Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Review: Jockey Bra Fit Kit

UPDATE: It turns out they have 2 different websites from which you can order these bras: the one below, and this one. This new site lets you sort by size, and my size is NOT listed. I will have to rely on my friends, if any of them wish to purchase a bra, to get a review of the actual bra fit and comfort. And yes, I am headed to their facebook page to ask about this. And probably ask for a refund, since they don't even make my size, apparently. It took me playing around on my new laptop (yay mac!) tonight to realize this. The site linked in my original post below just says my size is out of stock.


My friend tweeted me recently about a new product. She wanted to know what I thought about it. It seems the Jockey Company has gone into bras, but with a different cup sizing system based on “volume” and with 10 cup sizes. They are also doing a different kind of “wire” for the underwire that is supposed to be more comfortable. Of course I was intrigued. You have to pay for the kit, but get a coupon of equal value towards a bra purchase. You can also get a refund if you don’t like it, according to their FAQ.

I bought a kit. They stored everything in a nice mesh bag which would be ideal for washing bras. Kit includes 10 “cups,” a measuring tape, and a brochure with instructions and bra styles.

All in the bag
Out of the bag
Cups 1 and 10 next to each other
The cups are a plastic stuff, with arrows pointing up and a number on each one. You put the breast in the cup, and the one that fits best is your cup size. I noticed the cups were kinda tall for my short torso. I started at the big end and went down. The 10 was obviously big, 9 looked pretty good, and 8 had a little side spillage.  I put a bra on for pics.

A little tall, but best fit
Next is band size. Their measuring tape is simplified and colorful. Basically, each inch section is colored differently from the inch to either side, so you don’t worry about how close it is to what inch. If it falls in the 35 section, you measure at 35. Of course, per tradition, the bra bands are sized in even numbers. I can’t find anything that says what to do if you get an odd band size, like my 31, so I rounded up to 32.

skinny ribs
So, according to Jockey’s sizing, I’m a 09/32. Unfortunately, my size is only available in 2 of their 5 styles. My size is also out of stock in those 2 styles.

Even a place to write it all down
I find it interested that I measure a 9 cup in this system, and my general measurements have a 9 inch difference (31/40). I’m going to ask a couple friends to try the kit as well, one on the smaller end and one towards the middle. I want to see if the “volumetric” fit works like the ratio fit that I use.

I also noticed that, in the 2 styles that carry the full cup range, the top 3 cup sizes were sold out. This makes me think that a lot of women are having something of an epiphany when it comes to bra size. By using numbers instead of letters, Jockey is keeping those women loyal to their bras. It would be nice if they would use a simple letter system (A through I) to help women relate their size to other brands. It would also be nice if they would offer more styles in the full cup range.

On the other end of the spectrum, the same 2 bras that come in my size are the only ones that come in cup size 1. So A cups need an underwire? I suspect it’s more that they don’t expect to sell as many of those bras.

One thing that worries me is that they aren’t relating cup size to band size. I’m not sure how well that will work in real world practice. It’s a great idea, but is my 9 cup with a 32 band going to be the same as someone else who has a 9 cup and, say, a 38 band? Will the underwire be adjusted for that difference? Because, in real practice, a D in a 32 is very different from a D in a 38. The wire, the structure, the fit of the bra have to be adjusted for the band size. Just look at this image from Wellfitting.com.


In general, I like that they are offering women in the US a simple way to fit themselves at home. I like that they didn’t even mention the “add 5” rule. I wish their sizing system was more translatable to the standard system so that women can go from Jockey to other brands, especially with the limited selection of Jockey bras right now. I wish Jockey offered the full cup size range in all 5 bras. And I wish they weren’t out of stock in my size.


When they are back in stock, I will order a bra (no stores anywhere near me) and review that as well. I’ll also update, probably with the bra review, as to how the kit works for my friends and how it compares to the ratio fit method. 

149 comments:

  1. "One thing that worries me is that they aren’t relating cup size to band size. I’m not sure how well that will work in real world practice. It’s a great idea, but is my 9 cup with a 32 band going to be the same as someone else who has a 9 cup and, say, a 38 band? Will the underwire be adjusted for that difference? Because, in real practice, a D in a 32 is very different from a D in a 38. The wire, the structure, the fit of the bra have to be adjusted for the band size."

    In this wacky new Jockey system, a D in a 32 and a D in a 38 are not called the same cup size because they are in fact not the same volume. So while some of your concerns about construction may be valid, your statement on the whole does not make sense.

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    1. I'm just concerned that they made up a sizing system and aren't making bras to suit. I've never made a bra, so I don't know what all goes into the design and manufacture of it.

      So when you look at a 09/32 bra and a 09/38 bra, are the cups going to be exactly the same? wire and all? Because while our volume may be the same, she may need a wider underwire than me to fit her breast tissue. In their system. She and I are the exact same cup volume, so are we then the same cup size? See, I just get too confused, and I expect others, with even less bra knowledge, to also get lost and confused.

      I still wish they had a way to relate their volume system to the standard cup size system instead of introducing yet another way to size bras. I'd rather have a standard for sizing bras than multiple system, which is what they are starting. It just feels like a gimmick to corner the market on bras, because women won't know how to translate their jockey size into the ABC cup size system.

      Does that make sense? After all, these are all just my rambling thoughts and beliefs on bras. You are welcome to disagree.

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    2. I don't know if you are aware, but the way bras are made now are similar to the way this system seems. I have both 34B and 36A bras, the cup sizes are EXACTLY the same, the band is just wider on 36As, and if you were to hold up a 32C with these, again the cup size would be the same. So it seems like with this new system, rather than having equal cup sizes with different bands be 36A=34B=32C, you'd have something like 2-36=2-34=2-32. It really doesn't seem too revolutionary to me. I would still be interested to see how the fit of these bras compare to traditional, but not for $20. Plus it seems extremely wasteful to ship 10 fitting cups to each interested buyer that have no other use.

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    3. here is a good example of what I mean, is this not similar to what jockey is doing, but with numbers instead of letters? http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j9E0-Rfl650/UWzY7_7NQSI/AAAAAAAA_KI/7p6lQeYcF98/s1600/Hhwoarq.jpg

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    4. Kerrie - Volume wise, cups are like that, but some little differences, like the underwire, can be found. I have done some "sister sizing" like that over the years, especially during my weight loss/gain/loss again. In some bras, the width of the underwire is specific to both cup and band size, so while a 36A and 34B might have the same cup volume, the actual underwire might be different.

      I should actually hit up the bratabase and do more research on that.

      Delete
  2. "So, according to Jockey’s sizing, I’m a 09/32. Unfortunately, my size is only available in 2 of their 5 styles. My size is also out of stock in those 2 styles."

    On the website, they don't even list a 9/32, so it seems you're sized out. (I am as well. An under 32 band who would never fit in cups 1 to 7 from the looks of it!)

    Thanks for your review by the way. This is quite the interesting concept, and am shocked that they don't have inches added into the tape. Jockey wasn't exactly known for its ability to get people into properly-fitting sports bras with their size guide and tape measure before. Unless they have inches added into the bra bands... I wish I lived near a Jcokey store to find out.

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    1. When I select my size on the website, I get an "out of stock" message, and the "out of stock" options aren't consistent between sizes, so I'm hoping they really are just out of stock. I keep checking back for more. There are no retail stores near me, either, so I have to rely on the interwebz.

