Establishing the correct bra size
February 12, 2024 2024-02-12 7:49Establishing the correct bra size
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Establishing
the Correct
Bra Size
Bra sizes are made up of two components: an even number which represents the back size (for example 32, 34, 36, etc.), which is determined by the size of the torso and a letter that indicates the cup size, (A, B, C, etc.) which is determined by the size of the breast itself.
The number component is called the underbust measurement or band size, and is established by measuring around the ribcage directly underneath the bust. The letter component is called the overbust measurement or cup size, and is established by measuring around the fullest part of the bust.
How to determine the band size:
- Hold the tape measure with the inch side facing you, starting from 0. Bring it snugly around your ribcage, directly under the bust. Ensure the tape lies flat and remains at the same level all around, without drooping at any point.
- When you have taken the measurement (in inches) add 5 to the number if it is an uneven number (for example, if the measurement you took was 29″, the band size becomes 34) or add 4 to the figure if it is an even number (for example, if the measurement you took was 32″, the band size becomes 36″).
- Once you’ve taken the measurement (in inches), add 5 to the number if it’s an odd number. For instance, if the measurement is 29 inches, the band size becomes 34. If it’s an even number, add 4 to the number. For example, with a measurement of 32 inches, the band size becomes 36. If your ribcage measures over 33 inches, only add 3 inches to find the band size. For instance, if the measurement is 35 inches, the band size becomes 38.
- Verify the band size by measuring around the top of your breasts. This measurement should match your back-size calculation. For example, if you measured 29 inches around your ribcage, the formula is 29 + 5 = 34. The measurement above your breasts should equal 34.
How to determine the cup size:
- Bring the tape measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust.
- After taking this measurement in inches, subtract the band size from it. For example, if the bust measurement is 37 inches and the band size (after adding 5, 4, or 3) is 34, then the difference is 3 inches. This difference determines the cup size: a 1-inch difference = A cup; 2-inch difference = B cup; 3 = C; 4 = D; 5 = DD; and 6 = DDD or E.
When you obtain these two measurements (band and cup size), you now know your bra size. Although this method can be helpful, bra sizes may vary between brands, so be prepared to be flexible. Always trust your eye before relying on the size displayed on the label. If your bra size is over a DD, it is recommended that you visit a professional bra fitter.
Quick Tip:
If you try a bra and find that the cup size fits correctly but the band size is a bit tight, try going up to a larger band size and a smaller cup size. For example, if size 34D fits you as a cup size but the band is a bit tight, try size 36C; it might be perfect for you. This is because when the band size increases, the cup size also increases. For instance, the cup size remains the same for each of these sizes: 34D, 36C, and 38B.
From Style Coaching™ Training Manual 1 : Chapter 16 : Foundations First
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