Saturday, October 30, 2010

How to measure your bra size, the correct way!

Ladies, this isn't something there is more than one right way to do. There are many, many sites (Even manufacturer's websites!) that will tell you the incorrect way of measuring. Many will tell you to measure your band size above your boobs, or to add 5 or 6 inches to your band measurement. This is absolutely, positively, NOT CORRECT. Don't do it. Just don't. I don't care what they tell you. It's not correct. Here's how to do it right.

It would help if you can enlist somebody else to help you measure. If you can't I find it helpful to measure in front of a mirror so that you can tell better whether you are holding the tape straight or not. You will need a cloth, non stretchy, inch tape measure.
  1. Put on your best fitting bra. It shouldn't be padded but a bit of molding is probably fine.
  2. Measure around your rib cage, right under your breasts. Keep the tape as straight and parallel to the floor as possible. Measure this tight! You don't need to be straining to pull it tight as a corset, or leaving marks on your skin, or anything like that. But you should measure this much snugger than you would normally measure another part of your body. Write down your rib measurement.
  3. Measure around your breasts. Measure loosely this time. It might help to lean forward, especially if the bra you are wearing isn't particularly supportive. Write down this measurement.
  4. The rib measurement you wrote down is your band size. If it's a fraction, just round to the nearest whole number. If it's an odd number, say 31, you should try both band sizes around this (A 30 and a 32.)
  5. Now take the breast measurement you came up with. Subtract your band size from this number. (For example if you measured 29.5 and you were going to start with a 30 band and you measured 36 inches around your bustline, then the result would be 6.)
  6. Each number is a cup size. It generally goes: A,B,C,D,DD,E,F,FF,G,GG, H,HH,J,JJ,K,KK... But, brands can be slightly inconsistent. Some brands might skip some of those, or substitute DDD for E, or something, so double check to make sure that you are buying the size you think you are! In addition, some brands or styles may run large or small and you may have to adjust accordingly.
  7. If you thought you were a 36DD, and you come up with something like 30H, don't freak out! You aren't weird, I promise. So many people are wearing the wrong size that we have a really distorted idea of what a “normal” size is. Just give it a try. It's only a number!
    **If you want to know my recommendations on where to buy bras in a large range of sizes, click here.

    Once you have figured out our size according to the above methods, remember that it's only a starting point. If you try that size and you are still seeing signs of a poor fit, it may because you need to go up or down in the band or cup. Or it may even be because that style or brand of bra is incompatible with your body or breast shape. Keep trying until your find the perfect fit!

    645 comments:

    1. Question! I just measure myself and I came up with a 28 for my rib cage measurement and a 35 for my breasts. I'm currently wearing a 32E and it fits pretty well. I feel like there would be no chance in hell that I could wear a 28 band. Also, that would mean that according to this, I'm a 28F. Do you ever get the "There's no way that that's your size." when you tell someone your bra size. I get it all the time and it drives me nutso.

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    2. Gillian-- I do view these directions as a starting point, so I would say if you are perfectly happy with the size you are wearing, feel that you look good, don't have any shoulder/neck pain, etc; then you are probably just fine to stick with it. However, if you feel there's room for improvement, maybe you could try a 28 or 30 band bra (with the related cup "sister sizes," of course.) If you could find a place in your area that sells that size, then maybe you could at least try it on?

      Also, are you sure your cup size is correct? A 32E actually has bigger cups than a 28F, so it sounds like you would need a bigger cup size than what the measurement guide tells you. This can have to do with the shape of your breasts. I actually have the same thing: I measure as a 28G but I wear a 28H in most styles. I have found that when my cup size is too small, the band feels tight but it's actually the cups making the fit feel tight. Bras can be weird that way.

      But again, if you are perfectly happy with a 32E, I see no reason to switch.

      I don't go out of my way to tell people my bra size, (actually in real life I'm kind of shy about it because I know people will react weird) but I have certainly received that reaction. Recently, I was talking to a friend who is considering a breast reduction who wears a 34G. I told her that she needed a different size since she was on the tightest hook right away. She said that the place she got fitted at told her a G cup is the biggest size in existence! I said that you could buy bras up to a KK cup, and a male friend passed by at that moment and got this expression of total shock/horror. It was actually pretty funny. But I know things will change once people start to understand bra fitting better.

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    3. Thank you for your incredibly thorough response. I have pretty consistent back and neck pain and my straps are constantly falling down. Guess it's time for a new bra fitting! Your response showed me that if anyone is going to educate the world about bras, it'll be you. :)

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    4. I need some clarification on getting your ribcage measurement. When you say to measure it tight, are you supposed to exhale to get the most compressed measurement possible (without leaving marks)? I have read a couple of other bra fitting guides that say you should do this and I want to make sure I am measuring correctly.

      I am curious because there is quite a difference between my relaxed rib measurement and the number I get when I exhale. The smaller number is close to my waist measurement, which seems odd to me, although I'm sure I'm not the only one who has experienced this.

      Thank you!

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    5. Mandy-- That is correct. I measure 25" loose and 24" tight, which should mean that I need a 24 band size. (Unfortunately, though, that size is not currently made!) If you are an odd number, measured tightly, then you might want to try both sizes "around" that odd measurement.

      My waist measurement is also 24"- I think most people's correct band size is close to their waist measurement, unless you had a rather triangular ribcage.

      I hope that helps!

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    6. Hi Brittany, your method is spot on! it gave me a result of 26GG, which as we know is not produced, but I am currently wearing 28G and am very happy with it. Actually I wouldn't want the band to be any tighter, but my ribcage is rather bony and I don't support very snug bands too well ;)

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    7. damn it! sorry ;) I wrote long post and it disappeared :/

      Summing up, I wrote that your method can be correct, because I measured myself today and it seams that I should wear 24FF/G while in fact I wear 28E/F or 30DD (if they're tight). My ribcage is also rather bony and I don't like to squeeze myself, but I fell that average 28 band (e.g. Masquarade) is too loose for me. Also the fact that I feel good supported when I wear bra which measures 20" in rest and max 27" stretched seams to confirm my size as at least 26FF. maybe someday you Brittany and me are gonna have that correct band size. Have to have dreams ;)

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    8. Magda and polka_w_brukseli- I do think that women with bonier ribcages will usually wear a slightly bigger size. Also the reverse is true, if you have extra padding on your ribcage you might wear a smaller size. ;-)
      I think for us bonier girls we could maybe wear a smaller size more comfortable if the underwires had a little extra padding on them... hmmm...

      Magda- I am sorry about your post disappearing! I will post on my blog as soon as I find a good solution for 26 bands. I know that someday they will be available. ;-)

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    9. Brittney,

      Followed Tessa's link from Already Pretty and am so happy to have a useful guide! I would like your opinion, though--I've been a 32B for several years, recently moved up to a 34B (Victoria's Secret)...I'm sure I've been wearing an inaccurate size, but the bras work so I've been lax on finding a good fit. But I'm a little taken aback by the size your calculation suggests! My ribcage measures as 31" and my breasts are about 36-37". If I'm using this correctly, that suggests to me I should be wearing a 32DD or 32E, correct? I didn't expect such a difference in sizes! I'm not opposed to wearing a bra this large at all, but do you think it's feasible that a woman who comfortable wears a 34B could really require a bra cup that large? Just wanted to pick your brain, and thanks for this wonderful website!

      -Erin

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    10. Brittney, I'd like to second Erin's comment, I also followed the alreadypretty link!

      Erin: My measurements are similar to yours, and I recently had the relevation that I am not a 34C (or 34B in some VS things). I discovered that H&M sells 32D now (cheap but sturdy), which happens to fits pretty well, even if a 32F would be nicer. I would not be worried about the name of the cup, it may sound "huge" compared to B, but in the end I found it's all about the actual shape of the breast, so just try as many sizes as possible if you are close to an Urban Center with a choice of stores. Maybe not at VS, but somewhere were no salesperson cares if you try very different sizes. Good luck!

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    11. I'm so glad to see you guys from Tessa's link on Already Pretty! I hope my blog is helpful to you. :-)

      Erin, I absolutely think that you could be a 32DD or E. I know that cup size sounds big, but so many people are wearing the wrong size that we have a distorted idea of what a given cup size looks like. One thing to remember is, the cup size changes based on the band size. So, I have a friend who wears a 28DD and she actually looks fairly flat chested! Most people wouldn't guess her to be more than a B cup.

      Also, many women wear several cup sizes too small, even if they get the band close to right (like you) because you can sort of squash your breasts into a smaller cup size and it can look OK if you don't know what to look for. It doesn't help that places like VS show the models spilling out of the bras, (which might look sexy in a photo but would give you "4-boobs" under a t-shirt!) so women don't have a clear idea of what a cup size that fits should look like. Try following my directions on putting your bra on correctly, scooping all of the flesh from the sides and such into the cups, and I bet you will be able to see that the B cup is actually quite too small.

      I would suggest ordering a 32DD and maybe a few sizes 'around' that from a website that you can return it to, and see what a difference it makes. And I would love to hear what your results are! :-)

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    12. If I have a 30 in. band and 39 in. breasts - does that mean my size is 30G? Whew, big number!

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    13. Anonymous, That sounds like a good size to start with! You might even find that you need a cup size or two bigger than that, depending on the shape of your breasts, so be sure to try out a few sizes "around" that size and return what doesn't fit. I also have several more articles on here about how to make sure your new bra fits, so be sure to check those out. Good Luck!

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    14. hey- my band is 29 and my bust is 38!
      I have several 34DD from VS, and a 32F from Triumph.
      I'm in NY, and I'm under 16-no car.
      A) what cup/band size should I try
      B) should I order several sizes from an online store? What store? What sizes?
      (I'm thinking that 30H would be the a starting place...)

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    15. Anonymous- 30H does sound like a great size to start with. I generally recommend trying a few different sizes and returning the ones that don't fit. You might also eventually decide that you feel better supported in a 28 band; it would depend on how 'bony' or not your ribcage is, ie if it has some "padding." However, since you are not used to a snugger band starting with 30 sounds good. Why don't you order the size 30H, 30GG, and 30HH? You want the biggest cup that you can fill out when you have put it on correctly, making sure to scoop all of your breast tissue from under arms, etc, into the cups.

