Wearing lingerie that is suited not only to your body shape but also to your exact size is often underestimated in importance. Underwear shapes the silhouette, influences how clothes fit and affects your level of comfort throughout the day, which is why it should be neither too small nor too large.
Under these circumstances, it becomes easier to understand why it is essential to determine your bra size accurately. But between bust measurement and cup size, it can often be difficult to know where to start! So, what should you do?
📐 1. Take Your Measurements Correctly
A bra size consists of two main elements:
- The underbust measurement (the number)
- The cup size (the letter – A, B, C, etc.)
The combination of these two measurements ensures that your lingerie provides the perfect support without feeling too tight or too loose.
👉 What You Need
- A soft measuring tape
- If possible, someone to help you
Remove your clothes, stand up straight and do not expand your rib cage.
1) Measure Your Underbust
Place the measuring tape directly under your bust, keeping it horizontal without pulling it too tightly. This measurement generally corresponds to the number in your bra size (for example, 80, 85, 90…). Write down the measurement you obtain.
2) Measure Your Bust
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust (under your armpits and across the fullest point of your breasts), keeping it horizontal. Write down the measurement you obtain.
🧮 2. Determine Your Bra Size Based on Your Measurements
Bra Size
To determine your size, simply take your underbust measurement (you can round this figure up for greater comfort) and refer to the table below.
📌 Example: Underbust measurement 78 cm ⇒ Size 95
| 63 to 67 cm | 68 to 72 cm | 73 to 77 cm | 78 to 82 cm | 83 to 87 cm | 88 to 92 cm | 93 to 97 cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | 85 | 90 | 95 | 100 | 105 | 110 |
Bra Cup Size
To determine your cup size, use the following calculation:
“Bust measurement – underbust measurement = cup depth”
Depending on the result, simply refer to the table below to find your cup size:
📌 Example, if your bust measurement is 93 cm and your underbust measurement is 78 cm:
93 − 78 = 15 → corresponding cup size E (the final size would therefore be 95E).
| 1 to 4 | 4 to 7 | 7 to 10 | 10 to 12 | 12 to 15 | 15 to 17.5 | 17.5 to 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G |
💡 5 Tips to Make Sure You Choose the Right Bra Size
✔ Take your measurements every 6 to 12 months. Weight changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding or hormonal changes can affect your size.
✔ Measure yourself without a padded bra. Padded cups can distort your bust measurement.
✔ Take your measurements while standing. Keep the measuring tape horizontal without pulling it too tightly.
✔ Always try on several styles. Two bras in the same size can fit differently depending on their shape (triangle, balconette, full-cup, minimizer, etc.).
✔ Check the fit when you first try it on. The back band should remain horizontal, the cups should fully contain your breasts and the straps should neither slip nor dig into your shoulders.
👩🔬 3. Signs That a Bra Is the Right Size
A well-fitting bra should meet the following criteria:
✅ The back band should form a horizontal line without riding up.
✅ The cups should fully enclose your breasts without creating wrinkles.
✅ The straps should stay in place without digging into your shoulders or slipping.
If this is not the case, your bra is probably too small or too large.
Please note: It may be surprising to find that you need a lingerie size that is very different from the one you are used to wearing. However, give it a try and you will notice an improvement in both the support provided to your breasts and the way your body shape is enhanced.
💡Tip: Remember to adjust the straps properly and preferably fasten your bra on the second hook to leave some room in case your bust changes. These measurements and tips also apply when choosing your swimwear!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Bra Size
How do I know if my bra is too small?
If your breasts spill out of the cups, the underwires press against your breasts or the straps leave deep marks on your shoulders, your bra is probably too small.
How do I know if my bra is too large?
A bra is too large when the cups have wrinkles, the straps slip despite being adjusted or the back band rides up at the back.
How often should I measure my bust?
It is recommended that you take your measurements at least once a year, as well as after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss or gain.
Is the size the same across all brands?
No. Sizing systems can vary slightly from one brand to another. It is therefore advisable to check each manufacturer's size guide before buying a bra.
Can I change the cup size without changing the band size?
Yes. A change of a few centimetres in your bust measurement can alter the cup depth while keeping the same underbust measurement.
Check out our “DIM Tips” section: practical guides, lingerie advice, and the latest fashion inspiration available in DIM Mag'.
