PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Clothing
Clothes by Type
Undergarments
Brassieres
How to Adjust Bra Straps Download Article Reviewed by Kalee Hewlett
Last Updated: November 22, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Adjusting Bra Straps for Length
|
Identifying Why Straps Are Too Loose
|
Identifying Why Straps Are Too Tight
|
Video
|
Tips
|Show more|Show less ARTICLE VIDEO X
This article was reviewed by Kalee Hewlett. Kalee Hewlett is a Celebrity Stylist & Confidence Coach with almost two decades of experience helping clients build confidence and ‘dress for success.' She works with her clients to transform their sense of self 'from the inside out’ by merging her expertise in image consulting with Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Kalee’s work is rooted in science, style, and the understanding that ‘identity is destiny'. She uses her own methodology and Style To Success Strategy to create positive identity shifts. Kalee is a fashion TV host and appears regularly on QVC UK sharing her fashion expertise. She also was appointed as the head judge and host of Fashion One Network’s 6-part TV show 'Design Genius.’ This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 573,151 times.
Are your bra straps cutting into your shoulders, leaving you with red marks? Or maybe it's the opposite, and your straps slip off your shoulders all the time? To loosen your bra straps, push the back strap away from the slide adjuster. To tighten the straps, pull the front strap closer to your bra cups. Keep reading to learn how to adjust your straps for the best fit, and what it might mean if your straps don't fit right.
How to Tighten and Loosen Bra Straps
Tighten your bra straps by gripping the adjuster and pulling the front strap towards the cups of your bra. This slides the adjuster closer to the bra band. To loosen your bra straps, hold the adjuster as you pull the back strap away. This slides the adjuster closer to the bra cups.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Adjusting Bra Straps for Length
Download Article
1 Locate the slide adjuster on your straps. It is a little metal or plastic clip that you can slide up and down the length of your strap. Some slide adjusters can run the full length of the strap, while others can only run about halfway.[1]XResearch source
On a new bra, you will probably find the strap adjustor all the way at the back of the bra strap, near the bra band (the part that hooks across your back).
Some bras, like most sports bras, are made from a single piece of fabric, and therefore do not have adjustable straps. If your straps are too loose or too tight on a bra like this, then there is an issue with the overall fit and you need a new bra.
It is usually easier to adjust the strap if you are not wearing the bra. The adjustor will normally lie against your back, which makes it hard to reach unless you remove your bra.
2 Tighten a loose bra strap by holding the slide adjuster with the fingers of one hand and pulling front of the strap toward the cup with your other hand. As the strap slides through the adjuster, the adjuster will move closer to the bra band. The closer the adjuster is to the band, the shorter and tighter the strap becomes.[2]XResearch source
If you are trying on a new bra and you have to adjust the straps to the tightest position, it's not the bra for you. Your straps will stretch over time, so you need to have some room to tighten them later.[3]XResearch source Try a bra with a smaller band size.
Advertisement
3 Loosen a tight bra strap by holding the slide adjuster in one hand and pulling the back part of the strap away from the adjuster. The slide adjuster should move closer to the bra cup. The closer the adjuster is to the cup, the shorter and tighter the bra strap will become.[4]XResearch source
4 Adjust the other strap. Remember that you probably won't want it the exact same length as the first strap, though. Your breasts are not identical in size or shape, so one strap may be a little tighter or looser than the other. This is completely normal and nothing to be self-conscious about.
5 Try on your bra and adjust as necessary. If your straps are fitted properly, they will lie flat and smooth against your chest[5]XResearch source and they will hold the cups against your breasts.
