When to Say Goodbye: Signs You Need New Bras

Jockey® Parisienne Beige T-shirt Bra

A good bra is like a best friend—supportive, comfortable, and always there when you need it. But even the best bras don’t last forever. Whether they’ve stretched out, become too snug, or just lost their shape, knowing when to replace them is key to staying comfortable and confident.

Here’s how to tell if it’s time to upgrade your collection

1. When They’re Too Small

Bras that are too tight are more than just uncomfortable—they can actually cause pain and leave you with unwanted bulges. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s time to size up:

• Spillage: If your cups are overflowing (at the top or under the arm), your bra isn’t doing its job. Your bust should sit comfortably inside the cups with the underwire resting behind the breast tissue, without creating a double-boob effect.

  
  

• Red Marks & Pain: Underwires digging into your skin? Straps leaving deep red imprints? That’s your bra telling you it’s too tight.

  
  

• You’ve Had a Size Change: Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and hormonal changes can all affect your bra size. If your old favorites aren’t fitting right anymore, it's time for a replacement.

2. When They’re Too Big

A loose bra isn’t much better than a tight one. If your bra is too big, it won’t give you the lift and support you need. Here’s how to tell:

• Gaps in the Cups: If there’s space between your bust and the cup, the bra is too big. Your bra should sit flush against your body without any wrinkling.

• Straps Constantly Slipping: If you’re always pulling your straps back up—even after adjusting them—the band might be too loose to provide proper support.

• No Support: A bra that no longer holds you up is just fabric. If you feel like you’re wearing a bralette when you’re not supposed to be, it’s time for a new one.

• Fastening on the Tightest Hook: If your bra only feels snug on the tightest setting, it’s stretched out and past its prime.

• Riding Up in the Back: If your band is constantly creeping up, it may actually be too big (or too stretched out—more on that later).

3. When They’re Too Old

Even a perfectly fitting bra will need to be replaced eventually. Here’s how to know if yours has seen better days:

• The Elastic is Worn Out: If the band no longer has that firm, supportive stretch, your bra isn’t doing its job anymore.

• The Underwire is Sticking Out: If wires are poking through, it’s game over. No amount of DIY fixes will bring it back to life.

• Fabric is Fraying: A little wear and tear is normal, but if your bra looks like it’s been through a battle, it’s time for a replacement.

• It Just Feels Different: If you have a favorite bra that suddenly doesn’t feel as good as it used to, trust your instincts. Bras lose their shape over time, and if it doesn’t support you like it used to, it’s time to move on.

• If your bra causes any pain or irritation: A good fitting bra should feel like you're not wearing one at all. Back pain, breast pain or shoulder pain could all be signs that your bra is too small, too old or you're wearing the wrong size altogether.

Time for an Upgrade?

If you nodded along to any of the above, it might be time to refresh your lingerie drawer. Investing in quality bras that fit well will make all the difference in how you look and feel. After all, your lingerie should work for you—not against you.

Ready to find your perfect fit? Explore our collection and give your lingerie a well-deserved upgrade.