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Measure Your Bra Size

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How to Measure Your Bra Size

Believe it or not, 80% of women wear the wrong size bra. The most common mistake is wearing a band size which is too big, and/or a cup size which is too small. Although the average bra size is often quoted as 36C, most people who wear this size should actually be wearing a 34D or 34DD bra. Cup sizes are relative to the band size, so a D cup, for example, is not the same size in every bra. A 32D is the same size as a 34C or 36B, but on a smaller frame. A 28F is actually 2 cup sizes smaller than a 38D. You may not think of yourself as being busty, but in moving to a smaller band size you will find that you need a bigger cup size.

Your bra size changes as your weight fluctuates throughout the seasons and the years. Sometimes you go for so long wearing a specific size that you don't realize it doesn't fit well anymore and you stop noticing the discomfort. If you're looking for a better fit, here's how to find your true bra size.

Important note - the measurements used in the steps of this guide refer to UK bra sizing. Although US bras are theoretically sized according to the same system, there is considerable variation between brands, so if you are in the US you may find you need a bigger band size and/or a smaller cup size than that indicated here. For example, A UK 32E may be equivalent to a US 34DD or even 36D.

 

Measure Band Size

PROCEDURE

1. Wear your best supporting bra. The bra doesn't have to fit perfectly. The objective is to get your breasts to the position that the ideal bra would support, with the weight suspended comfortably. This step is optional, however, so if you can't find a bra with good support, continue with the measurements.
2. Measure your band size. Run a tape measure all the way around your body just underneath your breasts and take a measurement in inches. Make sure the tape measure is horizontal and fairly snug. Your arms should be down. Round to the nearest even number. This should be your band size. For instance, if you measured 31 inches, your band size should be 32. If you measured 34.5 inches, your band size should be 34.

Many bra fitting guides will tell you to add four or five inches to your underbust measurement, but this is not correct. The old method was devised in the 1930s when bra design was in its infancy and does not work with modern bras.

Calculate Cup Size

3. Measure your bust size. Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust in inches (not too tightly or the measurement will be inaccurate). If you don't have a bra, or if the one you have is very poorly fitting, bend over so your back is parallel to the floor and measure around your chest, over your nipples. Round this measurement up to the nearest whole number.

4. Calculate your cup size. Subtract the band size measurement from the bust measurement and determine your cup size as follows: (The cup size calculation may be less accurate for larger cup sizes.)

• 1. less than 1 inch = AA cup
• 2. 1 inch = A cup
• 3. 2 inches = B cup
• 4. 3 inches = C cup
• 5. 4 inches = D cup
• 6. 5 inches = DD cup
• 7. 6 inches = E cup (US DDD)
• 8. 7 inches = F cup (US DDDD)
• 9. 8 inches = FF cup
• 10. 9 inches = G cup

4. Try on a bra with the band size and cup size you've arrived at in these steps. Because there can be wide variations in how bras are manufactured as well as differences between different styles of bras, this size should be starting point.

5. Check the band size. The correct band size is the smallest you can comfortably wear. It needs to be tight enough that the bra is still fairly supportive without weighing down on the straps.

1. You should be able to run your fingers around the inside of the band, but not much more.

2. It should fit on the biggest adjustment, but will probably be too tight if you try to fasten it on the smallest size. Bras are designed to fit like this to leave room for the bra to stretch after you've worn it a few times.

3. If the band is painfully tight, even on the biggest adjustment, then go up a band size (and down a cup size to compensate). For example, if a 32D is too tight, try a 34C.

4. If the band is loose enough for you to be able to comfortably fasten it on the tightest adjustment, try a smaller band (e.g. 32D -> 30DD).

5. Check the cup size. The correct cup size is the biggest you can completely fill out. You should fill out the cups, but not bulge out anywhere.

• 1. Check both the top of the bra and the sides for bulging.
• 2. Make sure the under wire encloses your whole breast and is flush against your rib cage.
• 3. If the cup size is too big, go down a size.

If it is too small, or even if it seems to fit, try on a bigger cup size as well to double check.

