How to measure your bra size
Lots of women wear the wrong size bra for years, but sometimes it is linked to the differences between the different bra brands or having taken the wrong measurements. In the long term an ill-fitting bra can cause back pain, tension and postural problems, whereas wearing the right size bra will prevent this and offer you a high level of comfort and support. Once a year, you should check if your bras still have a good fit and always double check your bra size before buying any new ones.
That's why we'll show you step by step how to measure your bra size at home. Our helpful bra guide contains tips and useful information on finding the perfect bra and also how to look after bras. Our guide will help make sure your new bra fits you perfectly and will last you a long time.
How to measure bra size in 3 easy steps
Firstly, you will need to measure to find your exact bra size. It is best to measure for a bra when you aren’t wearing a top or a bra. If you have your measurements taken in a specialist shop, you can also wear a light bustier or a bra with thin padding. It is very important that your bra is not heavily padded so that you can get the correct measurements.
You will need to take two measurements to find your bra size:
Your underbust size
The size of your standing bust
Your cup size will be the difference between these two measurements.
Step 1: measure the size of your underbust
Stand up straight and put the tape measure directly under your chest. Pull it tight, but not so tight that it starts to dig into your skin. You should still be able to breathe normally. In addition, make sure that the tape measure goes straight around your body.
Odd numbers should be rounded up or down to the nearest even number. You can then compare your underbust measurement with the underbust sizes in a size chart, which normally increase by 5 cm.
Underbust sizes | 65 | 70 | 75 | 80 | 90 | 95 | 100 | 105 | 110 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Underbust circumference | 63 – 67 cm | 68 – 72 cm | 73 – 77 cm | 78 – 82 cm | 83 – 87 cm | 88 – 92 cm | 93 – 97 cm | 98 – 102 cm | 103 – 107 cm |
For example:
If your underbust is 76.3 cm, you can round this up to 77 cm.
On the above size chart, this underbust measurement would be a size 75. You will need this before you can measure your cup size.
Step 2: measure the size of your standing bust
Now put the tape measure around the widest part of your chest, which is roughly around the part near your nipples. Starting at this part of your chest go around your body with a tape measure. Make sure that the tape measure isn’t too tight and does not press your breasts together.
It's even easier if you check a size guide before you buy. By looking at the size of your underbust and standing bust you can then check on the chart what your correct bra size is.
Step 3: measuring your cup size
The following sum will help you to work out what size cup you need:
Standing bust size - underbust size = cup size
The difference between the measurements is your cup size. In Europe, a difference of 12 cm to 14 cm corresponds to an A cup, 14 cm to 16 cm to a B cup, and etc. This means that you will need to add around 2 cm for any increases in size.
Cup size | A | B | C | D | E | F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standing bust minus underbust size | 12 cm | 14 cm | 16 cm | 18 cm | 20 cm | 22 cm |
For example:
Measurement: 92 cm standing bust size – 76 cm underbust size
Difference: 16 cm (C cup)
Bra size: 75 C
What are sister sizes?
Even if you know your exact measurements, finding the perfect bra is not always easy. You can try a sister size bra if you have worked out your bra size, but it still doesn’t feel very comfortable. This can be helpful if you have a bra size that is between two different cup and underbust sizes.
Here is how to find the perfect sister size:
Choose a larger underbust size with a smaller cup size.
Alternatively, choose a larger cup size and a smaller underbust size.
For example, size 75 C would then be 80 B or 70 D.
Choosing the right sister size bra, depends on why your current bra doesn’t have a good fit. Below we have listed two examples to help you choose the right sister bra:
If your bra feels too tight under your bust even after adjusting it, you should go for a larger underbust size and a smaller cup size. Instead of 75C, you can try an 80 B.
If your bra is too big, but the cups have a good fit, then go for a sister size with a smaller underbust size and a larger cup size. If you normally wear a 75 C, you should maybe wear a 70 D.
How do you know if your bra fits you properly?
You will need to know what size bra you need to ensure you can find the perfect one. However, when trying on a bra think about if it is comfortable and if it has a good fit. You should also check if the bra band and the cups are the right size. In this article we will show you step by step how to check whether your bras have a good fit and how to adjust a new bra to fit your body shape.
Types of bras: how to find the perfect bra
There are a lot of different bras to choose from and their design and fit all have a different purpose. It is not always easy to find the perfect bra that offers enough support and comfort. In this article we will show you the different types of bras and also help you to find the perfect bra.
Maternity bra and nursing bra guide: how to find the right bra
During pregnancy your breasts will change. Therefore, it is recommended to wear soft, stretchy maternity bras during pregnancy that offer maximum comfort and support. In this article we will show you which features a comfortable maternity bra or nursing bra should have and how to find the right size. We will also answer important questions about bras for pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How to wash and dry bras
How should you wash and dry bras so that they last longer and do not become misshapen? In this article we will show you how to wash, dry and store bras properly so that you can get the most out of them. We will also answer questions about when you should replace bras.
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References and further information:
https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/signs-bra-is-wrong-size
(Last accessed on 15.11.2023)
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/10/style/lingerie-are-8-out-of-10-women-really-wearing-the-wrong-bra-size-a-bra-myth-busted.html
(Last accessed on 15.11.2023)
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