2 Bra Experts Help Fix Your Most Annoying Bra Problems

Jul 02, 2015

Did you think that you were alone in your strapless bra woes? Think again, my undergarmently challenged friends. In a recent study Elle conducted, (which they aptly titled “The Boob Survey“) the magazine chatted with 7,000 ladies to ask them the questions about bnbs (boobs ‘n bras) you’ve always wondered and even some weird ones you may have been afraid to ask.

If you can totally relate to some of the major bra problems the survey points out, we’re here to help. We tapped Michelle Lam and Beenish Kahn, the CEO and Merchandising Manager of True & Co, an online bra retailer that uses a simple quiz to curate a customized selection of lingerie, to offer up easy + comfortable solutions to four of the biggest issues Elle’s survey points out. Read below, and may your breasts never runneth over your bra cup again, friends.

1. Why do you think that even after a personal fitting, 73% of women are still confused about their bra size?

Beenish: “I can speak from personal experience that women are very stubborn. I thought I was a 32A when in fact I had grown to a 32C. The sizing system for bras is very confusing, particularly when you start talking about sister sizing (34B is the same as a 32C?! What?!). At least that’s what I thought. Even after my professional fitting, I still picked up smaller sizes. I was in denial. It wasn’t until the fitter came into the fitting room and showed me how my breast tissue was spilling out of the wrong size bra that I believed her and finally started to begin to understand how a proper bra is supposed to fit. If you walk into Victoria’s Secret for example, plastered on the walls are these fantastical images from the runway show of the models in the bras. When I was younger, I didn’t know about things like ‘chicken cutlets’ [or breast pads that help fill in and even out your chest] that enhance your bust and create more cleavage. So when I saw these images, I thought that was what my bra was supposed to fit like. So from early on, I didn’t even have the proper education on how a bra is supposed to fit and what it’s supposed to do for you.”

2. Do you have any type of solution to keep strapless bras from constantly falling down?

Beenish: “Obviously the first thing I’m going to ask you is ‘are you wearing the right size?’ One of the most common problems is women getting a band that is actually too big. Especially for a strapless bra, you want to make sure the band is nice and snug. Secondly, before you put it on, make sure if you have put on any lotion or oil that is has absorbed completely, otherwise, you will definitely have spillage. Lastly, if you’re not confident that neither of the above will help, safety pins! Try attaching the bra to your dress or top with two tiny safety pins, one on each side. Keep the safety pin inside your clothing to keep it invisible.”

3. Do you have any tips + tricks for ladies whose breasts are noticeably different sizes and want to even them out?

Michelle: “First of all, you’re not alone. 40% of women have one breast that is bigger, usually the left one. Short of stuffing a cookie in one cup (some European bras have a lined pouch), try a bra with a stretchy fabric with give or a triangle shape where the fabric stretches up almost to the shoulder.”

Beenish: “In the market, you can find breast pads or ‘chicken cutlets’ as they are commonly called to help fill in and even out your chest. I prefer the non-silicone kind for everyday wear.”

4. For women with a larger bust who might want to make it appear smaller, what type of bra would you recommend that’s not a sports bra?

Beenish: “You want to try a non-contour cup bra. Some examples: our Unlined Triangle, Made of Stars, and Gramercy. If that is not enough, there are “minimizer” bras. These bras gently smooth out the breast and make them appear smaller without the dreaded uniboob that a sports bra can often do. Wacoal’s Awareness Seamless is a great example.”

What’s your biggest bra problem? Share with us in the comments below.

(Featured photo via True & Co, photos via Elle)

Despite Being The "Best Boyfriend," Kristin Cavallari Shares Shocking Reason Behind Mark Estes Breakup

Women like Kristin Cavallariare giving a middle finger to outdated rules like who's allowed to have an age gap relationship or not, and it's refreshing to see. As much as we remember her for her time on The Hills, she's branched out as an author, entrepreneur, and host of the podcast Let's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari. Speaking of her podcast, Kristin Cavallari didn't hold back in her when she dished about her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes.

At first listen, her giddy tone is evident and immediately captivated listeners for the 45 minutes she gushed about the key details that led her to a new relationship. Since then, the two had quite a public relationship even if was short-lived!

How did Kristin Cavallari meet her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

We're truly living in a digital age because TikTok is the reason Kristin Cavallari was introduced to her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes. She told her best friend Justin Anderson that she was scrolling down her timeline when she came across what she called a "boy group" called The Montana Boyz and they both agreed one of them specifically is her type. She said, "He's gorgeous. Like, everything about him is perfect. But, he's also outdoorsy and manly."