Examples Of Best Fitting Bra

 

Tips

• This measurement applies to the UK, but it can be translated into bra sizes for other countries using an international bra size calculator. US sizing may vary slightly - you may find that you need a bigger band size and/or a smaller cup size in US brands.
• Cup sizes above D tend to vary much less reliably between manufacturers. Some brands go to the next letter of the alphabet for every added inch, while other brands may simply add on the same letter for every inch.
• A well-fitted bra should provide support from the band, not the straps. You should be able to take off the straps and still feel supported by the bra.
• Always try on a bra before you buy, and keep an open mind about your size.
• It is possible to find out your bra size without a tape measure. If you already wear a bra which seems to fit well in the cup, but is roomy around the band, you can go down a band size and up a cup size until you get to a size you can only just fasten - this is the right size. (e.g. 36C -> 34D -> 32DD)

If you have uneven cup sizes, go with the bigger side. You can support the smaller breast by making that shoulder strap slightly shorter, or alternatively you can pad out the cup.

DON'T DO THIS

• As mentioned above, this is only to give you an approximate idea of what size to try on first. Women come in all shapes and sizes, and bra size can be affected by back proportions, breast shape, pectoral muscle mass, and so on. All of these factors can interact to affect your bra size in ways that are impossible to predict.
• Ignore anyone who claims to be able to tell you your size with certainty from your measurements - especially if they tell you to add several inches to your underbust measurement. Just like dress sizes, bra sizing has changed over the years, and the old method does not work for modern bras.
• If you have previously been told your size, but now find that a different size fits better, just wear the size that fits! The fit is more important than the number on the tape measure.

 

New product introductions from Hothair

About the Author

QuikCool Full-Coverage Brief $19.95 "We dare you to find a more comfortable and sumptuous brief. We have cut this beautiful style for a woman, with full coverage yet with a sleek and slightly sexy appeal. But the secret to this popular style is the fabric. QuikCool is silky soft and stretchy, with the wicking power that makes all the difference. These wicking plus size panties push moisture away from your body keeping you dry and comfortable in all temperatures. Say goodbye to clammy plus size underwear. Junonia has carefully fit these for the plus size shape, and added a double inner gusset and soft, no-chafe bound edges at both the leg and waist. Enjoy the light stretchy support for active and all-day casual wear. Versatile and fast-drying, these briefs are perfect for sport, active and everyday casual wear. Antimicrobial and fast-drying, QuikCool is just the ticket for travel. "

Glamorise: Full Support Performance Bra $41.95 "With true support and bounce control, this bra is uniquely designed for the fuller figure. Feel totally confident for all your activities, from the gym to walking. It is so comfortable you’ll love wearing it all day long. The unique camisole design looks pretty peaking out of a v-neck, and it also provides superior bounce control. Extra plus size control comes from a soft wide band and an extra layer of support under the bust. The fabrics are breathable and wicking, carefully selected to push moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. Add this quick-drying bra to your travel packing list! The back features supportive two way stretch and the wide shoulder straps are easily adjustable. "

Stretch Twill Full-Leg Pant $49.99 "With slightly wider legs, curved back yoke and jean-style pockets with coin pocket, these slightly stretchy bottoms wear like your favorite jeans. Partial side elastic waist is smooth-fitting and non-bulky. Front zip fly. Belt loops. "

Junowear Full-Coverage Lacy Cotton Cami $19.95 "Pretty princess-style camisole hugs your curves. Beautiful soft and stretchy lace in a sweetheart neckline won’t scratch and looks just slightly sexy peeking out from under a jacket or top. Wide straps for nice bra coverage, and a perfectly cut armhole. Layer this top quality mid-weight cotton stretch knit under tops for winter warmth or wear alone in warm weather. "

Glamorise Magic Lift Full Figure Support Bra $19.95 "Cushioned, cross-under inner bust band and soft shoulder design with wide straps provides underwire-style support without the wires. A wide bottom band keeps everything in place and prevents rolling. "

Glamorise Lightly Lined Full-Figure Bra $19.95 "Lace-embellished bra provides extra comfort with super-wide, foam-cushioned straps; smooth, lightly lined cups and back-adjusting straps for a custom fit."

