Blog — workout clothes

Surveys show that the majority of people wearing bras are wearing the wrong size. That’s probably because most of us were never taught how to measure bra size. If you were lucky, a parent took you to get fitted for your first bra. From then on, it’s mostly been guesswork.

You know your size (roughly), you like the look and feel of a bra, and that’s enough to put it in your shopping basket. But this is not how it should be. Knowing your correct bra size is extremely important before you go bra shopping. 

How do you measure your bra size correctly? Do you need a professional bra fitting? Or can you do it at home with a tape measure?

The answer is you can absolutely do it at home. Indeed, the best gift you can give yourself today is to perform an accurate bust measurement and make sure your bra fits properly.

Continue reading for a step-by-step guide on how to measure bra size. I’ll talk about the different bra styles like strapless bras and sports bras. And last but not least, I’ll tell you why bust measurements are so important. 

 

Why Is A Well-Fitted Bra Important?

Featured Product: KFT Goddess Bra in Brightest Red

Slipping straps and gaping cups can be annoying, but aside from being uncomfortable, a poorly fitting bra is also a health hazard.

Wearing the wrong bra size can cause or worsen neck, shoulder, and back pain. It can also cause issues like poor posture and breast sagging.

This is because bras support the breasts. Without the proper support, the breasts can sway up to 4 cm even while you’re doing something as simple as walking (crazy, right?).

 

How Do Experts Measure Bra Size?

Many lingerie brands no longer use tape measures. Their experts can do it by eye. 

Sounds impressive, right?

In the store or online, expert fitters can look at you in your current bra (preferably one that you find particularly comfortable) and tell you, for example, to go down a cup for a better fit. 

But while specialists are not picking up a tape measure anymore, if you are going to measure your bust at home, you will need one. 

 

How To Measure Bra Size At Home With A Measuring Tape?

Before you go shopping for a new bra, learn how to measure bra size. It’s a small investment of your time but it will help you find a bra that fits perfectly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to bust measurement at home.

First things first -- make sure you’re wearing a comfortable, lightly lined or non-padded bra (full coverage bras are best), and keep a measuring tape handy. 

 

How To Measure Bra Band Size

1. Wrap the measuring tape around your torso, right below your bra band and directly under your bust.
2. The tape should be snug, but not pulled so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
3. Make sure the measuring tape is at the same level all around when you measure your band.
4. Note down the inches. If it is an even number, this is your calculated band size. 
5. If it is an odd number, round off to the nearest even number. This is your band size.

 

How To Measure Bra Cup Size

1. Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest.
2. The tape should sit flat and level. 
3. Note down how many inches. This is your cup size.

 

How To Calculate For Bra Cup Volume

1. Subtract your band size from your cup size.
2. Make a note of the difference in inches.
1. 1 inch difference = A cup
2. 2 inches difference = B cup
3. 3 inches difference = C cup
4. 4 inches difference = D cup, and so on.

Example:

If your band size is 35 inches and your cup size is 36 inches, the difference is 1 inch. This means you have an A cup bust. If your band size is 35 inches and your cup size is 38 inches, the difference is 3 inches and you have a C cup. 

 

How To Determine Your Actual Bra Size

Take your band size and your cup size and put them together to get your bra size for the right fit. 

For instance, if your band size is 36 inches and your cup size is 38 inches, the difference is 2 inches. This means you have a B cup and your bra size is 36B.

Now all you need to do is check the bra size chart on your favorite lingerie brand labels and pick up the right one for your bust size.

 

How To Measure Bra Size For A Sports Bra?

Experts in women’s health say that unsupported breasts can move up to 14 cm during vigorous exercise.

Yes, that’s right... 14 cm!

If you don’t wear a well-fitted sports bra you could suffer permanent damage to the Cooper’s ligaments that hold your boobs in place. So, finding the right size in sports bras is equally important. 

Your sports bra size is practically similar to your regular bra size, however, you must consider your level of activity when picking a sports bra.

