Ever heard a fitter mention "the gore" or "side boning" and had no idea what they meant? You're not alone. A few key terms can help you actually understand what a good fit feels like, and why — so you're not just nodding along at your next fitting.

The Basics

• Band — the part that wraps around your ribcage, doing most of the actual support work (not the straps, contrary to popular belief).
• Cup — the part that holds and shapes the bust itself.
• Underwire — the curved wire beneath the cup that provides structure and lift.

The Details That Actually Matter

• The gore — the centre piece between the cups. It should sit flat against your chest; if it's floating away, that's a sign of the wrong size or style.
• Side boning — vertical support built into the side of the cup, adding extra structure for fuller busts.
• The cradle — the base of the cup that holds and lifts from underneath, rather than relying purely on the straps.
• The wing — the side panel connecting the cup to the strap at the back. It does most of the real support work, which is why band size matters so much.

Once you know these terms, fitting conversations get a lot easier — and you'll start noticing exactly why some bras feel supportive and others don't.

Frequently Asked Questions