Trying on bras is hard, especially when you’re looking for the perfect fit. To find your correct bra size, you need to understand what it means to have the right measurements. Your band measurement should be snug but not too tight. The cups of your bra should also be filled without overflowing or leaving room for another cup size smaller.

If you’re having trouble finding a bra that fits properly, consider using a bra calculator and our guide to measure yourself correctly. It can help you find the right measurements and sizes so that you can confidently buy new bras and avoid ill-fitting ones in the future.

A correctly fitting bra is important for all women no matter their size! Here’s a guide on how to find your real bra size using a calculator and other methods.

overspilling bra

Measurements for your correct bra size

Make sure to take the two measurements without a bra or while wearing one without padding to get the most accurate results:

Bust measurement – Use a soft measuring tape to measure the circumference of your bust at the widest point. Make sure the tape is not too tight by breathing in and out. Record the number (if you prefer to round it, round it up).

Frame measurement – To get the correct band measurement, measure around the bottom of the band, directly under your bust. Make sure the measuring tape is straight and not too tight. Don’t round the measurement up or down to the nearest whole number.

Cup size – Now, determining your cup size is a little difficult: To determine your cup size, subtract your band size from your bust size. From the difference, you can determine your cup size. A rating of AA means that the difference is less than 1; A is denoted by 1; B is designated by 2; C is designated by 3; D is designated by 4; DD is designated by 5 and so on.

However, you’ll still need to know your band size to determine your bra size. For example, if your band size is 34 but your bust size is 37, you’d wear a 34C bra (a C-cup bra, since the difference is 3). Even though different types of bras fit differently, you now have a basic understanding of how to work out your correct size.

bra too big

Guaranteeing that your bra fits perfectly

Unfortunately, using a correct bra size calculator to find the proper size does not assure that every bra will fit. Make sure you never purchase the best fitting bra using these tips:

  • Put on your bra properly by bending at the waist and hooking it first.
  • Ensure that the bra’s back and front are at equal levels by adjusting the band.
  • Your band should be just large enough to fit one finger. If it’s too large, try a smaller size.
  • Shorten the straps after tightening the band
  • Look at how the bra looks under clothing by putting on a close-fitting shirt.
  • Make sure your bra has the last hook secured when you buy it because it will loosen over time and you’ll be able to use the inner hooks to make it fit again later on.

tight bra causes red marks

Signs of wrong bra sizes

Nothing works better than your own experience when taking measurements. Before buying a bra, we highly suggest trying it on which is the only real way to ensure it’s not the wrong size bra. Even bra styles from the same manufacturer might have different sizing because the cup shapes may be different.

If you notice one or more of these signs below in our checklist, it’s likely that your bra is the wrong size or fits improperly.

  • Breast spill from the bra – the cup is too small
  • The band moves up your back – The band is too loose, and it needs to be positioned just under your bust to provide support.
  • The cup sticks out – Either it is not your bra type, or the cup is too big
  • Red marks on the skin either from the underwires or straps – Either the straps are too tight or the bra band is not adequately supporting your bust. The underwire is poking your skin if the cup is too small.
  • The band feels tight – Either the cup is too small, or the band is too tight.
  • You suffer from neck or back pain – Your bra is not adequately supporting your breasts. You should adjust it as much as possible, but you should expect to buy a new one. You can either measure yourself for a new bra or get a professional bra fitting to maximize your satisfaction with your purchase.

Sister sizes

The sister size bra is a much-needed innovation in lingerie. It is a size different from your original one, but with the same cup size. Manufacturers don’t design cups to fit every possible frame/cup combination; instead, they provide a variety of bands and label bras with sizes. However, they do not assign the same letter to the same cup regardless of frame size—rather, they prefer to reduce one frame size and increase one cup size.

Popular bra types

If you already know your size, then you can now look at the popular bra types and what they can offer you below.

Push up – Adds a smooth line and a little size to your bust.

Cage – Harness-like design that surrounds the breasts using several straps. It draws attention to the chest.

Stick-on – Choose a reliable brand to ensure great adhesion to your body

Non-padded bras – Non-padded bras are simply softer than padded ones.

Wireless – Having less rigid bra components means you’ll be more comfortable.

Sports bra – You’ll need good breast support to be comfortable while exercising

Maternity bra – Allows you to breastfeed your baby without removing their clothes

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Holly MacDonald
Holly studied Digital Journalism at University of Strathclyde. A single mum, her young son Thomas battles for adulation with her love of wine and chocolate, and the very occasional guilt-driven Gym appearance. Other than writing, Holly has a love for making jewellery, thanks to her beloved grandmother.