How to measure your bra size at home: 3 easy steps
Most women still wear the wrong bra size, which negatively affects their appearance and health. Therefore, it is extremely important to learn how to measure the bra size before buying a bra. It’s not rocket science, however. We will support you with this. So scroll down and see how to do it. It’s time you stop harming yourself by wearing the wrong size. Once you figure out everything in this article, you will no longer feel exhausted while wearing a bra. So read this article.
How to measure a bra size
There’s no hard and fast rule that says one size fits all – not all bra types, I mean. It’s worth noting that you need to try on each bra type before you’re sure of the size. There wouldn’t be a radical difference in size for each type/brand, but there certainly would be some. Research shows that 80% of women don’t know their true bra size and shape. And for all you know, you may be wearing the wrong model right now. The most obvious aspect we all get wrong is band size, among other things. Here’s what determines your size.
Step 1 - Measure your band size
Wrap the tape around your chest where your band will sit, making sure it is snug but not too tight or too loose.
Round it down to the nearest even number if it’s an odd number or fractions. For example, if the measurement is 33 or 33.5 inches, the size is 34. Or for 35, try both 34 and 36, again depending on your cup size.
Write down that last number.
Step 2 - Measure your cup size
Wrap the tape loosely around the fullest part of your bust or overbust.
A simple way is to measure the value at the level of the nipple – this way you always get an accurate value.
Round down to the nearest or nearest whole number.
Write down that last number.
Step 3 - Calculator
Subtract the cup size from the band size on your calculator. The difference in inches corresponds to your cup size.
Things to remember
The numeric part of the size is your underbust measurement and the alphabetical part is your cup size. For example, if you are a size 34D, “34” is your underbust measurement and “D” is your cup size.
Opt for a seamless bra or wear a non-padded bra while taking your measurements (padding may affect sizing). Or wear something light like a t-shirt and avoid sweaters, hoodies, jackets or anything thick.
Be vigilant when measuring, especially if you have saggy or larger breasts. I’d say go the extra mile and get a second opinion if you want to be extra careful. There have been cases when the difference in size the second time around was quite alarming.
Have a professional measure you in a fitting room and they’ll help you go through everything we’ve just discussed. Plus, experts say measurements are generally more accurate if you let someone else do the fitting.
Now! You have a perfect guide to finding the right lingerie size.
How to find the right bra
To choose the right bra, you need to know the exact bra size for each type. However, we cannot reach this number just like that. We have to work backwards and connect a few dots to get there. So before we dive deep into how to measure and understand other aspects, let’s go through a few pointers.
belt
Wave your arms like a windmill to see if your breasts are falling out or sagging, your bra is riding up, etc. If this is the case, try adjusting the straps first. Otherwise you will have to use a smaller cup size.
If your bra straps pinch or dig into your shoulders, or if your breasts protrude and they look like a four, you need a larger size.
cups
Bend forward and wear your bra so that everything fits in the cup and nothing is hanging under the wire. If it’s a non-wired bra, check that the cups are holding your breasts properly without pinching them.
Make sure the cup is comfortably taut and there is no extra space.
tape
Always hook your bra on the nearest (first) eyelet and run both fingers across the entire width. Your fingers should glide comfortably. Over time, the bra will loosen up and you can then hook it to the closest eye. Also check the quality of the clasp, the hooks should be perfectly intact.
If your bra rides up your back and you keep pulling it down, you need a smaller size (tape).
center
The center part of the bra should just sit perfectly, it shouldn’t stick out and it shouldn’t dig into the skin.
Things to remember
As a rule of thumb, your bra should fit snugly against your body. It should be neither too tight nor too loose.
When you increase or decrease your bra size, the cup size also changes. For example, if your size is 34B, 36A would be a larger size for you. If you want a smaller size, choose 32C and vice versa.
It’s easier to first determine your underbust measurement and then match it to your cup size.
Remember that your breasts should be about halfway between your elbows and shoulders.
The cups do the heavy lifting and the straps support them. So don’t forget to adjust them at the first time to ensure a comfortable wearing experience.
There are many bras that will suit your goals. You can choose a push-up bra that visually enhances the breasts, wear a sports bra for active days, and if you’re pregnant, you need a maternity or nursing bra.
There are numerous designs to choose from including bralettes, strapless, backless and adhesive silicone bras. Each for a different purpose and outfit.
If you are newly pregnant, we recommend purchasing a bra extender. Your underbust band is likely to get bigger and that will help.
Get a bra wash bag and avoid having your bras digging around in your other laundry.
At some point, we’re all pretty aware that we often end up wearing the wrong bra size. We also know that this can lead to serious health problems. Unfortunately, we don’t always feel like we know how to measure bra size. But after reading this article, your troubled days can finally come to an end. Be aware of your individual needs to avoid causing trouble later. Use this article as a guide and always buy a style of bra that is made exclusively for you.