      I listed a few good online stores here: http://www.thinandcurvy.com/2011/02/where-can-i-buy-my-new-correct-bra-size.html You might like Bare Necessities, because they offer free exchanges, so once you figure out your size you could exchange the bras that don't fit for ones that do. ;-)

      I really hope that helps! Good luck and I would love to hear back from you once you've tried a few things and hopefully found a bra that fits you much better. :-)

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    16. I got band 28 and bust 33, I been wearing 32B bras (the smaller sizes that I can find in my country) since ever and always fit bad!. I should try 28DD or 30C right?, I think I can find this sizes on Ebay, I hope they will fit.

      Thanks for the guide!

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    17. I'm 17 and right now I'm wearing a 32DD, and sometimes the cup size is too small, but at the sametime the band can be a bit big. As it is I can never find stores that carry sizes that fit.(Not just bras) According to your size chart I'm a 28FF? 28 seems like it would be too tight. I'm really short,with a tiny wasit, and like a size 2... Advise?

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    18. V- It sounds like 28DD or 30D would be good sizes for you to try. You can find them on eBay, but you might want to try buying from a place you can return to (some ebay sellers do allow this) for your first one, so that you can make sure it fits.

      Emily- 28FF sounds like a plausible size to me, especially since you are a size 2 (I'm roughly a 2 in in the waist/in clothes that are accommodating to my curves and I wear a 26 band.) I would recommend at least trying on a 28FF. However, if you wanted to, you could also try a 30F. Why don't you order a few sizes online and pick the best one, and return the rest? There are a few good websites listed here: http://www.thinandcurvy.com/2011/02/where-can-i-buy-my-new-correct-bra-size.html

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    19. Thanks fot getting back to me so quikly! I'll defintely try the 28FF, but do you have any really good bras that you recommend? I don't care how expensive it is. I just want a bra that fits!

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    20. Emily- Well, I can't recommend Ewa Michalak highly enough. The bands are pretty snug so 30 might be fine for you. You can get 28(60) by special order, but they can't be returned, so you could try a few sizes in 30, decide what the best cup size would be, then return them and order the 60/28 bands in a cup size up from the one you liked in 30. (So for example if you liked 30FF you would want to get 28G to get the equivalent cup size.) I would suggest ordering 3 sizes at least, like 30E, 30F, and 30FF, or in the case of another brand 28F, 28FF, and 28G, and returning what doesn't fit.

      You can check out my post on where to buy bras, too- you may decide that for your first bra it would be easier not to buy from Poland. As for other brands that are good, I like Freya, and Panache and have heard great things about Curvy Kate. A good style to start with would probably be a balcony or half cup bra. Good luck and I hope this made sense! I would love to hear back from you about how it goes! :-)

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    21. I'm wondering what size you think I should try. Let me preface this by saying straight away that I know I am not "thin" or "curvy". If I'm on the wrong website, I'm sorry! I am 5'9 and I wear a size US8 or sometimes a 10 if it runs smaller.

      My ribcage measures 31.25" and my bust measures 41".

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    22. Hi Brittany!
      Thank you so much for your blog.
      I have a problem with being thin and curvy myself, but I thought I learned to deal with it. Now your measurement guide shows me I was wrong. According to it I should wear 28G, that sounds really impressive :) But I wear LaSenza's 32E at the present, the cup is too small (I know it now) and I wanted to try 32F. However, the rib band is just perfect! I tighten it on the loosest hook, and it stays perfectly horisontally. Maybe it's LaSenza's weird fitting? I've read all the stuff about «+4 inches» fitting suggestion by mass-market brands, and now it seems I use this scheme myself! The problem is that it's impossible to find 28G in Russia to try on, my only salvation is internet shopping.
      Can you give a piece of advice please?

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    23. Hi Brittany,

      What a wonderful site! I wore the wrong size for many years. I was wearing a band size 34 when I actually measure 29". I have read and researched, and you are absolutely correct: One should not add inches to the rib measurement to get the band size. That makes no sense at all. Making that mistake is why many women (like me) have worn easy-to-find wrong-fitting bras.

      With a band measurement of 29 and a bust measurement of 36, I was fitted by a wonderful professional several months ago. She put me in sizes 32D and 32DD, (depending on the manufacturer and style), but she had thought I might be able to wear a 30. I was too accustomed to wearing a huge band and a 30 felt binding. The fitter understood.

      Recently I tried a 30G and it actually felt comfortable. The horizontal shape of the cups was wonderful against my small ribcage, but the cups were a little loose on the vertical. The good part about the looseness of the cups was that I did not have tight cups making me think I needed a bigger band. Like you, I had experienced that in the past and now I have learned.

      Although I have accumulated a drawer full of 32D and 32DD bras, I think a 30DDD, 30E, or a 30F might be even better. Of course, those sizes are harder to find in stores. Also,the cups seem to vary a lot in these full cup sizes.

      Thanks a million for creatng the site I wanted to find! You are doing a great service. -Now, if some companies would just make a sexy, slimming one-piece swimsuit for small women with D-and-up cups!

      Ginger

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    24. I am so utterly delighted to have found this site.

      I live in Australia and it's so challenging finding bras that fit properly. I'm a size 26 band with a 34 bust, which is a 26FF I believe.

      Honestly, I'm happy if I can get a size 8C/D (around a size 30 or 32 band) without attempting a special order, only to be told my size doesn't exist.
      Every time I get fitted, I get pushed into the large loose band with an A cup because I don't seem large, and no bras in my size are available.
      I'm now in my mid-thirties, and quite frankly, I think it's about time I can find a decent bra that fits me. I have wide set breasts, there is a large gap between them and I can't easily make cleavage, so that just makes it more difficult.

      What specific brands for wide set breasts, and a 26FF would you recommend?

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    25. Hi, love ur site! I'm from the Caribbean and we have a ridiculously small selection of bras to choose from-I hunted for a bra for almost 2 yrs and during that time had to settle for a 36D...which meant that when i moved at anything faster than a slow stroll my boobs would bounce all over the place (taking a quick dash up the stairs meant literally holding them up with both hands).

      I am pretty short-5 2" and my ribcage measurement is 30/31" and my bust is 41". i stumbled upon freya and fantasie one day and tried on a 32FF which gave me a fit unlike anything that I ever had, so i ordered a few online (so much cheaper). however, i still have a little quad-boob going on, as well as the dreaded armpit fat and back flab...i'm cringing as i write this. what size do u reommend I try? According to ur guidelines i should be about a 30G/GG? I did try pulling my boobies in and together and this did eliminate the fatty bits, but it settled right back in again in the bra-it's a bit wide-spaced i guess.

      btw-totally with u on VS- spent HOURS in a store in New York (yes, bra-search even extended as far as there) and not a single bra fit! o the size discrimination! on the plus side, i'm sure i did manage to lose a pound or 2 with all the wriggling and twisting and pulling and tugging and tucking... and other body movements i made trying to get into those darned bras :)

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    26. To Anonymous from the Caribbean. You might want to try as 30H or a 32GG. See how that works for you.

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    27. thanks Angela, I shall try those out soon :)

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    28. hi i measure 33-34 inches around my bust and 28 below my bust? what is my bra size plz?

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    29. Im 50 with very small bust , thank goodness it fits is now a discatinue line . what can i do ?

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    30. Sorry, everyone, for the delay in reply- I have been sick for the past week or so. I am writing you all replies as fast as I can!

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    31. Anonymous- Don't worry, you are welcome on my website whether or not you are thin and/or curvy! And actually, with ribcage 31.25" and bust 41"I would recommend you try size 32GG- sounds pretty curvy to me! ;-)

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    32. Natalia,

      I have not tried La Senza myself, but by most accounts their bras run about a size small in the band, maybe more, so that size is probably ok. It is likely that in, say, Freya bras, you would indeed need a 28. It also matters how heavy your breasts are- if they were heavier, it might well be that that band would be too big because they would put more strain on it and pull it up your back. Also, if your cups are too small that can affect the fit of the band a little bit, so that it seems tighter than it is- to check for this try putting the bra on backwards and see how snug the band feels then. However, I'm all for wearing what makes you the most comfortable, so by all means keep wearing la Senza 32's if they feel good to you. (I would, however, suggest trying a bigger cup size as you said.) If it's possible for you to at least try a 28 band, however, I would suggest you do so- you could always order one on the internet and then return it. You never know if you will like it or not unless you try. :-)

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    33. Ginger- Thanks for sharing your wonderful story! About the swimsuits, there are companies that make bra-sized swimsuits- check out Bravissimo's website for some example. Once you can figure out what your best cup size is you should be able to order what you want online. If you wanted to tell me more specifically what you are looking for I would be happy to help you find it. :-)

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    34. Renae- I'm a 26 band myself. :-) The only company that currently makes 26 bands is a Polish brand called Ewa Michalak. You do have to special order 26 bands from them, however they don't cost extra, you just have to wait a little longer for them to be made. They are also very affordable bras for me, although I have no idea how the exchange rate from Polish ZL to Australian money would work. I wrote all about them here: http://www.thinandcurvy.com/2011/05/where-to-find-26-and-24-band-bras-and.html

      I recently convinced a blogging friend of mine, Cheryl, to try out Ewa Michalak and she wrote a series of reviews of them on her blog: http://www.investinyourchest.co.uk/ She is a 28FF and has wide set breasts, too, so she should be able to give you a good idea of how the brand would fit on you. Good luck!

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    35. Anonymous from the Caribbean- Sounds like it has been frustrating trying to find bras that fit! I agree with Angela, those would be good sizes to try. Good luck finding bras that fit you perfectly!

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    36. Anonymous who said "i measure 33-34 inches around my bust and 28 below my bust," I would suggest trying a 28F. :-)

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    37. Anonymous who was asking about small bust bras: check out http://www.etsy.com/shop/OnTheInside and http://www.etsy.com/shop/ClareBare for some very pretty, organic cotton and eco friendly soft cup bras that can be custom made to your measurements. If you want a little more sctructure/padding, I have heard wonderful things about http://www.thelittlebracompany.com/ I hope that helps!