Always re-adjust your bra after you wash it, as the process may cause the slide adjusters to move.[6]XResearch source
If the straps are as tight or as loose as they can be and you are still having issues (the strap is falling off your shoulder, the straps are cutting into your skin), read the following sections to learn possible causes and how you can solve them.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Identifying Why Straps Are Too Loose
Download Article
1 Look at the slope of your shoulders. Some women are born with narrow or sloping shoulders and some develop them later in life. This can make it difficult to keep your bra strap from falling off your shoulder, even if your bra is the correct size. If this is the case, you may need to try a different style bra.[7]XResearch source
Look for bras with straps that are closer to the middle of the back, such a leotard backs, racerback, or straps that criss-cross over your back.[8]XResearch source
Avoid bras with "camisole backs," which come straight down and attach to the bra band at a right angle.[9]XResearch source
Try a halter bra, which loops around your neck and attaches just at the front of your bra.[10]XResearch source
Make sure the front of your bra straps attach to the cup right above the apex of your breast, or your nipple.[11]XResearch source
A bra with convertible straps will allow you to try different styles (racerback, criss-cross, halter) so you can adjust for a comfortable fit or for different outfits.[12]XResearch source
You can buy a clip that attaches to the straps of your bra, pulling them together into a racerback style and keeps them in place on your shoulders.[13]XResearch source
2 Test the elasticity of your straps. Over time, your bra straps will lose elasticity and become looser and looser, causing you to tighten them. If they lose too much of their elasticity, you may not be able to make them tight enough to stay on your shoulders.
Slide your finger under your strap and pull up. If it easily stretches to your ear, it's too loose and needs to be replaced.
If you take good care of your bra (don't wear the same one every single day, hand wash and air-dry them, and put them on properly), they should last about 6-9 months, if not longer.[14]XResearch source
3 Make sure your bra isn't too big. The band should be snug against your back and parallel to the ground. Your breasts should fill the cups without pinching (giving you the appearance of having four boobs), and the cups should lay flat against your breasts.[15]XResearch source
If your bra doesn't fit the above criteria, try a smaller band or cup size. You can measure yourself at home or be professionally fitted for a bra that fits properly.[16]XResearch source
4 Get your bra straps shortened. Petite women may find their straps are always too long, no matter how much they tighten them. A tailor or lingerie shop may do this for you, or you can do it at home by removing an inch or two from the strap and re-sewing it.
Advertisement Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Identifying Why Straps Are Too Tight
Download Article
1 Check that the bra band is the right size. Your bra straps should be doing minimal work to hold up your breasts--a properly fit bra band should provide almost total support. If the band is too loose, you may be tightening your straps to pick up the slack, causing them to gouge into your shoulders.[17]XResearch source
Your bra band should be snug, but no so tight that you can't slide a finger between the fabric and your skin at the front of your bra.[18]XResearch source
The band should be parallel to the floor and sit no higher than the bottom of your shoulder blades.[19]XResearch source
If you measure your bust and find your bra band is the right size but still too loose, then it's simply too old and needs to be replaced.
2 Make sure your cup size is correct. If your cup size is too large, you may be tightening your straps too much to keep the cups from looking pointy or to pull the them flat against your chest.[20]XResearch source
If your cup size is too small, the straps may not be long enough to accommodate your breasts and be pulled tight, gouging your shoulders.
A bra in the correct size will have cups that lie smooth and flat against your chest, without pinching or causing your breasts to overflow from the sides or top.[21]XResearch source
If the center panel of the bra (the part between the cups) doesn't lie flat against your breastbone, your cups may be too small, forcing you to tighten your straps to a painful degree.[22]XResearch source
3 Wear a bra with wider straps. Many full-support bras come with wider straps, which distribute weight better than thin straps and provide more comfort.
Even with a properly fitted bra, thin straps can sometimes still be painful for women with larger breasts. Try to avoid them when possible.
4 Buy a cushion to wear under your straps. If your bra fits properly but the straps are still causing you discomfort, invest in cushioning designed specifically for bra straps. They fit under or around your straps and should mold against your skin so they are not obvious under your clothes.
Some bra straps, especially wider straps, come with build-in cushioning for added comfort.
Advertisement
Common Questions: Adjusting Bra Straps
How can I make my bra straps tighter without an adjuster?
