Bra myths undone

In a country like India, it is almost unimaginable to step out of the house without putting on a bra. However, a lot of misconceptions exist that have been going around for ages. In fact, there is a lot of debate concerning these myths. Young girls are often wrongly advised how to handle bras, and unnecessary limitations are imposed upon them. Therefore, let us call out some of the popular bra myths — that we hear  of from ill-informed friends, well-wishers and all the hullabaloo on the internet — for what they are.

Wearing underwired bras can cause breast cancer
There is no definite scientific explanation for this well-known claim, be it dark colours or underwires. However, wearing the right size is extremely important to ensure the wire does not dig into the breast tissue, causing discomfort.

Bra sizes are the same across different brands
It is a hefty task to determine what is a suitable lingerie size for us. We prioritise convenience, thinking that a particular size works across multiple brands. However, different brands have different sizes for different bras. These sizes are based on the model’s body type.  

Any bra can be used for any purpose
Different kind of physical activities make breasts bounce up and down and even jiggle. Continuous and repetitive movements can result in soreness, pain and sagging. The right bras are designed according to the type of activity that one is involved in. While jogging in a sport bra would be ideal, while at home, a comfy bra would do the job without making you feel restricted.

There’s no way around for wearing whites under whites
Now this one is a little bit of an old tale, which every girl has been told since her school days. Well, contradictory to the myth, a white bra would stick out much more than the semi-light coloured bra underneath. It is suggested you stick to nudes, pale pinks and dusty browns.

Large breasts always indicate spillage
Let us pause and think. Brassieres for bigger breasts are made with full coverage, to make sure that they are restricted and do not spill out from the armhole or from the neckline. Wear the right kind of bra. It’s not not about your size but finding the correct fit and size.

You don’t need to wash your bra daily
Hey, how is it that no one ever says the same about panties? It’s just that they are both used next to the skin and both accumulate oil and dirt from the skin, which not only hampers the lifespan of these garments, but affects the fabric’s elasticity. Thus, for the sake of hygiene, both need regular wash and care or, else, infections are on their way.

— Inputs by Kiruba Devi, category head at Zivame.com