In the realm of undergarments, few things are as vital as finding the perfect-fitting bra. The right bra not only enhances comfort but also plays a significant role in bolstering your self-confidence. However, navigating the world of bra sizing can be as challenging as it is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the intricacies of bra sizing, demystifying the band size, cup size, and the art of measuring yourself correctly. By the end of this journey, you’ll be well-equipped to find that perfect-fitting bra, ensuring you not only look good but feel great too.
Content:
- Band and cup size explanation
- Measuring your bra size correctly
- Common bra sizing myths
- Measurement charts
- US comparison with EU, FR and UK
Understanding your bra size to feel great
From understanding the basics of band and cup measurements to exploring the nuances of different sizing systems, we’ll take you on a journey to unlock the secrets of comfortable and well-fitting bras. Whether you’re a bra enthusiast looking to fine-tune your knowledge or someone who’s simply tired of uncomfortable undergarments, this blog is your go-to resource.
First the basics: band and cup size
Before we dive into the specifics of how to measure yourself, let’s first understand the two fundamental components of bra sizing: the band size and cup size.
Band Size: The band size, denoted by a number (e.g., 34, 36, 38, etc.), corresponds to the measurement around your ribcage, just below your bust. This number represents the size of the bra’s band, which provides the primary support for your breasts. It should fit snugly but comfortably around your ribcage, parallel to the ground.
Cup Size: The cup size, usually represented by letters (e.g., A, B, C, D, etc.), indicates the volume of the breasts. The cup size is determined by the difference between your band size and the measurement around the fullest part of your bust. A larger difference corresponds to a larger cup size.
For instance, if your band size is 34 inches and the fullest part of your bust measures 36 inches, you have a 34B bra size. If the bust measurement is 37 inches, you’d typically wear a 34C.
It’s important to note that cup size is not static; it varies relative to band size. This means that a 32C and a 34B bra will have cups of similar volume, but they are designed for different band sizes.
Measuring your bra size correctly
Now that you have a basic understanding of band and cup sizes, it’s time to learn how to measure yourself accurately for the perfect fit. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather your tools
To measure yourself correctly, you’ll need a few things:
- A soft measuring tape: A fabric or sewing measuring tape is ideal.
- A mirror: It will be helpful for checking that the measuring tape is level.
- A well-fitting, non-padded bra: This helps ensure that your breasts are in their natural position during the measurement.
Step 2: Measure your band size
- Put on your well-fitting, non-padded bra. This will provide a consistent foundation for your measurements.
- Stand in front of a mirror and hold the measuring tape around your ribcage, just under your bust. Ensure that the tape is parallel to the ground and snug but not tight. Keep your arms down.
- Take the measurement in inches. Make sure the tape is snug but doesn’t dig into your skin. Round the measurement to the nearest whole number. If the measurement is an even number, add 4 inches to it. If it’s an odd number, add 5 inches. This is your band size.
Step 3: Measure your bust
- While still wearing the bra, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Ensure that the measuring tape is level and not too tight, but snug against your skin. Keep your arms down.
- Take the measurement in inches and round it to the nearest whole number.
Step 4: Calculate your cup size
- Calculate the difference between your band size (Step 2) and your bust measurement (Step 3). Use the following chart to determine your cup size based on the difference:
- 1 inch (2.54 cm) = A cup
- 2 inches (5.08 cm) = B cup
- 3 inches (7.62 cm) = C cup
- 4 inches (10.16 cm) = D cup
- 5 inches (12.70 cm) = DD or E cup
- 6 inches (15.24 cm) = DDD or F cup
- 7 inches (17.78 cm) = G cup
- 8 inches (20.32 cm) = H cup
For example, if your band size is 34 inches (Step 2) and your bust measurement is 37 inches (Step 3), the difference is 3 inches. Therefore, your bra size would be 34C.
Step 5: Verify the Fit
- Put on a bra in the calculated size, and check the fit by fastening it on the loosest hook. The band should sit snugly but comfortably around your ribcage, parallel to the ground. The cups should fully encase your breasts without any overflow or gaps.
- Check the straps to ensure they’re not digging into your shoulders or falling off. You should be able to fit two fingers under the straps comfortably.
- Perform the scoop and swoop: After putting on the bra, lean forward slightly and use your opposite hand to scoop your breast tissue into the cups. This ensures that all of your breast tissue is properly situated within the cups.
- Assess the fit: Look in the mirror and check for any signs of spillage, wrinkling, or discomfort. A well-fitting bra should provide a smooth and natural shape.
