Updating and re-measuring our bra size is super important (our bodies are constantly fluctuating and shifting!) but it can be seriously time-consuming and even a little uncomfortable for some. Wearing the wrong bra size, however, can be pretty damaging to your breast tissue, which is why it’s important to keep checking. While it is a good idea to get fitted by professionals, we’ve found a method that you can use to scope out your bra size from home.
The first discovery you’ll probably make? That you’ve been wearing the wrong bra size for years. But don’t worry – you’re not alone. It’s incredibly common for women to be wearing bras that don’t fit or support them properly. Often, we assume that our back size is bigger than what it actually is or (if you’re like me) we fear that larger cup sizes will limit our underwear options. But that doesn’t have to be the case, you can shop beautiful bras for all sizes below… But first, work out your actual size with these simple steps:
Step 1: The Band
You’ll need a soft tape measure for this step as you want to measure the band part of your bust, directly underneath your breasts. Place the tape measure flat against your skin and draw it around your torso. Be sure you keep it as close to your bust as possible. Write down your number in inches.
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Step 2: The Bust
Once you’ve got your band measurement, you want to measure the fullest part of your bust. Gently use your tape measure and record the number in inches as well. The easiest way to find the fullest part of your bust is to start from your nipples.
Now comes the slightly tricky part – working out your cup size. Subtract your band size from your bust size. The difference will determine your cup size. If the difference is less than 1, then you’re AA, 1 means A, 2 means B, 3 means C, 4 means D, 5 means DD and so on.
Your band size will give you the number preceding the letter. For example, if your band size is 34 but your size is 37, then your bra size is 34C (note the difference of 3 means you’re a C cup). Remember, bras from different brands can fit slightly differently but this will give you the basic tools to work out your correct size.
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5 key checks for the perfect fit
Under-band: This should be parallel to the floor and secure enough that only two fingers can fit under the elastic.
Centre front: Make sure this lies flat against your rib cage and doesn’t dig into breast tissue.
Cup capacity: Your breasts should sit fully into the cup without any spillage.
Straps: These should be adjusted to just fit two fingers on top of each other, which will give the right pressure for your shoulders.
Need bras in your new (correct) size? Shop our faves:
BUY IT: Wonderbra Lurex Balconette Bra (sizes 34A – 36D), R399
BUY IT: Legit 2-Pack Lace Magenta and Grey Bra (sizes 32A – 36D), R179
BUY IT: Kangol 2-pack t-shirt bra with laser cut out (sizes 34A-36D) ,R219
Playtex Nadine Underwire Bra 2 Pack Silver/Blue (sizes 34B – 42C), R309
BUY IT: Triumph Allusion Lace/Mesh Low Bra V Blue (Sizes 32A – 36D), R219
