How to Measure for Your Bra Size

Finding your perfect bra size starts with accurate measurements. Follow these simple steps to determine your band size and bust size.

What You’ll Need

• A flexible measuring tape (the kind used for sewing)
• A mirror
• A non-padded bra or no bra
• A friend to help (optional, but recommended for more accurate measurements)

If You Don’t Have a Measuring Tape

Don’t worry! You can use a piece of string or even a phone charging cable. Wrap it around where you need to measure, mark the point where it meets, and then lay it flat against a ruler. Many smartphones also have measuring apps (like the Measure app on iPhone or similar apps on Android) that can help you determine the length.

Measuring Steps

For Band Size:

1. Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Wrap the measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor.
3. Breathe normally and measure at the end of an exhale.
4. Round to the nearest whole number.
5. If the number is even, that’s your band size. If it’s odd, add 1 inch to get your band size.

For Bust Size:

1. While wearing a non-padded bra or no bra, stand straight with your arms relaxed.
2. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor.
3. The tape should be snug but not tight – you should be able to fit one finger between your body and the tape.
4. Round to the nearest whole number.

Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Measure yourself while standing in front of a mirror to ensure the tape is straight and not twisted.
• Don’t pull the measuring tape too tight – it should be snug but comfortable.
• For the most accurate results, take measurements while wearing no bra or a non-padded bra.
• If you’re between sizes, always try both sizes to see which feels more comfortable.
• Remember that bra sizes can vary between manufacturers, so these measurements serve as a starting point.

After taking your measurements, use the calculator and reference tables above to find your bra size according to your region’s sizing standards. The perfect bra should feel comfortable, provide adequate support, and create a smooth silhouette under clothing.

US/Canada Bra Size Chart

Bra Size	Band Size (inches)	Bust Size (inches)
32AA	32	32
32A	32	33
32B	32	34
32C	32	35
32D	32	36
32DD/E	32	37
32DDD/F	32	38
32G	32	39
32H	32	40
34AA	34	34
34A	34	35
34B	34	36
34C	34	37
34D	34	38
34DD/E	34	39
34DDD/F	34	40

UK/Ireland/Australia/NZ Bra Size Chart

Bra Size	Band Size (inches)	Bust Size (inches)
32AA	32	32
32A	32	33
32B	32	34
32C	32	35
32D	32	36
32DD	32	37
32E	32	38
32F	32	39
32FF	32	40
34AA	34	34
34A	34	35
34B	34	36
34C	34	37
34D	34	38
34DD	34	39
34E	34	40

EU/France/Spain/Belgium Bra Size

Bra Size	Band Size (cm)	Bust Size (cm)
70AA	70	70
70A	70	72.5
70B	70	75
70C	70	77.5
70D	70	80
70E	70	82.5
70F	70	85
75AA	75	75
75A	75	77.5
75B	75	80
75C	75	82.5
75D	75	85
75E	75	87.5
75F	75	90

Types of Bras and Closures: A Complete Guide

Common Bra Types

T-Shirt Bra

• Description: Smooth, seamless cups designed to be invisible under fitted clothing
• Best for: Everyday wear, fitted t-shirts and tops
• Features: Usually lightly padded with molded cups that hold their shape

Demi Bra

• Description: Cups cover about half to three-quarters of the breast with a low-cut neckline
• Best for: Low-cut tops and dresses, creating natural cleavage
• Features: Often has underwire, less coverage than full-coverage bras

Plunge Bra

• Description: Features a deep V-neckline with angled cups that push breasts together
• Best for: Low-cut tops and dresses, creating dramatic cleavage
• Features: Often has padding at the sides and bottom of the cups

Push-Up Bra

• Description: Designed with padding at the bottom and sides of cups to lift and enhance cleavage
• Best for: Creating fuller appearance, low-cut outfits
• Features: Padding can range from slight to significant enhancement

Full Coverage Bra

• Description: Cups fully cover the breasts and provide maximum support
• Best for: Larger cup sizes, full support needs
• Features: Higher neckline, wider straps, and band for additional support