 Featured Products
Top - KFT Freedom Bra in Inky Black
Bottom - KFT Keep Moving Lined Shorts in Pineapple Party

Generally speaking, low-impact sports bras support A to B cups, while fuller cups (C to D) might need more support from medium-impact sports bras. If you have bigger than D cups, you’ll need a high-impact bra to make sure you’re breasts are fully supported during your workout.

 

Is Sports Bra Size The Same As Regular Bra Size?

For the most part, yes!

But it can be a little more complicated than just reaching for your regular bra size.

Sports bras vary depending on the type of physical activity they are designed for, ranging from low impact to medium impact and high impact. They offer differing amounts of support, which means the size metrics can vary. 

Some sports bra brands are sized according to cup and band size just like normal bras - this is usually true of high-impact sports bras.

Other brands (usually those offering low to medium support) don’t have band and cup sizes. Rather the bra sizes range from XS to XL.

Thankfully, most brands do the conversions for you and provide a bra size chart that corresponds to regular bras.

For reference, here's the sizing guide for KFT's Freedom Bra.

 

With my regular bras, I'm typically a 34B and I wear my Freedom Bra in size Medium. The KFT Freedom Bra is ideal for low to medium impact activities.

More information on our sizing here.

 

How To Check If I’m Wearing The Right Or Wrong Bra Size?

Congratulations! You now know how to measure your bra size at home from the band and cup.

But there’s one more thing left to do. You should check if your current bras are the right bra size.

 

Check Band Fit

The wrong band sizes can make even the best bras ineffective. 

Featured Product: KFT Medusa Bra in Blue Jay

To ensure comfortable support and a good band size, you should be able to slide one finger underneath the band with about 1 inch of give when you pull the bra away from your rib cage. This ensures the band provides support, not just the straps. 

Also, the band should stay horizontal all the way around your torso. Keep in mind that with every wash, most bras get looser, so you might want to move from the loosest hook to the second (tighter) hook for a better fit, and then ultimately to the tightest hook.

 

Check Cup Fit

If your boobs are spilling out of the bra, your bra cups are too small.

If, on the other hand, you notice your cups pucker or wrinkle or you have gaping cups, then your bra cups may be too big. 

 

Check Bridge Fit

The bridge or gore is the piece that connects the two cups. It should sit midway and be flush against your chest wall, not gaping or lifted off the chest.

Also, the underwire should extend all the way to the side under the arm so it supports all of your breast tissue.

The underwire should not be on your boob!

Rather, it should scoop all your breast tissue in. This is especially important in strapless bras that don’t have the additional support from straps.

 

Check Strap Fit

Featured Product: KFT Medusa Bra in Black

The last thing to check is your bra straps.

Loose or slipping straps can mislead you into thinking your bra is too big. Tight straps can leave uncomfortable grooves on your shoulders or cause neck and shoulder pain. 

Adjusting the straps can make a huge difference in bra fit. Your bra straps should be tight enough to prevent slipping straps but not so tight that they dig into your skin and feel uncomfortable.

 

Bra Sister Sizes

Another word of advice on this bra size calculator tutorial: It is worth noting that your bra size in one brand may be different from your bra size in another brand.

Something called bra sister sizes can be useful. This means if your usual bra size is 34C but in a particular brand the band feels tight, you should go up a band size and down a cup size, i.e, try a 36B.

On the other hand, if the band feels loose, try a sister size of 32D.

FAQs

How often should you measure bra size?

Leading lingerie brands recommend getting measured for the right bra every 6-12 months. But there’s no single right answer to this question.

I’d say whenever you go bra shopping, but that can vary widely from person to person.

Or if you’ve recently had weight fluctuations or hormone fluctuations during a pregnancy, then your bust size has likely changed and it’s time to get measured for bra sizes. 

 

How to ensure the perfect fit in a sports bra?

The overall fit of a sports bra should be snug without any extra room for movement, but it should not be uncomfortably tight.

