How to Measure A Bra Size

Many women wear bras that do not fit properly. Bras that are tight, uncomfortable, produce excess flesh spilling out from the tops or sides of the cups, or produce a gap between the cup and the breasts, are not properly fitted bras. Losing or gaining weight or changing your fat percentage can alter a bra size considerably. Take a few moments to ascertain your bra size to make sure that you have the best possible fit.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Comfortably fitting bra
• Paper and pencil
• Wall mirror

Instructions

1. Stand at the mirror wearing your bra. With the tape measure resting just under the armpits, pull the tape measure around the chest from the back until it closes; measure and make note of the measurement. Find the measurement with the tape measure resting comfortably around your chest and not too tight; you should be able to fit one finger between the tape measure and your skin. If this measurement is an even number, write it down. If it is an odd number, round to the nearest even number and write it down.

2. Move the tape measure down several inches so that it encircles the chest at the fullest point of the breasts. Write this measurement down.

3. Subtract the first measurement from the second measurement. Every inch difference between these two numbers represents one cup size. For example, if your first measurement was 36 inches and your second measurement was 39 inches, your bra size would be 36C.

4. Find a bra in this size and test the fit. A properly fitting bra will feel comfortable. If flesh spills out from the sides or tops of the cups, the bra is too small. If the fabric of the cups wrinkles or gaps around the breasts, the bra is too large.

Tips & Warnings

• Bras tend to stretch out over time and can become too loose to fit properly. These bras should be replaced.

References

• How to Measure Bra Size