Bra sizes: they are one of the world’s biggest mysteries. Many women think they know their bra size, but in fact, they really don’t. We’re sorry! Chances are that most women haven’t seen a professional bra fitting in years -no judgement!-, and choose a bra based on its looks instead of its measurements. A stunning yet wrong bra may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause several physical problems, like damaged breast tissue, shoulder pain, and premature sagging. And that’s where we swoop in! You don’t have to go see a professional to solve the wrong bra size problem once and for all; you can easily measure yourself in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Here are 3 easy-to-follow steps to measure yourself and find your correct bra size!
Why wearing the correct size bra is important
Many women, probably half of the nation, take off their bras as soon as they close the front door. Funny, because you often wear a bra from early in the morning to late in the evening. Your puppies deserve some comfort! Looks are not all that matter; what matters most is support. Bras that are too tight or too roomy may damage your breast tissue, and can even cause breathing disabilities. Inadequate support may lead to premature sagging (quel horror!), and terrible back pains. In the long run, inadequate support will lead to poor posture, causing even more health problems. Not something to look forward to, right?!
You’re not looking for Size Right, you’re looking for Size Right Now! Whatever bra size is right for you now, may not be the right size in a few years. A common mistake most women make is refusing to even consider that your charlies have changed since the last time you were measured. Age, hormonal changes, and lifestyle have a big impact on your bra size, but let’s not forget about the bra itself. A bra that fitted you like a glove, can loose its shape through wearing and washing. There are plenty of bra size calculators available to do the maths for you, but they are not always accurate. If you want to be sure, here are 3 easy-to-follow steps to measure yourself and find the correct bra size.
How to measure your bra size
To measure is to know! By measuring yourself regularly, you can easily calculate what bra size is best for you. Here’s what you need:
- A full-length mirror
- A tape measure
- A bra without padding
Is your tape measure somewhere, but you can’t find it? No worries! You can use a string or a piece of wool. You measure the size in the same way, but you use a ruler or folding rule to measure your bra size.
Step 1: Measure band size
Stand upright, nice and tall, in front of your full-length mirror, and wear a bra without padding. (or no bra at all, if you prefer) Wrap your tape measure or string around your ribcage in an even line, just below where your bra fits. Make sure that the tape or string feels snug, but not too tight. If you land in an even number, that’s your band size. Is it an odd number? Then round it up to the nearest inch. Write down the number et voila, now you know your band size!
Step 2: Measure bust size
Wrap your tape measure around in a steady, even line around your back and the fullest part of your breasts. Again, make sure that the tape measure feels snug, but not too tight. Check the mirror to see if your tape measure follows an even line, and write down the number. Round up to the nearest whole number to know your bust measurement.
Step 3: Calculate cup size
Calculating your cup size is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Or simple as do-re-mi. Subtract your band size from your bust size. Every inch difference is another cup size up e.g. 1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, 3 inches = C, 4 inches = D, and so on. Combine your band and cup size, so you have a number followed by a letter, like 34C.
The perfect fit: how a bra should sit
The numbers tell the tale, but a tape measure is not always the key to finding your perfect fit. To find your perfect bra fit, you have to know how a bra should sit.
The band
The band should sit firm and straight. If you can easily get two fingers under the band and feel no resistance, then you need a smaller band size. Is getting your fingers under the band a struggle? Then try the next size up!
The straps
It’s all about the straps, baby! Let’s debunk the “tighter the straps, the more support they give”- myth once and for all. The bra straps should sit comfortably without sliding.
The bra bridge
The bra bridge, or centre, is that tiny piece of fabric between your breasts. It should sit flat on your chest. Go up in size if there is a gap between the bra bridge and your chest.
The cups
The cups should not show any wrinkles. Smooth cups that perfectly follow the curve of your breasts are what you’re looking for.
The wires
The wires should always follow the natural curve at the base of your breasts. Otherwise, they will not give enough support.
Find your new bra for less in the outlet
