Bharat SainiLast Updated on August 20, 2023 by Bharat Saini
Finding your perfect bra size is not just about comfort; it’s a journey toward enhanced confidence and support. We’ll demystify the complex world of bra sizing, walking you through step-by-step measurements, fitting tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Say goodbye to discomfort, pinching, and sagging – our comprehensive guide will empower you to discover the fit that truly complements your unique shape. Unveil the secrets to exceptional comfort and style, and embark on a path to a wardrobe that lifts both your bust and your spirits.
Here’s how: Step 1: Find Your Band Size Bra
Cup Size
After finding your band size, the next step should be determining your cup size. To do so, use a soft measuring tape to wrap around the fullest part of your bust while aligning it with the center of your nipple and keeping it snug without being tight. Subtract this measurement from what was found when measuring your band and match it up to a bra size chart accordingly; for example, if your bust measurement is 38 inches and your band measurement 36 then that indicates an A cup bra size; so long as there isn’t an excessively large difference between measurements that would mean an A cup bra size in that case!
Be mindful that while this system is generally accurate, bra sizes tend to differ between brands, and don’t be discouraged if it takes some trial and error to find something you like. To maximize your chance of finding an appropriate bra fit it would be beneficial to visit multiple specialty bra shops if possible.
Once you know your size, be sure to explore all available cup options. Your breast shape (be it pear, apple or hourglass) could require different styles in order to provide optimal support.
When in doubt, seeking professional advice from a salesperson may also be useful. They are knowledgeable experts who can guide you towards finding an item that not only fits well but looks fantastic as well. In addition, having your bra custom fitted can give you confidence to shop at home as well.
Band Size
Your band size – also called underbust size – serves as the cornerstone of your bra. This band should firmly encase your torso without pulling or pinching, feeling snug without being tight or loose.
To determine your ideal band size, use a soft measuring tape to take measurements directly under where the band of your bra sits – either wearing it with or without padding will give a more accurate reading. Make sure the tape fits comfortably but snugly – rounding up to the nearest whole number as needed.
Once you have your band measurement, subtract it from your bust size to determine your cup size. This difference in inches corresponds to letters; for instance, “B cup” refers to having a five inch difference between band and bust measurements (hence why taking both measurements is so essential).
Taking your own bra measurements at home may seem intimidating at first, so if you prefer professional assistance it’s perfectly acceptable to consult any lingerie or department store clerk for help. But if you prefer doing it on your own, all that’s really required to make this task simpler and save time is a soft tape measurer and way of recording the numbers.
Home measurements can be an effective way of keeping yourself healthy, but each woman’s body can change over time due to changes in hormones caused by pregnancy and nursing as well as diet or exercise changes. Therefore, taking your measurements periodically, especially if your lingerie seems looser lately is wise.
Rule of thumb states that for every inch you increase in band width, cup sizes should decrease. This practice, known as sister sizing, ensures your bra offers you all of the support that it should. So if your DD cup bra feels loose when worn alone, consider dialing down band size in order to tighten its fit.
Underbust Size
Many women mistakenly believe that bra size is a universal measurement; however, there are several key points to keep in mind when measuring their bra size. First of all, everyone’s breasts vary in shape and volume. Second of all, standard retail sizing systems offered by most American retailers and lingerie brands only give an approximate estimation of your true bra size; typically this system works by measuring your underbust (or ribcage), adding four inches, subtracting that number from bust size, then subtracting band size; thus one inch difference equals an A cup, two equals B cup etc.
Problem with this method: it fails to account for how your breasts sit on your rib cage. As a result, many women end up with bras that fit poorly across both band and cup size dimensions; now there’s an innovative new solution! Luckily there’s now a method that takes all this into consideration and finds their ideal bra size more accurately.
Sister Bra Sizes is a new way of determining your true bra size using both bust and band measurements to get an accurate representation of what a given size bra should look like for any given individual. This method is far more helpful than simply giving one number as it allows you to see how different brands and styles of bras might fit you better than one single number would alone.
To determine your bra size using the Sister Bra Sizes method, measure the circumference of your chest over the fullest part of your breasts while wearing an unpadded or lightly lined bra and standing up normally while breathing normally with measuring tape snug against ribcage and tighter around ribcage than normal – writing down results both inches and centimeters will make for accurate results.
Once you have your results in hand, compare them against the sizing charts or calculators used by your favorite lingerie stores or online retailers. Your number typically represents your band size; while these tools will provide details about cup size.
Straps
If your bra is loose or the straps dig into your shoulders, chances are it’s the wrong size. If readjusting straps is an ongoing problem or they seem too loose to begin with, then perhaps moving up one or two band sizes might help improve matters.
At home, using a measuring tape can help determine your band size. Wear a non-padded bra while standing in front of a mirror with arms at your sides, then wrap the measuring tape loosely around your ribcage at where your cups meet – this should fit snug but comfortable – then note and enter this measurement into the Band Size Box below.
Now measure your chest at nipple level. Subtract band measurements to arrive at cup sizes – this is an effective way to assess true bra sizes as they vary based on brand, style and shape. However, this may take trial-and-error as different brands, styles and shapes may have slightly varying measurements that differ.
Once you know your bra sizes, try on one that comes closest to matching them. Lift your arms in the air and wiggle around a bit to see how your bra stays in place; if it shifts up your chest exposing space between bust and underbust areas then its band may be too loose, while if its straps fall off shoulders or leave indentations then its tight.
Similar to what was mentioned above, breast tissue should remain within the cup without spillage over either top or sides. If that’s happening to you, your cup size is too small; to correct this consider cross-sizing; for example if you wear 36B try 34C instead.
Bra sizing may seem intimidating, but with just a few steps and confidence in finding your ideal size you will soon have no difficulty in securing the ideal bra size. No longer will you need to deal with unsupportive or poorly fitting bras that gape at your breast, ride up on your back, or dig into your shoulders; no longer will you wear out of date bras over and over (or keep holding onto them long after they no longer provide support) — getting that perfect bra size is worth your while!
