Bra Size Calculator
Find your perfect fit with our accurate measurement tool
Calculate Your Size
Your Recommended Bra Size
Based on your measurements and selected region
Fitting Tips
The band should fit snugly on the loosest hooks when new. The center gore should lie flat against your sternum. Your breasts should fully fill the cups without spillage.
How to Measure Your Bra Size
Measure Your Underbust
Using a soft measuring tape, measure around your ribcage directly under your bust. Ensure the tape is level and snug but not tight. Round to the nearest whole number.
Measure Your Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level around your body. Don't pull the tape too tight—it should sit comfortably without compressing your breasts.
Calculate Your Size
Enter your measurements into the calculator and select your preferred sizing system. Different countries use slightly different sizing conventions.
Important Notes
- Measure without a bra for the most accurate results
- Stand naturally with arms at your sides
- If between sizes, round up to the nearest whole number
- Remember that sizing may vary between brands
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I measure my bra size?
You should measure your bra size every 6-12 months or whenever you notice changes in your body weight, pregnancy, or other factors that might affect your breast size.
What's the most common bra size mismeasurement?
The most common mistake is wearing a band that's too large and cups that are too small. Many women need to go down in band size and up in cup size for the proper fit.
Why does my bra size vary between brands?
Different brands use slightly different sizing systems and patterns. Always refer to each brand's specific size chart and try on bras when possible, as sizing isn't standardized across the industry.
How should a properly fitted bra feel?
A well-fitted bra should be comfortable with the band level around your body, not riding up. The underwire should encase your breast tissue without poking, and the straps shouldn't dig into your shoulders.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: A Comprehensive Guide to Bra Sizing
For many women, finding a well-fitting bra can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Studies suggest that between 70-80% of women wear the wrong bra size, leading to discomfort, poor posture, and even health issues. Understanding how to properly measure yourself and interpret those measurements is the first step toward comfort and confidence.
The History of Bra Sizing
Bra sizing as we know it today originated in the 1930s when Warner's introduced the cup size system. Before this innovation, bras came in simple small, medium, and large sizes that offered little customization for different body types. The modern system of band measurement (number) and cup size (letter) revolutionized intimate apparel, though standardization across brands and countries remains inconsistent even today.
Understanding Band and Cup Proportions
Many women don't realize that cup size is relative to band size. A D cup on a 34 band is not the same volume as a D cup on a 38 band. This is known as sister sizing—a 34D has the same cup volume as a 36C or a 38B. Understanding this relationship helps explain why simply going up a band size when a bra feels tight often leads to a poor fit.
The Impact of Proper Fit on Health
Wearing an ill-fitting bra can cause more than just discomfort. Research has linked poorly fitted bras to shoulder grooves, neck pain, headaches, and even breathing difficulties. A study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that women who wore properly fitted bras reported significant reduction in back pain. The right support distributes weight evenly across the stronger muscles of the back rather than placing strain on the shoulders and neck.
Beyond the Measurements: Style and Purpose
Your calculated bra size is an excellent starting point, but different bra styles serve different purposes. A balconette bra offers different support than a full-cup style, and sports bras have their own sizing considerations. Additionally, factors like breast shape (shallow versus projected, wide-set versus close-set) affect how different styles fit, which is why trying on bras remains essential even when you know your size.
When to Remeasure
Your bra size isn't static. Weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can all alter your measurements. Even fitness routines that build chest muscles can change your sizing needs. Experts recommend remeasuring every six months or after any significant body change.
Using our bra size calculator regularly and understanding the principles behind proper fit will help you make informed decisions about your intimate apparel. Remember that these measurements are a starting point—the ultimate test is how the bra feels and looks on your body.