Bra SizIng

If you're ordering an overbust style corset, you'll need to measure your bust size. At least 80% of women wear bras that don't fit, so there's a good chance yours could fit better.

The size chart was made by manufacturers 70 years ago before anything bigger than a D cup existed. You probably know what size works for you, but if you think your bra could fit better it's worth double checking your bra size.

Many Professionals Get Bras Above D Wrong

Being professionally measured in a store doesn't gaurantee you'll get the right size. Many professionals get bra sizes wrong because the size chart was designed 70 years ago when D was the largest size available. Bodies and bras have changed, so the formula is just a starting point.

Bra Size Symptoms & Solutions

  • Bra Bulge: When bosoms bulge out over the top of your bra.
  • Multiple Sizes: If you buy two different cup sizes or band sizes (like 34D and 36C) hoping one will fit then both are probably wrong. Find the right one.

You may have been measured, but the Bra Book explains why this isn’t failsafe.

Download the Bra Book for free from Figleaves.

Getting your bra size right makes all the difference.

1. Band Size

You will need to wear a non-padded bra and have a soft tape measurer. Using the inches side, measure around your ribcage directly below your bust. Add 5 inches to this measurement. For example if you measured 31" you add 5" to it and your band size would be 36". Band sizes are always in even numbers.

2. Cup Size

Making sure that the tape measurer is straight and leaving room to breathe, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Each inch difference equals 1 cup size. For example, if your band size is 32" and your bust measures 34", you are a B cup (there is a 2" difference).

In inches, if the difference is:

1"

2"

3"

4"

5"

6"7"8"9"

Your cup size is:

A

B

C

D

E

FGHI

*Try several sizes as results may vary since each body is unique.

Try these tips and tests to see if your bra is flattering you as best it should.

Place yourself in your bra

Now that you've found your size, test your fit. Take the opposite hand from the side you are adjusting and gently bring the breast tissue from the back to the front. This movement will help you settle your breasts correctly into the cups.

  • It should feel good. A great fitting bra should not dig, pull, poke or otherwise cause discomfort. If it hurts, it's not the right bra (or size) for you. Make sure the bra feels comfortable when you sit and move.
  • It should look good! Always try your bras on wearing a t-shirt – it's the best way to see what it's doing for you. A great fitting bra can make you look taller, will define your waist, and even make you look slimmer!
  • Don't settle for wrinkles. If you see extra fabric or wrinkly, baggy cups, the cup size is too big. Try sizing down.
  • Don't fall out: Take a look at the front of the bra. There shouldn't be any breast tissue spillage, puddling, or falling out of the bottom of the cups. If there is, your cup size is too small. Try sizing up for a flattering, more natural looking fit.
  • Straps shouldn't work too hard: Your bra's support comes from the band, not the straps. So be sure that you're wearing the correct band size. Too big, and your straps will end up taking the weight, which will cause them to put pressure on your shoulders and dig in.
  • Is your band straight? Look in the mirror from the side. Your band should be at the same level all the way around. If it is riding up in back, it's probably too big. Try sizing down a band size or tightening your band.
  • Mind the gap: The center front of your bra should lie flat against the breastbone. It should not lie on top of any breast tissue. If there's a large gap, you may need to go up a cup size.
  • How tight is right? Your band should feel firm and secure, but you should also be able to slip two fingers beneath the band in back, and one in the center in front. If you can't, you may need to loosen your band a bit, or go up a size.
  • Underwires shouldn't dig. Underwires should lie flat at the front of your bra, against your ribcage. If you feel your underwire digging into any breast tissue, you should try a larger cup size or a different style.
  • Bras stretch over time. Be sure you're wearing your bra on the loosest hook. Your bras can stretch with washing and wear, so when you buy a new bra, it's best to ensure it fits properly on a loose hook, so you can tighten it as needed.
  • Recheck Every Six Months: Check your bra size again every six months or so. You should re-evaluate your bras regularly to be sure they are fitting you the way they should. A woman's body does change over time, and bras do too. They stretch and lose shape with repeated wear and washing.

Additional Bra Info:

Bra Size Calculator

Bra Terms

Detailed Bra Sizing Guide On Beladonna