How to Measure Bra Size

If you’re reading this, you probably know as well as any other woman that finding your bra size (and we mean real bra size) isn’t as clear-cut as you once thought. Your bra size has likely changed throughout your life which can happen for a number of reasons including fluctuating weight and having children.

Helping other women learn how to measure bra size is part of what got us here. In this article, we’re going to break down how to measure your bra size in three, easy-peasy steps so that the next time you go bra shopping, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for when trying to find your best-fitting bra.

How to Measure Bra Size in 3 Steps

There’s much more to measuring your bra size than just grabbing a measuring tape and marking down a band size (if only it were that simple!). In the next three steps, we’ll go into measuring your band size, then your bust size, and lastly, your cup size.

Determining the correct – and most current – measurements for your band, bust, and cup will make it SO much easier for you to find bras that fit right, and fit you, no matter where you get your bras. Plus, with those measurements you’ll finally get confirmation to toss out or donate those bras in your drawer that you’ve been keeping just to keep (bra, bye!).

Step 1: Measure Your Under Bust (Band)

Measure circumference around your body just under your bust/breasts. Make sure to keep the measuring tape parallel with the ground. Use your measurement to determine your band size from the Band Size Chart below.

Step 2: Measure the Fullest Part across Your Bust

Wear a non-padded bra (or no bra) while measuring. Stand with your arms at your side (ask a friend for measuring help if possible). Measure circumference around your body (under arms) at the fullest part of your bust. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel with the ground, and not binding. Use both Over Bust Measurement and Under bust Measurement to determine your Cup Size from the Cup Size Chart below.

Step 3: Determine Your Cup Size

Now you are ready to determine your band size and your cup size. Use your measurements to determine sizes from the size charts below.

 

Bra Size Chart

It’s not uncommon to have bras from one brand in a different size than one from another. That’s because different bra sizes often have similar measurements with slight variations in cup and band sizes. Confusing, we know. 

 

So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of your bra size. Start with your current bra size and use the chart below to help refine your bra size estimation and fit.