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    38. Hi love this site my name is Kathy.
      28 F/FF, 30DD/E, 32 D/DD.
      Over Bust: 28
      Bust line:31 inches when not in a bra, and about 33 inches when wearing a bra.
      Under bust: 27 inches
      I am about 5 feet 2 or 3 inches tall about 105-110 pounds and am 32/33-24-32/33. I was wearing a 34B that was way to big now am wearing a 28E .
      What bra size am I?

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    39. If I take 30 under bust measurements.:
      10 will be 26 inches.
      10 will be 27 inches
      6 will be 28 inches
      2 will be 29 inches
      2 will be 30 inches
      So which band size would I be?
      kathy again

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    40. To Kathy you should try a 28C.http://www.thelittlebracompany.com/

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    41. Wow, so I wear a 32C which is already hard enough to find! According to these measurements I guess I'm a 28D? Is that even a size?? And that doesn't make sense, can someone please explain?

      ALSO, my friend told me that if your boobs don't really grow when you're a teen, they start growing at around 18 and go till you're about 22. is that right??

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    42. Kathy- Are you happy with the size you are wearing (28E)? Because that sounds like it should be a pretty good size for you. If not, can you tell me more specifically what your problem is so that I can help? :-)

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    43. Anonymous- 28D is indeed a size, and actually, if you are now wearing 32C I would suggest 28DD. Try looking on eBay (be sure to include the UK in your search) for the best prices on that size, or you can look at places like Bravissimo, Figleaves, or Breakout Bras. (just Google those names and you will find websites that sell your size.)

      The way it works is, cup size is relative to band size. So whenever you go down a band size, you have to go up a cup size to get the same volume in the cups. So a 32C, 30D, and 28DD all have the same cup size volume, but you will probably find that a 28DD is better proportioned in terms of band snugness, underwire shape, etc, for your body proportions.

      As for how and when your breasts grow- it depends on the person! Your breasts often can keep growing until your mid-twenties, but they can change size after then too, if you gain or lose weight, have kids, etc, or just because. For me personally, I only started to get boobs at all around age 14 but was very small-chested until age 16 when they got bigger very fast. They have grown, but much slower, since then, too.

      Hope that helps! :-)

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    44. I measure 29 inches under bust and 35 inches around bust..that would make me a 30E? Is this correct?

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    45. I found your information on bra fitting the correct way really informative, I didn't know you could get a 28 band size.
      I have always had trouble getting a bra to fit properly, I currently wear many different sizes, 30E, 32D and 32DD. Every time I get measured on the high street these are the size I'am told that fit me. However they aren't right. My boobs seem to be very high, there always seems to be a two fingered gap between the bottom of my breast and where the band sits, is this right?
      I measured by rib cage 28" and my bust is 36". Does this mean I should wear a 28F ? Any advice will be much appreciated.

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    46. by your bra fit thing, I measured 26FF. so I would be a 28F (they fit me fine). since it is so difficult to find bras in a 28F size, could I buy a 30E and just take in the band? I don't know if it would mess up the construction of the bra or not.

      thank you for your blog... it is the ONLY place that actually makes sense. =)

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    47. Hmm... after trying tons of different calculators I found your page. the other day I told my friends I was a 32D and they stared at me in disbelief saying I should get rechecked. I was measured at Nordstrom a while back but I am still wearing the same bras and they fit comfortably, but alot I have to wear on the tightest straps now. I have lost some weight so I remeasured and my measurements came to 28 below bust and 33 over bust. Does that mean I should try a 28DD? I know some of the 32Ds I tried on previously were really tight around the back even on the loosest setting... 28 seems like it would be super tight.

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    48. Rachel- If you're wearing a 32D now, you should try a 28E. Too small cups can make the band feel tight, so you may also want to make sure that your cup size hasn't gotten larger.

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    49. I measure 31.5 rib cage and 45 around the breasts. Please help!

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    50. Kristine, thanks. I may try that if I can find some at my local Nordstrom - a bit scared to order not knowing if they will fit. I think I will look for 28DD/28E and 30Ds? Some of my 32 Ds I still fill out but some are a little loose in the cup... just depends I guess :/

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    51. Hello I have a question here :)

      I measured myself and my band was supposed to be 28, and my breast were 35, I ordered a 28F panache from ebay, i was waiting to see a HUGE bra, I was embarrassed, my husband was waiting to see it when I opened the box :D ...and it came out so cute but it feels tight in the band :/. I'm so confused. what do you think? should i order a bigger size? what size is it on regular store sizes??


      thank you!!

      Lucy.

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    52. "I measure 29 inches under bust and 35 inches around bust..that would make me a 30E? Is this correct?"

      That sounds like a good starting place! It would be best to try on a few sizes around this one if possible, for example 28F, 30E and 30F. Remember when you go down a cup size you have to go up a cup size to get the same cup volume. Good luck!

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    53. "My boobs seem to be very high, there always seems to be a two fingered gap between the bottom of my breast and where the band sits, is this right?
      I measured by rib cage 28" and my bust is 36". Does this mean I should wear a 28F ? Any advice will be much appreciated."

      Do you mean that there is empty space at the bottom of the cup? That definitely sounds like you are wearing much too small cups. the underwire should sit right at the bottom of your breasts, enclosing them but not cutting in. I would suggest trying a 28FF or maybe even a 28G.

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    54. "I measured 26FF. so I would be a 28F (they fit me fine). since it is so difficult to find bras in a 28F size, could I buy a 30E and just take in the band? I don't know if it would mess up the construction of the bra or not."

      If you are happy with 28F, then that sounds just fine. However, my experience with altering bras hasn't been that great. While a 30E and 28F will have the same cup volume, they are proportioned slightly differently, so the wires are a bit wider on the 30, since it is designed for a wider back. Especially since you are a little smaller than a 28, the proportions will be even more off in a 30 bra. If you get it taken in you may end up with wires that go too far back on the sides- that's what happened to me. You of course can try it if you want though, and maybe you will like it better than I did. :-) I would recommend looking online, especially eBay, for good deals in your size. I hope that helps!

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    55. Rachel- 28E would probably be a good size for you based on what you have said. You might not be able to find 28 bands at Nordstroms but they might at least have some 30's you could try. If you're nervous ordering online, though, try to look for a website with a good return policy and then you can even order several different sizes and return what doesn't fit. That way, you can try them on in the comfort and privacy of your own home, which many women prefer. :-)

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    56. "I measured myself and my band was supposed to be 28, and my breast were 35, I ordered a 28F panache from ebay, i was waiting to see a HUGE bra, I was embarrassed, my husband was waiting to see it when I opened the box :D ...and it came out so cute but it feels tight in the band :/. I'm so confused. what do you think? should i order a bigger size? what size is it on regular store sizes??"

      A lot of times, when you first try on a correctly fitting bra, it does feel tight in the band because it's so much tighter than what you are used to. It has to be snug to give you good support. You want the support to come from the band, not the straps- think of waist belts on hiking backpacks. They are there so that the weight isn't all resting on your shoulders, just like with bras. If you can fasten the band, it's fairly likely it's not too tight, actually. :-)

      I would try it on again and maybe wear it for an hour- as long as you leave the tags on and don't get any sweat, perfume, or deodorant on it you can still return it. See if it's just tighter than you are used to or if it is truly uncomfortable. If you really find it uncomfortably tight, then try a band size up and cup size down (30E, assuming the cup fits you well.)

      The sizing is the same as other brands... well as much as it can be considering all the variation in sizing these days! Some manufacturers do count cup sizes a little bit differently, but the band especially should be pretty similar to any other company. When you go up a cup size you need to go down a cup size to have the same volume. So a 30E, 32DD, and 34D all have the same cup volume, which is why a 28F isn't as big as it sounds!

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    57. Is 34C bra is too big, Average?
      age 22, weight 120lb, height 5'3"
      Body frame is Medium or Large, i mean well wide and big bones

      ReplyDelete
    58. Anonymous with the C cup. Your completely normal. Your height weight proportionate and your cup size is also average. Your defiantly not big boned.

      ReplyDelete
    59. Hi :)
      I'm really confused about my bra size. I'm not curvy by any means. I measured my ribcage and it was 29', and then i measured my bust and it is between 32'-33'.
      What would my size be?

      ReplyDelete
    60. Anonymous who is 29/33, I would suggest trying a 30C. I have heard good things about a company called The Little Bra Company, just Google them, and they have that size. Some people say they run snug in the band so you might want to try a 32B in that brand, 30C in others. I hope that helps!

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    61. Love your site...here are my specs. 31" ribcage 35" maybe a touch smaller over breast. Currently wearing a 32D....what do you think?

      BTW I've been trying to convince friends and family member for couple of years, when I switched from 34C to 32D, that the band of a woman's bra should be snug not loose. The idea is to support your breasts not the merchandisers.

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    62. Curvy? Yes. Thin? Well... ideally, but not so much right now. Bit extra hanging around. Hopefully you can help me anyway. ;)

      I just had DB do some measuring, though not with the best measuring tape, as I couldn't find mine. I don't have a bra that fits well, period, so I just measured not wearing anything at all. Hopefully your expertise can compensate for that.

      Around ribcage: 32"
      Around breasts: 38" (this was at the (TMI) nipple level)

      I'm an hourglass and consistently have been in the wrong bra size, mostly due to lack of knowledge, and second to that, lack of availability. I was measured at VS and Macy's, and both wanted me in a 36 band size, which I know is wrong, because it hikes up at the back and I spend my life tugging, yanking, and hating my bra. Anyway, the best fit I was able to find was VS in a 34DD, but only if it was a demi. In the demi, I had more "armpit fat" than normal, and in any kind of push up, I had some spillage going on. Now, my breasts aren't big, by any stretch of the imagination, so it freaked me out when I spilled out of a 34DD, even if the spillage wasn't extreme! The band seems pretty comfortable, bordering on tight, especially in bands with lace. I'm just not quite sold on the DD cup.

      Also, okay, I'm 22, and I'd ideally like to bridge the gap between comfort and sexy. I want to feel sexy in my bra. Is that too much to ask?

      Thoughts? Advice? Thank you!

      ~Laura

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    63. Oh, and where can I find a good selection of sizes to try on in person? I'm really wary of buying online. I have a limited budget and like to try things on before I make a decision.

      ~Laura

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    64. Are you familiar with www.brastop.com? Heard anything good/bad/otherise? I'd be ordering into the USA, but just at first glance, it seems like it's cheaper to order from the UK than it would be to buy the same brands in an American store like Nordstroms.