If the bra doesn’t fit as described, try adjusting the band size, cup size, or both until you find the perfect fit. Remember that different brands and styles may fit differently. Therefore, don’t be discouraged if you need to try a few before finding your ideal bra.
Common bra sizing myths
Before we conclude, it’s essential to dispel some common bra sizing myths that can lead to confusion:
Myth 1: A D-cup is always large. Cup size is relative to band size, so a 32D has smaller cups than a 36D. The letter alone doesn’t determine size; it’s the combination of band and cup measurements.
Myth 2: All bras from different brands are the same size. Sizing standards can vary among brands and even among different styles from the same brand. Always rely on measurements and fit rather than just the label.
Myth 3: Your bra size remains constant throughout your life. Factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and aging can lead to changes in your bra size. Regularly measuring yourself can help you stay in a well-fitting bra.
Measurement charts
Navigating the world of bras begins with understanding bra size charts. Whether you’re a lingerie expert or new to the journey, these charts empower you to find the ideal fit, ensuring you look and feel your best. Let’s embark on this empowering exploration of bra size charts.
US Cup A chart
| Bra Size | Band Size (under bust) | Cup Size (over bust) |
|---|---|---|
| 26A | 26 inches (66 cm) | 27 inches (68.5 cm) |
| 28A | 28 inches (71 cm) | 29 inches (73.5 cm) |
| 30A | 30 inches (76 cm) | 31 inches (78.5 cm) |
| 32A | 32 inches (81 cm) | 33 inches (83.5 cm) |
| 34A | 34 inches (86 cm) | 35 inches (88.5 cm) |
| 36A | 36 inches (91 cm) | 37 inches (93.5 cm) |
| 38A | 38 inches (96 cm) | 39 inches (98.5 cm) |
| 40A | 40 inches (101 cm) | 41 inches (103.5 cm) |
| 42A | 42 inches (106 cm) | 43 inches (108.5 cm) |
| 44A | 44 inches (111 cm) | 45 inches (113.5 cm) |
| 46A | 46 inches (116 cm) | 47 inches (118.5 cm) |
| 48A | 48 inches (121 cm) | 49 inches (123.5 cm) |
| 50A | 50 inches (127 cm) | 51 inches (128.5 cm) |
| 52A | 52 inches (132 cm) | 53 inches (133.5 cm) |
| 54A | 54 inches (137 cm) | 55 inches (138.5 cm) |
| 56A | 56 inches (142 cm) | 57 inches (143.5 cm) |
| 58A | 58 inches (147 cm) | 59 inches (148.5 cm) |
| 60A | 60 inches (152 cm) | 61 inches (153.5 cm) |
| 62A | 62 inches (157 cm) | 63 inches (158.5 cm) |
| 64A | 64 inches (162 cm) | 65 inches (163.5 cm) |
US Cup B chart
| Bra Size | Band Size (under bust) | Cup Size (over bust) |
|---|---|---|
| 26B | 26 inches (66 cm) | 28 inches (71 cm) |
| 28B | 28 inches (71 cm) | 30 inches (76 cm) |
| 30B | 30 inches (76 cm) | 32 inches (81 cm) |
| 32B | 32 inches (81 cm) | 34 inches (86 cm) |
| 34B | 34 inches (86 cm) | 36 inches (91 cm) |
| 36B | 36 inches (91 cm) | 38 inches (96 cm) |
| 38B | 38 inches (96 cm) | 40 inches (101 cm) |
| 40B | 40 inches (101 cm) | 42 inches (106 cm) |
| 42B | 42 inches (106 cm) | 44 inches (111 cm) |
| 44B | 44 inches (111 cm) | 46 inches (116 cm) |
| 46B | 46 inches (116 cm) | 48 inches (121 cm) |
| 48B | 48 inches (121 cm) | 50 inches (127 cm) |
| 50B | 50 inches (127 cm) | 52 inches (132 cm) |
| 52B | 52 inches (132 cm) | 54 inches (137 cm) |
| 54B | 54 inches (137 cm) | 56 inches (142 cm) |
| 56B | 56 inches (142 cm) | 58 inches (147 cm) |
| 58B | 58 inches (147 cm) | 60 inches (152 cm) |
