“Your fabulous new outfit could be a major fashion don’t if it’s not paired with the right undergarment,” says Pattie Ficorilli, Maidenform’s bra fitting expert. “The key to looking great is to start with the right bra.”

One-third of women, however, are unhappy with their bras and are looking for something more comfortable. The wrong fit may be the culprit. Research shows the majority of women – at least 70 percent – are wearing the wrong size bra, which is no surprise when only 38 percent have ever been measured and fitted for their correct bra size. Ficorilli recommends seeing a fit specialist at your local department store to find out if you’re wearing the right size. “When your bra fits properly, you shouldn’t even feel like you have one on,” she says.

Once you know your proper size, Jacqui Stafford, style director for Shape Magazine, suggests women build a wardrobe of bras so they have one that will work under everything from a cashmere sweater to a plunging wrap dress to a strapless gown.

Stafford says there are five bras every woman should own:

1. Everyday bra – Everyone wants a comfortable bra with smooth lines to wear every day under a sweater or blouse. The best option is a two-way stretch foam bra because it provides comfort, shaping and opacity. The new Maidenform Dream bra is a good one to try, says Stafford, because it was custom fit on real women – from size 32A to 40DD – to give women a more personalized, comfortable fit.

2. Deep Plunge Bra – For low V-neck sweaters and wrap shirts or dresses, go for a deep plunge bra that completely “V’s” in the center.

3. Cleavage Enhancing Bra – “A push up bra not only gives your cleavage a lift, it gives your confidence a boost as well,” says Stafford. Choose a bra with a bump pad for a low-cut shirt or dress that needs a little extra oomph.

4. Evening Bra – A longline bra is a great option for under a dress. It gives support as well as tummy control for a smooth, sleek look. Longlines usually have a lower back than most bras, so they are ideal for back-baring tops and dresses.

5. Strapless Bra – When choosing a strapless bra, security is the most important feature. Look for one that has an added elastic strap to make sure your bra stays where it should and prevent the awkwardness of having to constantly keep tugging and pulling it up.

“When you start with the right first layer, you’re guaranteed to look great in all the hottest new styles,” says Stafford.

Courtesy of ARA Content