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    65. To Laura Your very lucky it sounds like your a 32DD. VS brands tend to run a bit tight. I think you might want to remeasure yourself but this time with your bra and try to rangle any breast tissue. Arm pit fat and back fat is just breast tissue. I think you just need to do more searching but there are tons of a nice brands out there that start with DD or end with it. It like you in between.

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    66. Thanks for your reply, Angela! When I bend over, I measure 39" around the bust. Bear in mind that I'm braless as well. If I go down a band size, shouldn't I go up a cup size, as a rule? If I'm not quite fitting into a 34DD, then it seems like the cups of a 32DD would be too small?

      Thanks!
      Laura

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    67. I wish I could edit comments! To Angela: I simply don't have a bra that fits me well. Currently I'm in a 36C, which is torture. I don't think it's conducive to an accurate measurement at all. It was suggested to me on a forum that I try a 32FF and a 34F, but I'm not sure what happened to E! lol

      ~Laura

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    68. To Laura: the measurements that you get are a starting point so you should try a 32DD or 32DDD(US)/32E(UK. If you live in the US or Canada this site might help.

      http://www.myintimacy.com/images/stories/intimacy-retailers.pdf

      You should also watch as many fitting videos as you can. I like this one the best.
      http://brastop.com/fitting_room.aspx

      You might try taking camera with you to take pics of the bras and of how they look under a top.

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    69. I measured 26" and 34", so using 28 bands I'd be needing E cup? That feels too small. Maybe i measured bust wrong and too tihgt? At the moment my best fit is 30F (quite tight, Pour Moi?)
      I'm also semi successfully using high street brand 32DD and 32Es, smallest bands available here. I don't feel good with three clips fastened 28s as they feel so tight. But 30s hardly give me the comfort support. I feel this is a mess and ordering bras from uk takes money, so I feel a bit lost. Would you have any ideas? Thank you.

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    70. I think I forgot something. I don't feel that big titted but I'm having wide ones, so big cups leave empty feeling even if I fill the whole width. I don't use padded or push ups nor lacy cups, I feel most confident in round shaped moulded cups.
      I'm not sure if I should try 28 and if, then what cups.

      ReplyDelete
    71. Nila,

      From what you said you wear now you might want to try a 28F or 28FF in some brands. The band will feel tight if the cups are too small for you. You should go to brastop or figleaves and look at their fitting room videos a few time to understand how a bra should fit.

      ReplyDelete
    72. I've watched the videos already year ago and ended up ordering the wrong designs over and over again. It's hard to find physical bra shop that sells 28s for trying here so I have to ask via net.
      For example I don't like 3 hooked backs. Maybe 2 hooked would feel lighter? Any suggestions on wide cupped (and not big boob)brands? Not Freya, I presume.
      Thank you!

      ReplyDelete
    73. Hi Niia,

      This measuring guide is just that, a guide- a lot of people find they need a slightly different size than what it would suggest. Unfortunately, the best measuring guide in the world can only hope to be a starting place. :-) It's also possible you measured your bust a little too tight, which is easy to do- try bending over and measuring that way, maybe you will come up with a different measurement.

      Have you tried Panache? Their wires run wider. I would suggest trying 28FF from what you have said. Most 28FF's I have encountered have 2 hooks rather than 3. 3 hooks bras tend to have a little bit less stretch and be a little firmer, so that may be what you are noticing. I personally prefer them for that reason, they feel more supportive for me. :-) It's also possible they feel too tight because the cup is too tight. To test for this, try putting on a 28 bra backwards and see if it still feels tight. If it feels good that way, try a cup size bigger (28G) and that should help.

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    74. I don't think that 3 hook or 2 hook has anything to do with it. The three hooks are there to get a bit of extra life out of an expensive bras. Perhaps these brands you are trying are make with different women in mind. Most bra companies have one fit model per cup size. The same bras in a larger cup size in as many brands you can. You might want to try 28F 28FF. If the bra doesn't fit then send it back. this isn't the best way to go about doing things I Know. IF you can't find a specialty store in your area that offers 28 bands you might have to be prepared to send things back and forth.

      If you live in the US try using this site to find a store that is near you. Call before you go. http://www.myintimacy.com/images/stories/intimacy-retailers.pdf

      As I have not been to all the stores on the list i can't vouch for any of them you might want to go on yelp or yahoo local and see what people think about the store before you go. Some store require that you make and appointment if that is the case try to see if you can get the store or franchise owner to fit you.

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    75. Anonymous, I think Niaa meant the hooks vertically. I've never seen a bra that didn't have at least 3 hooks horizontally (ie the ones that you can move in when the bra stretches out.)

      I don't tend to recommend Intimacy because they do not have anything under a 32 band. They are also very overpriced. They will alter bands down further, but altering a 32 band to a 28 is a very bad idea. I usually like to use Freya's website's store finder to find bra stores. If they stock down to a 28 at least they are likely to have the right sizes to try on, even if they don't do a very good job at fittings.

      ReplyDelete
    76. Based on my measurements, I've had a lot of suggestions for 32F since I originally posted here, with a possibility of 34E as a sister size. That is vastly different from the feedback I've gotten here. I've gotten it narrowed down to these syles in these sizes, based on what I've been able to glean about which styles run large in the band, or small in the cup, etc.

      Curvy Kate Thrill Me x2 (34F and 32FF)
      Curvy Kate Princess 32F
      Lepel Sarah Plunge 34E

      I think I have all of my bases covered. Thoughts? They are much appreciated, though I suppose at some point I'm just going to have to get brave and order them, since it's clear that I won't be finding anything in my city.

      Thanks!
      Laura

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    77. To Britney.

      That list has more then just Intimacy. It has a lot of independent Specialty Stores. I recently called a few Intimacy stores just to see what that have available and they said 28-50. So maybe they have had a few changes. I'm not in love with Intimacy either but for do a lot or most people.

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    78. Britney,

      I figured out why your sizing equation might be off by a cup size or two for persons final fit. This might not be the case 100% of the time.

      It's off by one cup size because most people are on symmetrical. One half of our bodies are larger than the other. And when you buy a bra you fit the larger breast. a cup size is not that large of a difference.

      I might be wrong but it sounds somewhat right to me.

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    79. Thanks for your adwise. I think I'm getting there.

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    80. I'm having trouble. I live in a small town where there are only the "common sizes" or whatever, and I'm hours away from any decent store. Im thinking of ordering online from la senza. I took their size test thing and it said I should be wearing a 32 A... but I'm currently wearing a 34 B and the band is too large, but the cup is a tad too small... My measurements were 28 ribs, and 33 bust... I was thinking of trying a 32D... does that sound right? Apparently I can return them if they dont fit, but I'd rather get it right the first time

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    81. Dear Anonymous from a small town,

      You sound like a 28DD. You might want to try a 30D and a 28E in some brands just to see how they fit.

      If you want to get a cheap bra in you area you can get a 32C or a 32D and have the band straps made to fit you. Just take it to your seamstress.

      But ti might be better to buy your size online. The bras will last longer that way.

      ReplyDelete
    82. Hi, this is a really great page might I say.

      My question: I actually had a professional bra fitting two days ago and was instructed to buy 30DD bras. I bought six. The one I tried on yesterday, the band felt like it was digging in, which I would assume would mean the band size is too small but I tried on a 32C in the bra fitting and was told the band was too big. Also it was like falling down when i was moving so that my breasts weren't properly covered...I got told by someone online to try and shorten the straps but they were the shortest that they went! I'm wearing another 30DD today and it fits more comfortably, pretty much perfect however I have noticed that the straps are not sitting very snugly and are ever so slightly too big (even on the shortest they go). Have you got any advice for me to try and get a better fit? I think my problem is with the straps being too big :/

      ReplyDelete
    83. I came up with a 10" difference, which gives me a GG cup size. Can that be right? I usually wear an F, but this would mean going up 3 more cup sizes, FF to G to GG. I could have measured with a smaller difference, more like 7-8 inches if I hadn't followed instructions for tight over the ribs and looser over the breasts. I'm an odd one with a waist substantially smaller than my ribs as well. Should I go for a size closer to my ribs or closer to my waist for the band? I always thought one measured the ribs but was thrown off by your assertion that the waist is usually the same size. I feel like my current bras fit okay but wear out quickly.

      ReplyDelete
    84. To Anonymous FF to GG. you might want to look at fit videos on Figleaves.com or Brastop.com. See how the bra should fit. If your bras isn't doing what it should you might want to try the GG.

      ReplyDelete
    85. I feel stupid for asking such a silly question but I don't understand Step 6? I measured 3 inches difference. What cup is that?

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    86. I measured with and without a bra. Without a bra I came to about 3 inches in difference. Whereas with a 'daily' bra a 6 inches difference. So, would my measurement be 30(band size) F then?

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    87. To Lux it sounds like your a 30E. You might also want to try a 30F. In step 6 each cup size is 1 inch different from the next. A=1in B=2in C=3in D=4in DD=5in E=6in F=7in.

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    88. Hi!

      I'm like super confused right now. My measurements are underbust: 26-27 inches bust: 37 inches. I'm currently wearing 32DD/34D which are kind os small and some 34dd which are way too big on the band size. It's all I can find here in Quebec (canada)since they don't make 28 and 30 band sizes.

      Should I try ordering a 28G or am I way off? When you calculate the difference between bust and underbust do you have to use your actual ribcage measurement or the band size measurement like in this case I have a 27 underbust but the the band size would be 28 so do I have to use the 27 inches measurement or the band size measurement?? sorry I feel kind of stupid for asking but I really need to get this right!!

      sorry for my poor english by the way I'm a french canadian :)

      Anna from Montreal (Quebec)

      ReplyDelete
    89. To Anna, I think that you should try a 28G see how it works for you.

      ReplyDelete
    90. I'm starting to get really frustrated with bras and sizes. I measure 24 rib cage and 33 bust but I'm still not sure what my size should be. Seeing as I'm only 16 and bras are way too expensive I currently own one bra that I'm able to wear for a long period of time for example a whole school day. Its a 32D t shirt bra from Victoria's Secret and even that gives me trouble. The band feels super tight at times which is weird because my rib cage measurement is so small. There is also a small amount of space between my breasts and where the band wire is which also made think for awhile that the bra was too big...HELP!!!
      -Deborah

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    91. To Deborah,
      From you measurements I think that you might be a 24G. You might be more comfortable in a 26FF. You only need 3 bras that fit for everyday

      ReplyDelete
    92. Brittany thank you, It has taken a while for getting back to you. I do like the main band fit. But the part between the cups bothers me.This a Freya T-shirt bra.I think a better under bust is 27/28 inches Would a 30 band be batter?