A well-fitting sports bra does not dig into your skin, restrict breathing, or cut off circulation. When you’re trying on sports bras, it’s not a bad idea to jump around a bit to check the fit. The band should stay in place and you should have freedom of movement while feeling supported in your bust. 

 

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect fitting bra can be quite a trial and error. It isn’t just about the complexity of measurement or sizing, but also because our bodies are constantly changing.

But the good news is, once you’ve learned how to measure bra size and zeroed in on the right bra size, if you’re buying the same brand and your current bras are comfortable, you don’t need another fitting. 

You just need to make sure they’re comfortable and supportive!

Comfortable enough for daily wear, sleek enough to be fashion essentials, and versatile enough for office attire, casual events, and formal occasions - leggings are a must-have in your wardrobe. But not all leggings are made equal. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, fabrics, and lengths.

So, what types of leggings should you buy? Nylon leggings or cotton ones, printed leggings or disco leggings, animal prints, or neutral tones? Knowing the different types of leggings that are available can help you decide.

Since leggings have ruled the fashion world for years now, I think they are here to stay. I’ve written this ultimate guide on leggings based on legging length, legging style, and legging material.

I’m also going to tell you how to choose leggings for a good fit. My goal is to help you wear leggings to make you feel comfortable and look stylish.

 

Types of Leggings: What’s Available Out There?

Based on length and cut

Ankle length

Ankle-length leggings are also called full-length leggings. They typically extend to the ankles or just above the ankles. This makes them ideal for the winter season.

They’re pretty versatile, and you can wear them with heels, flats, boots, or sneakers. In particular, it’s easy to wear them with boots because they're skin stretched.

You can pair ankle-length leggings with anything, including tanks, t-shirts, tunics, and sports bras. Wearing leggings that go to the ankles can give you a sleek look, just like skinny jeans.

These types of leggings can create an illusion of long legs, making you look taller than you are. So, while they’re great for any body shape, they are a particularly great choice if you have short legs.

Ankle leg leggings can be smart enough to replace formal pants, for instance, if you choose leather leggings or faux leather leggings and some nice accessories and a jacket or blazer.

But that’s not all - ankle-length leggings in fabrics like cotton are extremely comfortable and suitable for everyday use. You can also find some pretty unusual ones, such as flared leggings or ripped leggings, if you want to create an eye-catching, stylish look.

Check out the KFT High-Ly Recommended Leggings for a great selection of ankle-length leggings.

 

Knee-length

Knee-length leggings hit the knees or end just below the knees. They are also called short leggings and are available in a range of fabrics such as cotton, nylon, and Spandex.

These types of leggings are a popular choice as athletic leggings. They are a comfortable fit for yoga, pilates, gym, dancing, and Zumba.

Knee-length leggings are also great for outdoor activities like hiking in warm weather. However, they may not be suitable for cooler weather because of the incomplete leg coverage.

In terms of styling, it can look odd if you wear heels with knee-length leggings. They go best with t-shirts and running shoes for a casual look.

 

Mid-calf

Mid-calf length leggings end somewhere between the knees and the ankles. They are also called three-fourth length, capri leggings, or cropped leggings.

Mid-calf leggings are very versatile. They look great with heels, flats, and sneakers, and they pair well with both short tops and long shirts. However, because these types of leggings don’t cover the whole legs, they are not suitable for use in cold weather.

Some people wear them like underwear for an extra layer under regular pants.

 

Footed leggings

Footed leggings end in socks. You can think of them as leggings and socks combined. They cover the entire legs and feet. These leggings are generally worn with ballerina flats, but they can also be worn with boots and high heels.

 

Stirrup leggings

Stirrup leggings extend to the ankles and have a loop that goes below the heel of the foot. They are great for dancing and ballet.

If you want a pair of leggings that do not ride up during movements and looks graceful, stirrup types are definitely worth a look. 

