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“I’m about a handful, I think I’m a D cup. My sister’s way bigger, she’s probably a G.”
We’ve all heard banter like this with people throwing around their best guesses for bra size. In the words of Kate Upton, “I can never find the right bra size.” Band size, cup size, what does it all mean?
How Bra Sizes Work
The measurements of your band size and cup size form a complex relationship that determines your bra size. Okay, it’s not really that complicated, but you’ll definitely need to pay attention to it to get the right fit.
Let’s say you are a “34E.” The number prefix “34” measures the underband (underbust) around the ribcage under your bust. So, in this instance you’ll measure 32-34 inches. Now here’s where things get a bit tricky. The letter in the size refers to the difference in your overbust and underbust measurements.
The letter refers to inches, represented from A to G, so if your overbust (the measurement around the fullest part of your breasts at nipple level) is 39 inches and your underbust is 34 inches, that’s a 5-inch difference and E is the fifth letter of the alphabet, so your size is 34E.
Mind-blowing, right?
But don’t click away just yet, there’s more.
Sometimes you might find a perfect bra you want to try, but it’s not available in the right size. If you find yourself in this pinch you can go down a cup size and up a band size, or vice versa. This strategy is known as “sister sizing,” and it works surprisingly well most of the time.
Basically, the actual breast size of bra measuring 32C is identical to a 34B and it’s the same for a 32B and a 34A. Are you starting to see the correlation here? You take it backward too, with a 36C holding the same cup capacity as a 34D, so on and so forth. So, you can go up a cup size and down a band size, or go up a band size and down a cup size, make sense?
That means if you’re a C cup, you’re actually the same size as an A cup, but it depends on your underbust measurement. Try not to go cross-eyed, we know it can get a bit confusing.
Find Your Bra Size Fast
Finding your bra size isn’t an exact science and you’ll need a few things to do it right. Grab a non-padded bra that fits you well, a tape measure, and stand in front of the mirror while you’re doing the exercise if you can.
Open this bra size calculator to add your inputs to the fields and get the right fit. When you’re ready to go, follow this procedure.
Use the measuring tape to measure your underbust. Keep the tape parallel to the floor when wrapping it around your underbust. Use the mirror to assess the tape’s position.
Measure your bust size with the same method.
Open the calculator and add the following inputs into it using your measurements.
- Unit – Inches or Centimeters
- Country
- Band Size
- Bust Size
- Brand
You also have the option for selecting the brand. That’s less important but it matters because some brands have a different fit to others.
When you’re done, hit “calculate,” and presto, that’s your size.
The calculator uses an algorithm to calculate the correlation between your overbust and underbust to correctly determine your bra size.
The wonders of technology, right?
Just remember that if you have a full bust, the tape measure might not be the most accurate way to measure up. Just like that pesky bathroom scale, tape measures can lie to you. The site also offers you handy tips on measuring your bra size properly.
Finding the Right Fit
Ok, so you’ve made it to the fitting room with your new bra and you think it fits, or it’s pretty darn close. Think about the following before making your purchase.
Let’s start with the underband—try to catch it on the middle hook for the best fit.
If the bra’s riding up, drop a band size.
If it feels to tight around your ribcage, go up a band size.
If it feels a little too tight and interferes with your breathing, it’s too small for you.
Onto the cups—keeps the wires as far away from the breasts as you can. If they’re sitting on your breasts, go up a cup size.
If the top of the cup is digging into you, go up a size.
If the top of the cup is wrinkling, adjust the straps.
Finally, do you feel like the bra is supporting your bust and your nipples feel like they’re facing forward? If that’s a no, change the style to something that’s more supportive and structured. But, that said, adjusting the straps can do wonders.
Everyone is different and just like that pair of skinny jeans that didn’t work out for you, your preferred bra brand might not be the best choice. Just find what works for you and the clothing you enjoy wearing and the rest will take care of itself.
- Are you a fan of plunging necklines on your tops? A plunge bra might be the best option for you.
- Do you enjoy wearing white t-shirts? Try a nude t-shirt bra.
- Balconette bras are a good choice for wider set ladies.
- Look for a bra with a more triangular shape if you have sloping shoulders.
Final Thought
Whatever your body type, breast shape, or bra size, remember that there’s something out there that fits you, all you need to do is find it. Different brands use different size curves, so what works for you with one brand might not provide the same fit with another brand. It’s about experimenting and finding out what’s right for you.
PRESENTED BY: APG
You can view the original article HERE.