| 60B | 60 inches (152 cm) | 62 inches (157 cm) |
| 62B | 62 inches (157 cm) | 64 inches (162 cm) |
| 64B | 64 inches (162 cm) | 66 inches (167.5 cm) |
US Cup C chart
| Bra Size | Band Size (under bust) | Cup Size (over bust) |
|---|---|---|
| 26C | 26 inches (66 cm) | 29 inches (73.5 cm) |
| 28C | 28 inches (71 cm) | 31 inches (78.5 cm) |
| 30C | 30 inches (76 cm) | 32 inches (81 cm) |
| 32C | 32 inches (81 cm) | 34 inches (86 cm) |
| 34C | 34 inches (86 cm) | 36 inches (91 cm) |
| 36C | 36 inches (91 cm) | 38 inches (96 cm) |
| 38C | 38 inches (96 cm) | 40 inches (101 cm) |
| 40C | 40 inches (101 cm) | 42 inches (106 cm) |
| 42C | 42 inches (106 cm) | 44 inches (111 cm) |
| 44C | 44 inches (111 cm) | 46 inches (116 cm) |
| 46C | 46 inches (116 cm) | 48 inches (121 cm) |
| 48C | 48 inches (121 cm) | 50 inches (127 cm) |
| 50C | 50 inches (127 cm) | 52 inches (132 cm) |
| 52C | 52 inches (132 cm) | 54 inches (137 cm) |
| 54C | 54 inches (137 cm) | 56 inches (142 cm) |
| 56C | 56 inches (142 cm) | 58 inches (147 cm) |
| 58C | 58 inches (147 cm) | 60 inches (152 cm) |
| 60C | 60 inches (152 cm) | 62 inches (157 cm) |
| 62C | 62 inches (157 cm) | 64 inches (162 cm) |
| 64C | 64 inches (162 cm) | 66 inches (167.5 cm) |
US Cup D chart
| Bra Size | Band Size (under bust) | Cup Size (over bust) |
|---|---|---|
| 26D | 26 inches (66 cm) | 30 inches (76 cm) |
| 28D | 28 inches (71 cm) | 32 inches (81 cm) |
| 30D | 30 inches (76 cm) | 34 inches (86 cm) |
| 32D | 32 inches (81 cm) | 36 inches (91 cm) |
| 34D | 34 inches (86 cm) | 38 inches (96 cm) |
| 36D | 36 inches (91 cm) | 40 inches (101 cm) |
| 38D | 38 inches (96 cm) | 42 inches (106 cm) |
| 40D | 40 inches (101 cm) | 44 inches (111 cm) |
| 42D | 42 inches (106 cm) | 46 inches (116 cm) |
| 44D | 44 inches (111 cm) | 48 inches (121 cm) |
| 46D | 46 inches (116 cm) | 50 inches (127 cm) |
| 48D | 48 inches (121 cm) | 52 inches (132 cm) |
| 50D | 50 inches (127 cm) | 54 inches (137 cm) |
| 52D | 52 inches (132 cm) | 56 inches (142 cm) |
| 54D | 54 inches (137 cm) | 58 inches (147 cm) |
| 56D | 56 inches (142 cm) | 60 inches (152 cm) |
| 58D | 58 inches (147 cm) | 62 inches (157 cm) |
| 60D | 60 inches (152 cm) | 64 inches (162 cm) |
| 62D | 62 inches (157 cm) | 66 inches (167.5 cm) |
| 64D | 64 inches (162 cm) | 68 inches (172.5 cm) |
US Cup E chart
| Bra Size | Band Size (under bust) | Cup Size (over bust) |
|---|---|---|
| 30E | 30 inches (76 cm) | 35 inches (88.5 cm) |
| 32E | 32 inches (81 cm) | 37 inches (93.5 cm) |
| 34E | 34 inches (86 cm) | 39 inches (98.5 cm) |
| 36E | 36 inches (91 cm) | 41 inches (103.5 cm) |
| 38E | 38 inches (96 cm) | 43 inches (108.5 cm) |
| 40E | 40 inches (101 cm) | 45 inches (113.5 cm) |
| 42E | 42 inches (106 cm) | 47 inches (118.5 cm) |
| 44E | 44 inches (111 cm) | 49 inches (123.5 cm) |
| 46E | 46 inches (116 cm) | 51 inches (128.5 cm) |
| 48E | 48 inches (121 cm) | 53 inches (133.5 cm) |
| 50E | 50 inches (127 cm) | 55 inches (138.5 cm) |
| 52E | 52 inches (132 cm) | 57 inches (143.5 cm) |
| 54E | 54 inches (137 cm) | 59 inches (148.5 cm) |
| 56E | 56 inches (142 cm) | 61 inches (153.5 cm) |
| 58E | 58 inches (147 cm) | 63 inches (158.5 cm) |
| 60E | 60 inches (152 cm) | 65 inches (163.5 cm) |
| 62E | 62 inches (157 cm) | 67 inches (168.5 cm) |
| 64E | 64 inches (162 cm) | 69 inches (174.0 cm) |
