra for a special occasion

Posted at 1:46 PM, Sep 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-08 15:46:21-04

Bra fitting expert Courtney Killpack tells us how to find the right bra for your next special event, whether it's a wedding, high school dance or formal dinner.

1. Support is key

100% of the support from a bra comes from the band. To get enough support, I recommend women to go down a band size and up a cup size from their regular size. So if you wear a 32DD normally, try a 30DDD. Try to avoid wireless strapless bras, they are notorious for making women look like they have uni-boobs.

2. Be Realistic

If you're smaller than a DD, you have more options when it comes to different types of strapless, backless, low back, plunging in the front type of bras. If you're bust size is larger than a DD, you need to be mindful that they don't make them to fit larger cup size women because they don't give enough support. A push up strapless bra has limits to how much lift it can actually give.

3. Buy the bra first

Many women make the mistake of buying a wedding dress or formal first and then try to find a bra that will work with their dress. This can lead to a lot of stress and not having it work out in the end. Buy your bra first, and take it with you to try on your dress.

4. Keep skin clean and dry

To ensure the bra is going to stay put, make sure to shower, and avoid putting cream and oil over your chest and back. Look for bras that have a silicone grip on the inside seam of bra.

Strapless Bras Courtney likes:

Calvin Klein Naked Glamour Strapless Bra- Underwire push up bra comes in 30-38 band size and A-DD cup size, silicone grip inside seam,

Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Multiway Bra- Underwire bra comes in 28-38 band size and D-J cup size, silicone grip inside band, side boning, vertical seams in cup offer more shape and lift, molded cups, and includes straps.

Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra- Underwire bra comes in 30-40 band size and D-H cup size, silicone grip inside seam, molded cups, and detachable straps.

Courtney is giving away a free online bra consultation, you can enter on her instagram account @BraFittingsByCourt