Super Jersey Long Sleeve Crewneck Tee $39.95 "This long sleeve classic tee features size vents and a slight A-line shape for full coverage and easy movement. Made of a heavier weight cotton that never clings and shaped just for the plus size woman."

Juno Stretch Naturals Bra Top $29.95 "Two layers of luxurious cotton with Spandex fabric provide confident plus size support with a full-cut design that is longer at the sides. Slightly higher in front and a scooped back provides good bounce control with full comfortable coverage. Soft no-chafe covered elastic band makes getting in and out easy."

Junowear All-Cotton Classic Brief $12.95 "Our best-selling brief ever! This generous full-cut plus size classic features a comfortable knit elastic waistband and non-chafe stretch edging at the leg. Natural waistline fit with a conservative leg. "

AquaSport Easy Zip Swimsuit $99.95 "We’ve added comfort and stylish flair to our AquaSport collection with this zip-front design. Fresh and comfy racer back design features a zip-front for easy on and off, with chafe-free zipper backing. Extremely flattering with contrasting black binding and curved side panels. Shoulders are carefully fit for the plus size woman for full and comfortable coverage, no chafing, and a full range of motion you’ll love as you do your laps or in aqua class. Inside is a full powermesh shelf bra with brushed elastic band that extends around the whole body for comfortable plus size support. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection."

ActiveLife Pineapple Pant $59.95 "For the evenly proportioned plus size woman, the pineapple shape flatters her athletic build. A slightly fuller waist and hip with not-too-full thigh, this pant finishes with a wider leg in an elegantly stretchy fabric. Features invisible zipper slash pockets and a covered elastic waist. "

Junowear Double-Layer Double Scoop Cotton Stretch Sport Bra $39.95 "Surprising and confident support from two full layers of top-quality Cotton/Lycra, with both layers surrounding the body. Soft and comfy, this customer favorite is cut for the plus size woman, with full coverage at the sides, wider shoulder straps, and cut slightly higher in the front and scoop back. This is the best support you've ever felt in a cotton stretch sports bra. "

QuikCool Double-Scoop Bra Top $29.95 "Looking for a plus size bra top that is soft, light and supremely comfortable? QuikCool plus size bra tops are the answer. This dual layer, fully-lined plus size bra, offers light support while the wicking fabric is smooth and sumptuous. It surrounds the body to push moisture away from the skin to keep you dry and comfortable. Wear this plus size style during yoga, under a casual tee, or even sleeping. Cut for a plus size woman, this sporty top can be worn for low-impact activities or casual wear. Tee shirts slide over the smooth fabric. You’ll love the careful Junonia cut. It is longer at the sides for full and flattering fit, and slighter higher front and back for support. The armholes are not too tight, yet have excellent coverage and the wider straps support and can cover a plus size bra for extra support. Antimicrobial and fast-drying, QuikCool dries quickly, and is perfect for travel. "

UV-Protective Stretch Nylon Half-Zip Pullover $19.95 "We designed this versatile plus size pullover to protect you from the sun. It does that beautifully with UPF 50 and the highest possible UV rating. But then we noticed how versatile it is! We cut this plus size jacket long with princess seams to give you a flattering plus size jacket over plus size leggings and even a plus size bathing suit swimsuit on the beach. The arms are cut full for air flow, and roll up with tabs, and it has side slits for easy moving. This womanly plus size jacket also serves as a wind breaker jacket and is a perfect travel companion, ready for any activity, or those casual walks on the beach. Front slit pockets, quarter zip neckline "

Junowear Comfort Edge French Cut Brief $12.95 "You’ll love the special soft rib-edge that guarantees your chafe-free comfort. It completely covers the elastic at the leg and the waistline. French-cut style is full at the stomach, and has a full seat, while freeing the leg for easy movement. Beautiful, smooth and long-lasting 100% Cotton knit."

