With a larger bust thanks to weight gain, I have shied away from bra fittings, because denial and shame... However, I had an amazing experience, and I actually only came in for a swimsuit. The swimsuit selection was limited in sizes, but I would say that's potentially because I'm kinda late in the season (and obviously they specialize in lingerie). Ellie was my fitting assistant and I had a FANTASTIC experience. I'm impressed that they can look at you and know your exact bra size?! Is this dark magic?! Once correctly sized, Ellie grabbed an entire selection of bikinis and one pieces, and the one I would never have chosen, was in fact the one I got, along with 2 correctly fitting bras! Definitely recommend. read more

The bras were nice and they had an okay selection for my size but the fit appointment was the worst experience. My rep was a redhead (forgot her name) and I was fitted a couple weeks ago. The whole time, I felt embarrassed and felt rushed and degraded because she kept referencing how large my "giant boobs" are, I didn't like how she was talking to me. I felt so uncomfortable and I'll be returning the bra for two reasons: the memory of the negative experience is burned into my brain and I've tried it and her recommendation isn't even fitting properly. read more

The bra fitters here are kind and knowledgeable, able to properly fit even unusual sizes without using a measuring tape. Unsurprisingly, I was wearing the wrong size, but the fitter explained to me how she was able to tell it was incorrect. Do not underestimate the effect of the right bra! The store has a large and varied stock, ranging from basics to boudoir, all of which is organized using colored size tags. If you're in Portland and have a large rack, shop here! Your breasts will thank you. read more

Desiree was so wonderful to work with. She really listened to all of my needs and bra shopping and fitting had always been a nightmare and Desiree and the amazing staff at Pencil test definitely changed that experience for me read more

Well I learned that you need to be larger than me to find something here. I did read this on their website "We have an amazing selection of full bust brands and styles in D-cups and larger." but just thought ok they will have a big selection of bigger bras. I didn't know it would mean they wouldn't have anything for me. I still don't know my real size as the explanation of sizing is very confusing. But sounded like a C cup and they would have that size if my ribs were smaller but once you get into wider ribs they only have D and larger. Still giving them top marks as it seemed like a lot of selection but disappointed because there is still no place for me to get personal sizing support. They also have a lot of panties but didn't check out if those are only larger sizes. Even saw some swimsuits. They also have a parking lot and easy street parking. read more

The staff and selections are amazing! I had no idea places like this existed. It was such a wonderful experience having experts get the right bra size and fit for me. Being a 32G it's almost impossible to find bras that fit well. I've been wearing the wrong size for years. It's totally worth it a little extra $$ to go here and get to support your boobs proper :) I will not shop elsewhere now and highly recommend! read more

I was there today for an appointment and the staff who helped me was so rude. She was insistent on trying to sell me an ill fitting, gaping, and poking bra. Rolled her eyes at me when I said that it was uncomfortable. Reached in and adjusted me without warning or asking. I left wondering if she hates women, hates the store she works for, or was in a contest to see if she could bully a customer into buying the most ill fitting bra. I left and went to a competitor. I was treated with respect there and got a bra that fit within 10 minutes. Leaving 2 stars instead of zero because I have been here before and they have a great selection and the other saleswomen have been fine. read more

The staff is very rude. I made an appointment and arrived on time. There is no reason for them to treat people like it is a bother for you to be shopping in their store. read more

Highly recommend The Pencil Test! If you, like me, are still wearing the bras you purchased pre-pandemic - even though the elastic is falling off and you've gained about 20lbs - it might be time to head in to The Pencil Test. I booked an appointment for a fitting/shopping about a month ago. Yes, you do need to book that far in advance - they are busy! (You can stop in anytime just to shop if you already know your size and fit.) I didn't know what to expect but this was phenomenal. They accommodated my schedule when I arrived early. They measured my size with their eyes (no awkward tape measure like I've experienced at other places). They had me try on a sample size to be sure it fit well, then asked what styles I was looking for and brought me a ton of options to try on. It was fun, informative, and confidence-building. My attendant was Eva - she did an excellent job. From figuring out the correct size to being attentive without checking in too often. She helped me understand how to shop for the right size in the future. The fitting is free and there is no pressure to buy. However I feel like you're likely to find something you love. For me, the cheapest item I purchased was $38 and the most expensive was $82. I walked out with more than I planned on purchasing, and will maybe return 1-2 items. But the quality of their stock is excellent and I am hopeful that they will last longer and be better for me than what I had previously! At least they fit correctly! read more

