If you just don’t understand all the numbers in getting a bra that fits then here are some tips to help you. Follow these steps to ensure you are shopping for a bra in the correct size…

Step 1: Measure Under the Bustline

Measure underneath the bustline and make sure to measure tightly. Also, make sure the tape is straight across the back.

• If you come up with a half measurement, like 32 1/2, round UP to 33″.
• If you measure between 32 and 32 1/2, round DOWN. (In general, the rule of thumb for all measuring is: less than 1/2″, round DOWN, more than a 1/2″, round UP).

Write this measurement down. This is Measurement 1.

Step 2: Calculate Your Cup Size

• If MEASUREMENT 1 is under 33 inches, add 5 inches.
  • If this number is odd, round up to the next EVEN number.
• If MEASUREMENT 1 is over 33 inches, add 3 inches.
  • If this number is odd, round up to the next EVEN number. Write this EVEN number down. This is your BAND SIZE.

Step 3: Calculate Your Size (Bra Size Chart)

First, subtract MEASUREMENT 1 from MEASUREMENT 2. This number is MEASUREMENT 3. Consult the following chart to find your cup size:

• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 0, your size is AA
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 1, your size is A
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 2, your size is B
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 3, your size is C
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 4, your size is D
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 5, your size is E
• If MEASUREMENT 3 is 6, your size is F

Alternate Bra Size Technique

Here is an easier way to understand your bra size. We received this from a customer (thanks A!)

Now, to start you need to measure yourself on your ribcage underneath your breasts where your bra band normally sits making sure to keep the tape measure level all the way around. Whatever number you get, just round it up to the nearest even number. So if you measure 39 than your band size is 40. If you measure a 40 than your band size is 40.

Please note: For a bra to be supportive, you must wear the correct band size. The band should fit snugly but not too tightly. If the band size is too large than the band will ride up your back resulting in the breasts falling forward. If your band measurement is exactly an even number, it is best to wear that exact band size but some women feel that it is a little tight. If you feel that giving up a little support for more comfort is OK, then you should go up one more band size but try to wear it on the tightest hook you can while still feeling comfortable so that you get the most support. And also keep in mind that no matter what band size you choose, bras lose elasticity every time you wear them so the fit will only get less and less supportive the longer you wear the bra.)

Now you need to measure your bust line, which is the widest part of your breasts right across the nipples. Again make sure that you keep the tape measure level all the way around.

You take this number and subtract the first number to determine your cup size. So if you determined your band size to be 40 and the second number across your bust line is 46, the difference between the two is 6 making your bra size a 40F(DDD). That is based on the following:

1 is A
2 is B
3 is C
4 is D
5 is DD or E
6 is F or DDD
7 is G
8 is H
9 is I
10 is J 

Additional Information

Try this guide and contact us if you continue to have questions.