Three weeks later, she got a DM from The Montana Boyz that said "I love you" and she immediately let them know she wanted to have them on her podcast. Although the podcast didn't happen, Kristin Cavallari appeared in one of their TikTok videos. Once Kristin Cavallari learned from her assistant that they were planning to move to Nashville, she arranged for a line dancing meet-up with The Montana Boyz and her staff. After they met, Kristin decided to call the guy who would become her ex-boyfriend "Montana." (Cavallari used Montana as a stand in for her boyfriend's real name during the podcast recording as she never names anyone explicitly on her show.)

Shortly after that, Kristin Cavallari hard launched her new relationship with ex-boyfriend Mark Estes on Instagram in February, and the rest is history!

How did she feel about their age gap?

Presley Ann/Getty Images for MTV

Kristin Cavallari didn't know how young The Montana Boyz were, but she wasn't interested in pursuing a relationship with Mark Estes at first. She did admit she had a brief issue with their age gap, but decided that Mark being 24 while she's 37 didn’t really bother her. Justin pointed out that she actually used to say she wouldn't date guys who were only 30 because she thought they were too young. However, she was more interested in who Mark was as a person and notes that life experiences and how you were raised is more indicative of one's maturity level than age alone.

Did Kristin Cavallari's kids like Mark Estes?

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Kristin Cavallari said her boys were so excited to meet Mark for the first time and she felt like they really wanted her to be happy. "I've been really good about separating my dating life from their [life]," she said. Her oldest son especially approved of Mark and it was shocking to Kristin because he's usually the toughest judge of whoever she's dating.

How did her career prepare her for public opinions about their relationship?

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Kristin Cavallari didn’t care what anyone thought about her ex-boyfriend. She's lived life in the public eye and is comfortable enough with herself to make decisions that make her happy. Kristin said, "...when this news came out, it's the first time in my entire life I 100% haven't given a sh-t what anyone thinks... My own mother is noticing a difference in me."

Did she mention anything about her divorce from Jay Cutler?

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Kristin Cavallari and Jay Cutler were married for seven years before announcing their divorce in 2020. She didn't go into detail about it during the podcast episode, but she did talk about the magnitude of her former relationship with her ex-boyfriend. "It's the first time I've gone public since my divorce," she said.

How did Mark Estes adjust to being in the public eye with Kristin Cavallari?

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Montana Boyz's Mark Estes Says He's a "TRUE ROMANTIC" With Girlfriend Kristin Cavallari | E! News

Mark Estes may be in the spotlight because he dated Kristin Cavallari, but that didn’t mean he was enthusiastic about it. E! News caught up with him at the CMT Awards and he said, "It comes with the territory, I guess...It is what it is." One thing his friend Kade Wilcox — another one of The Montana Boyz — mentioned is that Mark was quite the romanticist when it came to Kristin Cavallari. He told the outlet, "He's pretty good at date nights."

How did Kristin Cavallari feel about dating a younger man?

Uncommon James

Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes may have been in bliss for a short while, but the former knows having an age gap in a relationship isn't always applauded by others. " I understand what it looks like from the outside world of, like, yeah, I’m dating a 24-year-old, but no one in my life has been like, ‘This is weird.’ Everyone’s like, ’I get it. It makes sense,'" she said (via Bustle).

She also said, "...Emotionally, he’s able to step up to the plate, and he’s shown up for me more than anyone else I’ve ever dated," (via Bustle). And according to her, Mark's all in when it comes to her kids and they love him for it. "He loves my kids. He actually took my kids to school, and it's just—he fits in very well. And I'm really thankful for that," (via E! News).

It's not easy balancing being an attentive mom who has a full-fledged career and relationship, but Kristin seemed grateful for the way Mark stepped up to the plate. She said he made things feel "so easy" which is something all moms crave!

Watch The Full Campaign Video For Hard Feelings Eau De Parfum

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Hard Feelings The Debut Eau De Parfum From Uncommon James

Since talking about everything from her time on Laguna Beach to her relationship, Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes appeared together in an ad campaign for her brand's new fragrance, Hard Feelings. It's described as an "alluring" scent that's meant to invigorate one's senses. With notes like pink pepper, hibiscus, and sandalwood, we don't doubt it's sensuality!

What's the steamy thing Kristin revealed about her former relationship?

Uncommon James

During the "Truth or Drink with Mark Estes" episode on Let's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari, Kristin and Mark delved into steamy secrets about their relationship. The latter even dropped a bombshell when he admitted he enjoyed being intimate with Kristin. He said, "Yeah, you’re the best sex I've ever had for sure," which shocked her.

Though she liked his confession, she said she "didn't know that" before letting him know she felt the same. But, she attributed their hot sex to things like being "more present physically during sex" and being "wildly attracted" to Mark.

But, their relationship isn't all about their amazing romps in bed. Mark was “obviously so in love" with Kristin so that added to the spiciness factor!

Why did Kristin Cavallari And Mark Estes break up?

Mindy Small/Getty Images

Sadly, all of the passion Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes had fizzled out because they broke up after 7 months of being in a relationship (via Us Weekly). She initially told Alex Cooper, host of the Call Her Daddy podcast, the breakup was “fresh,” (via PEOPLE ).