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The best place to get a bra if you're larger chested! Holly went above and beyond to take me to boob city. She even taught me what it felt like to wear a bra that FITS! Did you know your boobs aren't supposed to touch in a comfortable bra that fits? Me neither! Impressed by her ability to take a glance and give me the perfect size. She was also hilarious - upset to abandon her woes that I wanted a bra slightly smaller so to give more boob - however she found me the PERFECT bra! Their selection is vast and fits every need. The bras are high in quality. read more

I didn't have an appointment (which I would recommend) and they were short, staffed accommodating vacations and personal commitments. The woman who did my fitting squeezed me in and was back and forth with at least 3 other customers conducting fittings. She looked at me and suggested sizing, bringing me both different cup sizes and styles until we found just the right size. I ended up buying 3 bras and a swim top, and to my surprise, all were on sale. This is a treasure for women with large bust sizes and I highly recommend. read more

Not the nicest customer service. I walk in and ask for help and am immediately told it's 30-45min wait and I would meed to make an appointment. If you are appointment only just state that vs. saying walk ins welcome when indeed you are not treated in a welcoming way. I frequented the store when they were on Alberta, and the staff was much nicer back then. Not sure what has changed. read more

What a terrific store! I took my 85 year old mother in law and they spent so much time with her. And I had outstanding help as well. It's amazing how a well fitting bra can feel so good. I highly recommend this store. 10 out of 10. read more

While visiting my daughter in Portland, she pointed out that I needed to get a well fitting bra, and that The Pencil Test was the only place to go. After only waiting a few minutes for someone to "measure" me, Desirae was able to not only able to make me feel at ease, but was able to "eyeball" me and selected the correct size and an assortment of different styles and colors for me to try. It was an amazing experience. I left with 7 comfortable and well fitting bras and did not go out of my budget . My only regret is that they are not in California. Thank you Desirae and The Pencil Test for a marvelous experience. I should have asked, why is your store called The Pencil Test? read more

Stay away. I am travelling and needed a strapless bra as I forgot to pack mine. I walked in and was asked what size I am. I told the girl and she condescendingly said "that's not how I would size you". Also, I was wearing an oversized sweatshirt and a puffy jacket, so I'm not sure how she could see my size. She found one bra for me in a store of approximately 5000 bras. I asked her if she had anything more moulded or with a slight push up and she barked at me saying "this isn't Victorias Secret". I should have left right then and there but I am Canadian and too nice. I tried on the bra she got me in the size I usually wear, and guess what?! It fit great. I bought it because I need it for tonight. I should have gone to Nordstrom and bought the Spanx bra. Please do that instead of going here. read more

Was dying to get the correct fitting bra after healing from breast cancer surgery and had good memories of them on Alberta. When I got there I could not tell if they were open or not, it was so dark at their new location. The staff vibe was not particularly warm or welcoming for retail. I don't know if they didn't want to be there, if they had a horrible boss or they were relatives. Hard to tell. My fitter was competent, not Uber friendly. I tried to explain about my boobs after BCS because one is now larger than the other and she just waved me off. They fit by "sight" now which is annoying because you have to try on a variety of sizes and you are actually sizing yourself. I hate being in the dressing room for long, so did not appreciate this. Eventually, we (it was a group effort) settled on 40G (I'm fat) and I wore a bra out and bought another bra. They did not have the Wacoal styles I wanted and carry a huge amount of different makers, styles and colors but the Wacoal's I wanted were the basic classic standard. The one I wore out I have to keep, it's too tight and each strap has an annoying piece of velcro which makes me increasingly crazier throughout the day. The other bra, I kept the tags on thank God because the underwire stabs me in the boobs and again, the straps are weird. They're newer models of Wacoal's so I guess Wacoal has gone in quality. Yay. They were a little friendlier when I made the purchaser, the light came into their eyes, and even let me sit in the lobby until my Lyft came. It's back to Nordstrom's for me. Maybe they still use a tape measure! read more

