How To Measure Your Bra Size

If you’re confused on how to measure your bra size, you’re not alone. After all, there are reports that say 80% of women are wearing the incorrect bra size, and that’s simply no way to live your life. We’ve broken it all down into an easy step-by-step guide to help you find your perfect fit. 

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Finding your bra size

Step one: Find a measuring tool

First, you will need something to help you measure. The best tool for the job is a long, soft measuring tape. If you don’t have one on hand, you can use a piece of string or ribbon instead. If you’re using string or ribbon, you’ll mark the length of your measurement with a marker or piece of tape, then use a ruler or hard measuring tape to measure the length of the string or ribbon to the dot.

Step two: Dress accordingly 

Before you begin taking your measurements, make sure you’re wearing a non-padded, underwire bra. Any bra that has too much padding in the cups will produce the wrong measurements, and any bra that features compression of any kind, like a sports bra, will also give you an inaccurate result.

Step three: Find your band size

We’ll start by figuring out your band size. Measure directly underneath your bust, where your bra band would sit. The tape should be level and snug. Round your measurement to the nearest whole number, then use the chart below to calculate your band size.

For example, if your band measurement is 30, you would add 4 to get a 34 band size.

Step four: Find your cup size

Now, onto cup size. Pull the measuring tape somewhat loosely around the fullest part of your chest and round to the nearest whole number. Make sure the tape is straight across your back. 

For our example, let’s say our bust measurement is 35.

Remember your original band measurement? Locate that number you wrote down and add 2. In the example, our measurement was 30, so we would add 2 to get a 32 calculated bust measurement. Now, subtract that number from the bust measurement we just got. Based on the example, that would mean 35-32, leaving you with 3.

Using the chart below, you can determine your cup size. 3 equals C. Add that to your calculated band size (in the example, that would be 34), and we’re left with a final bra size of 34C.

Additional tips to find your perfect fit

My cup fits, but I want a tighter or looser band.

The solution is to find your sister size. A sister size is when you go up in band size and down in cup size, or up in cup size and down in band size. The volume of the cup will remain the same, but your band will either feel looser (if you go up in band size) or tighter (if you go down in band size). Locate your sister size on our sizing chart.

Why is my bra size different depending on bra style?

Your size may vary from style to style. For example, you might be a 34C in a standard underwire t-shirt bra but need to size up to a 34D to fit in a plunge bra. When you’re experimenting with new bra styles, be prepared to try multiple sizes to get your perfect fit. Check out our complete guide to popular bra styles here.

What if my breasts are different sizes?

If your breasts are two different sizes, you’ll most likely be more comfortable wearing the size that fits your smaller breast.

How to tell if your bra fits

Great fit

• The band of the bra is level all the way around your body
• Your breasts fill the cup without spilling over
• The straps should stay on your shoulders without digging in
• The center of the bra lays flat against your chest between your breasts

Too big

• Your breasts don’t fill the cups
• You don’t feel secure or supported
• Your straps fall off your shoulders

Too small

• Your breasts spill out over the cups
• You can feel underwire pinching your skin
• You see red marks on your skin after you take your bra off

Use your fit issue to find a better bra size

Sometimes you may be wearing the proper bra size, but you just need to make a few adjustments to get your perfect bra fit. If you still need help finding your perfect fit, you can learn more about finding your correct size based on your fit issues here. 

When should I take my measurements?

Your bra doesn’t pass the fit test

Did you read the fit section above and come to the realization that your bra is not a perfect fit? Don’t worry, it’s incredibly common — most women are wearing the incorrect bra size. But, that’s no reason to settle for bad support. 

When you change in size

The only thing that’s certain about bodies is that they will change. Whether you experience a major life event like childbirth, or you go up and down in weight for any other reason, your bust size is likely to change, too. If you’ve noticed any recent changes to your body, it’s always smart to take another bra measurement and consider if there’s a better fit out there. 

When it’s been a while

We recommend measuring yourself at least once a year to ensure you're still getting the best fit for you.

FAQs

What should I do if my breasts don’t fill the cups and there’s gapping or wrinkling?

Typically the solution for this problem would be to go down a cup size, but another aspect to consider is the style of the bra. For example, if you have fuller breasts, a full coverage cup may be a good fit. If your breasts are more tear drop shaped, for example, you might be more comfortable in a demi cup or balconette bra. Read our guide to bra styles here. Lastly, you may also want to consider a push-up bra with light padding that can help fill in the gaps. 

What should I do if I’m spilling out over the cups?

You might find that your breasts spill out over the cups, creating bulging in the front of your neckline and on the sides of your chest. If this happens to you consistently, look for bras that are specifically created for fuller-busted women or try a t-shirt bra style.

What should I do if my band keeps riding up?

This most likely means your bottom band is too loose and you need to try a tighter row of hooks. If you’re already at the tightest level, you need a smaller band size. You can also try adjusting your straps and making sure that your underwire is sitting flush against your body.

Video Tutorial: How to Measure Your Bra Size