How to Measure Yourself for a Perfectly Fitting Bra

Quick answer

To measure your bra size at home, wear an unpadded bra, stand in front of a mirror, and use a soft tape measure. Measure your band size snugly around your ribcage just under your bust, then measure your bust at the fullest point. Subtract the band measurement from the bust measurement to find your cup size. Re-measure every six months or after any weight change.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather a soft tape measure, a mirror, and a slightly padded or unpadded bra that currently fits you reasonably well. Avoid measuring over a push-up or heavily padded bra, as the added volume will distort your bust measurement. If you don't own a soft tape, use a piece of string and a ruler, but keep the string parallel to the floor. Stand in front of a mirror so you can check that the tape stays level all the way around your body.

Step 1: Measure Your Band Size

Wrap the tape around your ribcage, directly under your bust, keeping it snug but not tight. The tape should sit parallel to the floor. Breathe normally and record the measurement in inches. If the number is even, add four inches; if it's odd, add five inches. This gives your band size. For example, a 30-inch underbust becomes a 34 band. If you're between sizes, round down for a snugger fit or up for more comfort.

Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple line. Keep the tape level and not too tight; it should rest gently against your skin without compressing breast tissue. Stand straight with your arms at your sides. Record the measurement in inches. This is your bust size.

Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size

Subtract your band measurement (the number before adding four or five inches) from your bust measurement. The difference determines your cup size: 1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, 3 inches = C, 4 inches = D, 5 inches = DD/E, and so on. For example, a 34 band with a 37-inch bust gives a 3-inch difference, so you're a C cup. If you're between cup sizes, try the smaller cup first if you prefer a tighter fit.

Step 4: Check the Fit with a Test Bra

Put on a bra in your calculated size and check the band: it should be snug on the loosest hook, and you should be able to fit two fingers under the band. The center gore should lie flat against your sternum. The cups should fully contain your breast tissue without spilling over or gaping. If the band rides up in the back, go down a band size and up a cup size. If the cups wrinkle, go down a cup size.

Step 5: Re-measure Regularly

Your bra size can change with weight fluctuations, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, or aging. Re-measure every six months, or whenever your current bras feel uncomfortable. Keep a note of your measurements in your phone so you can shop confidently online. Remember that sizing varies between brands, so always check the brand's specific size chart before ordering.

Your Bra Fitting Steps at a Glance

1. Measure your band: Wrap a soft tape snugly under your bust, parallel to the floor. Add four inches if even, five if odd. Checkpoint: The tape should not dig in or slide down.
2. Measure your bust: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it level and not compressing tissue. Checkpoint: The tape should touch your skin without indenting it.
3. Calculate cup size: Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. Each inch equals one cup size. Checkpoint: If the difference is 3 inches, you're a C cup.
4. Try a test bra: Put on a bra in your new size and check band snugness, gore flatness, and cup coverage. Checkpoint: The band should stay put when you raise your arms.
5. Re-measure every 6 months: Body changes affect fit. Note your size and check brand-specific charts before buying. Checkpoint: If your bra leaves red marks or rides up, it's time to re-measure.

How Shapewear Fits Into Your Measurements

• High-Waisted Sheer Lace Shaper Panty: High-Waisted Sheer Lace Shaper Panty made of DuraFit fabric with moderate compression to flatten your tummy and a no-show elasticated waistband. If you wear shapewear under a bra, a high-waisted panty can smooth your midsection without adding bulk, but it should not replace a well-fitted bra. Use your band measurement to ensure the shaper's waistband doesn't roll down.