Measuring your cup- and bra size, this is how you do it!
A study by Triumph Lingerie Australia has shown that 80% of women wear the wrong bra size! And wearing the wrong size can lead to many issues. For example, neck- and shoulder pain, breast pain, or chafing. Wearing the correct size bra is not only better for your breasts and health, they often also make your breasts look more beautiful!
How to know your size?
Be aware of the fact that your breasts are constantly changing during your life. When you’re young your breasts will differ from the breasts you have when you’re older. Pregnancy, perimenopause, they all have their influence. The time of the month also plays a part: Your breast size can increase up to one size right before your period starts! Something to consider when trying on new bras. Don’t try to stick to that one size you used to have, or that one model that fit you best at the time. What was perfect back then, might not be right now. And that’s completely normal!
Want to know more about hormones and how they affect your breasts? Read our article on sensitive breasts, where everything is explained.
Circumference and cup size
When talking about bras, there are two sizes: the circumference size (bottom width) and the cup size (top width).
To measure your circumference size, place a tape measure under your breasts and measure around your torso. Make sure the tape is level and snug. The number determines your circumference size.
Circumference size:
63-67 cm = size 65
63-67 cm = size 65
68-72 cm = size 70
73-77 cm = size 75
78-82 cm = size 80
83-87 cm = size 85
88-92 cm = size 90
93-97 cm = size 95
98-102 cm = size 100
Please note that these are European sizes, The USA and Australia use different sizes (as if it wasn’t complicated enough already).
Here's a conversion size chart:
And then your cup size. To measure your cup, put the tape measure across your nipples horizontally and around your torso. Make sure the tape measure is level here as well. You then subtract your circumference size from the top width you just measured, that is your cup size. Just to clarify, your cup size is the difference between the bottom width and the top width. Similar to band sizes, different countries also use different cup sizes:
Types of bras
Allright, now you have a good idea of your size, but unfortunately, you’re not done yet. There are a plethora of different models available on the market: triangle bras, contoured bras, push up bras, balconettes and bras with and without wire. So how do you know which model is right for you?
Practical tips
Some practical tips:
The straps should not cut into your shoulders. That is painful and should be avoided at all costs.
Make sure your breasts sit comfortably in the cup. If you wear a wired bra, make sure that the wire sits ‘behind the breast’. Lean forward and shake the ladies until they sit comfortably in the cup. Another option would be to hold the wire in place with one hand and to scoop the breast in place with the other. If this doesn’t work and the bra is still not comfortable, you have to pick a different size.
Make sure your breasts don’t protrude at the top. It doesn’t look as nice underneath your clothes.
Your left and right breasts are not identical. Usually, one is slightly bigger than the other and this is completely normal.
If you feel like your bra is constantly about to ride up your breasts, then you should try sizing down as the circumference is too big.
The front and the back of your bra should be level. If the backside sits higher than the front it’s a sign that the bra is the wrong size.
Wear a comfortable sports bra during exercise, your breasts will thank you!
What model is best for you, is a matter of trial and error and preference. Try out a couple of different models in the fitting room. You’ll find out soon enough which model suits you best for each occasion. Be critical, it’s an investment. You might want more cleavage for a party then for work, shop for the occasion!
And keep in mind, your bra might fit a little different right before your period. As your cup size can increase, a ‘period bra’ one size up might be a good idea. This way you’ll always have that perfect fit, no matter what.
Take care of your breasts. Want to know how to perform a self examination? You can read our article and watch our video here.
