Bra fitting help » Fitting help before purchase with Ewa Michalak?
Hunkemöller » Unknown Model » 80H 36:8
Issue resolved
I ordered some Ewa Michalak CH in 80H, 80GG, 75H and 75HH, and I think the 75HH is the best fit!
Original problem
Not really a fit request, but I have gotten so much help by very knowledgeable people here, so I thought this was a good shot at some advice
I have decided to get a Ewa Michalak bra!
I've heard nothing but good things about them on blogs, recommendation on here etc.
The thing that really convinced me is, that I have seen several places that they make cups which are narrower, which I think is what I need!
Now, I am a bit unsure about size: As I have yet to find a bra that fits, it is difficult to say what my 'usual size' is.
I have 2 different Curvy Kate Showgirl bras in 34H, and both are very small in the cup, and not so tight in the band (as I hear is very typical for these)
Then I have a Masquarade Rhea in 36H, which is too big in the cup, and ok in the band (not quite 'snug')
And I just received a Cleo Alexa in 36H which is also too big in the cup, and also a slightly big in the band. (to be returned)
In general, I think 34, sometimes 36, is my size, also when trying European bras (with 75 and 80 bands) which is why I was a bit surprised by the calculator on Ewa Michalak's site, putting me at a 85 band. (When measured tightly, I was 84cm) Are the sizes more like European sizes, or like actual cm? I can do with a snug fit, as my ribs are well padded, so I am bit worried that it rounded up, not down.
Then, bust measurement (when leaning forward as instructed on the site): I found it quite difficult, and measured several times, each with a new result between 122cm and 125cm. My breasts are quite asymmetric, which I think makes it very difficult to determine size by the circumference - (when leaning forward, it looks about 3cm smaller than the other) I know the bra has to fit the larger breast, so should I round up my measurement and get a bra based on the 125cm measurement?
(also, I wonder about the loose measurement you are supposed to give: How loose is loose? And I typed in some different numbers, and found that the bigger the loose measurement was, the smaller the cup size :/ Confuuuused!)Sorry about all the many many questions I've posted here recently, but I am just very frustrated about not having a single bra with an appropriate fit, and having wasted so much money on bras :/
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Suggestions (2)
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helpfulIgnore the EM size calculator. It is absolute bunk.
Before ordering from EM, I suggest figuring out your size in easier-to-return brands like Panache/Cleo and Freya/Fantasie.
Then,when you order from EM, order your usual UK size (at least, if you are ordering a half-cup.) Whichever size fits you best in UK bands, go with that. I found EM bands to be SUPER stretchy, so I would probably go down a band size were I to order again.
The exception is in the plunge bras; EM's assistant told me that the plunges are the only ones with tighter bands than average.
Since in 36H bras, the cups are too big and the bands are a little loose, try a 34H and a 34GG to compare (in those same bras if possible.) I found a 36G cup to be too small in the cup in Cleo, but a 34GG was the right fit, so you cannot count on sister sizing in those brands.
I do not suggest going up a cup size in EM bras. I found the cups to actually be quite large; the underwires are long, which makes for a lot of vertical space in the cup. Having tried her bras now, I would probably go down a cup myself, but in your case start with your regular UK size, and then work from there.
Also, most styles do not come with removable pads. A minority of EM styles come with pads. However, don't limit yourself to only those styles! A little assymetry is natural and most people will not notice it as much as you do.
Here is my blog post about EM bras. I go into detail about the sizing and shape of the cups, and there are pictures.
http://mycurves.wordpress.com/2011/12/02/my-first-ewa-michalak-order/
Updated on May 1, 2012 Flag this
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helpful
In my experience, their calculator is quite off. I think they used to make bras with smaller/tighter underbands, but now they're more average. I'd go with a 75 band if I were you, which corresponds to a 34 band in UK/US sizing.
The cups tend to run true to size or maybe a little smaller (especially in the PL - plunge styles). To figure out the cup size, go up one from your normal 34 cup size. A 36H would be a 34J and since you say those are a little big, maybe try a 34HH, depending on how much too big your other bras are.
About the asymmetry, you will get some removable pads with most bra styles which are great to even out asymmetries.
Updated on May 1, 2012 Flag this
By the way, if you search for "Ewa 34HH" and other sizes, you'll find actual measurements of quite a few bras.