Perfect Fit: Find a bra that works for your bust

No matter how shapely you are, after you hit that prime age, (in this case, puberty), you need something to hold "them" in. If shopping in the lingerie section of a department store sends shivers up your spine, it's time for a quick fix. Don't let this Secret be Victoria's any longer. Read on for bra authenticity...

Research shows that over 70% of American women are not wearing the right bra size. That's quite a hefty number that sadly includes many of today's teenage girls. So, what's with the unwit fit? "Lack of knowledge on the topic," explains Leslie Mason, who works for Victoria's Secret in North Dakota. "Some girls will take just any bra they see that fits well in the shop, and once they get home, find out what a nuisance it actually is." How do you avoid this provocation? It's as simple as b-r-a...

the solution: If you have a Hollywood-style, not-purposely made outthrust, it probably means your cup size is either two small or too low-cut for your breast size. Instead of making like Mariah, try going up a cup size or choose a bra style which includes more fabric at the top.

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That new bra rides up your back.

the solution: When it looks as if your bra is requesting a piggy-back ride, it's not because it wants to have a little fun. In this case, the size of your band is too small. Before you hit the nearest lingerie department, try hooking your bra on a less-tight setting and tighten the straps. If all else fails you, the band size is just too small -- that's when you need to buy a larger size.

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Ouch! That pinch wasn't meant to tease...

the solution: This happens a lot with the type of bra that only has one hook-and-closure. In this instance, the bra is either hooked too tightly, the band size is too small, (as opposed to riding up your back), or the sides of the bra is too narrow for your figure. If you indeed have a three-hook closure, try hooking your bra on a looser setting. If that doesn't add aid, the bra style is inappropriate for your figure, and the most helpful solution would be to use another style.

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Something's poking you -- and there's no one around...

the solution: The underwire poking in entails that your cup size is too small to begin with. What you need to do is move up a size and see if that underwire fits more comfortably. If, instead, it causes more problems, find a style that has a larger center panel in the front.

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well, did you know...In 1968 at a Miss America pageant, feminist protesters trashed their bras....The average cost of a breast reduction? $5,200....If Barbie were a real woman, her measurements would be 36-18-33....The most popular size of a Wonderbra purchased yearly is 34B....The approximate average age at which a girl buys her first bra? 11.

While most may feel uncomfortable with the "wonders" they've been given, it's not something to look down upon. Literally. So it seems, girls who have large want small and vice versa. In the end, though, you have to come to a realization that what you've got is what you've been stuck with. Flaunt it -- in a good way. Then, let your personality shine through. Bra-vo!

when it comes to advice, there's no one better
oprah! fabulous bra tips and tricks at: www.oprah.com!