When is old too old

Sihaya

... for a bra? If it's torn or other obvious signs I know. But are there other ways to know that I really should be springing for a new bra? How do you determine this for yourselves? My bras cost quite a bit so I don't want to retire them too early. On the other hand, I want to make sure my "support system" is still able to do so effectively! Thanks in advance.

15 years ago

General

8 replies

Latest reply was from Sihaya

Katiepea

(website)

Veteran

I would add to your list that it may be time to throw them out if you have lost or gained significant amounts of weight; if you have had a baby; or if you only own a few bras (hence have a lot of wear) and it has been over a year since your last fitting, particularly if you machine, rather than hand wash. I find that with a lot of wear, the elastic does gradually warp over time, but is generally so subtle that I don't notice until I go out and buy a new bra, where all of the new support is.... well... uplifting!

15 years ago

BlondeAmbition

Active Member

When you buy a bra you should clasp it on the outermost clasp. Over the course of a year the elastic starts to give and by the end of the year you'll probably be most snuggly fit at the innermost clasp. By this time you're ready for a new bra.

Another way I can tell is that there might be the slightest amount of gaping from the side near the armpit. It's probably not enough to gape open but if you can run your finger along the side of the bra and it's not snug then it's time for a new bra.

15 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

They are too old when they no longer offer the support that you need. Or if they are the wrong size and no longer fit. Does that make sense, Sihaya?

15 years ago

PalmFronds

Active Member

Hmm I think they are too old if you are not supported, as Angie says above.Sometimes that can be hard to tell at first, but for me I found it is when I somehow keep readjusting what previously was fitting and feeling great. That stage comes before unraveling fabric and obvious wear. I think the shelf life for everyday bras you wear often is supposed to be about a year or so

15 years ago

Sihaya

Veteran

Thanks so much. I guess I'm having trouble telling when they're not as supportive. I am going to pay attention to some of the specific cues that might help clue me in like where the clasp is currently, gapes near the armhole, etc. I also have a new pair, maybe I'll wear them one after another for an hour at a time and see if I can notice the difference.

15 years ago

Maya

Veteran

If you can't tell a bra is unsupportive, then odds are it's fine. For me I know a bra is past its expiration when I get spillage out the bottom of the cups because I can no longer keep the band tight enough (meaning on the tightest hooks), and I keep tightening the straps to try and compensate for the loose band.

15 years ago

shana

Veteran

When it's too lose on the tightest hook or when adjusting the straps tighter no longer provide shaping or "lift." I don't buy the whole throw out the bra after 1 year advice. My bras are washed very gently and line-dried and my own body/breast shape usually changes before the bra itself shows any wear.

15 years ago

Sihaya

Veteran

Thanks Maya and Shana - these are also very helpful. I'll look in the mirror tomorrow morning as I compare the bras.

15 years ago

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