      ReplyDelete
    93. I am so glad I stumbled across this! I measured myself how you said to and I am 28 under bust and 32 bust. So I should look at 28D bras? Right now I wear a 32B, but it often rides up, especially if I am pulling my shirt over my head, but even just sitting around sometimes I have to shift it down. Is that because the band size is too big? Any suggestions where I can look for affordable bras? Thanks!

      ReplyDelete
    94. My band measurement was 27, and my bust was 33, so does that mean I'm a 28 DD or 28 E? Right now I'm wearing a 36 C :P

      ReplyDelete
    95. Cat,
      you should try a 28E. If you want you could try 3 different bras in the same brand and style and see how they fit 28DD 28E and 28F. See how they fit and work for you.

      How does the 36C fit. If you tied the bra in the back so it's is as tight as it can be, Do your breast fit in the cup or is the cup to small or too large?

      If the cup seems to fit well then you might want to remeasure yourself in the 90 degree position with out a bra and see what your measurements are.

      Your sister size would be 28F from 36C.

      ReplyDelete
    96. To Erin,

      You might want to Brastop.com. Or Ebay. a 28D sounds like a great starting point. You might also want to try a 28DD in the same brand and style just in case.

      ReplyDelete
    97. Hey there, could you help me with my measurements?

      ribcage = 27 inches
      bust = 34 inches

      I'm wearing a 30C right now, but the band rides up and it feels as if the underwire is sitting on my breasts, not underneath them, and the front part of the bra doesn't lie flat either.

      ReplyDelete
    98. To Tanya
      You may want to try a 28F

      ReplyDelete
    99. Hi I don't know if you are replying anymore but my ribcage measurement is 38 and my bust 45, would that be a 38F or FF, Currently I wear a 42DDD and the cups are too big as well as the straps.

      Help would be appreciated

      ReplyDelete
    100. Hi,

      Thank you for this post. I've always known that you weren't supposed to add inches to your band size but by going on that and the difference between my bust size, the cup size kept ending up being too small (I can only order online because I live in a country where they do not sell bras in my size)!

      When I lean forward my bust size goes up quite a bit, how far should I lean forward to get an accurate measurement? If I lean all the way forward so I'm parallel to the ground it goes up to 43" but if I stand up straight it's 41". My band size is 32" so what size bra would that make me (I'm hoping to buy a Freya bra because I've heard good things about them).

      Thanks in advance for your help!

      ReplyDelete
    101. hey! what if i don't have a *best* fitting bra. lame i know. i found this one site that says you could measure even without a bra by just leaning forward so that your back is parallel to the floor then that's when you measure around your chest. is it okay to do that? and btw, how loose is loose when you measure over your nipples? thanks in advance! :)

      ReplyDelete
    102. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    103. Hi, I have trouble finding bras that fit properly, because my ribcage is pretty tiny as well. Depending on the bra, I can range from 32B, 32A, and 30B. However I suspect my true size is a 28C. Hoping you'd be able to enlighten me, I am 26.5" under bust and 31" bust.

      To give you a better idea of my body size, I am 5"3, 99lbs and 31-23-32.

      Thanks in advance.

      ReplyDelete
    104. 28 FF?! I didn't even know such a size existed! The smallest waist size I've ever seen at the stores is 32.. According to the stores (or really I should say "store" because only one place has my size) I've been to, my size was 32 DDD.. They always measure right under the armpits for the waist size, which, now that I think of it, doesn't make much sense because the larger the cup size, the more fat will be residing at the armpit.. I do need some help though, no store in my area is going to have my "new" size. I know you listed several websites to purchase some from but they are expensive, plus there's the cost of shipping.. Do I just have to cough up the extra money or should I continue on in my seemingly fitting size?

      ReplyDelete
    105. Hi, my underbust is 28" tight, or 29" loose. My bust is 38. My new size according to this sizing scared me a little. I currently wear a poorly fitting 34DD or worse, a 36D. Could I really be a 28G? I have tried 32DDDs and they don't fit quite the way I would like, so...I'm not sure at this point. Any help is appreciated!

      ReplyDelete
    106. I have been wearing a 32DD for years. Last three years or so, unsightly tissue is hanging out the side. I measured and it sounds like I need a 30E bra. Where on earth do you find that size?
      Thank you,
      Sherrie

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    107. Hi, I just read through all the comments and wanted to say:

      It's worth everything once you get the right bra size.

      I was wearing (with success I thought) 14DD bras (36DD) until I was about 21 because that was available at departments stores in Australia. The humidity here is atrocious. The first thing I would do when I got home was change out of my bra and I always had sweat and red marks from where the underwires rubbed against my ribs and even between my breasts. The cups were sitting a good inch off my chest.

      I took a gamble when I found an online store that sells large cup sizes for "regular" dress sizes (ie under size 18) and ordered what I thought would be a laughably huge cup size: a size FF.

      When I tried it on I almost burst into tears. For the very first time in my life the band sat right on my chest. My boobs still spilled out of the cups but I knew I was on the right path.

      I ended up in a 34GG. I've gained/lost weight in the last 8 years but these days I'm in a 30GG.

      A perfectly fitted bra is worth more than the best dress in your closet.

      And the best bras that I've owned are about 80% as uplifting and supported when I drop the straps off my shoulders. The right band does 80% of the work so make sure you wear it snug!

      ps. Fav styles are the (non padded) Fantasie Smoothing Bra and Panache Ariza.

      ReplyDelete
    108. -Andrea- above my breasts measures a 34 my breasts themselves are a 38 and my ribcage is a 28...the bras i have right now are both 30H bc they did not have smaller in the store and i desperately needed new bras at the time..am i wearing the right size? are there alternates I can choose from..Bras are expensive for me..$60 a bra..worth it but very pricey..so thats why I ask..

      ReplyDelete
    109. I got a 27 band size and a 33 cup size, but I think I may be a 32 cup size. The difference really is in the tightness of the measuring tape. How tightly should I be measuring? It might be worth noting that I've always just worn a 32A before this.

      ReplyDelete
    110. I see how wrong some of the sites are for measuring. I wear a 32ddd and apparently according to one site it says i wear should wear a 34b??? Ive never worn that low!!!

      ReplyDelete
    111. Ideeli is doing a Panache sale bras about 30 buck each matching pants/things are about 15. http://www.ideeli.com/events/67054/latest_view#p=1&c=1897158

      ReplyDelete
    112. So I currently wear a 32 DD in Victoria's Secret. I'm not thrilled with the fit with living in Indiana they are one of the few stores that carries over a 32 B, so I keep going there. I just measured and got 28 as my rib and 35 as my bust so that makes me a 28 F? Seems like a crazy size when I wear a size 2,except for my bust. Also where are some places that take returns? It never fails that I tell a sales person my bra size, they tell me I can't wear that size, and then proceed to be less than helpful. Its a little annoying at 15 when you're already self conscience about what size you where and the fact that your DD's aren't as big as your best friends lol. So what size do I wear? And places to buy my size that take returns? Thanks so much for your site :)

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    113. I wear a size 32DD. I've tried a 28 and 30 bands with E & F cups. The bands were too tight, and the cups were too large. But according to this, it says that I'm a 28E. I measured 28 for my ribcage and 34 around my breasts. My problem is that there's a gap between where my strap reaches my cup (and I've already gotten the straps shortened). What should I do? Should I try another size?

      Mikayla, I just wanted to comment that I know EXACTLY how you feel! I'm 16, and I'm really thin except for my breasts. I feel self conscious about it because my friends have significantly smaller breasts than me. I'm not an expert, but I would recommend going to Nordstrom's and stores that sell lingerie. Make sure your saleswoman knows what she's doing--that was an issue for me.

      ReplyDelete
    114. I have been struggling with this same problem since puberty, so it's refreshing to know that I'm not alone. I am a 30H with a pant size 4. My biggest issue is finding work-appropriate clothing. Suit coats never fit correctly and any dress that actually fits show way too much cleavage. Frustrating!

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    115. according to your chart rib is 25 and bust is 35..im a 25GG. that doesnt exist as far as i know so 26gg. i normally wear a 32/34dd. im so confused. if your way is the right way then why are bras not made that way? if i have your method right...then I could try a 28g,30ff,32f,34e,36d. am i correct? and if so what size should i try. cups never fit right on me. i wear the dream angels lace bra from Victoria secret and it fits pretty well as a 34dd but the girls pop out a little on top sometimes. and it feels like the cups go so far to my sides past the edge of my breast. advice from anyone would be much appreciated.

      ReplyDelete
    116. Anonymous who posted on Nov 13, as far as I know, only Ewa Michalak makes bras in a 26 band by custom order. You may be able to find bras with a 28 band that run tight. If you do this, you would probably want to start out trying a 28GG, since a 26 underbust/35 overbust would be about a 26G. I'm a 28GG as well, and while it's hard to find bras, it's not impossible!
      Check out sites like http://www.breakoutbras.com/, and even ebay. Your best bet is probably to order several different bras in 28G and GG's and go from there, and possibly research what brands run tight in the band.

      ReplyDelete
    117. Oops, I should have said that 26G and 28FF are similar in cup volume rather than 26G and 28GG! Sorry!

      At any rate, I would think you'd want to try bras in the range of 28FF-G. Right now Breakout Bras has a Grab Bag special where you can order a random assortment of 4 bras of the same size for $50 (a great deal!).

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    118. Hi there,
      Just wondering what I would be if I were to buy a "normal" sized bra. Right now I'm wearing a 30E, but after measuring my-self to your awesome guide, I turn out to be a 28DD ( I think) I'll give you the measurements to be sure.

      Back:28
      Bust:33.5

      And I've been to marks and spencers to get measured and they told me I was a 34B and I know that would be too big in the back and too small in the cup.

      Reason for me asking for a "normal" back size is that I really like a bra from Ann summers and want to get it without having to return it.

