How to Measure a UK Bra Size

Measuring for a proper bra fit is not hard. A properly fitted bra is important for comfort, appearance and safety. Whether a bra is chosen to enhance, support, or minimize, proper fit is crucial. An improperly fitted bra can result in back and shoulder pain, muscle pain, headaches and general discomfort. Wearing an improperly fit bra over the long term can result in scarring and permanent indentations. That's why it's important to know how to figure out the correct way to size a bra, including chest size and cup size. Fortunately, bra sizes in the UK generally are identical to those in the U.S.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soft tape measure

Measuring

1. Measure around your chest but under your bust. This is where the lowest point on the bra will rest. The tape measure needs to be level; try not to let it slip down.

2. Write the down measurement, in inches. If the measurement is even, add four. If the measurement is odd, add five. The resulting number is your band size.

3. Measure around the fullest part of your breasts. Write this measurement down. This is your bust size.

4. Subtract the band size from the bust size. If the two measurements are the same, you are an A cup. If there is a 1-inch difference, you are a B cup. If there is a 2-inch difference, you are a C cup. A 4-inch difference would indicate a D cup.

5. Use this measurement when purchasing or trying on bras. Bra sizes are a combination of band size, from Step 2, and cup size, from Step 5. For example, 34B would be a band size of 34 with a cup size of B. Bras in the UK are measured in inches, and cup sizes are identical to U.S. sized up to D cups.

Tips & Warnings

• Always try on a bra after measuring using this method, because there is some variance among manufacturers in sizing. If your breasts bulge out of the top, bottom or sides of the cups, the bra is too small. If the cups wrinkle, then the cups are too big. If the center part of the bra doesn't lie flat against your chest, the cups are likely too small. When trying on a bra, bend over and touch your toes to simulate how the bra will react to natural movement.