The Lingerie Dilemma: Why Finding the Perfect Fit Remains a Challenge for Women

News18

6 days ago

Last Updated:
Lingerie might be the first thing you put on in the morning, but its effect lasts all day
Whether it's scrolling through endless product pages online or standing awkwardly in a store, lingerie shopping can be surprisingly frustrating. One of the biggest pain points is sizing. Online, most size guides barely scratch the surface. Without detailed charts that link actual measurements like underbust and overbust to cup and band sizes (such as 34B, 36C, etc.), it's almost impossible to figure out what will fit.
'In physical stores, especially in smaller towns, the situation is often worse. Many shops only stock bras by band size (like 32, 34, or 36), completely ignoring the cup size. You might be handed a bra labeled '34" and expected to fit into it whether you're a B, C, or even a DD. That's a massive range in bust volume, resulting in bras that either dig in and spill over or sit loose and unsupported. Add to that the lack of return policies on innerwear, and many women end up settling for something that 'kind of fits" instead of something that truly supports and flatters their body," says Arpana Jathanna Walters, Chief Design Officer, Enamor, Slimz, Dixcy Scott & Levi's Innerwear, Modenik Lifestyle.
Let's face it: most lingerie brands in India design for the average medium sizes like 34B, 36B, or M/L are where most of the market is focused, simply because that's where the highest sales volume comes from. But real bodies don't come in just one shape or size. If you fall outside the 'standard' bracket, whether you're petite, curvy, tall, or short finding a bra or panty that fits well can be a struggle. Women with small busts (AA or A cups) or fuller chests (DD, E, F cups and up) often have to hunt across multiple stores or browse online, only to find limited options. And if your band size is under 32 or over 38? Even tougher.
For underwear, it's just as tricky. If your hips are below 80 cm or over 120 cm, you're probably not finding much on regular shelves. This lack of inclusivity sends the wrong message, implying that if you don't fit the mold, your body is the problem. But really, the market just hasn't caught up with the diversity of Indian women.
A lot of women simply don't know their right size—and it's not their fault. There's still a huge lack of awareness about how breast shape and size change over time, especially with age, weight fluctuations, or after childbirth. Many women continue wearing the same bra they wore years ago, even when their bodies have changed completely.
This can lead to poor support, spillage, tightness, and that dreaded double-boob effect under clothes. On the flip side, the right bra can instantly lift, support, and even visually slim the torso improving posture and making clothes fit better. But to get there, you need to know what to look for.
Unfortunately, social discomfort plays a huge role here. In many parts of India, lingerie is still seen as something to hide and not talk about. That makes women hesitant to ask questions or seek help with fit. In smaller shops, it's common for male shopkeepers to 'guess" a woman's size by looking at her, which adds another layer of awkwardness. Many women just nod and accept whatever is suggested, even if it's way off the mark.
But thankfully, things are starting to change. The better lingerie brands are investing in real solutions. Instead of sticking to just band sizes, they're offering full alphanumeric sizing—so women can find something that fits both their ribcage and cup size correctly.
Some brands are going even further with smart sizing, using high-stretch materials and seamless construction that adapts to the body's natural shape. These bras often come in more flexible categories like S, M, L, and XL, while still offering good support. That makes it easier for retailers to stock a wide range without the need for dozens of individual sizes—and it's better for shoppers too.
More brands are also educating their customers. From how-to-measure videos and fit guides to AI sizing tools and in-store fittings, the focus is shifting to helping women understand what works best for their unique body types and lifestyles.
One game-changer? Lingerie that adapts with your body's natural monthly changes. Breasts can swell or shrink slightly due to water retention and hormones, and flexible-fit bras can keep up with those shifts without sacrificing comfort.
Lingerie might be the first thing you put on in the morning, but its effect lasts all day. A great-fitting bra isn't just about support, it changes how you stand, how your clothes sit, and even how you feel about yourself.
When the fit is off, it's more than just annoying. You end up adjusting straps, dealing with pinching, feeling pressure points, or noticing weird bulges under your top. That discomfort can affect your mood, posture, and overall confidence.
But when your bra fits right? You forget you're even wearing it. It becomes invisible—not physically, but emotionally. You feel secure, supported, and ready to take on your day. The right fit has the power to make you feel more in control and comfortable in your own skin—and every woman deserves lingerie that syncs with her body.
The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!
view comments
Location :
New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
July 20, 2025, 13:11 IST
News lifestyle The Lingerie Dilemma: Why Finding the Perfect Fit Remains a Challenge for Women
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.