Breast Size Guide

Posts Tagged ‘Lingerie’

A bra calculator can help you size-up your bra measurements and aid you in determining the size that is appropriate for you. 

While a lot of women feel that they have no need for such a calculator since they are secure that the size they are getting is the right one for them, oftentimes, they are unaware that they are actually wearing the wrong size!

It would help to use a bra size calculator just to make sure that you are indeed wearing the appropriate size. If you are, then nothing would have been lost. If you’re not, you will be thankful that you finally know the right size.

This will spell a huge difference between having to make do with a size that you’ve been accustomed to and wearing something that is actually more comfortable. 

The right bra size provides the right support for your breasts, your shoulders and your back.

How a Bra Calculator Works

First, you need to find a bra size calculator and the best place to find one is one the internet. You will most likely find these in blogs dedicated to women’s brassieres and lingerie; as well as online shops that sell the said items.

Before you begin to use the calculator, you first need to know two basic measurements: your bra band size and your cup size.

Your band size is measured through that part of your chest area just below your breasts. Your cup size is the measurement of the fullest part of your breasts. Simply wrap the tape measure from your back area up to the top of the nipples.

Now you need to put the values in the appropriate boxes and then the calculator will instantly display your recommended bra size.

Tip: When measuring your band size, it should be snug but not too tight. Make sure that you can insert two fingers through the band.

Finding Your Bra Size

Bra cups are determined by your breast size and corresponding letters, usually from A to JJ.

There are different sizing standards used in various countries or continents. It would help if you knew all the sizes in different standards so you can get the appropriate size no matter which part of the continent they were made from.

Basically, the United States and United Kingdom have similar bra sizes; starting from 30 inches all the way to 42 inches. The only difference is in the letters corresponding to cup size.

Where UK has an E cup, in the US this is equivalent to a triple D cup. Once you have determined your exact bra size, you can now fully enjoy the benefits of finally wearing the right bra size.

The A cup is the smallest size class of brassieres for adult women. Just how big an A cup is varies on both sides of the Atlantic. Wherever women live, however, knowing the approximate dimensions of an A cup is important for fit, comfort and fashionable appearance.

Precisely How Big an A Cup Is

Cup size is measured by the difference between chest measurement below the breast (let’s call this “measurement 1”) and that around the fullest portion of the breast itself (“measurement 2”, for convenience). In the United Kingdom, an A cup can be as little 0.1 inch and up to 1 inch more than chest size. By United States standards, breast size being 0.6 to 1.5 inches more than chest size determines how big an A cup is.
 
The other method is to measure around the flat part of the chest above the bust (call this “measurement 3”). Once again, measurement 3 less measurement 2 should give women an idea of the bust fullness that will guide their bra purchase. This alternate method works fine when the woman reliably knows from past purchases that she is a cup A or B.
 
Whichever method is used, how big an A cup is means a bust fullness of just one-tenth of an inch and up to 1.5 inches more than the unclothed rib cage. And when one realizes that even 1.5 inches accounts for both breasts, it stands to reason that A sizes are more common in training bras for prepubescent girls or adult women who are distinctly underendowed.

Taking All Three Measurements Properly to Determine How Big an A Cup Is

It is best to have a friend, another family member or a lingerie section saleslady help. Maintaining the proper position is important. Attempting to take any of the measurements unaided risks overestimating them. For example, the tape might unknowingly not be perfectly horizontal around the back. Or the very act of cocking one’s arms and swinging them around to the back (as when attempting to fasten a bra) flexes the pectoral and deltoid muscles. So you end up with measurements 1 or 3 that are larger than they should be (and a smaller cup size than you deserve).
 
Proper posture, being comfortable and relaxed without throwing out one’s chest or taking a deep breath are also key to accurately measuring one’s cup size.
 
Taking these measurements unclothed is the most accurate way for seeing how big an A cup is. In modest cultures, one may opt to wear a comfortable, unpadded bra. Certainly, the push-up type will not do.

To Sum Up

Getting a handle on just how big an A cup is means subtracting measurements 1 and 3 from measurement 2. As long as the difference, the fullness of one’s bust is no greater than 1.5 inches (in U.S. stores) or 1 inch (in the UK), then one can confidently opt for an A cup on the next purchase.

The following nursing bra size chart is a general guideline. Other manufacturers may have different sizing options. Also, your comfort level is the most important. No matter what the facts and figures say you ought to wear, only stick with those you are at ease with.

Sizing Guide

The fit is determined by the band size. After finding the band size, then you can select the style based upon the cup size. For rib band 32-36, the cup size is S (B-cup) for basic, S+ (C-D) for plus or S++ (DD-F) double plus.

