Our beloved breasts.

Perhaps the most prominent physical features on our body, they're often our pride and joy. So why do so many of us treat them so poorly? One might think there isn't much to know about the bras - you get what covers your twins and keep it movin - but any bra guru will tell you that most of us have been wearing the wrong undergarments for years.

To get to the bottom of this breast battle, we talked to long-time (30+ years!) lingerie specialist Eyvette Manigualt at New York City's Town Shop (townshop.com) boutique, who taught us a thing or two about our favorite twins.

1. Every woman should be re-fitted for a bra yearly. Yes, just like visiting your OBGYN, visiting your bra specialist should become a yearly routine. If you think about it, it makes sense. From year to year we change size, weight, or medication, each potentially shifting the size of our breasts if only just a bit. Confirming your bra size annually ensures that you're showing your breasts the love and support they deserve. Let's be honest - they're well worth it.

2. Bras should always fit your bust line. Apparently some of us are wearing bras that are a bit too close to our stomach. Never buy the back (elastic) too big, or the cup too small. Warning: If you do the aforementioned, you will get visible bra lines.

3. A new bra should never be worn on the last hook. A new bra should ALWAYS fit comfortably on the first hook. If you're reaching for the last hook and the bra fits comfortably, the bra is too big.

4. You can't avoid back fat by buying a bigger bra. The perfect bra compliments your breasts and your waist line – no matter how big or small.

5. Your straps are not your saviors. Your breast support should come directly from the "rib cage" or cup part of the bra, not the straps. If your straps are carrying most of the weight you're risking an ill-fitted bra, shoulder dents, and potentially a broken strap. Remember, Jesus paid it all, not your straps. 6. 7 secrets to breast success: Eyvette suggests that every woman should have 7 different types of bras to match the varied looks of her wardrobes. How many of the below do you have?

a. Low Cut (For low cut dresses/tops)

b. T/Razor Back (For specially designed shirts/dresses)

c. Your Favorite Sexy Bra (Lace is an easy win to make you feel sexy)

d. T-Shirt Bra (Perfect for your everyday clothes)

e. Molded Bra (Not padded, but molded. They do come in F and G cups)

f. Plunge Push-Up Bra (Use as necessary. Try to avoid wearing at church functions.)

g. Strapless Perfection (Buy strapless bras one cup size larger and one back size smaller to ensure the shape and support you desire)

ADDITIONAL TIPS
**To ensure durability and a long lasting shape, stick to nylon Lycra instead of cotton Lycra.

**Women with a larger chest should not always object to wearing bras with seams. A seamed, filled bra can work wonders in rounding out the breasts to create the ideal shape.

**Never put a molded bra in the dryer. It will lose its shape forever.


What's your favorite type of bra? Tell us!