How to Measure Your Bra Size: The Complete Fit Guide
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Finding a bra that truly fits is one of the most transformative things you can do for your comfort and confidence. Studies suggest that up to 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size — and the difference a well-fitted bra makes is remarkable. This guide walks you through exactly how to measure yourself at home so you can shop with total confidence.
What You'll Need
A soft measuring tape and a mirror. That's it.
Step 1: Measure Your Band Size
Wearing a non-padded bra or no bra at all, wrap the measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust. The tape should be level all the way around and firm — not tight. Note this measurement in inches.
- If the number is even, that is your band size (e.g., 34).
- If the number is odd, round up to the nearest even number (e.g., 33 → 34).
Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size
Wrap the tape loosely around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the ground. Do not pull it tight — you want to capture the natural fullness of your bust.
Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size
Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. The difference determines your cup size:
- Less than 1" — AA
- 1" — A
- 2" — B
- 3" — C
- 4" — D
- 5" — DD / E
- 6" — DDD / F
So if your band is 34" and your bust is 38", you're a 34D.
Signs Your Bra Doesn't Fit
Even with the right size on paper, fit can vary by brand and style. Watch for these common signs of a poor fit:
- Band rides up at the back — the band is too large; try a smaller band size.
- Straps dig in or fall off — adjust the straps first; if the problem persists, the cup or band may be wrong.
- Cups gap or wrinkle — the cup is too large; try a smaller cup.
- Spillage over the top or sides — the cup is too small; go up a cup size.
- Center gore doesn't lie flat — the cup is too small.
Sister Sizes: Your Secret Weapon
Bra sizing isn't a single fixed point — it's a range. Sister sizes share the same cup volume but with a different band. If a 34D feels right in the cup but the band is too snug, try a 36C. Going the other way, a 32E has the same cup volume as a 34D.
Shop by Your Size
Once you know your measurements, explore our curated Lingerie Collection — featuring premium European brands sized for real women. For a full breakdown of size conversions across brands, visit our Women's Size Chart.
Still unsure? Our size chart includes guidance for all the brands we carry, so you can cross-reference before you buy.