Crinkle Cotton Floral Print Camp Shirt $49.95 "The floral print of this roomy button-front shirt is full of exquisite detail. Crinkle Cotton fabric is light and comfy for warm summer days. Side vents. "

Juno French Knit Straight Leg Pants $59.95 "Gorgeous knit in a skimming mid-weight with excellent stretch and re-bound. No baggy knees! Curved back yoke for a perfect plus size fit. Elegant details abound: wide hems, hidden zipper slash pockets, trendy cargo pockets on the leg, full soft elastic waist with inner draw cord. Tonal embroidered Junonia logo at the hip."

QuikWik Sports and Travel Comfort Brief $29.95 "Combine four-way stretch with medium control and support and you have a brief that feels amazing. Beautifully constructed in our classic Quikwik fabric that wicks moisture and moves with you. Ideal from active workouts to relaxing at home. Wicking action moves moisture away from your skin for dry comfort. Pack these fast-drying briefs for travel, too! Conservative full-coverage plus size fit with fully encased non-chafing elastics. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

Junowear Soft and Stretchy Bra Top $39.95 "Enjoy the ultimate in bra top comfort. Extra stretchy fabric has a luxurious, brushed finish, and it is easy to pull on and off. Beautifully made from moisture-wicking Supplex, one of the softest and yet toughest materials on the market. We cut this plus size bra top for a full and comfortable fit, slightly higher at the front with a scoop back. The entire bra top is double layered in the main fabric for a secure, yet soft control. Fully covered elastic for no-chafe comfort. Perfect for relaxing, yoga, light control, and casual wear. "

Seashell Lined Swim Skirt $29.95 "This sporty, mid-thigh, stretchy and full-cut swim skirt features a built-in brief. A very swimmable style, cut a little shorter than our longer swim skirt, it is perfect for showing off your great gams! The built in brief has a comfortable plus-size fit and a conservative leg opening. Fully covered no-chafe elastic waist. Embroidered with a Junonia seashell at the hem, your guarantee of exceptional fit and quality. Mix and Match. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

Superfit Seamless Brief $14.95 "The ultimate in soft and luxurious comfort. This seamless brief is cut for the plus size form with a full, stay-put design with no seams, so no chafing! The fabric is a highly durable, wicking blend that dries quickly for travel and sport, that feels like washable silk! One inch soft, knit-in waistband stays put. This brief will move with you and feel like a second skin. Wear it every day. A touch of cotton is seamlessly knit into the gusset for breathability. "

Center Seam Split V-Neck Smocked Tee $29.95 "Such attention to detail! This full-cut plus size shirt features a longer short sleeve and Junonia’s popular center seam detailing. The split vee neckline is made even more stunning with smocked detailing all around the neckline. Beautiful soft and smooth cotton stretch knit is the perfect non-cling weight. Let it flow! "

Seashell Scoop & Shirred T-Back Swim Tankini $69.95 "You’ll love look and the secure feel of this feminine and athletic-looking swim top. You’ll especially love the back!. Flattering and secure T-back features a cute keyhole, and a magnetic clip that makes this top easy to put on. Front scoop provide extra bust flattery with soft shirring. Inside is a full QuikShape power mesh around-the-body shelf bra with removable cups for secure support. This plus size swim top is also prosthesis friendly. Mix and Match. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

ActiveLife Apple Pant $59.95 "Uniquely designed for the apple-shaped plus size woman, this pant has a soft, wide waistband that can be worn in two ways: fully extended or rolled over at waist. Wonderful for full secure coverage at the waist for the rounder woman, it is also nice for the woman who likes the rolled-at-the-hip look. Slimmer through the leg and seat, it finishes in a straight leg. Invisible zipper slash pockets. "

Seashell Shirred Strap Racerback Swim Tankini $69.95 "Stylish and ready for fun. This racerback tankini top has a slight A-line with side slits to allow a full range of motion. Shoulder straps are femininely detailed with gathers. The secure inner bra features an around-the-body support in a QuikShape powermesh shelf bra with removable cups. This plus size tankini top suit is also prosthesis friendly. Mix and Match. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. Conservative leg. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection"