My fitter, Desiree (sp?), was a wizard. She asked me what size I wore, looked at me front and back, and brought me the best fitting bra I've put on in years. With that confirmed she brought me a pile more, searched their sale, gave me feedback and checked in regularly. She was amazing. She even helped me find the best fitting swim suit I've had in maybe ever. I will go back for all of my bra needs until forever. read more

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Abby was amazing!! I am 34 and have been wearing the wrong bra size since I needed one. Reasonably priced, tons of options, im incredibly excited to wear all of the ones I bought. They also have fans in the changing rooms because we all know we get super hot haha. Can't wait to go back, highly recommended!! read more

Eliza and The Pencil test, made my day with the best selection, amazing customer service, expertise, and High quality merchandise. Having a place where I felt completely seen and heard and cared for, is worth all the money in the world as far as I'm concerned. I will go here every time I visit, and will purchase online in between sessions! read more

Service excellent... personal and full ideas of possibilities .. some new items made it even more fun ... love the location ! Prices are manageable ... and worth it for the quality. Selection is huge and staff are excellent at finding what will work for you ! Thanks for a good experience read more

You need to schedule an appointment. Highly knowledgeable and experienced staff. I am a large breasted woman. The person helping me took one look and retrieved 4 different bras for me to try on. No tape measuring was used with me, only one look. That's all that was needed. The first one I tried fit great and the second one did too. I didn't even bother to try on the next two. I got what I needed: a well supporting and comfortable bra. I don't need my bras to look pretty, yet they do. I count this as a bonus! These people know what they're doing. read more

The service from the lady that was doing the sizing was polite BUT when it came time to pay, the ladies (one was either a manger or the owner) decided it was smart to talk trash about my 75 year old mother. Long story short this company thinks it is smart to put their debit card reader in the back where employees only go. You have to go to the back to pay or allow them to go with your card. Gotcha but okay. After a good 5 minutes the girl comes back saying her card was declined several times. My mother is fortunate to have money so that was shocking. I ended up paying. As I was putting my PIN number in I let the manager or who ever she was know that if my card didn't work they may have a problem on their end. The card worked and the lady that it was a smart idea to look at me and said no the problem is not us it's your mother's finances. WTH come on lady, you do not know why the card declined. In actuality the card blocked the transaction as the store was flagged for something. Mom had been scammed in the past and the bank really watches her account now. As the lady was bagging her items she continued with the smart comments about not having the funds available. There were more comments and my mother was just about in tears as I got her into the car read more

This is the place to come for a professional bra fitting. I was able to schedule a next-day fitting with them and get right in. Welcoming atmosphere and the expert fitter will ensure you find options that fit you perfectly, are comfortable and supportive in the style you're looking for. The fitting is free and there's no pressure to buy from them, although they have a wonderful selection in store and online that will entice you to keep coming back. This is one of the best gifts you can give yourself - definitely schedule your fitting with them. read more

Sometimes when I have a bad experience at a place that has mostly 4 and 5 star reviews I shy away from sharing my experience online. Maybe it was just an off day and the other voices are more representational? But if everyone with a negative experience makes the same assumption, perhaps a legitimate part of the overall review process is missed. So here I go... From my one-on-one sizing appointment I ended up with 4 pretty painful - and pricey - bras that I will hopefully be returning. (They were on sale, so fingers crossed.) The PT sizing method is to guesstimate based on what they see, rather than actually measuring. This resulted in me being fitted for a band size a couple inches smaller than my at-home measuring tape reported: recommending 32" bands rather than my actual 34". Selection went WAAAYYYYY down once I specified that I wanted a bra that wasn't seeable through my shirt due to lumpiness from lace, structure, etcetera. Most of their bras seem to be for presentation rather than actual wearing. I recommend you don't go here, and/but if you do don't take any tags off before you wear your bras at home for a few hours. Mine left me with deep red marks on my torso that lasted 30 minutes plus after taking them off. I have a busty athletic build and have never had this problem before. Couple more gripes for the road... place has a weird vibe. No one working seems happy to be there. I don't get it because big boobies should be fun! Also, "pence test" has some sketchy history... both body shaming and racist. After my hopeful return I will not be back. Googled the bras I bought there online and found each of them 20% cheaper. (Not that I'll be buying them, they hurt! I was just curious about the price mark up.) EDITED TO INCLUDE: Sadly, nothing I bought was returnable as it was all on sale. (Still quite pricey tho.) I will not be shopping here again. If you do I suggest you are VERY sure about anything you buy before you do, as their customer service is lacking. (As in, they'll suggest a size that isn't right and then not accept a return on unworn items that still have tags.) BUYER BEWARE indeed. read more