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  3. I think where you are having trouble in understanding the measurement is that you are thinking of it as measuring in 2D inches, the traditional way that cups are sized, and labeling your 3D fit checker with a letter. What is actually happening in your example above is that each band size is a different RATIO and VOLUME, despite being called the same letter cup.

    It appears that this sizing method is using VOLUME as a 3D representation, so you will have a different "lettered cup" then another band's size since the ratio measurement is already being done. In other words, your "32 D" would be an "A" cup in a 38 band because the volume is the same, not the ratio or letter cup.

    If your #9 is a 9inch difference then your UK size would be 32G, so the 38 band size would sister size to a 38E to hold the same volume.

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    1. I get the concept of the volume cup, I just want to know how the practice of it works. I want to get my hands on some of the bras and try them on (myself and others) to see if the fit from their system is as good as the fit from the system I use. Also, if it makes me think, how much will it confuse someone who doesn't even understand the usual size system?

      I am a 32FF in UK sizing, and I know how sister sizing works, but I can see issues with their volume system, and how it can limit the sizes they are offering. I also find it just a little gimmicky. The customers will rely on the small selection at Jockey instead of being able to translate this to the standard size system. I could never be happy with just 2 styles of bra.

      The more I think about this, the more I wish we could just better educate women on how a bra should fit so they can then go get bras in their price/size ranges. I still plan to get a jockey bra in my size (if they are ever back in stock on the website), or at least get one of my smaller chested friends to try one so I can do a more thorough review.

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    2. I don't agree that it is a gimmicky system. I would rather all letters be replaced with numbers by all manufacturers and everyone either measure out the 2D difference or provide volume aids (the new "measuring cup" lulz) in stores that offer fittings/fitting rooms. I think that this new system is a baby step in re-educating women about how a bra should function.

      I'm sized out of Jockey so I can't comment on trial/fit/feel for any comprehensive comment. But, if this takes off I think it would be a good thing to really help women break the old cycle of thinking how they should fit into a bra, into thinking about how a bra should fit THEM.

      I find the major US bra companies are a major culprit of selling the product by convincing or preying on the belief that the consumer fits in its size line. They feed into the media concept that D is HUGE and DD+ are only for fat girls or porn stars, and that spillage is desirable cleavage. At least Jockey is trying to be honest and offering something that makes you conceptualize yourself differently without the ostracizing depression or shock that a lettered cup can bare.
      I don't fault Jockey for having a limited size line either. For a business to offer every size and shape would be ludicrously expensive. I do hope this takes off and more companies further expand the idea and new companies begin so that everyone could be covered by someone, instead of relying on just one company or another to provide for everyone.

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    3. There are many answers in the patent, including a comparison to the standard system and their method. http://www.google.com/patents/US8123589

      The volumetric measurement is the key, rather than the bust measurement that is coupled to the band size and then correlated to a cup size, and then specified using a illogical number-letter system that makes the system impossible for anyone to understand. I'm an engineer, so I can unwrap the system and figure out what they're doing, but it still requires quite a bit of head scratching to figure out why anyone would do it that way.

      I would think that if they would explain their system simply (say, "We measure the cup size and the band size independently. Think of the possibilities! You can measure in any order! A 9 is a 9 is a 9, regardless of whether or not the other number is a 32, a 36, or a 38. Wow!"), instead of making it sound complicated like in their video that talks about "the science behind the system", it'd have a better chance of succeeding.

      People don't understand the current system because it's hard to understand. Their system is much simpler and I could that argue it makes more sense. But it will be limited by their ability to convince women that the current system is broken (which it is) and that their patented method is better and worth limiting yourself to Jockey and nobody else.

      I predict an uphill battle and they'll improve sales (but not education) by coming out with a conversion table. It's not hard to derive.

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    4. Michael, thanks for posting that link! I never would have thought to read the patent. I will delve into it on some of my downtime this coming week. I'll be on vacation, but part of it involves waiting for my husband to catch up on his bicycle. Plenty of good reading time to be had!

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  4. I wonder if their 1-10 cups are not lettered so that women will be willing to accept a cup size they are not used to. I used to believe I was a B, no matter what. So if I had tried this kit before, I would have put on the "B" first and probably expected it to fit. And we all know that our expectations heavily influence our perceptions, so I may have sized myself incorrectly.

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    1. I can see some benefit from using numbers instead of letters, but how many women will get a good (or at least better) fit from jockey, and continue to buy the wrong size in the standard size system? After all, jockey only has 2 bras in my size (both currently listed as out of stock), and those are only in 3 boring colors.

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    2. Your review was on the sizing system, not the bra. You can't fault a company starting a new idea simply to see if there's interest/traction before they expand and invest on more sizes/fashions/color.

      Granted, it would be helpful to actually HAVE a bra to review the results of the sizing system, but I think we, as bra wearers, need to understand that not all other bra wearers understand why the bra they wear doesn't fit. At least this is a step in the right direction for that line of thinking.

      No one is stopping anyone from buying whatever the heck they want. This is a new idea, like a concept car, And instead of offering just 1 choice, you have 2 styles and 3 colors - that's 5 bras to choose from! Its not just what you say, its how you say it.

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  5. Thanks so much for this. I'm anywhere from a 36F to a 34G (34FF in UK sizing) and I was wondering if they even made these in my size.

    Also I only like elastic straps, I find those thick comfort straps really miserably uncomfortable - does anyone know if the tailored contour Jockey Bra has stretchy straps.

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    1. I don't know for sure, but the tailored contour does look like it has elastic straps. I prefer those as well. The 34 band seems to definitely come in all cup sizes, so if you do end up with one, I'd love to know how it fits!

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    2. I'm generally around a 34G depending on the brand. I was in a Jockey store a couple days ago and the promotion for this bra caught my eye, so I tried it out. I can tell you categorically that the idea that you can fit yourself at home is a joke! It's just like shopping for a regular bra, I tried 3 different sizes before I found the one that worked the best for me. (for the record it was 9/34). The good news is these bra's are CRAAAZY comfortable, just what a Jockey loyalist like myself would expect. The straps are very stretchy and soft (a little too narrow on the Tailored Contour but wider on the Classic Contour) and I cannot understand how, but for such a comfortable bra the support was brilliant. The bad news is that where the band is supposed to hit my ribcage it just didn't, there was always a bit of a gap there, no matter what band size/cup size/style combo I tried on. I didn't end up buying one because it just wasn't in my budget and I wasn't even looking for bras that day, but I will probably get one in the next month or so. The comfort was that good. However, I can't say for sure that the comfort/support would last a full day of wear (the gap between the band and the ribcage would seem to indicate not) or that the material would hold up to long term use. The bras are made of super synthetic tactel and lycra, it seems, and I've not had good luck with those combos in the long term. However, this is likely where the comfort comes from and for that alone it just might be worth it.

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    3. Thank you so much for posting this!! I really would love to get in a store and just try one some sizes. As someone with sensitive skin and arthritic ribs, I'm really curious about this new underwire thing they have. I love the idea of it and want it to work. Maybe I just need an excuse to head up to Denver and try some on!

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    4. Grrrl you are so welcome, us ladies have to stick together where the bra industry is concerned! Thank you so much for creating this forum for us to share this information! And thank you for posting that photo from wellfitting.com, I've been trying to get my petite SIL into a different cup size for years, she's been wearing a 32B but I'm convinced she's a 28D, I just sent her that pic, so fingers crossed!