      Your help would be very much appreciated :)

      ReplyDelete
    119. I went shopping with a friend who has recently lost weight and needed new bras. Of course she wanted to go to VS; I've tried to talk her out of it, but she insists. So, we get there and the teenage clerk does a "fitting" on her, measuring her chest ABOVE the breasts for the band, then around the breasts for the cup. I noticed that the girl pulled the tape VERY tight when taking the cup measurement...probably so the measurement would fall into the D/DD cup range.

      I find it amusing to have the VS clerks do a "fitting" on me. These little girls are amazed that bras come in cup sizes larger than DD, and band sizes smaller than 34! They look at me like I'm lying when I tell them I'm a 32G in most British/Euro brands. According to them, I should be wearing a 36D, hahahah!

      ReplyDelete
    120. I am always keen to ensure my underwear fits properly (because there is nothing quite like the feeling of a good snug bra that fits in all the right places), so I tried this just now in one of the tshirt bras I wear every day (Figleaves brand). I measured out at 28.5" and 36.5". Now, my breasts are not actually that big, not much more than a handful really, and I usually wear a 32C on the largest hook in most brands comfortably and without any trouble or signs of poor fit - no gaping or wrinkly cups or digging wires or sliding/digging straps or riding bands - so the idea that my measurements suggest I need a 28F or a 30E is a little hard for me to square with. There isn't anywhere nearby that I know of for me to try on some of these specialty sizes, because otherwise I would certainly go exploring, but that's not an option. I thought I had found the light when I discovered how nicely 32Cs fit, but now I am wondering: without any overt signs of poor fit, have I actually been settling and missing out on a real True Fit?

      ReplyDelete
    121. i am 14 years old i have 27 underbust and 31 bust that is a D cup correct? and if it is a D cup is that big for a 14 years old girl?

      ReplyDelete
    122. DECEMBER 7,2011;Anonymous,
      You would wear 28D or 30C and no that is fairly normal.

      ReplyDelete
    123. I measured myself and I have a 34" ribcage measurement -- even though I am a low weight and small clothing size, I've always had ribs on the large side! -- and a 38" bust. Would this be about a 34D, then?

      ReplyDelete
    124. Hi there,

      Using your method, my underband comes to about 26 - 27.5, depending on tightness, and the bust itself comes to 31.5 max, and sometimes 31 depending on weight fluctuation.

      I was wearing a 32AA until last week - I was remeasured in a shop and advised to wear a 30B, but after measuring myself and revisiting the shop I was measured, I was then advised a 28C!

      28C is very hard to find where I stay. After managing to find one in a different shop, it STILL feels uncomfortable and I can still slide both my hands up the back of the band. Do you have any recommendations for me that would help?

      I have never been proud of my bust - it's always felt small in comparison to my friends. This feeling is only made worse by my pear shaped body, giving me the smallest bust and biggest hips/thighs/bottom of my friends! How embarrassing!

      ReplyDelete
    125. hi! i just used your method of measuring my bra size. i am so confused by bras lol. over the past few months i have been trying to find my true size. ive gone from 34D to 32DD to 34DD to 32DDD to 30FF/H to 30F. the 30FF/H is a bra that allegedly runs small so i tried a 30F and the band was too big. im trying to find some new bras that actually fit. i was considering buying a 28FF until i measured myself using your tips. i measured 26 and 35. please help me!! im having SUCH a difficult time finding good bras that fit and dealing with my back pain.

      ReplyDelete
    126. Jennifer Parker jenng612@yahoo.comDecember 29, 2011 at 7:15 PM

      I'm very excited to have found your blog! It validated what I'd been trying to understand for years. I've always had trouble with bras. They tell me I'm in a 38D, but the band is always too loose, and the underwire would pop out on the front. I took your advice, and another smart lady's page, and measured myself. I've a 33 inch underbust chest measurement, and 43 inch bust. I went to the mall, and tried on size 34 bras. When I got to 34F(DDD) in Le Mystere I hit my size. Everything fit just like the bra guides say it's supposed to. I went back, and bought two more bras for work. I haven't had any shoulder or back pain since I found the right size. Thank you so much!

      ReplyDelete
    127. So, my underbust measurement is 29 and my bust is 34. What would that make me? And where would I buy it? My town doesn't even have a Victoria's Secret or anything. Really the only place to buy a bra is Ardene's or Walmart.
      I'm in Canada by the way. :)

      ReplyDelete
    128. I'm confused because my underbust is 26.5cm-27cm. but my over cage is about 32.5tight and 33cm when rounded. What would you suggest bra size i wear because I never can find a right fitting one thanks you:)

      Lauren

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Lauren, it sounds like you'd want to start by trying a 28DD or so.

        Delete
    129. Hi there,
      I'm not sure if you're still answering questions but I'll give it a try. I have so many bras, which are all 32d's and only a few I actually wear because most I find uncomfortable. Some I wear on the loosest hook and some I can only wear on the tightest hook. They are tight, very snug and no room for any more growth, that's for certain. I'm always fighting with them and the straps are always too long.

      Im very petite and thin at 5'1 and 104 lbs and up until four years ago I actually used to weigh 93 lbs, believe it or not, so I had an extra cup growth. My ribcage is 27 inches and I measure 34 inches around the bust. I could never imagine wearing a 28 back size! Is it so? Have I been torturing myself all these years? VICTORIA SECRETS even recommended I could wear a "sister size" 34C, which is 7 inches larger than my ribcage!

      Do you have any suggestions about what size I should be wearing because a 32 is five more inches than my actual ribcage and that doesn't seem right and I am always uncomfortable and I never feel like they are being supported up. This is difficult because no stores sell any of these sizes for me to try on but I have got to get get some help with this! I fear I may have to take a special trip to the UK just for bras!

      ReplyDelete
    130. The leaning-forward thing...This increased my bust number from 35 (what I've gotten before, measuring just standing straight) to 38. Previously I've worn a 34DD (this was really uncomfortable, but vaguely passable in terms of look) and a 32E (I still feel under-supported in this). According to this measurement I'm somewhere in the 28-30 range for ribcage and FF to G in terms of cup. This explains so much, thank you for this guide.

      ReplyDelete
    131. Actually, I didn't realize you were supposed to exhale when measuring underbust because that puts me more like 26 inches and 34 around the bust. Is that a 28F? I tried on some 30DD and DDD because that's all they had but they just didn't fit or look right. I only weigh 104 lbs and the backstrap still squished fat out, it looked terrible. All I know is the majjority of the 32 Ds I have are not comfortable. Is the whole breast supposed to fill the cup tightly, should there be any space. How should it sit on the ribcage. Why do petite bras only go to a 32 and only to a c cup?

      ReplyDelete
    132. Anonymous @ December 30, 2011 11:45 PM -- I live in Canada as well, so I have a few other suggestions of where you might find bras. Obviously this depends on your area so you might not have these stores, but I'll give you the names and you can have a look for them. Some of them have more limited sizes, but others have a wider range.

      La Senza (in store and online @ lasenza.com; sizes 32-38 A-DD)

      La Vie en Rose (in store and online @ lavieenrose.com; sizes 32-38 A-DD)

      Lauren Silva (online @ laurensilva.com; sizes 30-56 AA-JJ)

      Blush Lingerie (in store and online @ blushlingerie.com/#/en/buy (you can pick from any number of stores to buy from); sizes 32-38 A-DD)

      Jacob Lingerie (in store and online @ jacob.ca; sizes 32-38 A-D)

      Aerie (in store and online @ ae.com/aerie; sizes 32-38 AA-DD)

      Freshpair (online @ freshpair.com; sizes 28-52 AA-N)

      My Top Drawer (stores available across Ontario, sizes 28-54 A-M)

      Triumph (I believe they're at Sears and The Bay, their online store is UK only; sizes 30-48 AA-F)

      Speaking of Sears and The Bay, you can always find many different brands and sizes of bras at either store in the lingerie department, same with Zellers. Hopefully this helps! :)

      ReplyDelete
    133. Thanks! This explains why sometimes I wear a 36C or a 34D; the inconsistence of manufacturers sizes. Also, bra fitting is extremely important; I once had my grandma buying me a 34A, and she fell really stupid when she saw that my nipples weren't covered by the bra, and had to go to the store to get me a 36C.

      ReplyDelete
    134. jrb, with a 26-27 inch ribcage and a 34 bust, you might start out trying a 28E or 26F (UK sizes). A well-fitting bra shouldn't give you backfat; make sure the band is thick and supportive enough and the cups are fitting well. The center gore (between the cups) should be sitting flat against the sternum and there should be no gaping or overflow in the cup.
      Bravissimo has a guide with pictures of common fitting problems: http://www.bravissimo.com/perfectfit/wearing-the-wrong-bra-size/common-bra-problems/#/1

      You may want to check out Brastop.com as they have many comparatively cheap options for 28E-F. If you find that a 28 band feels too big, The Big Bra Bar is soon to come out with a bra in a 26 band, as Brittney recently mentioned!

      ReplyDelete
    135. I just wanna make sure before I do any shopping.. I'm way new at this Hehe. These are US sizing? Or UK? I'm thinking it's US though =D Anywho I love the site it's helped me out a bunch. TY TY TY!!!

      ReplyDelete
    136. I measured this with a molded cup several times, on my own and with someone helping me. Even without the bra it's the same.
      Below Breasts-25 inches
      Bust- (almost)33 inches
      I'm guessing I just round to a band size 30 but what about the cups?
      I've been wearing a 32C for a long time now if it has any padding I usually get bulges but a 32D tends to gap. I really don't think I'm that big, but I'm at a loss finding a bra that fits.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Anonymous on Jan 13 8:45PM-
        If your underbust measurement is a 25, then you're probably a 26 band. It sounds like you may be in the 26F range.

        If you wanted to start off by trying a 30 band, I would start with a 30DD. Volume wise, this is just down one band size and up one cup size from a 32C. (Go down a band size and up a cup size to keep the same volume: 30D. Go up one cup size from this: 30DD).

        Delete
      2. I just realized you can get a 28 band in a bra, I didn't know they came that small!I'm still confused on my cup size though the difference is 8 so it looks like I'd be a 24-26 FF cup if they made that size but the closest I could find is a 28F so I'm thinking I should try that.Someone correct me if I'm wrong or if they have a better suggestion.

