The cups shrink a tad after washing and the material softens. The cups had wrinkles before washing that became smooth after. Overall a wonderfully supportive bra that feels light. My only complaint is the band is a tad itchy and snug. It needs to be snug to maintain fit as it ages from my perspective. As the elastic ages it should get softer. It did after only one wash. Also, the snug fit helps with support as it will not ride up. Hand wash and hang to dry is on the label but I washed on delicate in a Laundry bag and tossed in the dryer on ultra low heat due to a time constraint. All turned out well. If you have soft breast tissue due to age, childbirth, or genetics this bra is wonderful. It gives a nice silhouette. Old fashioned.. beautiful...☆Update☆.. I've purchased a second one because am very pleased with the quality after over six months of use. The elastic does soften over time but the bra remains supportive and looks almost like new even with double day wearing and hand or delicate cyle wash with a hang dry several days a week. This is what I recall the performance of a bra was many years ago. So many bras these days break down after a few months of use, even with gentle care. Yes, the look is old fashioned, but some things should never be tampered with. Our grandparents were not out replacing under garments frequently and the environment was better for it!