How can you see that a bra is past its best and needs replacing? For me, if the bra shows signs of wear and tear it’s already too late because it’s not giving any support anymore.

If wear and tear is visible there’s obviously no doubt that the bra is past its best.

Elasticity is another pointer. If you can stretch the material and it doesn’t snap back to its former shape when you let go, the bra is not giving your breasts the support they require.

When a bra loses elasticity the back panel may become too wide, causing it to ride up. The reduced elasticity may also have a negative impact on cup lift.

The faster way to accelerate wear and tear is to ignore the washing instructions. Always take care to wash your lingerie with the right product (more info here) and use a lingerie pouch. Lay on a flat surface to dry, but never in direct sunlight or on a heat source, like a radiator. Wearing your bra on successive days without washing it is also inadvisable, as sweat damages the fibre.