How To Measure A Bra

Get your bra size wrong and it can literally be agony. Headaches and sore shoulders are only the beginning. So, let’s get rid of the problem by talking about how to measure a bra.

What Bra Size Do I Really Wear?

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Sizing is everything

The most important factor in buying a bra is knowing your exact bra size. Bra Sizing can be determined by taking a few easy measurements. Begin by wearing your best fitting bra (unpadded and not a minimizer bra). You also need a soft measuring tape and a mirror (otherwise use a string and a yard stick). If possible, have someone other than yourself measure you.

Step 1: Under Bust for Band Size

Hold tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under the bust as seen in the picture. Not measurement in inces. Add to this measurement either 3", 4" or 5" using the tables below.

For Bust Measurements Above 33"
Under Bust Measurement Plus 3" if Under Bust is an odd number. Plus 4" if Under Bust is an even number. = Band Size

Example: 35” + 3”= 38” band size
Example: 34” + 4”= 38” band size

For Bust Measurements 33" and Below
Under Bust Measurement Plus 4" if Under Bust is an even number. Plus 5" if Under Bust is an odd number. = Band Size

Example: 32” + 4”= 36” band size
Example: 31” + 5” 36” band size

Step 2: Upper Bust to verify Band Size.

Hold the tape snugly above the bust under the arms. Note the measurement in inches. This measurement should equal your band size calculation without adding inches; however, if the measurement is an odd number add an inch.

Note: Larger measurement = broad back. Smaller measurement = small back.

Step 3: Full Bust to Determine Cup Size

Hold the tape loosely around the fullest part of the bust. Do not let tape droop in the back. Use assistance or a mirror. Subtract the band size from this measurement (Step 3 - Step 1).

Determine the Difference
Full Bust minus Under Bust = Standard Cup Size
3: Full Bust
1: Under Bust (Band Size)
Difference (Cup Size)
Bra Cup Size Measurement
Difference Between Bust and Band Size American Standard Cup Size European Cup Size
3" (7.5cm) C C
4" (10cm) D D
5" (12.5cm) E DD
6" (15cm) F E
7" (17.5cm) G F
8" (20cm) H FF
9" (22.5cm) I G
10" (25cm) J GG
11" (27.5cm) K H
12" (30cm) L J
European Size Conversion

Please be aware that European sizing runs slightly smaller than American Sizes

US UK France Europe Italian
32 32 85 70 2
34 34 90 75 3
36 36 95 80 4
38 38 100 85 5
40 40 105 90 6
42 42 110 95 7
44 44 115 100 8
46 46 120 105 9
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