How to Measure Bra Size (US)

If you’re reading this, you probably know as well as any other woman that finding your bra size (and we mean real bra size) isn’t as clear-cut as you once thought. Your bra size has likely changed throughout your life which can happen for a number of reasons including fluctuating weight and having children.

Helping other women learn how to measure bra size is part of what got us here. In this article, we’re going to break down how to measure your bra size in three, easy-peasy steps so that the next time you go bra shopping, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for when trying to find your best-fitting bra.

How to Measure Bra Size in 3 Steps

There’s much more to measuring your bra size than just grabbing a measuring tape and marking down a band size (if only it were that simple!). In the next three steps, we’ll go into measuring your band size, then your bust size, and lastly, your cup size.

Determining the correct – and most current – measurements for your band, bust, and cup will make it SO much easier for you to find bras that fit right, and fit you, no matter where you get your bras. Plus, with those measurements you’ll finally get confirmation to toss out or donate those bras in your drawer that you’ve been keeping just to keep (bra, bye!).

 

Step 1: Find Your Band Size

Measure Snug Around Your Ribcage - Just Under Your Breasts (measure in inches). If Your Measurement Is An Odd Number, Add 5". If Your Measurement Is An Even Number Add 4". Example: If You Measure 29", Add 5" = 34 Is Your Band Size.
If You Measure 30", Add 4" = 34 Is Your Band Size.

You can also use your measurement to determine your band size from the Band Size Chart below.

 

 

Step 2: Measure the Fullest Part across Your Bust

Wear a non-padded bra (or no bra) while measuring. Stand with your arms at your side (ask a friend for measuring help if possible). Measure circumference around your body (under arms) at the fullest part of your bust. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel with the ground, and not binding. This is your BUST SIZE. 

 

 

Step 3: Determine Your Cup Size

Determining cup size is where things can get tricky because cup sizes can vary depending on the maker. The most common way to calculate your cup size is by subtracting your band size from your bust size and using the difference to find your cup size according to a cup size chart. Example: If Your Bust Measurement Is 37" And Your Band Size Is 34, There Is A 3" Difference, So You Are A Size C Cup. And Your Size Is 34C.

 

Helpful Hints:

Every Bra Style Fits A Little Differently So Not Every Bra Style Is Right For Your Body Type. If The Measured Size Does Not Fit Perfectly, Follow These Instructions:

• If The Bra Is Too Tight Around Your Body, Move The Closure To The Looser Hook And Eye. If The Bra Is Still Tight At The Loosest Hook, Go Up A Band Size. (Ex: 34 > 36).
• If The Bra Rides Up In The Back, It Is Too Loose. Move The Closure To A Tighter Hook And Eye. If The Bottom Band Is Not Parallel To The Floor At The Tightest Hook, Go Down A Band Size. (Ex. 34 > 32).
• If Your Bust Flows Over The Top Of The Cups, You Need A Bigger Cup Size. (Ex. B > C).
• If The Bra Is Too Tight Around Your Body And The Cups Fit Really Well, Go Up A Band Size AND Down A Cup Size. (Ex. 34C > 36B).
• If The Bra Is Too Loose Around Your Body And The Cups Fit Really Well, Go Down A Band Size AND Up A Cup Size. (Ex. 34C > 32D).

 

 

Bra Size Chart

It’s not uncommon to have bras from one brand in a different size than one from another. That’s because different bra sizes often have similar measurements with slight variations in cup and band sizes. Confusing, we know. 

 

So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of your bra size. Start with your current bra size and use the chart below to help refine your bra size estimation and fit.