The bra — sexy fashion statement or medieval instrument of torture? The debate rages on among women of all breast sizes, but one thing is certain: A well-fitted bra is your absolute best chance for maximum comfort and style. But with so many sizes, shapes and colors to choose from, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Studies show that 70 percent of women are wearing the wrong bra. So where — and better yet, how — do you begin?

"Whether you're shopping in a big department store or an intimate boutique, you should take the time to adjust the bra yourself or get properly fitted," says Lauren Blankenship, who owns the New York lingerie boutique Bodyhints. "Bra cuts vary wildly across manufacturers, so we send our trained staff into the dressing room with customers, because most bras are adjustable in at least two places — the back and shoulders. A bra might not seem to fit at first, but often if there's help with the adjustment, it will."

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