      As far as Jockey's new underwire, I share your interest in the success of that invention. As an underwire devotee I'm all too aware that that's the first thing to give out on a decent bra and dang if it's not just the worst. I can say that Jockey's version is, as advertised, not wire, but some sort of softish plastic. It's much thicker and a different shape than the metal that usually graces an underwire, so it seems less likely to poke holes in the fabric of the bra.

      It sounds like you're a total obsessive like me so I'm betting you won't be satisfied until you DO take a run up to Denver to try these bras on for yourself ;p When I used the measuring tape I got a 36 band, but when I tried on the bra the gap was too much so that's why I went down to a 34 and increased the cup size. Perhaps it would have been better if I increased the band and decreased the cup... Will try that next time I'm out there. I hope you do go check it out and report back to us!!! Thanks again.

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  6. Found your blog via the New York Times. I just got my first two Jockey bras last week at a store near me. They are fabulous!!!! I hate shopping for bras and I had not known about the new system when I went in the store. The saleswoman was very helpful, there are kits in the dressing rooms and an iPad with step by step instructions. I measured a 8-34.

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    1. I'm glad it worked for you! I really do wish I had a Jockey store near me.

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  7. I can't wait to see what happens when you try on the bras! Keep me updated :) Unfortunately, I don't see much of a difference in the 1-10 and A-N cup sizing... except that 1-10 theoretically only fits A-J cups. As for addressing different shapes, the molds provided look very similar in shape, just different in cup size. An expert fitter who looks at and help hundreds of women and their breasts is really the best to help you find your perfect bra. We have so many styles, brands, shapes, and sizes at our fingertips, and lots of bra knowledge to boot!

    Just my opinion ;)

    Linda the Bra Lady

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    1. Haha, i do agree, an experienced fitter is the best resource, and I often fit my friends and help them with bra shopping.

      I was able to fit some friends today, and their volume cup number is actually close to their ratio number, so I don't think the sizing is really all that different.

      Mostly, I'm just excited that Linda the Bra Lady commented on my blog!!

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    2. Just read your update and noticed that they do not make your size - go figure! Sorry to hear that. If you ever need bra help, my Bra Divas and I are happy to help :) This is my first time on your blog, but it looks like you're as crazy about bras as I am! xo

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  8. A quick comment...if you measure either 30 or 31 around, you are still a 30 band size in the Jockey system. You don't want the band to be too big because then it will ride up!

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    1. Did it say that on the site somewhere? I couldn't find it, so I rounded up, which is the common practice. Plus, I'm a 32 in other brands.

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    2. It goes by the color blocking. For example: since 30" and 31" are both shaded light blue, then if you measure EITHER 30 or 31 you are a 30 band size. That's why they put the colors there. I feel like I read that in the brochure, though I am not certain. I asked a Jockey Bra fit specialist though at the store just to make sure.

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    3. I measure 30", but the 32 Jocky band is too tight and leaves red marks in my skin after wearing. I will try the 34 and hope it is not too big. That seems to be my luck in all clothing - always in-between sizes.

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  9. I'm going to order a kit! I'm usually a 34C, although I have some 34Ds on hand for cyclical breast swelling.

    I'm not sure I'm sold on the price ($60 is high for my budget). The styles offered and colors are on the boring side, too.

    Still, I'm game. I really hate bra shopping!

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    1. I'd love to know how the fit compares with other bras! I have a previous post (Go Fit Yourself) that points out the things to look for in a proper fit. Would love to hear a review on them since I'm not sure if or when I will get one.

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  10. "I wish their sizing system was more translatable to the standard system so that women can go from Jockey to other brands...."

    This would defeat Jockey's business objective, which is to create a superior sizing system and profit by being the exclusive source of compatible bras. Helping women be better satisfied with the bras of its competitors is not what Jockey has in mind, I'm sure.

    Offering compatibility information is something I would expect from a competitor to Jockey, a consumer organization, or a consumer publication such as your blog.

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    1. And this is why I am not in business - I'm too nice. I want to help women find a bra that fits, whether it's through me or someone else. Could be part of why I wasn't so hot at direct sales. But I can still wish, and if I am able, I will help women figure it out for themselves so they aren't depend on a single brand or line.

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  11. Charla, thanks for a great review! Interesting idea, however as you mentioned, same letter cup size has different depth in different band sizes. We are all used to A, B, C, D, E... alphabet, but it's all about sister sizes in different depths, and not just metric difference between underbust and overbust. Oh, and thanks for posting the D-cup picture:)

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  12. Thanks for your review! I will be watching for someone who actually was able to acquire one in their size to see if they are worth the money. Sorry they don't make yours, that's a bummer! If they seem to measure (ha ha ha) up to my high standards for bras, I may look more into them. Thanks again!

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    1. I did get an email from the company that they may make my size in their next run. They are apparently looking for feedback (like mine) on what sizes to offer.

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  13. My problem isn't the fitting of the cup of the bras now, it's the bit of fat I have under my arm pits that bulge out making any type of bra look stupid and fit worse. And I have a problem with straps falling off. The last time I had a measurement done at Victoria's Secret the woman told me I had rounded shoulders is why my straps fall off and they didn't make any type of bra, other than a racerback to offset the problem. Then their racerback bras still didn't fit my boobs correctly and looked stupid on, even through clothes. Ugh!! I even tried going up a cup size and down a band size and it left me with too much cup and still fat hung out under my arm pits. It sure would be nice to find a bra that is not only comfy but looks good with and without clothes.....

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    1. Victoria's Secret is notorious for putting women into the wrong sized bras. http://redd.it/16yc62

      If your straps keep falling off, there is a very good chance you are in a too-big band. And the buldge under the armpits is normally a sign of too-small cups. I totally recommend looking over these websites:

      http://reddit.com/r/abrathatfits
      http://bratabase.com
      http://bustyresources.wikia.com
      http://breakoutbras.com/sizing

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    2. Victoria's Secret is awful--I like to say that their secret is that they make bras for men (i.e. bedroom bras). Trust nothing they tell you.
      What Anonymous said is correct, especially about the armpit bulge--if your cup is too small, your breast tissue will migrate over time. Once you start wearing the correct size (which, invariably, will have a smaller band and a larger cup, unless you are slim and bony), you'll notice the tissue slowly start to migrate back to where it should be, and you may find yourself going up a few cup sizes over time.
      Let me add to your links.
      While she's not publishing new comics, I have found Busty Girl Comics to have a wealth of moral support and references (she has a page of links to other bloggers, suppliers and more). I would cry more about my boobs than I already do if not for her.
      http://bustygirlcomics.com/

      Bravissimo has a pretty good fit/troubleshooting guide:
      http://www.bravissimo.com/perfectfit/

      And if you ignore the bit where they add inches to the band, Her Room also has a wealth of information:
      http://www.herroom.com/bra-fitting-advice,901,30.html

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    3. I am so happy that people are having bra conversations and helping each other out on my blog!! I totally agree with the the ladies above have said.

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  14. I live in California and would love to find someone to make a custom bra for me. I have goggled custom fit bras, made to order bras, and tailored bras. I get no hits that provide this service. How do you find a bra tailor?

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    1. continuing from above "live in California".... I also purchased a kit to see if Jockey does something different than others. My problem is that the band never sits flush against my breast bone, I can easily fit 2 fingers in the gap. No one has been able to fit me into any brand that did not do this. It is so frustrating!!

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    2. > My problem is that the band never sits flush against my breast bone, I can easily fit 2 fingers in the gap. No one has been able to fit me into any brand that did not do this. It is so frustrating!!

      That means you're wearing too small cups and/or a too big band. It can also be because of a wrong style for you breasts.