 

Based on fabric

Natural

 

1. Cotton

The best thing about cotton leggings is that they are very soft and super comfortable. This is a lightweight fabric that’s great for warm or humid weather.

However, there are some downsides to cotton leggings:

Cotton can stretch over time and lose its shape, giving a dimpling effect. That’s why many cotton leggings combine fibers like Spandex so that they hold their shape during gym work and are comfortable for daily wear.

The other problem with cotton leggings is that if you sweat a lot, the leggings can hold water and stay damp.

My advice: buy cotton leggings in blended fabrics.

Also, when you choose colored leggings in cotton, go for darker colors so that sweat doesn’t show as much.

 

2. Wool leggings

If you live in a place with cold weather, wool leggings are ideal.

This is a good fabric because it traps air and creates a layer of insulation to hold in warmth, just like fleece.

The main disadvantage of wool leggings is they can be pretty pricey.

 

Synthetic

 

1. Polyester

Polyester is water-resistant and wicks sweat, so these types of leggings are a great choice for workouts.

The downside is that polyester leggings can get smelly pretty quickly. You can overcome this problem by picking a pair of leggings in a polyester blend. Also, be sure to wash them out after every use. 

 

2. Spandex

Almost every pair of leggings designed to be worn during an exercise regime has at least some percentage of Spandex in it (this material is also called elastane or Lycra). 

The main reason is that Spandex is stretchy and body-fitting, which makes it ideal for working out. But while it is commonly added to many different fabrics, Spandex is not so great on its own - it can get sticky and un-breathable. 

 

3. Nylon

One of the most popular legging fabrics, nylon is both lightweight and durable. It is easy-care and does not wrinkle easily. But despite its many benefits, it can shrink.

Also, some ladies feel it is not classy enough to wear on a special occasion.

 

4. Combination

A blend of 80% nylon and 20% Spandex is an awesome combo of performance and style that gives you the best of both worlds.

This lightweight, stretchy, durable fabric is great for casual wear and athletic wear - a must-have in your closet.

The nylon-Spandex blend fabric is commonly used in compression leggings. These are a type of athletic wear that increase blood flow during exercise. Research has shown that compression leggings improve endurance, enhance performance, and speed up recovery from muscle soreness after exercise.

 

How To Choose Leggings 

Functionality

Before you go on a shopping spree, stop for a minute and consider some important factors. The first thing you should consider when choosing between different leggings is what you’ll be using the leggings for, i.e., their function. 

• Casual wear

You have a huge choice of versatile pieces in casual wear leggings, and pretty much anything goes. However, you should buy leggings based on the weather where you live. You don’t want to freeze when you’re out running errands.

Also, if you’re going to wear leggings with short tops or tank tops, a high waistband works well. If your leggings will replace your trousers, choose thicker fabrics that are not see-through. However, if you’re going to wear tights or leggings with dresses or longer tops, sheer materials can work. 

For everyday wear, look for jeggings - they are a cross between jeans and leggings. Jeggings are comfortable and can take more wear and tear than leggings. They also have added posterior support, and you can get them in fabrics like denim.

• High impact workouts

You need durable leggings in a sweat-wicking material. Look out for leggings that have a small pocket for your keys or phone and reflective strips if you’re going to use them for running or cycling outdoors. 

• Stretching

If you’re going to wear your leggings to a yoga class where you’ll be stretching and bending, choose natural fabrics like cotton with a stretchy Spandex blend (that’s what most yoga pants are made from).

Don’t buy leggings that are too tight as they can cut into your skin when you bend and stretch. 

• Weightlifting

When you’re doing deadlifts, squats, and lunges in the gym, comfort is key. Choose sporty leggings in an opaque material that are both flattering and fashionable (you’ll be spending a great deal of time in front of mirrors).

Nylon and Lycra blends are a popular choice. Leggings with a drawstring waist are great if you do both cardio and weightlifting. 

 

Fit

The ideal leggings feel like a second skin on your body. They fit snug across the waist, hips, thighs, and calves. The waistband is not so tight that it creates a “muffin top” on your belly.

