Do I Need a Custom Bra?

While we don’t make custom bras, our personalized fittings help determine whether you truly need one. Most people who come to Kimtimates are surprised to learn that the fit issues they’ve been dealing with for years can usually be solved with the right size, style, or a simple alteration. A properly-fitted bra often does far more than people expect.

That said, Kimtimates does not offer custom-made bras. What we do offer is expertise in helping you understand whether an off-the-rack bra can meet your needs, or whether your situation calls for something more specialized. In some cases, ready-to-wear bras, no matter the brand, simply can’t address specific anatomical needs, medical changes and conditions, or unique support requirements. When that happens, a custom-made bra may be the best option, and we’re happy to guide you toward trusted makers who provide that service.

Kimberly assists a client during a bra fitting. Our personalized fitting service, along with decades of experience, can help you find a bra that fits and feels great.

Who Can Benefit from a Custom-Made Bra

Custom bras are designed for clients whose needs aren’t fully served by off-the-rack options. Some examples include:

1. Unique Proportions

• Petite, full-busted clients may struggle to find bras with the right underarm depth or strap placement.

• Custom bras can accommodate strap placement, cup shape, and underarm height for improved fit and comfort.
  

2. Noticeable Asymmetry

• Clients with scoliosis or breast asymmetry may find that commercial bras pull to one side.

• Custom bras can balance support and shape on each side for a more comfortable fit.
  

3. Sizes Outside the Standard Range

• Some clients need band and cup sizes beyond what commercial brands offer.

• Custom bras can be created in these extended ranges for proper support.
  

4. Special Requests

• Specific fabrics, trims, or design details.

• Accessibility needs or other functional considerations can be taken into account with a custom bra

Limitations of Custom Bras

While custom bras offer a highly personalized fit, there are some limitations:

• Supply availability: Specialist fabrics, elastics, trims, and specific underwire sizes or shapes may not be accessible to all bra makers. Firm powernets, laminated cup fabrics and large, sturdy underwires can be challenging to source.

• Construction and styling: Some sewing techniques, including bonding or moulded/seamless designs, are difficult or impossible to replicate at home.

• No try-before-you-buy: Multiple fittings are necessary to ensure the perfect fit.

Getting a custom-made bra can also be time-consuming and costly, with prices often starting at $300+. Expect multiple fittings and a process that can take several weeks from consultation to final product.

What Goes Into Making a Custom Bra

Creating a custom bra is a detailed process:

1. Consultation: Discussing your needs, preferences, and fit challenges.

2. Measurements & Trying samples: Working with the bra maker to determine the right fit.

3. Creating the first pattern & sample: An initial pattern is drafted, and the first prototype is sewn.

4. Fittings: Multiple fittings and samples may be required to refine the fit.

5. Final construction: Once the pattern and sample fit has been perfected, the final bra is sewn.

Remember:

• Drafting a custom pattern, or modifying an existing one, to your size and shape can take many hours.

• Cutting and sewing each bra can take upwards of 4 hours.

• The time, specialist skill required to draft patterns and sew bras, and the limited availability of fabrics and trims are what make the cost of a custom bra substantial.

Supporting Local Canadian Bra Makers Do I need a custom bra?

At Kimtimates, we love connecting clients with Canadian bra makers who specialize in custom bras. We can provide local referrals in Red Deer and Central Alberta, as well as Calgary and Edmonton. Many of these talented makers also teach bra-making, offering a hands-on way to learn about fit while exploring your own bra-making skills.

Kimberly, the founder of Kimtimates, is a true bra enthusiast. With decades of experience in fitting, designing, pattern making, and sewing bras, she has a deep understanding of the full-bust world and what makes a bra truly supportive and comfortable.

If you’re curious about a custom bra but aren’t sure where to start, we can guide you through what’s available on the market, even if we don’t sell it ourselves. Our goal is to help you understand your options and connect you with trusted local custom-bra makers throughout Central Alberta and the surrounding region.

Kimtimates | The Bra Fit Specialists

Have a good fit.