        Delete
      3. The Big Bra Bar is going to release 26-band bras in March, I believe, but a 28F sounds like a good place to start in the meantime!

        Delete
      4. Actually I took my measurements again this time I got the measuring tape snug, I kinda skipped that step for some reason, so my band measurement is actually 24 inches.
        So
        Band-24 inches
        Bust-33 inches (definitely, this time I leaned forward, it's amazing what you miss when you speed read)
        So 9 inch difference, 24G

        Delete
      5. Unfortunately I don't know of anyone who makes 24 bands besides Ewa Michalak, who will do them by custom order.
        However, The Big Bra Bar (check them out on facebook or their website) has a bra available in a 26 band next month, taking preorders this month, so you could order a 26FF from them to see how that fits. In any case, if you're used to wearing a 32 band, a 26 will definitely feel much tighter! If it feels too tight, you could start off with a 28F instead, which will be much easier to find.

        Delete
    137. Hi, my band measurement is 30 and my overbust is 37. I've been wearing 36B, but lately I've realized that the band is MUCH too big, and the cups feel kind of funny sometimes. If I put my arms over my head they gap a lot all down the top edge. What should I wear instead?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Katherine, it sounds like you should try a 30F (UK sizing).

        Delete
      2. Thanks! I'll have to go check out the Nordstrom by me; looks like they have Freya, Panache, etc.

        Delete
      3. I ended up with a 32DD by Josie/Natori, it feels great! I bought it yesterday and wore all evening as soon as I got home. I don't think my ribcage is quite ready for a 30 band after being in a 36 for years!

        Delete
    138. Thanks for the response. I'll give it a try. I waltzed on into Nordstroms and Dillards but the smallest they carry is a 30. One of my favorite brands carried at those places is a brand called Whimsy. I fill out a 32D very nicely in that brand but the cups on the 30DD bunch up in the front. My problem I find with bras is that my breasts have all their volume in the bottom, like a slope or teardrop, so full coverage bras tend to bunch up or have space on the top but then are too tight on the side. I find that I have to buy bras with pushup padding in the bottom and sides to fill up the rest.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. jrb, yes, I've been frustrated with the fact that it's almost impossible to find bands smaller than a 30 in stores in the US! If you want to try a 28 or 26 band, you'll have order online. Fortunately, there are many websites that do offer bras in bands smaller than a 30.

        I also have a problem with full coverage bras since my breasts are more bottom-heavy. You're probably best off sticking with plunge or balconette styles. You may want to look into Cleo by Panache bras - maybe the Poppy bra. I have a review of this bra on my blog - it's slightly padded, moulded, and a balconette-plunge type style, so it sounds like it may work well for you. It also runs a bit tight in the band, so about a 28E would probably be a good fit for you.
        Hope this helps!

        Delete
    139. Hi again, I posted a few weeks ago and I just wanted to double check, because it's near impossible to find a bra that fits.
      Underbust - 26/27 (depending on the day)
      Bust - 31/31.5

      I'm wearing a 26C, but it doesn't feel right. I'm guessing they don't make any small enough in the band for me, because it's still loose. The cups are also a little loose at the top only, but fit snugly around tbe bottom of my bust.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. This comment has been removed by the author.

        Delete
      2. Samantha, can I ask where you found a 26C? That definitely sounds hard to find! You mentioned before that you were wearing a 28C. If you went down to a 26 band, you should go up a cup size as well to stay the same cup volume (28C = 26D for cup volume). Is it possible for you to try something like a 26DD? From your measurements, it sounds like this might be closer to what you need. You may also need to try a different style/brand of bra.

        Delete
      3. Sorry Christine, that was a mistake on my part! I'm still wearing a 28C. I'm just so eager to find a bra with a 26 band, that I've started typing it instead!

        Unfortunately, I don't know anywhere that sells 26 band bras over here in the UK. And surprisingly enough, the cup being loose at the top is the same for every bra I've tried - ever since I started wearing them. I'm not sure if it's because of their shape...

        Delete
      4. I think that the cups being loose at the top could be another sign of a too-big band. Did you see Brittany's post about The Big Bra Bar offering a 26-band bra starting in March of this year? It may be something to check into (and if you do try it out, let us know how it works - bloggers have been pushing for mainstream 26-band bras for quite a while!). Ewa Michalak will also do 26-band bras by custom order.

        Delete
    140. This way of measuring never, ever works for me. I am tiny under my breasts, but if I try to put on a bra that corresponds to that measurement, it is way too small no matter the cup size.

      This article is intriguing because I do have the armpit fat and always just assumed that that was natural for me, much as I disliked it. But, honestly, I am not able to find a bra that fits when I measure as you suggest.

      ReplyDelete
    141. I'm slightly confused about my fitting. Around my ribcage, I'm 29in, so that's either a 28 or 30 size band, right? And then around my breasts, I'm 36in. If I go with a 28 size band and subtract the 36 from that, I get 8, which makes me a D cup, right? So I'd be a 28D. But if I go with the size 30 band and subtract it from 36, I get 6, and that makes it a C, so 30C..?

      I'm getting the feeling I'm doing this wrong...

      Although, for the longest time I wore a 36C pretty comfortably, until I went into Victoria's Secret one day and all the 36Cs gave me armpit fat, so they moved me up to a D and it fit much better. But I also have wide-set breasts.

      Ugh, I love my boobs, but they're so weird.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Mirrahndah, you're right, 29 inches is a 28 or 30 bandsize. 8 inches of difference would actually be a G cup (one inch per letter: A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, FF, G). So you would probably want to start out with trying a 28G or 30FF. If you're used to wearing a 36 band, a 30 or 28 will feel tight at first, but it will give you much better support!

        If you have wideset breasts, you may want to try Panache brand bras. Sites like Brastop.com, Figleaves, and Barenecessities all sell a wide range of bras. :)

        Delete
      2. Woops, miscounted! 8 inches is an FF cup. So I would start with a 28FF or 30F. :)

        Delete
    142. can you tell me my bra size for me please?
      my bust is 31 inch and my under bust is 28.5 inch.
      what would my uk bra size be? also, a lot people have told me that i am a 32a according to my measurements, but i definitely can't be a 32a because whenever i wear one it is too small and doesn't fit right. can you please tell me my correct bra size?

      thank you

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. It sounds like you should try a 28C-D or so. Check out Brittany's latest post (resources for small busts) for some ideas on where to find these! Also Figleaves.com and Barenecessities.com are good resources.

        Delete
    143. Last week, I went in to a VS expecting to size down as I (at least believed) that I had been a 36C a couple of years ago, got pregnant then sized up to a D and stayed with that size until last week. My Ds were never very flattering and mostly made my boobs look smaller than the C ever did. When the girl measured me at a DD, I was surprised. I measure about 40 and maybe 3/4 of an inch around my bust and a 32 under my bust. I am pretty confident in these measurements, I have got the same results with a parallel measuring tape several times. I tried on some bras there, both D (because I thought she was full of it), then the DDs. The DDs did seem to provide more support and coverage. But, they also seemed very, very large, of course that is probably a matter of perception considering that I am not used to wearing a bra that size. Even so, there was no gapping and the cups fit smooth, and there was no spillover. My boobs look better in these than the Ds. I bought several and have worn them (which I now regret because they can't be returned). See, standing up with shoulders back, this size fits fine. It is when I sit, do anything that would push my boobs together such as reaching in front of myself with both arms, or round my shoulders, OR sit any way but straight up that I have problems. My bra gaps a little bit along the edges. They are all molded cups, and I gravitated toward full coverage in the past, so I just kept that look now. I cannot tighten these straps any more than they are....I have always had this problem with VS bras. I am questioning whether or not I am in the right cup size and just not used to having enough space, or whether my cup is slightly too large. How is this supposed to work? Is the bra supposed to be snug around you in all positions? Is it okay for this to happen? Help!!!!

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I forgot to mention that I went to Fredericks to purchase a 34 band, but a larger cup, and it was just not going to work band wise. I don't know what the heck is wrong with me.

        Delete
      2. Stephanie, it sounds like you're closer to a 32FF (UK sizing). If you're wearing a 36D, the band is probably much too big (and the cups too small), which can cause a lot of cup issues. You may be able to find a 32FF at a Nordstrom if you have one near you. Victoria's Secret bras are not the way to go in terms of good support and sizing!
        Check for Freya brand especially if you look in Nordstrom - they make 32FF bras, but not all Nordstroms stock all sizes.

        Delete
    144. I measure 31 under bust and 38 over bust (uk sizing) what bra size am I?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Sounds like you should start by trying a 32E or a 30F.

        Delete
    145. hi! u look pretty accurate after reading some comments so i guess ill ask u these questions.

      first, when u measure ur bust, should u be inhaling or exhaling?

      second, i measured 30'' under the bust and 35 (exhaling)/36 (inhaling) on my bust. does that mean im a 30DD/30E? i feel really small compared to my other friends who claim to be D's or even C's. i even wear padded bras because im a bit insecure of how "small" they are. atm, i wear a 34D (walmart doesnt carry any smaller band size haha)

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. It does sound like you should try both 30DDs and 30Es to see how they work for you. There are lots of online stores like Brastop, Figleaves, Bravissimo that sell these sizes, and Nordstrom may as well.
        As for your friends, they're very probably wearing the wrong sizes. Don't let them make you feel you're somehow wrong! D and DD cups aren't all "that big" as the media likes to claim. Cup sizes go up to L+!

        Delete
    146. Wow this post seems really active! A lot of us are having the same problems. I just researched all about the horrifying back fat/underarm fat and the possibilites of migrated breast tissue... especially because I've just come to realize all my life I've been wearing bra sizes that are so off I don't know what to call it - stupidity or ignorance.

      I have a question about ordering bras online since I just ordered two and will probably have to return one (cacique brand) since I went according to what I used to wear and not what I should measure... the other I bought according to the old measuring system because I asked them the band length and it was spot on with what would fit me.

      I realize that a lot of companies' bras go according to the old system where you measure and add 3 or 4 inches according to base number, but brands like Torrid and Cacique actually make their bras according to the modern fitting guide.