Packable Apple Fit Sport Pant $19.99 "These are a steal! If you love our black cotton plus size stretch pants, (and who doesn’t?) you’ll love having a pair of our best selling plus size pants in this warm and versatile cocoa brown color. Match up these woman-friendly plus size pants with your plus size tops in light blue, mango, and even black! The fabric is smooth with just the right amount of stretch for ease. Toss these in and out of the wash; they just bounce back into shape, keeping you looking your best. They not only look good, but these are incredibly comfortable. We cut these plus size pants full just for the plus size shape with a soft covered elastic waist. The legs and seat on this pant are cut for a slim appeal. Wear these for casual, for walking, and even to active pursuits like yoga class. Cling-free cotton/spandex is durable and just so comfortable. These even have side seam pockets for all our pocket-loving customers! Buy two or you’ll regret it! "

Junowear Comfort Edge Classic Brief $12.95 "Popular classic style with the added guarantee of chafe-resistance. All-cotton briefs are edged in a soft rib that completely covers the elastic at the conservative leg opening and the natural waistline. Full cut provides excellent coverage and comfort."

Summer Solutions Sand & Surf Multi-Purpose Swimsuit Cleaner $12.95 "Sand & Surf is a cleaning solution designed to remove irritants, salt, and harmful oils from swimsuits. The ocean is full of sand and dirt that can cause skin irritation, but now, with Sand "

Reversible PerfecTemp Fleece Double Warm Vest $49.95 "Campers, bikers, bird watchers, early morning walkers! Don’t miss out on this fabulous deal! Two full layers of top-quality, beautiful- feeling PerfectTemp plus size fleece. And if you get this hard-working womanly vest dirty—it just reverses to another cute look! Zip pockets on BOTH sides (we think of everything!) Bonfires on the beach, Bananagrams in the tent, running errands, and cheering on your team! And on that long car-ride home, you can loan it to the kids for a back seat pillow! You’ll love the colors and prints. Have fun reversing to reflect your mood. This carefully constructed plus size vest has top-stitched detailing throughout, two-way zipper at the front, and is beautifully trimmed in black all around. Zippered hand pockets have a smooth non-bulky tricot lining. Embroidered with Junonia Spirit logo at top of hood. "

Seashell Lined Swim Short $29.95 "From sand volleyball, to castle-building, to your favorite aqua class, these flattering, full-cut shorts are simply-- just right! The built in brief has a comfortable plus-size fit and a conservative leg opening. When you step into the hot tub, the air caught between the layers escapes through Junonia’s exclusive Bubble Vent design! These stretchy shorts feature a fully covered no-chafe elastic waist. Sun protective fabric protects sensitive thighs. Embroidered with a Junonia seashell, your guarantee of exceptional fit and quality. Mix and Match. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

Euro Jersey by Terry Bicycle $49.95 "So versatile! This short sleeve shirt has a full-front zipper, for you to layer up or down. Pack this in your panier! Bright fun CitrusZest print also have reflective trim for safety. Road and trail ready with three open stuff rear pockets and a longer tail for on-bike coverage. 100% fast-drying poly with superior sun protection. MYNX UV offers permanent sun protection up to 50 UPF rating. A.M.Y.permanently inhibits the growth of odor causing bacteria, mold, mildew and algae on fabric.Terry sizes run smaller than Junonia, so please order one size larger than usual. "

AquaSport Crossback Tank Dress $129.95 "Such a secure feeling! A full inner tank suit lines this longer A- line swim dress with cute front slits and figure-flattering princess seams. Inside is an around-the-body powermesh shelf bra with soft under-bust brushed elastic. The front zipper is chafe-free with soft backing, and it allows for easy on and off. Add the special Junonia plus size cross back with keyhole and you have the most flattering swim dress all around! Top layer is carefully stitched to under tank to avoid the dreaded “float-up effect.� Armholes and neck are carefully fit and bound for no-chafe coverage and freedom of motion. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection."

