5 Bra Myths We’re Leaving Behind — For Good

Let’s be honest: Bras can be confusing. Between cup sizes, underwire drama, and internet “hacks” gone wrong, it’s no wonder most women are walking around in the wrong size, thinking padded bras are a scam and underwires are evil.

So today, we’re setting the record straight. Let’s bust some bra myths, shall we?

1. “Padded bras make you look bigger.”

Not always. Not even most of the time.

Here’s the truth: Padding comes in many forms — from barely-there light lining to full push-up styles. Most padding is primarily used for shape and modesty, rather than volume. That smooth silhouette under a T-shirt? Thank the light padding.

👉 If you’re avoiding padded bras because you think they’ll turn you into a cup size up — think again. A well-fitting padded bra enhances your natural shape. It’s not stuffing. It’s sculpting.

2. “A D-cup is huge.”

This one’s a classic — and completely false.

We’ve been conditioned to think that anything above a C is “large” — mostly because of what’s available in big retail stores. But the truth? The most common sizes among women are actually a D and a DD/E. Cup size means nothing without the band. A 32D is way smaller than a 38D. Cup volume is relative to the band size, so if you’ve ever freaked out seeing a “D” on your size tag, breathe. It just means the ratio between your bust and underbust is greater than a C.

3. “Bras don’t expire.”

We love a good investment, but bras do have a shelf life.

If you’re wearing the same few bras on rotation and skipping proper care (like hand washing), they’ll stretch out, lose support, and stop doing their job. Even the best-quality bras (like the ones we stock 😉) need some TLC and rotation.

⏳ General rule? If the band feels loose on the tightest hook or the cups wrinkle — it might be time to for an upgrade.

4. “Underwire is the enemy.”

Only if it’s the wrong wire.

A good underwire bra shouldn’t hurt. It shouldn’t poke, dig, or leave angry red marks. If it does, the fit is off. When it’s right, underwire gives the lift and shape many of us want — especially for fuller busts.

✨ Pro tip: When an underwire bra fits properly, you’ll barely feel it. The wire should frame the breast, not sit on it.

So no — underwire isn’t the villain. A bad fit is.

5. “I know my size.”

   
   

   You might think you do… but studies show that around 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size. (Yes, eighty! That’s not a typo.)

   
   

   Your bra size isn’t fixed forever — and it’s definitely not always universal across brands. A 34C in one brand could feel totally different in another. Why? Different cuts, fabrics, and size charts can all affect the fit. That’s why you might feel amazing in one bra… and totally off in another, even if the tags match.

   
   

   Your size can also change more often than you think:

   • Weight gain or loss

   • Hormonal changes (think: period, pregnancy, birth control, menopause)

   • Age and lifestyle (like a shift in muscle or posture)

   
   

   So no, it’s not “just you.” It’s totally normal — and it’s why measuring yourself regularly is so important.

   
   

   📏 A quick fit check or re-measure can be the difference between a bra you want to rip off by noon and one you forget you’re wearing.

Bottom Line?

Don’t let myths get in the way of a good fit.

A bra that fits you, your shape, your lifestyle, your mood, can change everything.

Ready to rediscover what a bra should feel like?

Explore our latest arrivals and let your lingerie drawer do the talking.

✨ [Shop now at IND Collections] ✨