For 36-40 rib bands, the sizes are M (B-C) for basic, M+ (D-DD) and M++ (DD-G). For 38-42 rib bands, the sizes are L (C-D) for basic, L+ (DD-E) for plus and L++ (DD-G for double plus. The nursing bra size for rib bands that measure 42-46 are XL (C-D) for basic, XL+ (DD-E) for plus and XL++ (E-G) for double plus.

How to Find Your Band Size

To get the band size, put a measuring tape under your arms and around the chest. The tape must be snug, not tight. Make sure you are standing up. Breathe normally.

The figure you get is the band size. If the figure is an odd number, round it off. If it is 37 inches, round it off to 38 inches.

How to Find Your Cup Size

The next step to finding your nursing bra size is to get your cup measurement. Put the tape at the fullest part of your breasts. This should be above the nipples. Ensure the tape measure is level to the body. Do not pull it tight.

The cup size is the difference in inches between the bust size and the band size. Assume the band measurement is 40. If the bust size is 45 the difference is 5 inches. That would be cup E. If the difference is 6 inches, it is an F cup. For 7 inches, it is a G cup and 9 inches, H cup.

Tips on Finding the Perfect Fit

When looking for a nursing bra size, ensure your measurements are correct. The tape measure should be set to the positions described earlier. The cups must be positioned appropriately. They should hold your breasts.

The band should be level to the back and front. The shoulder straps must not be too tight. The tension must be enough to just hold the bra in place. The straps are too tight if there are red marks on the shoulders.

A good fitting bra will also fit when secured on the center row of hooks. If your breasts are bulging out, choose a larger cup size but within that band. For instance, if you are wearing 36F, try moving up to 36G. If you can pinch material at the cup, then it is too big. Move down a cup size.

Choosing the wrong nursing bra size can lead to discomfort. By using the methods described earlier, you should be able to find the right size and proper fit.

By using a bra size calculator, you will be able to get the best fitting bra possible. Unless the bra fits properly, discomfort will be felt. A tight fitting bra will also leave reddish marks. These calculators (which are free on the Web) will help you find the right size.

How to Use the Calculator

Look for one using a search engine. When you get to the site, you will see the following fields: below, bust and above. Enter your figures. Click “calculate”.

The correct size will appear. Usually the answer will be given in a variety of sizes (American, UK, European, Japanese, French etc). The measurements of bra size calculators can be whole numbers or in decimals.

How to Measure Bra Size

You should wear an ordinary underwired bra. Do not wear padded or push up bras. Stand up, with the back and shoulders straight. Do not hold your breath or expand the chest. Stay relaxed.

Step 1: Measure the Band Size

Get a soft tape measure. Place it snugly all around the rib cage. It should be just under your breasts. Be sure the tape is set all the way around. Measure it in centimeters or inches. You can enter this into the bra size calculator.

Step 2: Measure the Bust Size

Place the tape at the fullest section of the bust. This will be just above the nipples. Ensure the tape is straight around your body. The measurement can also be in inches or centimeters.

Step 3: Measure the Above Bust Size

Take your measurement at the rib cage above the breasts and under the arms. Be certain the tape measure is level. Note: this measurement is considered optional, but for the sake of accuracy it is better to make this measurement too.

Band Size and the US Cup Equivalent

Less than 1" is equal to AA, and 1" to A. 2" is equal to B and 3" to C. 4" is the same as D and 5" is equal to DD. Other size equivalents are 6" (DDD, 3D), 7" (DDDD, 4D), 8" (DDDDD, 5D) and 9" (DDDDDD, 6D). Other band sizes and their equivalents are 10" (J), 11" (K) and 12" (L).

US, European and UK Cup Sizes

The US cup sizes are AA, A, B, C, D, DD/E, DDD/F, DDDD/G, DDDDD/H, DDDDDD/I and J. Their European equivalents are AA, A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H. The UK sizes are AA, A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, FF, G, GG, H, HH, J, JJ and K.

Tips

The bra size is correct if there is no digging or poking sensations. Walk around. It should feel comfortable. The bra is too big if the cup is baggy or getting wrinkled. If there is puddling or falling out, the cup is not large enough. You need to get a bigger cup size. Also, the straps should not be hard.

Using a bra size calculator will help you get the right size. Women who wear the wrong size often experience discomfort, but by utilizing the tool, you can steer clear of this problem.

A good number of women do not pay much attention to the details that should go into checking for the right bra size. Oftentimes, if the fit is okay – not a perfect fit, but just okay – women feel that this is enough.

How often do you adjust the straps of your bra during the day or pull the band down because it constantly goes up? These are clear indications that you are wearing the wrong bra size. 

Checking a bra sizes chart can help you finally figure out just what bra size you should be wearing. But first, you need to take the proper measurements.

How to Check Bra Sizes?

There are four parts of a bra that you should pay attention to. Getting the right fit for each one will ultimately mean a more comfortable bra and the right kind of support for your breast area.