      Take a visit to reddit.com/r/abrathatfits, and read the links in the sidebar, or even make an account and post on there detailing your issues, the size(s) you currently wear, and your measurements according to the "Quick start guide". The ladies there are extremely helpful and want to make sure everyone gets a bra that fits them.

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    3. I will definitely be checking out this reddit site eventually, vacation schedule permitting. You women are full of helpful advice and I'm loving it!

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    4. OK I just measured and order. I selected 2 day shipping, can't wait to see if this works. Usually I buy a 36D. My size with Jokey: 6 34. Or at least I think so!! Let you know when I get it.

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    5. I am thrilled to report that my Jockey bra fits the best of any bra I have ever had. I am pretty impressed. I just sent for another one with a little different cut to see the evaluate the other fit. But honestly, the band is soooooooo close to my breast bone that I can't believe it!!! Also I have worn it all day today, and I feel comfortable in it still!!

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  15. I was SOOOOO excited about this, until, I realized they aren't going to fit me. The last time I was fitted (about a year ago) I was a 36H. That being said, the cups of the bras, at plus size stores fit perfectly, but the bands are too big. This whole bra business is really disappointing! I'm also interested in custom bras if anyone finds someone making them. I live in Atlanta, but would pay for shipping from Timbuktu for some pretty AND supportive bras. :(

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    1. Not sure if that is a 36H in US sizes or UK sizes, but if the band is too large but the cup seems right, you need to go down one band (34) and up one cup to keep the volume the same (so 34HH if UK sizing, 34G if US).

      Take a look through this list of offline retailers to see if there are any stores near you: http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/Offline_retailer

      But also, since it has been a year since you were last fitted, I suggest reading through this page to find your updated measurements: http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/How-to_determine_bra_size

      Or this page: http://reddit.com/r/ABraThatFits/wiki/quick

      Bra sizes change many times, and it is recommended to remeasure yourself anywhere from 6 months to 1 year, to make sure you are always properly supported.

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    2. Whoops! My bad. I meant 34I in US sizing, not 34G.


      But also, you may even need to go down to a 32 band, and up another cup) if whomever measured you added 4 (or more) inches.

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    3. At one time I was a 32G before I had breast reduction surgery (and gained weight). I was only able to find bras at Nordstrom. But they are nice ones! Go to their website, go to the Women's tab and click on bras. At the top you can search by size. They have nice ones in your size, even a sports bra. You should check it out.

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    4. I was giving my US size and I will be fitted, again, before buying new bras. I know I needed a smaller band, but that was the issue. Plus size stores start at a 38 band size. Non-plus size stores don't have cups that are large enough. Women who are a DD (or smaller) cup and 38 (or larger) band can, usually, find bras at many stores. If you don't fit into those sizes, you have a much more limited selection and have to pay so much more. It's just disappointing and frustrating. I'd just like to be able to find affordable bras that are both pretty and supportive.

      Thanks for the site info. I will, also, check out Nordstrom (although very expensive) for regular and sports bras!

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  16. Hey,um in an article I read that a bra should fit flat against your breast bone. I have NEVER had a bra do that. So what's up with that?

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    1. While the bra size could be the culprit (and probably is), you may also just have a prominent sternum which prevents the bra from correctly sitting against the breast bone. This is my case!

      Delete
  17. I had an older retired woman patient once who told of being on Nantucket Island and going with a friend for a drink. And right there they both decided they would never wear a bra again. I was jealous.

    I am one of those women with one breast larger than the other (many women do), which complicates all this. We need custom made bras. I need all cotton with no spandex, wear a 38 D but go in the stores and try everything on and they are all torture. To top it off, I have a heat rash under my breasts all summer long that no one knows how to treat. I'm about ready for a double mastectomy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. One of the 'rules' of bra sizes is to always fit the larger breast. You can then adjust the bra strap on the smaller side, or fill the smaller side's cup with foam or silicone inserts to even it out, if desired. That way the larger breast is not smushed into the armpits or anywhere outside of the bra cup.

      A 38D is one of those sizes that is rather rare on properly-fitted women. And women who truly fit in a 38D (or any size in the A-DD cup, 32-40 band range) are called "Unicorns" because of it.

      I don't know in what ways you find the 38Ds you try on in the stores torture, but if you feel comfortable detailing out your issues with your bras, and have a cloth measuring tape handy, I highly recommend heading over to www.reddit.com/r/abrathatfits and starting a thread. You do have to make an account, but it is free, and you do not need to enter an email address to create one (it is optional). The ladies there love solving bra problems, and can steer you in the direction of one (or some) than can either solve or seriously help your bra woes. No one should suffer in their bras.

      Delete
    2. Make sure your band really is a 38. If the band is too big and moving around, it could be causing the rash. You can try using anti-chafe products, like bodyglide, from sports stores or bike stores. It protects the skin. There is a product I've seen that just sits against your chest between the bra and your skin, like an extra layer of protection, but I can't find it to tell you the name of it!

      As for one girl being bigger, that is natural. Some women just have more of a difference. If you can find a store that does custom alteration on bras, or a tailor that will alter them, you can have little tucks put in the smaller cup and you won't have to pad that side. I've also found molded cups are more forgiving of this problem.

      Delete
    3. While I cannot address your sizing problem, I do have a suggestion that might help your skin problem. I had persistent reddened skin around my eyes - a different issue, and I now do know the cause - and sometimes other places, like under the breasts.
      Some crazy (I thought) forum had a suggestion to use vitamin E on the skin. Since I had the capsules already, what did I have to lose? So I nipped open a gel capsule and smeared it around the affected areas in the evening. Better the next morning, and repeated it. Cured, CURED, I tell you! in two days time. Now I do this as part of my bedtime routine every day and stay completely clear. It also makes the skin of my face look better, as I began smearing the extra over the face.
      Please try it. Each day after you bathe, dry skin thoroughly. Then snip the end of a vitamin E and squeeze out the oily substance onto skin and rub it in a bit. I use only "natural" d-alpha 400 IU, avoiding the synthetic dl-alpha vitamin E.
      Someone will surely tell you to just use a vitamin-E cream but I am convinced that the concentration is too low to help. A word of warning - it will leave a yellowish stain on fabric which I have found imposible to completely eliminate even with bleaching. I don't care anymore; the cure is worth it.
      Another odd thing which I have found helpful in damp summer skin folds is Desitin ointment (not cream). It is made from castor oil and has been very helpful to me. Apply the same, to clean and dry skin. Again, this is not pretty: it is white, oily, thick, and has a funny smell. But when it works for you then that won't really matter.
      Best of luck with this, my dear. I hope you find this very delayed reply and that something helps.

      Delete
    4. Oops, Desitin is made with cod liver oil, not castor oil.
      I had a brain freeze when trying to dredge up the category "old-fashioned oils which were supposed to be useful as tonics" and pulled out the wrong one.

      Delete
  18. i really just want to know if they even sell my large size (generally a 42G). Jockey, i have found, isnt reliable in the big girl market. I really dont want to spend $20 on a fitting just to discover im SOL.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Go to www.jockey.com, click on the bra link at the top, and click again to shop contour bras. There will be a size menu on the left and you can see what sizes they offer in your band size, and decide from there.