On the other hand, it is not so loose that you have to keep pulling up the leggings. 

While you can choose a loose or snug fit in most other types of leggings, when it comes to workout leggings, always choose a snug fit. You don’t want any extra fabric floating around and getting caught in something at the gym.

A high waist is also advisable, so you don’t have to worry about flashing your assets when you bend over.

Avoid calf-length leggings because they can bunch up around the knees, especially after continued use. Most gym-goers prefer solid black ankle-length leggings and pairing them with a nice t-shirt. 

The best way to test the fit of different types of leggings is to try them on. Do a few stretches and bends in the trial room and check out what happens.

Does the waistband creep down over your hips when you move? You might need a smaller size.

Are the leggings too tight at the thighs? They may be too small. 

 

Add-ons

If you’re going to wear leggings for athletic activities, you want thoughtful add-ons that make your life easier.

For instance, concealed pockets for your gym membership card or keys, a high waist that provides coverage and does not ride down, machine washable and fast-drying materials, and a figure-sculpting fit that flatters all body shapes.

 

Material

If you are looking for leggings that will compliment your long tops and make a great outfit, the biggest thing to watch out for is good quality material.

And if you are looking for clothing to wear to the gym, then Elastane (Spandex or Lycra) is your stretchy and durable friend.

People who want to avoid synthetic materials in favor of natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and bamboo should keep in mind that while they are super comfortable, the sweat-wicking capacity of these fabrics is limited. 

 

Style

Whatever style of leggings you choose, remember that too-loose leggings can look sloppy. If you want something loose, choose a pair of slacks or wear skirts or capris.

If you’re going for leggings, a snug fit looks smooth and chic. 

 

FAQ

How can you tell good quality leggings?

The fabric of the leggings is the most important thing to check in terms of quality. Look for stretch, compression, breathability, and shape retention. Also, check care instructions. 

 

Do leggings stretch out over time?

Yes, leggings can become stretched after multiple washes. They can also shrink. How well your leggings will retain their shape depends on what they’re made of and how you care for them.

To prevent leggings from stretching out, wash them in warm or hot water. Hot water has a shrinking effect and can counteract any stretching that occurs with repeated use.

Should I go by hip or waist measurement for leggings?

I would say waist. If you buy a size too big that is loose on the waist, the leggings are going to be pretty much useless for you.

As long as the fit is snug and comfortable on the waist, a little extra compression or looseness in the thigh and hip area can usually work out okay. 

What’s Your Favorite Pair of Leggings?

The types of leggings that we’ve covered in this guide can be a great addition to your wardrobe.

Whether you need them for fitness, hiking, or just because they look so darn good on Instagram, there is something here for everyone!

We hope you found the information helpful and will use it as a starting point when deciding what type of leggings best suit your needs. 

We highly recommend checking out our KFT High-ly Recommended Leggings available in 4 solid, vibrant colors. They’re sure to keep you looking and feeling great all day long, especially during your most intense gym days.

 

Most people wear workout clothes to exercise. Some even wear gym clothes around the house or while running errands or shopping (they’re cute and comfortable, I understand!).

 

But it can be difficult to figure out just how many sets of workout clothes you need. You don’t want to wear sweaty clothes and put yourself at risk of yeast infections. But you also don’t want to run out of closet space with too many workout clothes. 

 

The question is how many workout clothes are enough? One thing to keep in mind is how frequently you exercise. The other thing is the types of physical activity you participate in.  Weather also plays a role. Last but not least, your personal preference.

 

Continue reading to get a sense of how many workout clothes you need. This will help you keep your wardrobe organized, yet let you have enough stuff to workout several times a week without wearing clothes soaked in sweat.

 

How Many Workout Clothes Do I Need?

 

If you go to the gym regularly or participate in sports activities every week, you should have a change of clothes for every workout.