Opening up on her Let's Be Honest podcast, Kristin talked about why she and Mark broke up. "It's hard because I broke up with Mark because I just know long-term it's not right, and it's not because of love lost or something bad happened," she said. Insisting their relationship didn't end on a sour note, she swore "he's been the best boyfriend."

But, the issue seems to boil down to their age gap. She'd prefer for him not to jump into a serious long-term relationship in his mid-twenties because she thinks they're "formative years" and "when you find yourself." She also said she doesn't "regret anything" because they had a "good, happy relationship."

We're sad to see this couple go their separate ways, but it's for the best!

What do you think about Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes breaking up?

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This post has been updated.

11 Seriously Soft Plus-Size Sweaters That'll Save You From Cold Days

Whether you’re layering a chunky cardigan over your favorite pair of jeans or pairing a soft turtleneck with a flowy midi skirt, there’s no shortage of ways to make your fall wardrobe both stylish and comfortable. These 11 plus-size sweaters celebrate your gorgeous curves all while keeping you warm and on-trend for the season! From eye-catching stripes to dependable solid colorways, you're sure to find a sweater to suit your vibe.

Target

A New Day Cozy Knit Polo Collar Pullover Sweater

This relaxed-fit pullover will help you pull together all your best office outfits with ease. The polo collar earns it some more formal flair so you can tackle meetings and tasks in comfy style. Wear it with a skirt and your fave fall boots to totally rock the look!

Nordstrom

Vince Camuto Roving Stripe Sweater

Fall ensembles don't have to be bland. Stand out in this rainbow-striped sweater that boasts a flattering v-neck for a playful pop of color!

Amazon

The Drop Women's Brigitte Chunky Button-Front Pocket Ribbed Cardigan

This easy-fitting ribbed cardigan has everything you'd want from a plus-size sweater: soft knit fabric, relaxed, oversized shoulders, statement buttons along the front, and of course, pockets!

Eloquii

Eloquii Two Way Zipper Sweater

This zippered sweater fits your body on the snug side to make your natural figure pop. You can play with the arrangement of the two front zippers in order to flatter your look even more! This pick looks great on its own, worn over a white tank top, or layered under your go-to fall jacket.

Quince

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Boyfriend Cardigan Sweater

Crafted from "the coziest" grade-A Mongolian cashmere, this sweater flaunts a classic ribbed texture that's wearable anywhere. The oversized fit will feel wonderful no matter how you wear it – buttoned up or not.

Amazon

Lillusory Fuzzy Oversized Sweater

This super-plush sweater is destined to keep you warm this fall and winter. Cozy up in its oversized fit and larger-than-life sleeves when you need an extra dose of comfort! It comes in so many different colors and patterns to suit your fall outfit plans perfectly.

Target

Wild Fable Oversized Cable Sweater Cardigan

This cardi has a mid-length crop to it which will pair exceptionally well with high-waisted jeans and trousers this season. The timeless cable knit texture is easy to style with just about anything you've already got in your closet!

Amazon

Grace Karin Long Sleeve Striped Sweater

This green and brown striped sweater was made to turn heads. The bold pattern and contrasting stitch work along the collar, sleeves, and waistline add a chic touch you can incorporate into any look! If this unique colorway isn't exactly your vibe, it also comes in 3 more playful color options.

Eloquii

Eloquii Bow Intarsia Sweater

The bow trend lives on in this pullover sweater that works equally well for casual fall 'fits and holiday get-ups. The baby pink and red combo is just too adorable to be ignored!

Nordstrom

Karen Kane Surplice V-Neck Sweater

This lavender sweater with a body-wrapping silhouette will flatter your figure without a doubt, all while keeping you nice n' cozy in colder temps. It's made from a "wool-kissed" material that's soft to the touch, making it an absolute joy to wear by itself or layered on top of basic tanks or turtlenecks.

Target

Universal Thread Crewneck Cable Knit Pullover Sweater

The neutral tan color of this cable knit sweater qualifies it as an easy match for any outfit you've got planned for fall time. From jeans to skirts, it'll bring an undeniably cozy vibe to your looks. The mid-length hem sits right above your hips to help shape your figure flawlessly!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved plus-size styles!

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20 Ways To Use Matzo For More Than Just Soup

Matzo (also spelled matzah or matza) is an unleavened flatbread made with just flour and water and can be used in everything from matzo ball soup to kugels, casseroles, and even desserts. It's an excellent swap for pizza dough, crackers, or as a binding agent in recipes. Whether you’re using matzo to avoid leavened bread or just because, these 20 matzo recipes definitely prove that the ingredient is equally scrumptious in and out of the soup bowl, whether we’re talking cakes, breakfast sammies or even fried chicken. Enjoy cooking your way through this collection of classic and refreshed culinary delights for your next feast.

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