      Delete
  19. My very first bra when I was 13 years old was a size 38B. My breasts continued to grow until I was about 30 years old and the last bra I bought at that time was a 42F (but they still didn't fit right and should have worn a FF) I had breast reduction and now have a B cup, but my band size is now 52 (maybe). I am very overweight. I, too, must have cotton, no lace (sadly). I havent worn a bra in years. band size and cup size just are not compatible. I bought "proper" size bras about a year ago from Catherine's. The B cup was hugh. I spent 36$ for each, never wore them and gave them to a thrift store. I need the support to help with back pain (not related to bra use or not-use) and to look better with my shirts....I mostly look like I have No breasts, usually. It doesn't sound like Jockey is addressing This problem. I found your blog interesting, thank you! Comfort (this really is my name! lol) (I also don't know how to reply to this blog, it "forced" me to choose Anonymous! Weird me!)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well thank you for reading, Comfort! I would recommend checking out some of the bra links posted in the comments above, like the reddit link to get an idea if you are wearing the right size. If you have a local bra store that does fittings, or if you're headed somewhere that does, go in and talk to the women there. Nothing is quite as good as someone who knows what they are doing taking a look at your fit.

      Delete
  20. What I want to know is why they talk about shape, when the only thing they appear to address is volume!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. From my experience and research, shape is usually addressed best by trying different styles of bras to see which style fits your shape best.

      Delete
  21. I am also curious about how to determine the proper size if you have one breast that is different size from the other one? And also there should be different highths to the cups because some women are longer torsod and some are shorter torsod.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, there should be petite bras! I have a very short torso. I have found that certain styles, specifically balconettes and plunges, fit me best.

      As for different sizes, always fit the larger girl and if necessary, alter the bra or use accessories (chicken cutlets) to better fit the smaller breast.

      Delete
  22. I found your Blog through the NY Times and thanks for the review on the Jokey new bra measurement system, If i can find the perfect fit for me would be 30 D 1/2 . The only way i have come close to this measurement in a bra is buying 32DD from Venus and having them take in 2 hooks and eye and taking in an inch and half on each side. Have you ever tried Edith Lances bra it might help you with your problem in finding a good fit Bra

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I personally do not have trouble with my fit. I have extremely limited selection in my area, but I know what styles and brands fit me well so I can order online.

      I have not heard of Edith Lances, but I will check it out!

      Delete
  23. Just just want to comment in solidarity. I'm pretty self-assured, but it is mortifying to be turned away from bra shops and Lingere departments because they don't sell my size. I have a wide ribcage, partly due to several heart surgeries, and small breasts. My proper size is 36AA, which almost doesn't exist. I bought 3 bras in 34A last year, but I can only wear one for the whole day. The other two styles cut into my body because the band is just too tight. I *should* order bras online. I've found about 5 that claim to be 36AA, after long long searches and lots of clicking through size lists. But I just hate to buy something sight unseen. This Jockey system seems interesting, but my expectation is that they won't stock my size anyway.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks to the post below yours, we can say that no, they would not have your size in Jockey.

      I have discovered http://www.lulalu.com, which specializes in small cup bras. They even do a AAA cup! Might be worth a look!

      Another fun small cup site is http://www.thelittlebracompany.com.

      Delete
  24. They claim 55 sizes in total, so I was interested to see whether the sizes that say "out of stock" on their site were included in that number or not. It turns out that they are not. If all cups were available in all the band sizes they're creating, there would be 70 sizes total.

    Band size/Number of cup sizes available
    30/07
    32/07
    34/10
    36/09
    38/09
    40/09
    42/04

    So that's a total of 55 sizes. The 30-32 band sizes only have the seven smallest cups, 34 has all ten cups, 36-40 have the nine largest, and 42 has the four largest.

    It's a shame, because I like the idea of buying a bra based on a volume system, but it seems that if you're an outlier, you may still be out of luck.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am hopeful that if they are successful with the sizes they have, and 'traditional' colors, that they will continue to add sizes and colors, and styles.... they are risking a lot trying new sizing (they must convince an awful lot of women to invest). I bet they went with averages, so maybe they are now only offering shapes and sizes that they felt they could sell the most of.... I think there is still hope. Everyone that does not fit should write nicely and encourage them to add more sizes!!

      Delete
  25. This reminds me of when Lane Bryant did the "Right Fit" jeans sizing that instead of the sizes we are use to, made size 1 a size 14, etc. It made things very confusing and they eventually went back to normal sizing.

    I find it really hard to buy bras that fit right, I wear a size 38C or 40C, but the cups are too big. I just don't want to pay money for their kit, even if I do get a discount. It's not helping you buy bras everywhere, it's helping you buy bras at THEIR store, giving THEM revenue. What happens when they don't have or even make your bra size? Are you going to have to send the kit back and pay the shipping?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Actually, they don't make my size in the Jockey bras right now. I have been emailing with their customer service, and they refunded the price of my kit. You do not have to send the kit back. They actually recommend you give it to friends/family for them to try. Apparently you can put the cups in the dishwasher to clean them. I will be keeping my kit, since I really like the lingerie bag it came in!

      If the cups are too big in those sizes, can you find a B cup in that band? You might have to shop online, but quite a few large online bra retailers have a good return/exchange policy. Try figleaves, herroom, and breakout bras.

      Delete
    2. A 40C is one cup volume bigger than a 38C. A 40C holds the same volume as a 28G, 34E, and 46AA, while a 38C holds the same volume as a 26G, 32E, and 44AA.

      Here is a page explaining sister sizes and how it works: http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/Sister_size

      In the rainbow chart on the right-side of the page, it shows that all the bra sizes in the one row of color hold the same amount of breast tissue.

      Since you say you are having trouble finding bras that fit right, I think this is a case of a too-big band, too-small cup, and bras that don't work for your shape. If, for example, you have a narrow, short root and projected breasts, but you keep wearing bras designed for a wide, tall root, shallow shape, and 3 cup volumes smaller, you may find that you get empty spaces at the top and bottom of your cup, that the cups don't encase your breasts, and the underwires stab you in the armpit.

      I really recommend checking out Bratabase.com and/or reddit.com/r/ABraThatFits (which is actually the topic of an article on Huffington Post today).
      You may find that you aren't a 38C, but rather a 34F (Example of a woman in a 34F bra: http://goo.gl/Cu4gQ), or a 32FF (Example of women in 32FF bras: http://goo.gl/rLkP7), or pretty much anything else besides a 38/40C.

      The women on those two websites spend a lot of time helping other women around the world find out what bras will fit them and make them feel good and be well-supported. We live in a world where some of the biggest names in bras and lingerie are stuck in the 1930s/1940s, while the bras themselves are some space age-like mechanics.
      I hope you'll check 'em out and find a bunch of bras that hug your body like it should!

      Delete
  26. I was really looking forward to trying this, but they do not offer the 'fit kit' to customers in Canada. This is insane since they allow Canadian shoppers to BUY their bras by using the 'international customer' tab, but we can't 'fit' ourselves to make sure the bra we buy will work? OMG, the logic of this hurts my head. If anyone knows of an online retailer that does provide the 'fit kit' to Canada, let me know!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pat, you may like the Butterfly Colection: butterflycollection.ca
      They also offer free online fittings if you are comfortable with that.

      Also, here is a small (but being built upon) list of bra shops in Canada: http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/Offline_retailer#Canada

      Jockey has not done anything amazing with this fit kit. All they did is offer limited-sized bands (like everyone else), and a limited number of plastic cups to gauge breast volume, as opposed to using just a measuring tape to gauge breast volume. The bras they sell also will not work on a large number of people, because certain breast-shapes will not work with that moulded, balcony-style bras. A large number of people are also sized out (needing a "cup size" well over 10, and a band size 30 and under. And, people with narrow roots will also find the wires on their bras to be too wide, which can flatten their chest.