First, there is the back panel of your bra band. As a rule, the back portion of your band should be lower than its front part. The back panel should be just below your shoulder blades, if it rides up; you’re wearing the wrong size.

Next, are the bra cups. If there is even just a bit of spillage, it definitely says that you have the wrong cup size. The cup should make you feel as if your breasts are comfortably sitting on the cups, in a manner of speaking. 

The third essential parts that you need to check are the clasps and the front portion of your bra. The clasps in front plus the front band should be flat against your chest area. 

Finally, there are your bra straps. The straps should be tight enough to stay in place without cutting on your shoulders. If they fall down even after adjusting the straps, you may be wearing the wrong cup size since falling straps usually indicate that you are not filling the cups properly.

Bra Sizes Chart

To give you a rough idea of how bra sizes are determined, check the measurements below and their corresponding bra sizes. You need to take your full bust measurement first and your measurement just around your ribcage. 

For full bust measurement, measure the fullest tip of your breasts; wrapping the measuring tape from your back to the nipple area.

If you have a bust size of 39 and a ribcage size of 35 or 36, your best fit would be a 36C. For a 39 bust size with a ribcage size of 37, your bra size would be a 38B.

For a bust size of 40 with a ribcage of 35, your best fit could be a 36D. If you have a 37 ribcage measurement, your recommended bra size is a 38C; while a 38 ribcage size is ideal for a 38B bra size.

Your best option is to have your measurements double-checked by an assistant in your lingerie shop. She may be able to help you determine your right bra size.

Both men and women seem to agree that a C cup is the perfect breast size. Though fewer than one-third of American women boast the full bosoms that mark a cup C – compared to nearly half who are a cup B – their relative rarity must contribute to their desirability. In the UK, however, C cups are the most common.

To find out how big a C cup is or even whether your proper bra size is a cup C, we need to know how to properly measure ourselves and obtain our cup size.

Precisely How Big a C Cup Is

Where the underwire of your bra defines the diameter of your breasts, cup size is all about the projection or “cup depth” of your breasts. What do we mean by this? Cup size is measured by the difference between chest measurement above or below the breast (also called “band size”) and that around the fullest portion of the breast itself (“bust size”). Obviously, then, cup size measures how far your breasts project from your rib cage or chest wall.

Just how big a C cup is varies on both sides of the Atlantic. . According to United State standards, you are a C cup if the fullest part of your breasts juts out 2.6 to 3.5 inches away from your chest wall. United Kingdom standards are a bit more modest, requiring only that the fullest part of your breasts is full enough to be 2.1 to 3.0 inches away from your rib cage. Wherever women live, however, knowing the approximate dimensions of a C cup is important for fit, comfort and fashionable appearance.

The Two Measurements That Determine How Big a C Cup Is

When checking to see what is your present cup size and, for curiosity’s sake, how big is a C cup, here are the proper ways for getting both band and bust size.

You need to ask for help, first of all, from the lingerie saleslady or, when measuring at home, a relative or friend. Having someone to help ensures that you keep the appropriate body position, back posture and arm position.

Your shoulders and arms should be at ease and straight as well. You should remain standing. Ensure that you remain comfortable and relaxed. Do not hold your breath and do not push your chest outward. This is to ensure that your chest will not artificially project outward. Exaggerating your cup size might be flattering for any female ego but poor fit is poor fit. You are bound to find yourself tugging and fretting about your straps all day long.

Make sure that you are wearing the appropriate bra while measuring for your cup size. The bra should neither be padded nor a push-up bra. It should be a standard underwired bra. The measuring tape you are using should also be a soft and flexible fabric to give you an accurate measurement.

The first measurement we need is the band size. This is the measurement directly under your breasts. The tape measure should fit tightly around your rib cage. You need to make sure that the measuring tape lies straight all the way around your chest wall.

The second measurement we need is the bust size. The measuring tape should be placed on top of the fullest part of your breasts. The fullest part of a woman’s breast is usually found above the nipples. Just like the first measurement, it should be straight all the way around and fit snugly.

Conclusion:

In the end, you get cup size by subtracting the band size from bust size. If your bust size is 40 inches and band size 37, for example, the difference of 3 inches makes you a cup C by both British and American standards.

Measuring bra size will be necessary, because if it is ill fitting, discomfort and pressure will be felt on the shoulders. Here is how to do it.

What You Will Need

Tape measure
Bra

Step 1

Stand straight up. Place your arms on the sides and breathe in a normal manner.

Step 2

Put the tape around your upper chest and back. Do this by going below your armpits and over the breasts. Ensure the tape is set tight against the skin. Round off the figure if it is a fraction. Example: 31.7 (80.3 cm) will be 32 inches (81.3 cm).

