How to measure bra size: The only calculator you need

As women, the everyday hassle of wearing a bra is known to all. But did you know? Around 80% of women wear the wrong bra size. This would explain why bras can feel so uncomfortable and need readjusting throughout the day. While you may want to often swap out bras for alternatives like strapless adhesive bras, nipple covers, etc. for comfort and style, it is necessary to wear the right bra in your day-to-day. With this bra size calculator, you can find your perfect fit in only a few simple steps.

Why knowing the right bra size matters

Wearing the right size in your everyday bras is crucial for both comfort and health. A properly fitting bra provides much needed support for your breasts, which can help prevent back and shoulder pain. When a bra fits correctly, it distributes weight evenly, reducing the strain on your body. Moreover, the right size can enhance your posture, and prevent slouching, making you feel more confident. Whereas ill-fitting bras can lead to issues like chafing, irritation, and backache. Beyond just comfort, a well-fitted bra can also improve the overall appearance of your clothes with a more flattering silhouette. 

How to find your bra size at home

Bra size charts can be tricky, and vary from brand to brand, and style to style. The best option is learning how to measure your bra size by taking bust measurements using these simple instructions. 

1. Wear a non-padded bra
• Before measuring, wear a comfortable non-padded bra that sits naturally on your curves.
• It doesn’t have to be a perfect fit, this step simply ensures that your breasts stay securely in place while measuring. 
2. Measure the band size
• The band size is the number in any bra size (for example, “36” in 36C). 
• To find this number, stand upright and wrap a measuring tape snugly under your bust. This is where your bra’s band sits.
• Make sure the tape sits flat against your skin.
• If the number is even, this is your band size.
• If the number is odd, round it up to the nearest even number.
• For instance, 31” becomes 32 in band size.
3. Measure the cup size
   • The cup size is the alphabet in any bra size (for example, “C” in 36C).
   • To find this alphabet, wrap the measuring tape snugly around the fullest part of your bust. Usually, this would be around the nipple area.
   • Now, subtract your band size from this bust measurement.
4. Calculate your bra size
   • After subtraction, you should find the difference in inches between your band size and fullest part of the bust.
   • Use the chart below to get your cup size.
     

     Difference in inches	Cup size
     0-1	AA-A
     2	B
     3	C
     4	D
     5	DD
     6	E-F
     7	F-G

      

   • Now, put the band size and cup size together. For example,
     36 inches (bust) – 34 inches (band) = 3 inches. That's a 36C

How to ensure the correct bra size

There are some telltale signs to check if your bra is fitting your properly. If you’re wearing the right bra size:

• There should be no spilling around the cups of the bra.
• You should not feel the shoulder straps digging into your skin.
• You should only be able to slide one finger underneath your band. 
• Your breasts should sit midway between your shoulders and elbows.
• The band of the bra should be on the same level in the front and back.
• There should be no gaping around the cups of the bra.

Always check for comfort

Use this bra size calculator as your guide to begin with. However, you should not hesitate to size up or down in a particular style of bra if you don’t feel comfortable in it. With so many different styles of bras available in the market, the stretchiness of the fabric and the fit may differ. So, find your bra size and try on different options to get what suits you the best. Remember, the bra should fit you naturally, you don’t have to fit in your bra.