      Delete
    2. I can send you my kit, let me know if you are interested. I have wiped down the 3 sizes I tried with antispetic towletts so they are clean.

      Delete
    3. I was told by Jockey Customer Service that you can put the cups in the top rack of the dishwasher as well.

      Delete
  27. Hi Charla!

    I am interested in the Jockey Volumetric Fit Bras because of the interesting new sizing system since I normally have trouble finding bras that fit in the United States. I contacted Jockey Customer Service because I have a small underbust measurement (25.5") and a large bust measurement (35.5") and I wanted to know if my measurements fit into their new sizing system BEFORE I wasted money on their Jockey Fit Kit only to find out that they don't carry bras in my size. They danced around my question without answering it and told me to try the kit because it's risk-free since I will get a $20 coupon towards my first purchase. =(

    So I was wondering if you could help me (since Jockey Customer Service could not) and tell me based on my measurements (bust= 35.5", underbust= 25.5"), is the Jockey Fit Kit worth purchasing or not? Does Jockey Volumetric Fit Bras even come in my size? [For reference: I wear approximately a UK 26G/US 26H sized bra.]

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm not Charla, but I can tell you right now you will not fit in their bras. The smallest band they carry is 30", and since you wear 26", you will not fit in their range. (Even for the 30 band, they only have cups equal to 30AA, 30A, and 30B, not even a sister size for you)

      Delete
    2. Thanks for your response. Do you own a Jockey fit Kit or one of Jockey's Volumetric Fit Bras? I would love an answer from someone who has either or. And are the cups size equivalents from your experience or is there a conversion chart somewhere I can refer to?

      When I talked to the Jockey Customer Service representative, I asked if the second number of the bra size corresponded to the band size and if for instance, 30 in their sizes corresponded to a 30 in regular bra sizes because I wanted to know if I can fit into their bras before I purchased the Jockey Fit Kit. [I can fit into some tight 30 band sister sized bras. But I have no idea how the cup sizing works for Jockey.] The following is their exact response:

      "That's a really good question.

      Although the fit kit works for the overwhelming majority of women, the sizing system is so unlike anything that we can't make a comparison to old sizing systems you've used to determine how you fit into our Volumetric system."

      So they basically dodged answering that question as well...

      Delete
    3. Actually, after fitting my friends with the fit kit, their volume cup size is within 1 or 2 numbers to their bust/underbust difference. Neither method of fitting is exact. It all comes down to trying it on.

      But, like the first responder said, they are not making the 30 or even 32 band in the larger cup sizes. I would recommend checking out http://www.thinandcurvy.com, a fellow blogger with sizing more like yours (i.e. smaller band than most bra makers carry). She does some great reviews of companies I never heard of before checking out her site.

      Delete
    4. Hmmm... I see. That's unfortunate. If the Jockey's 30 corresponds with a normal 30 band, I don't understand why the customer service representative won't just answer me and say yes. >:(

      I do follow Brittany's blog. However, most (if not all) of the brands that she wears don't have matching bottoms that fit me. For instance, most UK brands don't offer women's bottoms sizes smaller than XS/8 (equivalent to a US size 4) and I'm not as well endowed below as Brittany unfortunately. I wear a US 2 (sometimes 0 depending on the brand). I was interested in the Jockey bras because I can fit into the Jockey's stretchy small bottoms because they fit like a US size 2-4.

      Thanks anyways for all of your help. =)

      Delete
    5. Jockey's 30 does not correspond to a normal 30 band size, as a normal 30 band size would be a 25" or 26" underbust measurement. Jockey's 30 band size is equal to a 30" underbust measurement.

      Delete
    6. I'm afraid you are wrong here. At least, wrong for many brands. I measure at 31 underbust and wear a 32 band. In my experience as a bra fitter, most women fit well in the band size that corresponds with their underbust measurement. The "add 5" rule is outdated thanks to the technological developments in fabric that allow for all kinds of stretch as well as support.

      For example, I took off my Fantasie 2024 that has been on all day and measured the band, end to end, with the measuring tape from Jockey (because it was handy). My 32 band measured in at about 29 inches. They are allowing for stretch in the bands now. They advertise stretch. It's all about the stretch.

      Delete
  28. Darn. Wish I'd read this before I ordered the fit kit. It seemed like a good idea, but I don't think they'll have a bra that fits me. (32DD or 30F. Or 30DDD, or whatever. Bra manufacturers really don't seem to like short women who have pecs, so it's not like the letters really correspond to what works anyway.)

    Not really concerned about the lack of selection, though, since I've been able to find exactly one style by one manufacturer that does fit right, so this would vastly expand my choices if it works.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Weird as this may seem, I saw a TV show with a story similar to yours. An episode of Double Divas on TLC had a customer who was very muscular and had a hard time finding bras that fit because of her build. The store owner actually found a beautiful bra that was the right shape to fit her and give her a sense of beauty and femininity. Unfortunately, if you don't have someone who really knows their bras, you are usually left on your own.

      Go ahead and give the Jockey kit a try. They will refund you the price of the kit if it doesn't work out for you.

      Delete
  29. The system is not gimmicky and is not exclusive to Jockey brand. I used Jockey system to find my bra size and then I went and bought another make that I know follows 3D mapping of the breast.
    From the band I got 30 and cup size was 5 I deducted that I must be a 30DD, or a 32D. Then, I went on a try expedition. I tried many makes, I found out that Chantelle and Simon Perele both fit me very extremely well. By the way, both of them have created these 3D bras.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your experience is just what I was thinking would happen. For most women anyway, I think the cup that fits them will at least somewhat correspond with their bust/underbust ratio.

      If I can ask, where did you find that Chantelle and Simon Perele are doing "3D" bras? All I could find on a quick search was Perele's 3D foam, which I think is a different idea. I am glad you found some brands that work! I have found that Fantasie and Freya tend to fit my build very well, in certain bra styles.

      Delete
  30. I've never been professionally fit for a bra. I'm 49, I usually wear a 34C or 36 C, and buy my bras at Kohl's or Target. I can't say I've been that happy with the bras I've picked up over the years, and I think I'm one of those women who has been wearing the bra size for many, many years.

    I ordered the Jockey fit kit, and it could not have been easier to use. There was no ambiguity about which cup size fit. One size up had gaps, one size down had spillage.

    I ordered the Tailored Contour Bra in 5-30, and the biggest shock was how snug the band fit. I actually thought I had measured incorrectly, but nope, I double checked & it was correct. I guess I had been buying bras in a too large of a band size my entire life. I was used to a more loose feel, and the snug fit took some getting used to.

    I'm very happy with the bra, and I will purchase more. The cup shaping is very good and it looks great under a t-shirt.

    Since I've never had a proper bra fitting, I can't comment on how the Jockey bra compares to better bras at a speciality shop or better department store. $60 is way, way more than I've ever spent on a bra, but I was ignorantly buying crappy ill-fitted bras before!

    Being able to fit myself at home, and order online, was a big plus for me. I don't particularly like shopping. The convenience pushed me past the hurdle of having to pay for the Fit Kit, settle for a basic colored bra, and paying $60 for a bra.

    On a side note, my teen daughter sized herself and ordered the same style bra. She is very happy with it. She's a 5-34 in Jockey's system, and had been wearing a 36D in Hanes.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Edit! ".....and I think I'm one of those women who has been wearing the WRONG bra size for many, many years."

