To measure yourself for a maternity bra, you will need a flexible measuring tape and a mirror. First, it’s important to find your band size by wrapping the measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, just below your bust. Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and take note of the measurement in inches. Then, to determine your cup size, measure around the fullest part of your bust and again make sure the tape is parallel to the ground. Take note of this measurement as well.
Once you have these two measurements, subtract your band size from your bust measurement. For every inch of difference between these two measurements, you can determine your cup size: 1 inch is an A cup, 2 inches is a B cup, 3 inches is a C cup, and so on. This will give you an accurate idea of what size maternity bra will fit you best.
A common misconception about measuring for a maternity bra is that it should be done late in pregnancy when breasts are at their largest. However, it’s important to take these measurements early on and then reassess later in pregnancy as breast size can change significantly throughout each trimester.
A less-known fact about measuring for a maternity bra is that not all brands follow the same sizing standards. It’s crucial to check each brand’s specific sizing chart before making a purchase to ensure an accurate fit. Knowing this information can save time and frustration when shopping for maternity bras.
I hope these tips help make finding the perfect maternity bra easier for you. Remember that taking accurate measurements is key to finding comfortable and supportive bras throughout pregnancy.
| Measurement | Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Band Size | Measure around your ribcage, just under your bust | Add 5 inches to an even number or 6 inches to an odd number to get your band size |
| Bust Size | Measure around the fullest part of your bust | Subtract your band size from your bust size to find your cup size (1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, 3 inches = C, 4 inches = D, etc.) |
| Cup Size | Compare your bust size to your band size | Use the difference to determine your cup size (e.g. 1 inch difference = A cup, 2 inches difference = B cup, etc.) |
| Underbust Measurement | Measure around your ribcage, just under your bust | This measurement helps to ensure the band of the bra fits comfortably |
| Cup Depth | Measure from the center of your bust to the outer edge | This helps to ensure the cups will fully cover and support your breasts |
| Wire Length | Measure from the center of your bust to the outer edge | Ensures the wire will fully support and contain your breasts without digging into your skin |
| Shoulder Strap Length | Measure from your shoulder to the top of your bust | Helps to ensure the straps won’t dig into your shoulders or slide off |
| Underwire Width | Measure from one side of your ribcage, under your bust, to the other side | Ensures the underwire will sit comfortably against your ribcage without pinching or squeezing |
| Center Gore Height | Measure from the top of the band to the top of the bra | Ensures the center gore will sit flat against your chest without digging in or gaping |
| Strap Separation | Measure from the top of one cup, across your shoulder, to the top of the other cup | Ensures the straps won’t dig into your shoulders or slip off |