Genevieve was the person who helped us and all I have to say is AMAZING, KIND, and MAGICAL! Genevieve basically looked at me and magically knew what size I was. Genevieve did the same thing for my mom. We are so happy. We haven't gone bra shopping in over a year and a half so needless to say we were desperate! We walked away with 6 bras each in all different styles. We feel beautiful again. We are a forever customer of the pencil test! Thank you so much Genevieve! read more

I would give 10 stars if I could. The Pencil Test has the most helpful staff that are so knowledgeable and ensure you get the perfect fit. They have such a large selection and it's so amazing to get a bra in my size that isn't an ugly nude-they have fun colors styles. read more

Alex is A SUPERSTAR! I haven't had this much fun shopping for bras in my life! Great selection and an easy going vibe! Fitting rooms are comfortable and there's more rooms since they moved to this location. They do their fitting by sight, too! read more

Bizarre. I know bras are expensive, my wife makes sure to tell me every time she needs a new one, but I didn't know I'd have to take out a loan & forgo my sons college education just to have her shop here. I still have sticker shock But hey, she's happy and I'm happy with her boobs so I guess we all win. read more

I had a wonderful time at my bra fitting appointment. Holly was super nice, incredibly helpful, and made me feel very comfortable and at ease. She taught me how a bra is supposed to fit and just how low the closure should sit across my back. I never would have guessed that my correct size is 3 cup sizes larger and 2 band sizes smaller than what I've been wearing all these years. Such an improvement! The bra selection here is amazing. I also appreciated that they have good AC and a parking lot. read more

The Pencil Test - Superboost Lace Bralet (Brand: Gossard). - Lingerie Near Me - Portland, Oregon

This place is wonderful. The staffers are incredibly helpful. Something to keep in mind if you are using Google or Yelp is that the Martin Luther King Blvd. location is the correct one and the Alberta Street location is wrong. For some reason, the old address can't be changed, and the map sends you to the wrong place. read more

Great selections of bras and binders! Very supportive of trans kids. Great with sensory issues of under garments. Still only open by appointment, and respectful of Covid issues. Staff uses masks and the pens are cleaned between uses. And since it's only by appointment, there are very few people in the store. read more

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As one who STRUGGLES to find a bra in the correct size or wide assortment of sizes, this place is absolute HEAVEN. Alicia (not sure if I spelled that correctly) was a complete and total gem. She brought so many bras after assessing each bra's fit that I would feel bad about how many were the wrong size and she would ease my worry by saying, "This is the one place where you can try on as many bras as you want! Don't feel bad!" The ladies here are complete angels with their patience and honesty for bra fit and suggestion. If you have an appointment coming up, get excited because this place is magical! To anyone who has not been, or is planning on going this is the break down of an appointment. 1. Make an appointment. Yes, they are currently appointment only and to be honest you will be grateful that they are. The shop is small but packed with a wide selection. They have bras in drawers accessible only to employees as well. 2. When you show up to your appointment, you get a personal consult from a professional fitter and they will pull your sizes accordingly. 3. They bring you bras based on their assessment and/or based on your needs. It is at this point that you want to share what you are looking for. Strapless? They have it! T-shirt bra? Absolutely! Wireless? Of course! Swimwear? They got you covered! I will be honest and say they are booked weeks out, so make an appointment as soon as you can. Please be respectful of the establishment and either show up to the appointment or cancel your reservation online. I was told that they get 20+ phone calls a day asking for any appointment openings, but won't know until someone doesn't show up to their appointment. Time is money and in the realm of retail and small businesses, be kind and keep this in mind. Lastly, if you are desperate for an appointment, don't try and bombard the staff with phone calls. Instead, go to their website and refresh the page for "appointments." Someone just might cancel their appointment therefore giving you a chance for the BEST BRA SHOPPING EXPERIENCE YOU HAVE EVER HAD! I hope this helps those who are looking. I will definitely be a regular here! Happy shopping. read more