      Delete
    2. Your story fits what I was suspecting, that the volume-cup system will often be relatable to the ratio system. I bet you are like a lot of women I saw wearing C cups - pretty good fit in the cup, just too big in the band, and not always willing to admit they could be a D or larger. People love throwing out stats like 80% of women wear the wrong size, but I don't know where they get those numbers from. In my experience as a fitter, women in B to D cups often had a good cup fit and were only about a band size off.

      If you want to check out some other bras, I'd recommend trying some 30DDs or 32Ds. I don't know much about the Hanes brand, but my sister has reported that some of their styles run tight in the band, in which case, you might need the 32 or even a 34.

      The biggest problem with bras is that they are all different; you really do have to try them on. Quite a few websites are getting really good with returns and exchanges. One of my favorites in breakoutbras.com, which gives advice on how individual bras fit based on in-store experience. I also read reviews a lot to see how other people found the fit.

      Delete
    3. Thanks Charla, for sure, next time I need something beyond a basic Jockey bra, I'm going to look for a speciality bra shop with some ladies who know what they're talking about.
      No more Target or Kohl's for me!

      Delete
  31. excellent post. I want to thank you for this informative read, I really appreciate sharing this great post. Keep up your work

    ReplyDelete
  32. I just saw an ad for this and wanted to read some reviews before I bought into it - thank you for writing this review!

    However, I would question some of the questions you've raised. I don't think they SHOULD relate cup size to band size, as there should not be a difference. It gets really annoying when bra makers just link the two - that a woman with a bigger cup size MUST have a bigger band size. I can't find a D in my (perhaps to be ex-) favorite brand with a band below 38. As soon as I buy it I have to go to the tightest hook meaning that as soon as it stretches a little bit, I'll have to buy a new one. The pictures you post show an example of these....the volume of all of those "D" breasts should look the same, but they don't. Because the volume of the breast hasn't been separated from the band.

    I think, theoretically, if the cup is the cup, that should function fully independently from the band, which is being measured from UNDER the cup....

    I'm going to cross my fingers on this and hope it works out....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The band measurement can also have some involvement in the width of a breast. And the same volume doesn't mean the same shape. If you took those 28Ds and put them directly on a woman with a 40 ribcage, they wouldn't fit. They'd be too small.

      Currently, bra band and cup sizing is a give and take relationship. It's a ratio, it's the difference between the two measurements. And so far, from what I've heard from women who were able to try the Jockey bras, they work just like other bras but with a different name.

      To have just one A cup, it would then only exist in certain band sizes. Naturally, a larger woman will have more volume to her breasts, even if they are still small. And we would end up using many more letters of the alphabet. Basically, it would have had to be that way from the beginning. The system is established now and I doubt that even companies like Jockey will be able to change it.

      That being said, Jockey is offering some larger cup sizes with smaller bands. If you are looking for a D cup and a 38 band is already on the tightest hook, you NEED to try other brands. Dillard's, Nordstrom's, and Macey's all carry other options. Also, don't get caught up on a specific number or letter that you have to be. Different brands and styles will fit differently. You need to focus not on the numbers/letters, but on the fit. If the bra doesn't fit, try another size. This right here is where Jockey might work. By changing the sizing system, some women will allow themselves to find what fits without getting caught up on numbers/letters that they THINK they should be. Also, my friend reports that their new underwire (not made of metal) is super comfortable, and definitely worth a try.

      Delete
  33. I want to ask something. May i have your email id.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've just added a contact me widget to the right hand menu of the blog. You can message me through that and it will go straight to my email!

      Delete
  34. Love this discussion. I bought the Jockey bra mid August. Love the cup and way the wire doesn't jab at the side;is supportive to the breast. I received a 8/42. The problem is the material they are using as the band is too stretchy. I will not use it as it is NOT correlating with the sizing they suggest; so it sits as I comtemplate what to do. It would end up riding up and the straps lifting up the breasts would be useless. My husband just said go the the tailor and use one of your new bras with stronger material and have them add it to the jockey bra. Really! only as a last resort. I guess I am hung up on needing the better band material. Bali has a sports bra that has soft material inside and out that certainly was 50% stonger that the band on jockey. Honestly the band should be improved upon, it seems this is where they are saving the money. Suggestions anyone? LEM

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A tailor isn't a bad idea, actually. They might have some fabric available instead of taking apart another bra, or could at least take in the band, which is a simple process for someone who sews. They might also have other ideas on ways to reinforce the band for you.

      Delete
  35. I just wanted to add something for my fellow women who are larger than a DD, I've always had the Worst time trying to find fitting bras. I went into Lane Bryant, had a fitting and filally found a comfy bra that fit, was comfy And lifted. Im a 40h US.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lane Bryant does have a great selection and they are quite affordable, too! I often recommend them as a place to shop for those in their size range.

      Delete
  36. A very nice informational blog. Keep on making such important blog post. Your work is really being appreciated by someone.That's useful for all women .
    Breastfeeding bra

    ReplyDelete
  37. I received my fit kit and realized that the problem I have is not necessarily with the size of the cup, but with the SHAPE of the cup. I have what I have always called bottom heavy breasts (or ski slope shape). I am a 38 DD or 40 D in traditional size bras. I usually prefer the balconette shape with a slight push up effect so that the cup doesn't cut my breasts in half. I ordered the Jockey bra in 9-40 according to the best fit I could get in my home, in the traditional contour style. I tried the bra on and it was just ok, not anything better or worse than what I could buy at kohls but twice the price for sure. I have been wearing it for about three hours at work and it is driving me crazy. The shoulder straps are as loose as I can make them because the weight of my breasts is pulling the bra forward, otherwise they cut into my shoulders. I have tried it hooked on all three hooks and still can not be comfortable. The bottom of the band is rolling upward and the side of the upper cup is not resting against me, but moves against my breast when I move and cuts into me when I cross my arms. I'm not sure it is the most ill-fitting bra I have ever worn, but it is most definitely not a keeper. I feel like the upper cup of the bra is too big and the straps and band are too stretchy. I hope they will take it back after I have worn it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I had good luck with their customer service, so definitely contact them and see if they will refund you.

      I know they were hoping to eventually come out with more sizes and styles. Maybe if they do a balconette style, you can try again? I myself have pretty full breasts and a very short torso. Balconettes work well on me because there isn't as much fabric at the top of the cup that just goes up my shoulders.

      Delete
  38. To the lady with Heat Rash under band: I've had tremendous success with diaper rash cream like Desitin. Yes, it gets on the bra but it's worth it. You don't have to use very much!

    ReplyDelete
  39. Thanks for the review - found it AFTER I paid for them to send me the kit - I am a larger size and THEY do NOT have a size for me... Why sell a kit with all the sizes if they don't even sell the bra for the size in the kit! REALLY!! Just sent them an email. WE will see what happens now. Expect a FULL REFUND for sure! Kind of bummed cause I REALLY wanted a good fitting nice feeling bra. For us BIG breasted women - it is HARD to find a good bra for sure! The site and size guide needs to state for small to medium sized women ONLY!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They did give me a refund on my kit, and said they hope to carry more sizes some day. Until then, there are some great sites listed in the comments above, but I'll give you a couple links. Herroom.com has a "universal fit" system that makes buying bras easy. I also love figleaves.com for sales, and breakoutbras.com for their awesome reviews. I tend to buy all my bras online as the selection in my area is slim to none.