Seashell Shirred Neckline Longer Swim Dress $119.95 "You’ve never felt this secure and happy in a swimsuit! This swim dress has everything you’ll love, including a longer length. Start with the lovely shirred detail neckline, and add princess seams, and slight A-line shape to your curves, with cute front slits for ease of motion. Slightly higher necklines front and back ensure swim ability and maximum flattery. Underneath is a full inner tank suit for complete comfort. Extra plus size bust support from the around- the-body QuikShape powermesh shelf bra with no-chafe bushed elastic band. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. (Also available in a 33.5� shorter length, see style Style #537319.)"

Packable Pinapple Fit Pant $29.95 "Straight leg design with a fuller cut makes these active pants an ideal fit for women with a classic curvy shape and an all-around full figure. Lightweight, wrinkle-resistant knits in a soft, cling-free fabric contain a touch of spandex for durable comfort for walking, yoga or casual wear. Full elastic waistband, side seam pockets. "

AquaSport Swim Short with Brief $39.95 "These comfy and multi-purpose shorts are equally great for pool and play; from jogging to seashelling on the beach. Inner built-in brief has an easy yet supportive fit with a conservative leg. The mid-thigh outer short is full and flattering, with no-chafe, fully encased elastic. When you step into a hot tub or pool, the exclusive BubbleVent lets out any air caught between the layers. The special AquaSport fabric is fast-drying and nearly impervious to chlorine. Why? This fabric builds stretch into the knitting process and uses NO spandex for maximum chlorine and fade resistance. You’ll love these plus size shorts – for a very long time! Mix and Match. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

AquaSport Crossback Tank Suit $99.95 "Here are the two best reasons to buy this suit. First, it looks great on and feels equally good, with amazing support. We designed the cross back to flatter your back with a cute cutout, but more importantly, to be easy on-and-off. In addition, we designed it with full coverage at the underarm and leg, but with without any restriction of movement. The front double fabric shelf bra connects to the back strap system for nice control in this very popular plus size suit. But the second reason you’ll love this suit is that it lasts longer than any other suit you’ve ever worn. Aquasport has NO spandex, so it can’t break down the way most suits do in chlorine. It dries very fast, and fades very slowly. The “mechanical� stretch is comfy, but not quite as controlling as our spandex/lycra options. 50 UPF UV Sun Protection. "

Packable Knit Crew Neck Tank $9.99 "Classic tank top features bust dart on neckline for great fit and full coverage. Our lightweight, wrinkle-resistant knits contain a touch of spandex for light, cling-free support and a “memory� that retains its shape even after repeated washings. "

Packable Pear-Fit Sport Pant $29.95 "Fuller hip design and soft support make these active pants an ideal fit for women with a inchpearinch shape: wider figure below the waistline. The soft, cling-free fabric of this lightweight, wrinkle-resistant knit contains a touch of spandex for durable comfort for walking, yoga or casual wear. Full elastic waistband, side seam pockets. "

High-Waist Ski Pant $149.95 "The perfect choice for serious warmth. Designed to keep cold and snow out! Stretchy rib knit side panels allows easy movement without any extra bulk. Full cut for easy movement, we have used a low bulk hi-warmth insulation for a sleek look. Removable elasticized suspenders feature front loops for easy removal and a D-ring. Innovatively designed, these plus size pants are windproof and waterproof using quiet fabrics. Beautifully constructed with all the details you want. Snap placket at leg reveals hidden leg gaiters with sealable side openings. Gripper elastic leg openings keep the snow out. Front zip fly features flap-and-snap closure for easy on and off when you head in to the lodge. Crotch gusset for a comfortable fit. Water-resistant zippers, scuff guards, zipper pockets and zipper vents, reticulated knees. Fully seam-sealed for waterproof play all day, no matter the weather!"

Hidden Adjustable Comfort Waist Classic Twill Pant $39.95 "This Classic twill style has an inner life! It adjusts to your waist with an enclosed sliding elastic that moves with you. A comfort fit in a pant that dresses up or down. No wonder it has been a long-time customer favorite. Generous side slash pockets, belt loops, and two welt pockets at the darted back. Full at the hip and thigh ending in a not-too-wide straight leg. "