How to Measure Bra Size
Choosing the correct size bra that gives the proper amount of support is vital to your physical health. Many back and shoulder discomfort problems are from wearing an incorrect bra size. This can be easily avoided by calculating the proper size. You can calculate your correct size in the lingerie department of your favorite department store or at home using a soft measuring tape.
- Determine your band size by wrapping a soft measuring tape around your body, directly under the bust. The measuring tape should remain parallel with the ground for an accurate reading while measuring your band size. Take the measurement shortly after letting the air out from your lungs instead of while holding your breath. Avoid pulling the measuring tape too tightly because that causes a reading that is inaccurate.
- Round up your measurement to the nearest whole number. For example, if your measurement is 33.5 inches, round it up to 34 inches. To finish calculating the band size, add four inches to your measurement if you got an even number. Add five inches if you got an odd number. For instance, the 34-inch measurement is an even number. You will add four inches, making your band size 38 inches.
- Determine your cup size by wrapping the soft measuring tape around your body over the fullest part of your breast. For this measurement, wear a bra that does not have padding. Stand up completely straight, and keep the arm you are not using for the measuring at your side. The measuring tape should remain parallel to the ground and not be pulled too tightly.
- Round up this measurement to the nearest whole number as you did the band size. Subtract your cup size from your band size. For instance, a band size of 38 inches and a cup size of 41 inches would equal a 3-inch difference. The cup size goes up one for each inch. For 3 inches, it would be a size C cup. If you get a 5- or 6-inch difference, the sizes will be either a DD or E cup for 5 inches and a DDD or F cup for 6 inches. If the difference is 2 inches, that is a B cup, and a 1-inch difference is an A cup.