To calculate your bra size at home, it's important to take accurate measurements. The process is straightforward and requires just a few tools: a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a well-fitting bra. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find your perfect fit.
Step 1: Measure Your Band Size
The first step in calculating your bra size is determining your band size. This is the measurement around your ribcage, just under your bust.
- Stand in front of a mirror and wear a well-fitting, non-padded bra to get an accurate measurement.
- Take your soft measuring tape and wrap it around your ribcage, directly beneath your bust. Ensure that the tape is snug but not tight.
- Exhale, keeping the tape level all the way around. The tape should stay parallel to the floor and sit evenly across your back.
- Read the number where the tape meets, rounding it to the nearest whole number. If the number is even, add 4 inches. If it’s odd, add 5 inches. This is your band size.
For example, if you measure 28 inches, you would add 4 inches, resulting in a band size of 32. If you measure 29 inches, add 5 inches, resulting in a band size of 34.
Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size
Next, you need to determine your bust measurement, which is the fullest part of your chest.
- Stand in front of the mirror again, ensuring your posture is straight and your shoulders are back.
- Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, making sure it’s level across your back and not too tight.
- Keep the tape comfortably snug, but not tight, and make sure it’s parallel to the ground.
- Take the measurement, ensuring that the tape isn’t sliding down or moving.
Write down the measurement in inches. This is your bust size.
Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size
Now that you have your band size and bust size, the next step is to calculate your cup size. To do this, subtract your band size from your bust measurement.
- Take your bust measurement and subtract your band size from it.
- The difference between the two numbers determines your cup size. For example:A 1-inch difference corresponds to an A cup.
A 2-inch difference corresponds to a B cup.
A 3-inch difference corresponds to a C cup.
A 4-inch difference corresponds to a D cup, and so on.
Here’s a chart for quick reference:
- 1-inch difference = A cup
- 2-inch difference = B cup
- 3-inch difference = C cup
- 4-inch difference = D cup
- 5-inch difference = DD (or E) cup
- 6-inch difference = DDD (or F) cup, and so on.
For example, if your bust measures 36 inches and your band size is 32 inches, subtract 32 from 36, giving a difference of 4 inches, which means you would be a D cup.
Step 4: Determine Your Full Bra Size
Once you have your band size and cup size, you can combine them to determine your full bra size.
For example, if your band size is 34 inches and your cup size is a C, your bra size would be 34C.
Step 5: Double-Check for Accuracy
After calculating your size, it’s important to check that the measurements are correct. Wear a bra that fits well and check for the following:
- The band should sit comfortably around your ribcage, and it should not ride up at the back.
- The straps should not dig into your shoulders but should remain snug.
- Your bust should fill the cups completely, with no gaping or spillage over the top.
- The center of the bra should lie flat against your sternum, and the cups should fit smoothly without any wrinkles or puckering.
If your current bra doesn’t meet these criteria, you may need to adjust your measurements and try again.
Step 6: Consider Other Factors That Affect Fit
While the process above provides a general guide to calculating your bra size, it’s important to remember that sizing can vary between brands, styles, and even fabric types. Other factors, such as breast shape, weight fluctuations, and even the time of day, can also influence how your bra fits.
- Breast Shape: If you have round breasts, a plunge bra might be more comfortable, while if you have teardrop-shaped breasts, a full-coverage bra might work best. Cup shapes and styles can also affect your size.
- Weight Fluctuations: If you’ve recently gained or lost weight, your band or cup size may change, so it’s a good idea to recalculate your size periodically.
- Time of Day: Your body may change slightly throughout the day due to swelling or temperature changes. It’s best to measure yourself in the morning when your body is at its natural size.
Step 7: Try Different Styles
Even with the correct size, different bra styles can fit you differently. A balconette, push-up, or sports bra, for example, may all have different fits and support levels. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to find the one that offers the best comfort and shape for your body.
Step 8: Get a Professional Fitting (If Needed)
While calculating your bra size at home is a great starting point, sometimes it’s worth getting a professional fitting at a store. A fitter can offer insights into your size and recommend bras that might work best for your body shape.
Tips for Accurate Measurements:
- Make sure to use a soft, flexible measuring tape, and ensure it’s not twisted.
- Wear a well-fitting, non-padded bra while taking measurements to get the most accurate results.
- Keep the tape level and snug, but not tight, around your body.
- Take measurements in front of a mirror to ensure that the tape is positioned correctly.
- Measure yourself twice to ensure accuracy.
Conclusion
Finding the right bra size is an essential step toward ensuring comfort and support throughout the day. By following these simple steps at home, you can calculate your bra size with confidence. Remember, your size may change over time, so it’s a good idea to measure yourself regularly to ensure the best fit. With your new measurements, you can shop for bras that fit perfectly, enhance your comfort, and boost your confidence.