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How to measure your bra size
Measure Your Bra Size in 3 Steps
Calculate your bra size easily at home with our step-by-step guide. Knowing how to measure your bra size correctly helps you find a bra that offers the right support, comfort and fit. Your bra size consists of two parts: the band size (number) and the cup size (letter). Together, they determine how your bra fits and feels. Follow the three steps below to measure your bra size accurately yourself.
Step 1: Measure your underbust circumference
To calculate your band size, measure directly under your bust. Place the measuring tape firmly around your ribcage, just beneath your breasts. Stand in front of a mirror to check that the tape runs straight across your back and stays level.
The tape should feel snug but not tight. This measurement, usually between approximately 60 and 135 cm (or 30-48 inch), determines the number in your bra size.
Step 2: Measure your bust (cup size)
Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipples. Keep the measuring tape straight and parallel to the floor. Make sure it is not too tight or too loose.
The difference between your underbust and bust measurement determines your cup size. This is the letter in your bra size.
Step 3: Use the bra size chart
Once you have both measurements, check them against the bra size chart to calculate your correct bra size. The bra size chart provides a guideline, but remember that fit can vary depending on style and fabric.
If your calculated size is, for example, 75C, you may also try sister sizes. A 70D (tighter band, larger cup) or 80B (looser band, smaller cup) can sometimes offer a better fit depending on the bra model.
Chest under the breast
28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
22-24 | 24-26 | 26-28 | 28-30 | 30-32 | 32-34 | 34-36 | 36-38 | 38-40 |
Cupsize (cm)
AA | AA | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
28 | 24-25 | 25-26 | 26-27 | - | - | - | - | - | - |
30 | 27-28 | 28-29 | 29-30 | 30-31 | 31-32 | 32-33 | 34-35 | - | - |
32 | 30-31 | 31-32 | 32-33 | 33-34 | 34-35 | 35-36 | 36-37 | 37-38 | 38-39 |
34 | 33-34 | 34-35 | 35-36 | 36-37 | 37-38 | 38-39 | 39-40 | 40-41 | 41-42 |
36 | 36-37 | 37-38 | 38-39 | 39-40 | 40-41 | 41-42 | 42-43 | 43-44 | 44-45 |
38 | 39-40 | 40-41 | 41-42 | 42-43 | 43-44 | 44-45 | 45-46 | 46-47 | 47-48 |
40 | 42-43 | 43-44 | 44-45 | 45-46 | 46-47 | 47-48 | 48-49 | 49-50 | 50-51 |
42 | - | 45-46 | 46-47 | 47-48 | 48-49 | 49-50 | 50-51 | 51-52 | 52-53 |
44 | - | 48-49 | 49-50 | 50-51 | 51-52 | 52-53 | 53-54 | 54-55 | 55-56 |
How should a bra band fit?
The bra band provides most of the support, so getting the right band size is essential. A well-fitting bra should fasten comfortably on the outer hooks when new. You should be able to fit two fingers between the band and your back. The band should run parallel to the floor and not ride up. If it feels too tight and digs in, the band size may be too small. If it shifts or rides up, it may be too large.
How should the cups fit?
Your breasts should sit fully inside the cups without spilling over the top or sides. After putting on your bra, gently lift and position your breasts into the cups. The underwires and the centre gore (the divider between the cups) should lie flat against your chest without pressing in. If your breasts overflow or the centre does not sit flat, the cup size may be too small.
Why is calculating the right bra size important?
Studies show that many women wear the wrong bra size. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can affect both comfort and posture. A well-fitting bra distributes weight evenly, supports your bust and reduces strain on your neck, shoulders and back. Especially for women with a larger cup size, measuring bra size correctly is essential for proper support. Since most women wear a bra all day, finding the correct bra size is important for daily comfort. Keep in mind that your bra size can change over time due to factors such as weight changes, hormonal fluctuations or pregnancy. It is recommended to measure your bra size regularly.
Where can you have your bra size measured?
While you can measure your bra size at home, you can also have your bra size professionally measured in-store. This can be particularly helpful for cup sizes E and above, or if you are unsure about your fit. In-store fitting allows you to try different styles and discover which shape and fabric suit you best. Trained specialists can help you calculate your bra size and advise on the best fit for your body.
For more tips on buying the right bra, check out our 7 tips for bra shopping here!