Step 3

Continue measuring bra size by putting the tape measure tight on the back. This is done by going across the ribcage and under the breasts. If you obtain an even number, add 4 inches (10.2 cm) to the figure. Add five inches (12.7 cm). The resulting figure is the band size.

Step 4

To get your cup size, measure your chest diameter. The breasts have to be measured at the fullest area. This will be around the nipple part. To get your cup size, subtract the band size from the chest plus your measurement for the breast.

Suppose your breast and chest measure 34 inches (86.4 cm) and the band measures 32 inches (81.3 cm). The difference is 2 inches.

Cup Size Differences

1 inch (2.5 cm): A; 2 inches (5.1 cm): B; 3 inches (7.6 cm): C; 4 inches (10.2 cm): D; 5 inches (12.7 cm): DD or E; 6 inches (15.2 cm): F and 7 inches (17.8 cm): G. In the example being given, the difference is two inches. This means the cup measurement is B.

Measuring Sports Bra Sizes

Measuring bra size in this case is a bit different. Start by wearing a no-pad bra. Stand in front of the mirror. Do not wear a shirt.

Step 1

Place the tape measure under the arms and over the breasts. Round the figure off if it is in fractions.

Step 2

Put the tape measure at the fullest part of the breasts. Take note of the number. Subtract the chest figures from the number you obtained here. If the difference is less than an inch, your cup size will be AA.

An inch is equivalent to A while 2 inches is equal to B. 3 inches is the same as C and 4 inches is the same as D. 5 inches is equal to DD.

Step 3

Combine the two numbers (i.e., 36B). A small sports bra will be suitable for the 32-34 A/B range. The medium size is for 34-36 B/C. The large bra size is for chests sized 36-38 C. The XL bra will be for the 38-40 C/D.

After measuring bra size, you should take note of how it feels. The important thing is how you feel. If the bra feels tight, get a larger size, even if the figures say the bra is right for you. Your comfort level should always be the priority.

Primarily used to support, cover and elevate the breasts, a bra is a highly important part of women’s clothing. However, its sizes vary depending on factors such as the size, shape and volume of breasts. Some breasts have more volume at the top, while others on the sides or somewhere at the bottom part. All of these things significantly affect the size of bra to purchase. Likewise, the sizing of such undergarment is affected greatly by the measurement system used. Here is a closer look at some of the important aspects used in brassiere measurements.

Different Sizes of Bras

Band Size

If you wish to purchase the right size of bra, you need to consider the proper band size, which includes measurements of the ribcage or under bust. Different regions and countries use varying sizing systems, which results to non-uniform bra sizes.

European Union countries use centimeters when measuring the size of bra. Extra small or XS measures 60 centimeters, small or S 65 centimeters and medium or M 70 centimeters. For the large or L, the measurement is 75 centimeters, 80 centimeters for extra large or XL and 85 centimeters for double extra large or XXL. In these countries, the measurement is 90 centimeters for 3XL, 95 centimeters for 4XL. In addition, the measurement is 100 centimeters for 5XL and 105 centimeters for 6XL.

In the United Kingdom and the United States, they use inches when referring to bra sizes. The measurement is 28 inches 71.12 centimeters for XS, 30 inches or 76.2 centimeters for S and 32 inches or 81.28 centimeters for M. In addition, the measurement is 34 inches or 86.36 centimeters for L, 36 inches or 91.44 centimeters for XL and 38 inches or 96.52 centimeters for XXL. The remaining measurements are 40 inches 101.6 centimeters for 3XL, 42 inches or 106.68 centimeters for 4XL, 44 inches or 111.76 centimeters for 5XL and 46 inches or 116.84 centimeters for 6XL.

Cup Size

When buying a bra, you also need to consider the cup size, which is basically the difference between the band size and the bust size. If the difference is less than an inch or about 10 to 12 centimeters, the cup size is AA. If the difference is 1 inch or about 12 to 14 centimeters, the bust size is A. For the B cup size, the difference is 2 inches or about 14 to 16 centimeters. Furthermore, the C cup refers to a difference of 3 inches or 16 to 18 centimeters, while D cup refers to a difference of 4 inches or 18 to 20 centimeters. For the E cup, which is more popular as DD, the difference is 5 inches or 20 to 22 centimeters.

The other measurements include 6 inches or 22 to 24 centimeters for the F or DDD cup size, 7 inches or 24 to 26 centimeters for the G, 8 inches or 26 to 28 centimeters for the H, 9 inches or 28 to 30 centimeters for the I and 10 inches or 30 to 32 centimeters for the J. The remaining measurements for the cup size are 11 inches or 32 to 34 centimeters for the K, 12 inches or 34 to 36 centimeters for the L, 13 inches or 36 to 38 centimeters for the M and 14 inches or 38 to 40 centimeters for the N.