Balconette Bra

• Description: Horizontal cup design that lifts from the bottom, creating a shelf-like effect
• Best for: Square necklines, creating a rounded, uplifted shape
• Features: Usually has wider-set straps and a straight neckline

Bralette

• Description: Lightweight, often unstructured bra without underwire
• Best for: Casual wear, comfort, lounging
• Features: Usually pull-over style or hook closure, minimal to no padding

Sports Bra

• Description: Designed to minimize breast movement during physical activity
• Best for: Exercise and high-impact activities
• Features: High compression, moisture-wicking fabrics, racerback or wide straps

Convertible Bra

• Description: Versatile with removable or repositionable straps
• Best for: Various clothing styles (strapless, halter, one-shoulder)
• Features: Detachable straps, sometimes includes transparent straps

Strapless Bra

• Description: Designed to be worn without straps
• Best for: Strapless dresses and tops
• Features: Silicone lining along edges to prevent slipping, more structured band

Nursing Bra

• Description: Features clips or panels that allow easy access for breastfeeding
• Best for: Nursing mothers
• Features: Drop-down cups, extra support, stretchy fabrics for changing breast size

Mastectomy Bra

• Description: Designed with pockets to hold breast forms after breast surgery
• Best for: Women who have undergone mastectomy
• Features: Pockets in cups, higher coverage, comfortable materials

Minimizer Bra

• Description: Designed to reduce the projection of the bust by redistributing breast tissue
• Best for: Larger busts, button-up shirts
• Features: Full coverage, wider straps, compression

Longline Bra

• Description: Extended material below the cups that covers part of the torso
• Best for: Extra support, creating a smooth silhouette under fitted clothing
• Features: Can have boning for structure, often used as shapewear

Adhesive/Sticky Bra

• Description: Backless, strapless bra that adheres directly to the skin
• Best for: Backless, strapless, or deeply cut outfits
• Features: Silicone or fabric with adhesive, reusable with proper care

Bra Closure Types

Hook and Eye Closure

• Description: The most common closure, featuring small hooks that fasten into loops
• Location: Usually at the back
• Features: Typically has multiple hook positions to adjust the band tightness
• Pros: Secure, adjustable
• Cons: Can be difficult to reach when positioned at the back

Front Closure

• Description: Clasp or hook system positioned between the cups
• Location: At the center front
• Features: Often a single hook, clip, or snap closure
• Pros: Easy to put on and take off, creates a smooth back
• Cons: Less adjustable than back closures

Racerback

• Description: Straps form a “Y” or “T” shape between the shoulder blades
• Location: Back design, may have hook closure or be pullover style
• Features: Keeps straps from slipping off shoulders
• Pros: Good for sloped shoulders, increased support
• Cons: Can be difficult to put on/take off, may show under certain clothing

Pullover/No Closure

• Description: No clasps or hooks, designed to be pulled on over the head
• Location: N/A
• Features: Often seen in sports bras and bralettes
• Pros: Comfortable, no hardware that can irritate skin
• Cons: Less adjustable, may stretch out over time

S-Hook

• Description: S-shaped metal pieces that hook together
• Location: Usually at the back
• Features: Provides a secure closure that’s relatively easy to fasten
• Pros: Durable, secure
• Cons: Can be bulky under clothing

Zip-Front

• Description: Features a zipper between the cups
• Location: At the center front
• Features: Quick and easy to put on and take off
• Pros: Convenient, creates a smooth back
• Cons: Zipper may irritate skin, limited adjustability

Corset/Lace-Up

• Description: Features adjustable lacing, similar to a corset
• Location: Usually at the back
• Features: Highly adjustable fit
• Pros: Customizable tightness, decorative
• Cons: Time-consuming to put on and adjust

Adhesive

• Description: No traditional closure, adheres directly to the skin
• Location: N/A
• Features: Completely backless and often strapless
• Pros: Invisible under backless clothing
• Cons: Limited support, adhesive may lose effectiveness over time

When shopping for a bra, consider both the style and closure type that will work best for your needs, comfort preferences, and the clothing you plan to wear. The right combination can make a significant difference in how your bra fits and feels throughout the day.