Shorten and tighten your bra straps by safety pinning the strap together. For a more permanent option, sew the straps shorter. Or, use a product like the Strap Saver to tighten your straps.
Why do my bra straps loosen throughout the day?
Your bra straps might loosen throughout the day because the straps aren’t tight enough. If they’re tightened all the way, it might be because you’re wearing the wrong cup or band size. This can also be a sign that your bra is old and it’s time to replace it.
Why does my bra band keep sliding up?
This is typically a sign that you’re wearing the wrong bra size. It’s possible that your band is too big or that your cups are too small. Search for a bra size chart online to find the proper fit.
Video
Tips
If you're not sure about how to find the right bra for your body, visit a professional at a lingerie shop or department store. They will measure your bust and help you find different options for the best fitting bra. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How to Stop Your Bra Straps from FallingHow to Position & Put on a Bra the Right WayHow toKeep a Strapless Bra UpHow toStop a Bra from Riding UpHow toBuy a Well Fitting BraHow toMake Adjustable StrapsMeasuring Bra Size at Home: A Complete GuideHow toWear a Sports BraHow toWear Off the Shoulder Tops with a BraHow toChoose the Right BraHow to Get Rid of Bra Strap Indentations on Your Shoulders (and Keep Them from Coming Back)How toWear a Bra Properly5 Hacks to Turn a Regular Bra into a Strapless BraHow toKeep Off Shoulder Tops in Place Advertisement
Reviewed by: Kalee Hewlett Image Consultant This article was reviewed by Kalee Hewlett. Kalee Hewlett is a Celebrity Stylist & Confidence Coach with almost two decades of experience helping clients build confidence and ‘dress for success.' She works with her clients to transform their sense of self 'from the inside out’ by merging her expertise in image consulting with Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Kalee’s work is rooted in science, style, and the understanding that ‘identity is destiny'. She uses her own methodology and Style To Success Strategy to create positive identity shifts. Kalee is a fashion TV host and appears regularly on QVC UK sharing her fashion expertise. She also was appointed as the head judge and host of Fashion One Network’s 6-part TV show 'Design Genius.’ This article has been viewed 573,151 times. 8 votes - 40% Co-authors: 35Updated: November 22, 2025 Views: 573,151 Categories: Brassieres In other languages German Portuguese Spanish Italian Russian Indonesian French Dutch Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 573,151 times.
Reader Success Stories
Jullia Briggs
Jun 6, 2016
"The tip on sliding bra straps helped me most! Check to see if you have sloping shoulders! Excellent tip, don't know why I never checked! Thanks."..." more
Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Kalee Hewlett Image Consultant 8 votes - 40% Click a star to vote 40% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 35Updated: November 22, 2025 Views: 573,151
Jullia Briggs
Jun 6, 2016
"The tip on sliding bra straps helped me most! Check to see if you have sloping shoulders! Excellent tip, don't know why I never checked! Thanks."..." more Share yours!
Quizzes & Games
Why Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizDo I Need Therapy QuizTake QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizTake QuizWhy Am I So Bloated QuizTake QuizWhat Are The Best Compression Socks For Me QuizTake QuizHow Awkward Am I QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How to Stop Your Bra Straps from FallingHow to Position & Put on a Bra the Right WayHow toKeep a Strapless Bra UpHow toStop a Bra from Riding Up
Featured Articles
How toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?
