A century after the invention of the bra, most women are still wearing the wrong size. Here's how to get the perfect fit.

A bra that doesn't fit well can spoil the look of the most expensive dress in your wardrobe.

3 Simple steps to the perfect fit

1. Throw away your measure tapes
Measuring your bust is not the key to getting a great fit. Stand by the mirror and start by taking a look at how your bra fits you and then consider whether you need to adjust your back size or cup size following steps 2 and 3.

2. Find the right back size (28-40)
The back size relates to how the bra fits around your body. The band around your body provides most of the support, so it should be firm but comfortable. It should be horizontal and not ride up at the back at all. If it is loose, or it rides up at the back, try a smaller back size (but remember to increase your cup size). Your bra will stretch with wash and wear, so we recommend a new bra that fits you when fastened on the loosest (outside) hook.

3. Find the right cup size (D-L)
The cup size relates to the volume of your breasts. The wires at the front should lie flat against your rib cage and should not dig in, rub or poke out at the front. Your breasts should be enclosed in the cups and you should have a smooth line where the fabric at the top of the cup ends and meets your bust. You shouldn't have any ridge or bulging over the top or sides of the cups, even if you are wearing a balconette style or lower cut shape.

Why you should choose a well-fitted bra
When your bra back or cup size are right, you will get great support that will give your upper body a good shape and protect your neck, shoulder and back muscles

7 Classic bra faux pas

The Quadraboob
Q: Are your breasts spilling over the cups?
A: The cup size of your bra is too small. You could try a bigger cup size.

The Superdrooper
Q: Do you feel your breasts aren't getting the support they deserve?
A: The back of your bra is too big and your straps may be too loose. Try a smaller back size.

The Ledge
Q: Does your bra give you over
uplift transforming your breasts into something that resembles a shelf?
A: It's likely the bra cups and back size are too small. Try a size bigger.

The side boob
Q: Are the wires in the side of your bra cup sitting on your breast rather than your ribcage?
A: It's likely that the cup size is too small. Try a cup size bigger.

The big stand off
Q: Does the front of your bra not sit flat on your sternum or breastbone?
A: The back size of your bra is too big. Try going down a size.

The high rider
Q: Is the back of the bra riding up?
A: The back size of your bra is too big. A small backsize should help this.