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Center Gore Not Laying Flat

Diagnose why your gore floats and find a comfort-first solution—whether it is cup depth, wire shape, or a better style match.

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Spot the Signs of a Floating Gore

Use this checklist to confirm whether the center gore needs attention before adjusting your size.

  • Center gore hovers above the sternum even when straps and band are adjusted
  • Underwire presses into breast tissue near the center instead of hugging underneath
  • Pain or sensitivity at the sternum after a few hours of wear
  • Plunge or low-gore styles tack, but full-coverage gores do not

Quick diagnostic tip

Slide two fingers between the gore and your sternum. If you can fit more than one finger comfortably or feel sharp pressure, adjust cup volume or wire shape.

Reconfirm Measurements First

Cup depth and wire alignment rely on accurate measurements. Start here before exploring style changes.

  1. Measure the band snugly while breathing normally; confirm it sits level across your back.
  2. Measure the fullest part of your bust with relaxed posture to capture true cup volume.
  3. Compare calculator results with your current bra size to confirm cup volume alignment.
  4. Reassess after scoop-and-swoop to ensure tissue is inside the cups before evaluating the gore.
Review Measurement GuideOpen CalculatorMastectomy fit guidance

Wire Shape & Cup Volume Adjustments

Match wire width to breast root

If the gore lifts, the wires may be too narrow. Try larger cup volumes or brands with wider wires.

Check wire height vs sternum comfort

Shorter gores (plunge styles) can help close-set or sensitive sternums while still providing support.

Avoid bending wires aggressively

Light adjustments are fine, but excessive bending can damage the frame and reduce support.

Comfort-Forward Style Alternatives

Plunge bras

Lower center gores accommodate close-set breasts and reduce sternum pressure.

Spacer or molded cups

Lightweight foam adapts to breast shape and may tack better than stiff lace designs.

Wireless bras with firm bands

Provide comfort for sensitive sternums while keeping tissue supported.

Flex-wire or comfort-wire styles

Flexible wires pivot with movement, offering a middle ground between structure and comfort.

Plan for Comfort & Health

Keep these points in mind if sternum sensitivity or medical changes impact your fit.

  • Consult your healthcare provider if you have sternum pain, post-surgical sensitivity, or medical implants.
  • Rotate bras so pressure points have time to recover; avoid wearing the same style every day.
  • If a wired bra never tacks despite adjustments, keep a comfortable wireless option in rotation.

Medical reminder

Persistent pain, visibility of implants, or post-surgical discomfort should be assessed by a healthcare professional or certified fitter. Fit advice complements, but does not replace, medical guidance.

Keep Exploring Fit Solutions

Tackle related issues to round out your fit journey and keep bras comfortable all day.

Smooth extra space at the top of the cupsKeep tissue contained with supportive wingsSupport scar-sensitive or post-surgical needs

Share your experience

Every body handles wire pressure differently. Let us know what worked for you so we can highlight the most supportive brands and tricks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a floating gore always a fit problem?

Not always. Certain plunge or sports bras are designed with a slight float. If support and comfort remain high, it may be acceptable. However, most wired bras should tack at the gore for optimal support.

Should I size up in the cup or down in the band?

Check band snugness first. If the band is firm, go up a cup to gain wire width and depth. If the band is loose, size down in the band and up in the cup (e.g., 36C → 34D).

Can bending the wires help the gore tack?

Minor adjustments can help with sternum comfort, but rely on proper sizing first. Over-bending can break the wire or compromise support. Seek professional alterations if necessary.