      So my question is, since some companies still make their bras according to the whole add whatever to your band size, should I be buying my bras that are older fit according to the old method? Since I'm pretty sure if I buy according to my exact band size/bust size that the bra would be way too small.

      Another thing, for fixing the dreaded migrated breast tissue would one have to wear a proper soft cup(no wire) bra the majority of the time or will a good fitting non padded underwire bra work just as well?

      Thanks so much! Really hoping to get out of the whole "bra matrix" tragedy.

      -LL

      ReplyDelete
    147. Underbust measurement is 25-26in measured tight and 26-27in loose. Around the bust measurement is 33-34in while wearing a bra. So I'd really be a 26F/FF or 28DD/E? I own bras that are 28D, 30C, 30D, 32C. The bands on them are for the most part all too loose. The best fitting cup size is 32C. Any suggestions?

      -JLG

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. A 32C cup is roughly equal in cup volume to a 30D, a 28DD, and a 26E. It sounds like you might want to try a 26E if you can find one (through custom Ewa Michalak order or through The Big Bra Bar), or try looking for a 28DD that runs tight in the band, as the brand Cleo by Panache tends to do.

        Delete
    148. Okay, so I am not thin or curvy at all :P, but what bra size would I be if a measure 25-26 under and 28-30 over? I am currently wearing a 32B, and all the possible choices- 26B, 26C, and 26D are way smaller than that! So, does this mean that I am wearing a too big bra? I hope not because 32B is too small for my liking. :( BTW, I'm thirteen, but please don't tell me that they'll grow more, because I'm already ending puberty and they haven't grown in years :P lol.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I'm 18, my breasts still occasionally go through growing periods. They still increase in size it's just a lot more subtle. Realistically no one really knows, a woman's breast size changes 6 times through out they're life on average. It's all effected by you're weight, body structure, hormones, and genes.

        You're either a 24 or 26 band, which are both very hard to find. As for cup it's hard to calculate since you didn't actually give a precise number. However a 26B,C, or D sounds right. Don't fret over the size too much it's more about what fits right.

        Delete
    149. I'm so excited that I found your blog because I've been having bra problems for the past five years due to Victoria Secret. First I was a 34C then I was a 32DD and while the 32DD fits nicely its still not a great fit. I'm now done with shopping at VS and I've found a place in Washington DC that is European bra fitting store. But before I go there I want to have a general idea about what my size is. My underbust is 28in and my bust is a 35.5in so just to verify that would make me 28F or 28FF.

      Thank you and keep up the great work.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I think you generally round up. However if I were you I would try both, bra styles and the shape of you're breasts can effect the fit.

        Delete
    150. This is interesting.. I've been wearing a 32A all these years. It's too big for me, the band & cup size... So I did this and I measured as follow

      ribcage: 25.5 so 26?
      breast: 28.5.. so 29??

      So I'm a 26B/26C? Is there even a 26 bra...:S Help?

      Thanks.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. It does sound like you would be a 26C. Unfortunately, there aren't many companies that make 26 bands. Ewa Michalak will make them by custom order.
        What you may want to do is try on the sister size of 28B (and even 28C for comparison) and see how that works for you. Brittany has a recent post about where to find these sizes.
        Hope that helps!

        Delete
      2. 26 back bras don't exist unfortunately :( it's annoying, I need a 26 back too. What I do is I get 28 backs and get them altered. You could try a 28A/B and see how they fit.

        Delete
      3. (This post might also be helpful to you: http://boosaurusbras.blogspot.com/2012/02/smaller-girls-with-smaller-busts.html)

        Delete
    151. This is brilliant! I haven't seen a more reliable way of checking your bra size at home. Recently I got myself fitted at Bravissimo, where the policy is to fit according to the bra, not according to tape measures and adding inches to back measurements. They fitted me as a 28E, and this method of measuring corresponds with this. Perfect!

      ReplyDelete
    152. Hey there, just measured myself, I got 25 inches for the underbust and 31 inches for the bust. Would that make me a 26DD or E?

      ReplyDelete
    153. I have a 31 in underbust (not adding or rounding,it's 31 inches exactly) and 35 in bust(exactly 35). What size bra would I wear? Currently I'm wearing a 34b

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Kitty, it sounds like you should start by trying about a 30DD or 32D.

        Delete
    154. Reading this post after I added my question earlier (somewhere else on here!), I think you've already answered what I asked. I was wondering if I should try a 30G after having trouble with a 32F that I currently wear and then a 30FF which I subsequently tried with a fail. I feel confident about trying a 30G now that your measurement tool said the same thing. Thanks! I will let you know how I get on. Becky x http://diaryofacavygirl.blogspot.com

      ReplyDelete
    155. Thank you for the information! I always knew when I saw celebrities listed as a "32c" and their ribcages were bigger than mine that something was off (I was measured as a 32c with the "add four or five inches" thing).

      So apparantly I'm actually a 28dd...And that is weird because my chest looks small/medium...Anyway with a 28" rib measurement and 33 1/2 bust...Where should I round that to? Is that DD or DDD?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Amanda, it's all about proportion - a D/DD really isn't all that big! All it means is "about a difference of 4-5 inches between underbust and bust measurement".

        If the cups to a 32C seem to fit okay, I would start with a 28DD if I were you, then go to a 28E if the cups are too small.

        Delete
    156. I LOVE this website(: ! It is fantastic!!
      I've been having a terrible time trying to find a bra that fits correctly. My band/underbust is 27" while my bust is 33". I wore a 32C forever then realized that wasn't going to work at all anymore. Victoria's Secret measured me as a 32DD, a week later I went back and talked to a salesperson about it and she said I could go with a 32D, but several of those bras were too small. In a 32D I get the "spillage" look. Eww.

      A 32DD fit better, but I have one breast slightly larger than the other, so it fit one and left a small gap in the other. I'm really tired of not finding bras that fit correctly so any help would be greatly appreciated!

      ~ KK

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      1. It sounds like you should be wearing about a 28F (it has about the same cup volume as a 32DD, but should fit you better). Many of us have one breast that's larger - always fit the larger breast, and you could add a small insert into the cup of the smaller breast if there's wrinkling or gapping on the other side. It may be that you won't notice as much gapping with a bra that's a better fit, though!

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      2. Thank you so much!! I'm definitely going to try it(: !

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      3. One last question(: I promise(:

        Should I be shopping for a 28F in U.K. size or U.S.?
        Thanks!!

        - KK

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      4. UK sizing - so brands like Panache, Freya, Curvy Kate, Fantasie... just note that brands can vary slightly in sizing, so you may, for example, be a 28F in one and a 30E (the sister size) in another! You just have to try some bras to find out.
        A 28 band will probably feel pretty tight compared to a 32, so make sure you're trying it on the loosest hook in the back as always!

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    157. I'm 19 years old. I am 5'3", I measured myself with your instructions and I got 29" backband and 36" around the bust. My waist measurement is 27" and my hips are 33.5".
      I have been told that I have an hour glass figure but my legs are 3'1" long and from my shoulder to my legs is 1'8"
      I find it really hard to find any item of clothing that fits really nice including bras.

      What do you think?

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      1. Sounds like you are a 30E in a Bra. Some of the online bra stores that I shop at are Bare Necessities, Her Room, and Linda the Bra Lady (lindasonline.com). You can also try Fresh pair but I haven't ordered anything from then yet.

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    158. ok so i'm 25 in in rib cage and 38.5 in in breast (i have silicone) that means i'm supposed to wear a 25jj?? oh my goodness.. is that a real size?! haha

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    159. hi i am maria i mesured 28 " with 29" band and 39 bust i try 28HH and it doesnt fits if i try 30HH or 30H i dont know help

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      1. Maria, that depends on why it didn't fit - was it too small in the cup? Then try a 28J. Was it too small in the band? Then try a 30H. If it was too small in the band and cup, try a 30HH.

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    160. Let me just say that im sooooo thankful that you created this site! Ive always worn a 34 b, recently had a baby and now i cant find a bra that fits at all. Needless to say that I have been wearing the wrong size bra my entire life :( I measure 30 around my chest, and then 37ish around my breasts. So that means I wear a 30G right?
      No stores around here carry bras that size at all, either. So what about a 30DDD? Isnt that just a 30F?

      Thanks!

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      1. It sounds like you should start by trying a 30F (7 inch difference = F cup: A, B, C, D, DD, E, F) UK sizing (so brands like Freya, Fantasie, Panache).

        30DDD/F is a US size - that's equal to a 30E UK sizing, so it would probably be too small for you. A 30F UK sizing is equal to a 30G US sizing, but there are very few US brands that make smaller band sizes with larger cups, so you'll probably have more luck with UK brands! Nordstrom often carries at least a few bras in the 30F size range.

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    161. Reading the cooments here I would like to remind readers that different brands have slightly different fittings - Panache have wider and shallower cups and tighter back bands than Freya, for example. The first time I was fitted I tried 4 bra styles before I found the right one for me so I really recommened brastop.com and suggest you email them with enquiries about fitting. They alos only charge £5.95 for shipping to Europe and £6.95 for shipping to the US (free for orders over £75)- so it is easy to buy several bras and return those that don't fit - they have a no quibble returns policy.

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    162. Aaah I like this site. All the rest tell me to add 5 inches... and then find the difference... leaving me with... -1? I was like... I know they're there, I can frickin' see them D: 27 inch and 32 inch should make me C or D right? Does anyone know why they actually do that? What planet do they live on where I wear C comfortably and apparently have a negative amount of breast?

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      1. Adding inches is no good - it will give a band that's too large! It sounds like since you have 5 inch difference between underbust and bust, you would wear about a DD cup - probably a 28DD or so.

        It seems that most companies stick to the old "add 4-5 inches" rule because they can (incorrectly) fit women into a very small range of sizes this way. Purely a business thing, not right at all!

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    163. My rib cage under my boobs is 33, so using the wrong measurement guides, I wear a 38. They fit perfectly. What gives?? I would like to use your measurements to see if I am wearing the wrong size, but that is already wrong for me.

      Also, it would seem from your blog that you are saying the underwire is supposed to enclose armpit fat...how high should it go??

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    I always love to hear your thoughts! Please remember to be respectful. I may not publish comments that are rude, hateful, personal attacks, racist, sexist, or otherwise inappropriate. Dissenting opinions are fine, as long as they are respectful. Thanks!