My husband set me up with a fitting for our anniversary. I was fit with a different size than my usual and bought 4 lovely looking bras. I took the tags off two of them, wore them and they were a terribly uncomfortable as the strap was digging into my armpit. I took the two unused bras with tags on back to the store to discuss a way to fix the situation. The women who helped me, had a can't be bothered attitude. She told me I needed a smaller band size and when I said the size down was uncomfortable, very tight and made lumps on my side she told me "bras were not meant to be shapewear." I went in to exchange the bras but after that comment I asked for a refund. I think that bras can look good and feel good!! I will take my business back to Nordstrom's fitters who have a customer service mindset. read more

I came here to shop today..I know my size and could have been and out. I walked up to see a sign outside that said "by appointment only." So I went back to my car.. a couple minutes later I see a woman walk up, read the sign, talk to someone and then be let in. So I went back inside and I asked if they would accept another walk-in and was turned away; the woman in the photo saying "No, sorry. But your welcome to go to our website to make an appointment." So I assumed maybe the woman before me had an appointment after all. BUT THEN another woman walked up, READ THE SIGN, talked to the same woman and was let in after me! Unbelievable!! This was one shop I thought was inclusive and really hope this has nothing to do with me being of a different race than those two women. I'm very offended by this treatment and I'm not sure I'll return. read more

The Pencil Test - The sign says by appointment only and a smaller paper sign that says not taking any walk-ins today. - Lingerie Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I can't remember who helped me but the service was great, they are super honest with you which might feel harsh but it's better that way. Was given a ton of bras to try and was told my proper size and why certain bras would be better for me. Amazing selection. Warning most of the bras are expensive! read more

I had an extremely positive experience at my bra fitting and shopping appointment with Alex. I was absolutely blown away to learn that I was wearing a bra with a cup size 4 sizes too small. Alex sized me on sight alone and immediately started pulling tons of options for me to try on. I spent a substantial amount of time trying on the loads of different styles and types that she provided, and getting lots of help, feedback, and suggestions from Alex along the way. I learned a lot through this experience and walked away very happy with four new bras and much more confidence than when I walked in! I can finally wear the shirts that have been hiding in my closet because they didn't look right with my old bras. I feel so much more confident and empowered after my appointment and I think this is something every woman should get to experience. I'm so happy I took the time to do this for myself and I cannot recommend The Pencil Test enough. read more

I asked for 'No underwire', for sports. She asked all the right questions; Got me 3 different styles; Spent time until I was happy. Worth my time and money for sure. read more

I stopped in here as a friend wanted to show me the place. I was extremely impressed with their sale selection. Then I asked the question "I am a T1D and have an insulin pump do you have any special underwear to hold me pump?" Low and behold, they had a GirlyGoGarter which I had seen on some insta-sites, and they fitted me. I got the nude one so its inconspicuous with my flesh. Today its 70 in PDX, and I love my GirlyGoGarter. It stays up, its comfortable, its easy access to my pump without flashing my girly bits. The customer service here and selection is amazing! read more

The Pencil Test - Lingerie Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Is there more than 5 stars? I made an appointment a while back and went in. The person there literally "measured" me with her eyes and was spot on. As someone who has hated bra fittings since I started wearing them, this was a wonderful change. They had a fantastic range of options, wonderful recommendations and these bras really hold up. I made another appointment for today to get some more but had to cancel last minute due to weather. They were so kind and understanding and will have my business for the long run. read more

I'm a 34 year old female human living on planet earth that has been wearing bras since I was 10 years old. This was hands down the best bra shopping experience I have ever had. I'm sad I don't remember the young brunette lady's name that helped me because I was too focused on the adorable French bulldog puppy ( pup's name Is cricket ). I wasn't shocked to hear I've been wearing the wrong bra size for years since I was so uncomfortable but within 25 mins I walked out with three new bras in the correct size doing all the right things for my body. Thank you so much and look forward to my next visit! read more