Trending Articles
Am I Autistic Quiz210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow Sexual Am I QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizGuess My Deepest Secret Quiz
Featured Articles
How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With
Featured Articles
What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)
Watch Articles
Amazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForHow toDevelop Listening SkillsHow toNot Lose Your GirlfriendHow to Draw an OwlHow toTreat AllergiesHow toIntroduce Friends to Other Friends
Trending Articles
Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?What Would My Nickname Be QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are Quiz5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeHow toBe PrettyKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect Kiss
Quizzes & Games
What Kind of Mattress Should I Buy QuizTake QuizShould We Break Up QuizTake QuizWhat Color Braces Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizAm I Clingy QuizTake QuizDo I Need Glasses QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Clothing
Clothes by Type
Undergarments
Brassieres
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Reviewed by Kalee Hewlett 
How toMake Adjustable Straps 
Advertisement 
Reviewed by: Kalee Hewlett Image Consultant This article was reviewed by Kalee Hewlett. Kalee Hewlett is a Celebrity Stylist & Confidence Coach with almost two decades of experience helping clients build confidence and ‘dress for success.' She works with her clients to transform their sense of self 'from the inside out’ by merging her expertise in image consulting with Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Kalee’s work is rooted in science, style, and the understanding that ‘identity is destiny'. She uses her own methodology and Style To Success Strategy to create positive identity shifts. Kalee is a fashion TV host and appears regularly on QVC UK sharing her fashion expertise. She also was appointed as the head judge and host of Fashion One Network’s 6-part TV show 'Design Genius.’ This article has been viewed 573,151 times. 8 votes - 40% Co-authors: 35 Updated: November 22, 2025 Views: 573,151 Categories: Brassieres In other languages German Portuguese Spanish Italian Russian Indonesian French Dutch Japanese 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
525 
1 Locate the slide adjuster on your straps. It is a little metal or plastic clip that you can slide up and down the length of your strap. Some slide adjusters can run the full length of the strap, while others can only run about halfway.[1] 
2 Tighten a loose bra strap by holding the slide adjuster with the fingers of one hand and pulling front of the strap toward the cup with your other hand. As the strap slides through the adjuster, the adjuster will move closer to the bra band. The closer the adjuster is to the band, the shorter and tighter the strap becomes.[2] 
3 Loosen a tight bra strap by holding the slide adjuster in one hand and pulling the back part of the strap away from the adjuster. The slide adjuster should move closer to the bra cup. The closer the adjuster is to the cup, the shorter and tighter the bra strap will become.[4] 
4 Adjust the other strap. Remember that you probably won't want it the exact same length as the first strap, though. Your breasts are not identical in size or shape, so one strap may be a little tighter or looser than the other. This is completely normal and nothing to be self-conscious about. 
5 Try on your bra and adjust as necessary. If your straps are fitted properly, they will lie flat and smooth against your chest[5] and they will hold the cups against your breasts. 
1 Look at the slope of your shoulders. Some women are born with narrow or sloping shoulders and some develop them later in life. This can make it difficult to keep your bra strap from falling off your shoulder, even if your bra is the correct size. If this is the case, you may need to try a different style bra.[7] 
2 Test the elasticity of your straps. Over time, your bra straps will lose elasticity and become looser and looser, causing you to tighten them. If they lose too much of their elasticity, you may not be able to make them tight enough to stay on your shoulders. 
3 Make sure your bra isn't too big. The band should be snug against your back and parallel to the ground. Your breasts should fill the cups without pinching (giving you the appearance of having four boobs), and the cups should lay flat against your breasts.[15] 
4 Get your bra straps shortened. Petite women may find their straps are always too long, no matter how much they tighten them. A tailor or lingerie shop may do this for you, or you can do it at home by removing an inch or two from the strap and re-sewing it. Advertisement 
1 Check that the bra band is the right size. Your bra straps should be doing minimal work to hold up your breasts--a properly fit bra band should provide almost total support. If the band is too loose, you may be tightening your straps to pick up the slack, causing them to gouge into your shoulders.[17] 
2 Make sure your cup size is correct. If your cup size is too large, you may be tightening your straps too much to keep the cups from looking pointy or to pull the them flat against your chest.[20] 
3 Wear a bra with wider straps. Many full-support bras come with wider straps, which distribute weight better than thin straps and provide more comfort. 
4 Buy a cushion to wear under your straps. If your bra fits properly but the straps are still causing you discomfort, invest in cushioning designed specifically for bra straps. They fit under or around your straps and should mold against your skin so they are not obvious under your clothes. 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.