      Delete
  40. Can't even look at the site if you live in Canada. Not available on .ca and won't let you view .com Sounds like a good product, but I guess I will never know.

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  41. I didn't pay for my kit; some people did? Odd…

    At any rate, I don't at all understand the sister-sizing and all that jazz. I looked at this bra because I was DESPERATE to find a well-fitting bra. Victoria's Secret and all those bra stores should be banned for lying to us! I have always been told I am a 36DD, and that is UTTERLY UNTRUE. Why does everyone want to put women in an A through D bra, as if afraid of the cup? My true size is a 34FF UK/34H US! Why don't most women know that a D cup is not the same SIZE cup from band to band? ::smh:: I just wanted to rant, because, for the first time in my entire life, I finally have a bra that fits me well! Yay! It only took 40 years!

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  42. I bought two of these jockey bras in July of this year...I am cheap, and buying a $60.00 bra was painful, but I hope never to have to buy a different kind of bra again. This is the first bra I have had in the last 15 years that has fit correctly and been comfortable and supportive! I bought a bunch of my regular cheaper brand that same day at the outlet where the jockey store was and some of them still have the tags on them. I did find that the size I thought fit from the cup trying ended up being incorrect. From trying the plastic cups, I thought I was a 6 cup and 32 band, but when they brought me the actual bra to try I was a 5/30. I LOVE THESE BRAS!!!! In fact, I want to take my petite, well-endowed teenage daughter on the two hour drive back to the store since she can never find a bra with a small enough band in her cup size. My 30 band at least fit her, she just needs a different cup size. I have been trying to teach her that if she wants to have nice breasts when she is forty, that it is better to forgo the cute flimsy bras that her small-breasted friends wear in favor of good support!!!!

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  43. I just went to the store (over an hour away). Tried the fit kit and was a 08/32. Guess what? They don't make that size. So, what's the point? I still don't have a bra that fits!

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  44. I got the kit last night. I saw it on tv and was really happy and ordered it. I read thru a lot of these posts, and I know my boobs are pretty big, it is strange that almost everyone is in an 8,9 cup from jockey. im a 9, 32. I haven't gone to order, price alone is putting this on hold: $60!! really? and it sounds like most of us fell for the gimmick and can't get a bra. they are making sooooo much from just selling kits. I bought the $7.95 (shipping) kit. but it is still money I wont get back. nice bag it came in, I guess that is the consolation prize.

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  45. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  46. Bye Bra can enhance breasts, simply and efficiently. Better yet, not only will it improve - but it also creates a better mood and self-esteem in women significantly. Not only it gives you the feeling of confidence in a more attractive appearance, but it also allows you to wear clothing that would otherwise be consigned to remain in the closet. Soutien-Gorge Adhésif

    ReplyDelete
  47. I went to an outlet mall specifically to try on bras. After striking out at one, I went to Jockey. I had read that Jockey had a new bra coming. I got measured and fitted by a store employee. My usual size is 34C, in Jockey I'm 3/32. I bought 2 styles, an underwire and a wire free. The wire free was half price because the design is being reworked. I wore the wire free out of the store. I spent the rest of the day shopping and trying on bras, bras, bras. I wore the jockey I went to bed. When I took it off, I had a red sore spot on my torso. It was tender to the touch. The bar hit me in a really bad spot. I will be returning it to the store. I still have to test the wired one which was full price. I purchased other bras that day and am trying out one a day for the next few days. The others were less expensive and unless the Jocked wire bra is spectacular, it to will be returned.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi J LEE
      Were you satisfied with the underwire? Or did you return it?
      I just got done writing about my experience with Jockey bras. Va.Gal

      Delete
  48. I just got fitted today and ended up buying several. The lady was nice and not only fitted me but had me try the fit leaning forward as well as putting my arms up. I have been wearing it now for 9 hours and while the band is snugger than what I'm used to it still feels great and I am getting used to the snugness. I have been frustrated lately because I suspected for years that I was a band size too high and should have moved from a 34b down to a 32c, but I was cheap and none of the places I shopped had anything bigger than a b in the 32s. I was mostly okay with the fit however, but that changed a year ago my hormones went out of whack and I went from needing to gain a few pounds all they way up to could stand to lose a pound or two in the matter of 2 months. I knew I was busting out of my bras but I was hoping I would lose the weight if I just put my mind to it. Went to target because they are the closest inexpensive place and I have to say their 34C and their 36b are NOT sister sizes. The 34c crushed my boobs almost as much as a new (not stretched out like my old bras) 34bs did. The 36b worked okayish but the more I wore it, the more I could tell the band was not correct. As it felt like I would move but the bra would not stay with me and would grow more and more uncomfortable as the day went on. I would also have to tighten the straps more and more throughout the day to keep them up. I knew I had to do something though as lately trying to squeeze into my old bras was causing bruising near the bottom of my boobs. I am okay with paying the 60 because I knew I was going to have to start paying more anyway and I tend to make my bras last a while. Oh and I did end up being a 4/30, so I am guessing about the equivalent of a 30d. I am not too worried about the limited styles and colors at the moment because I am just happy it fits, and my husband is the only one who sees my bras other than me and he can deal with plan as long as I am comfy.

    ReplyDelete
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  51. Hi all, I wanted to say something about the Jockey bras and maybe it will help someone. As for comfort with the underline types (there are 2 choices) I happen to like the lower cut one no.6702 because it's great for support and I'm older than you young gals out there, so when gravity hit, I needed all of the support I could get.smile.
    As for the other 2 choices that do not have underwire, they are a comfortable fit especially for larger busted women. My friend falls into that category.
    As for sizing, yes the fit kit costo $20 but it's deducted from your first bra order and you pay $40. The bras are $60, so you don't lose money. Sizing is funny with the band issue. I am normally a 34B and my band measured at 32. The cup size seems to me to run similar to this-A cup is 1, B cup is 2, C cup is 3....I'm not saying this is definite for everyone but I'm just trying to give you some idea of how I think it works. Doesn't mean I'm right, so please keep that in mind. The support is great with underwire and I've heard it's a more comfortable fit without the wire. I can wear my underwire all day with no problems. Looks terrific in a t shirt or a nice blouse or dress.
    I have bought from Victorias Secret in the past and besides the impatient customer service, the sizes are always different with each type of bra. I am soo done with them which is why I tried Jockey. Unfortunately, it does happen with some women where one breast is larger than the other. Not much can be done with that unless the bra is tailor made, but I found with the underwire bra I wear, that problem isn't noticeable with the bra on. My left side is alittle smaller but the bra sort of takes care of that no matter what I'm wearing.
    Well ladies, I hope my post has helped someone. If you are unhappy with the bra you can always return it for a full refund.
    Thank you all for your posts about other bra companies. Va.Gal

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  57. I actually went in to a jockey store yesterday and experienced this new fitting system. I ended up buying 2 bras that feel great! Of course, the real test will be after I've worn it all day today...I was surprised they had my size as I'm larger and usually get my bras from Lane Bryant. At jockey, I was sized a 9/36. It would be helpful if this could be translated to "regular" sizes so I could have choices to buy elsewhere. Especially since jockey thinks a whole lot of their bras!

    ReplyDelete
  58. Nice post, thanks for share useful post
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    ReplyDelete
  59. I went to the Jockey store right after having myself measured at Hanes for Bali Bras. 34DD at Bali was perfect for me. In jockey i was measured a 4-34. It felt comfy but i refused to fork over 60 dollars when i got my bali bras at 26 dollars with tax each.

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  60. This comment has been removed by the author.

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