 

For instance, if you hit the gym three times a week, play tennis on the weekend, and go to yoga a couple of times a week, you will need at least seven sets of workout clothes (one for each workout plus an extra).

 

Different types of workouts such as weight training, dancing, kayaking, biking, and running all require different types of workout clothes. And your location also matters--  if you’re exercising outdoors in the cold, you need a sports jacket. In hot climates, you can forgo it. 

 

In the following paragraphs, I’ll describe in more detail the different elements of workout apparel and how many of each you need. 

 

Sports Shoes or Sneakers

 

 

For someone who plays tennis or golf once a week, one pair of sports shoes is enough. On the other hand, if you go to the gym almost every day, it’s worth investing in at least two pairs of sports shoes.

 

It makes more sense to buy one pair of high-quality sports shoes than several pairs of low-quality ones. Your running shoes are more than a fashion statement after all. They protect your feet and prevent injuries. 

 

Running sneakers should have good cushioning and lateral support and be flexible and lightweight.

 

You might need an additional pair of sports shoes for specific physical activities, such as treadmill, floor exercises, cycling, hiking, weightlifting, HIIT, or agility training. 

 

Sports Bras

 

How many sports bras do you need? It depends on how often you work out.

 

If you go to the gym five times a week, buy five sports bras.

 

Just like you wouldn’t wear the same clothes again without putting them in the wash, you shouldn’t wear a sweat-soaked sports bra-- you could end up with uncomfortable skin irritation or infection from bacteria. 

 

And don’t make the mistake of wearing a regular bra during your workout routine!

 

Sports bras are an essential element of workout outfits for women. A sports bra provides proper support and prevents breasts from sagging. Many women wear a sports bra like a top, in which case they might need an extra pair or two.

 

Check out the KFT sports bras here.

 

Athletic Wear Tops

 

 

Overall, five tops should be enough if you are a regular gym-goer, assuming you do laundry a couple of times a week. If you wear your workout tops as regular shirts, then you might need to purchase more. 

 

A workout top is a key element of your workout gear. Before you invest in many sets of workout clothes, figure out what types of tops you need.

 

Some people prefer long sleeve shirts, others short sleeves or sleeveless. It is a good idea to have a mix of workout tops in your wardrobe for every weather condition and type of activity. 

 

The next thing to consider is the fabrics. Some folks find synthetic tops like Spandex best as they are light and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Others prefer cotton because it can absorb moisture. 

 

Here are some of my favorite KFT tops to wear when I'm working out.

 

Gym Bottoms

 

 

On average, most people do well with three to five pairs of workout leggings, shorts, or a combination of the two.

 

More than how many sets of workout clothes you have, it’s important to have comfortable, high-quality gym clothes in your closet that are suited to your workout routine. 

 

When you’re putting together a gym outfit, you need to figure out the type of bottoms you’re going to wear. Some people wear leggings and others wear shorts. There are also special bottoms like yoga pants or pilates pants made of material that can be stretched. Those who are into weight lifting might want workout bottoms that provide support. 

  

Athletic Socks

 

How many pairs of socks do you need? I’d say around seven pairs, although if you do laundry a couple of times a week, you can get by with 5 pairs.

 

An essential part of gym clothing is your socks. I recommend cotton socks that wick moisture and keep your feet dry. The best sports socks cover the ankles and provide a cushion against sneakers. 

 

 

The Takeaway

 

 

There is no single right answer to how many sets of workout clothes you need, but I hope these guidelines help you decide how many should you have in your closet.

 

Most people do well with three to five pairs of tops, bottoms, and sports bras plus five to seven pairs of socks and a couple of pairs of sneakers. You might need more or less depending on your workout routine and laundry schedule.

 

The important thing is to not overrun your wardrobe with gym wear. Rather, choose fewer items of high-quality sportswear that enhance your performance, are comfortable, and look good.

What are the types of sports bras and how do you pick the best? I’ve got the lowdown on all the things you should be paying attention to in sports bra styles, from support to function, style to material.

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