Did you know that over 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size?
Even if you feel confident about your current bra size, it may be time to re-measure yourself. Professional bra fitters recommend re-measuring every six months!
Whether you’re buying your first bra or your 40th, you’ll need to determine your bra size. Not sure how to measure bra size correctly?
Check out this simple and handy guide!
How to Measure Bra Size
Your breasts will constantly change throughout your life. Puberty, menopause, pregnancy, weight loss, and weight gain can significantly change your breast size and shape. A well-fitted bra is crucial to avoid back and neck pain and look your best every day!
1. Getting Started
Before measuring, put on a soft, comfortable bra or bralette with minimal padding. For accurate breast measurement, you could buy these removable bra pads! If your breasts naturally sit upright, you can measure yourself while braless.
To measure your bra size, you’ll need:
- A tape measure
- Pen and paper
If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a string to take your measurements and compare the length of the string to a ruler. Measuring yourself can be tricky, so ask a friend, spouse, or trusted family member if you need help!
2. Measure Your Band Size
Wrap the tape measure around your ribcage where a bra band would sit. The tape measure should be level under your bust and around your back. If your breasts fold over, measure at the base of the fold.
Round the measurement to the nearest whole number. If your measurement is an even number, add four. If it is an odd number, add five.
Write the resulting number down on paper. This number is your band size!
For example, if you measured 28.5 inches, round to 29, add five, and your band size will be 34.
3. Measure Your Bust Size
Next, wrap the measuring tape around your bust, the largest part of your chest. If you are wearing a bra or bralette, ensure the breast tissue is pushed upward enough to measure the full breast.
The tape should sit somewhat loosely across your nipples and around your back. Round this measurement to the nearest whole number and write it down.
4. Measure Your Cup Size
The last step is calculating your cup size based on your band and bust measurement. Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement, and write down the resulting number.
The difference in inches between each measurement determines your cup size.
- 0 inches = AA
- 1 = A
- 2 = B
- 3 = C
- 4 = D
- 5 = DD
- 6 = DDD, F
- 7 = G
Although A through G cups are considered standard, many companies offer bras up to an M cup. Combine your band size from step one with your cup size to determine your bra size, and you’re done!
For example, if you measured 28.5 inches in step one and 32 inches in step three, your bra size will come out to 34C!
A Note on Sister Sizes
Although your best fit will usually be your correct bra measurement, different types and brands of bras may fit differently. If you feel like you need to go up or down a size in a specific bra, consider your sister sizes!
Sister sizes fit similarly to your regular bra size, and their calculation is simple. If you go down a band size, go up a cup size, and vice versa. 32D and 36B are the sister sizes for a 34C!
Keep Your Spirits Up
Now that you’ve learned how to measure bra size, you’re ready to hit the shops! Finding the right bra can take a lot of trial and error. When you decide to go bra shopping, take the day off, be kind to your body, and treat yourself to some lunch and iced coffee!
Did you find this article helpful? Are you looking for more ways to look and feel your best every day? Take a look at our other trending fashion articles!
