To take accurate measurements for bra fitting, you will need a flexible measuring tape, a mirror, and a form-fitting shirt. First, measure your band size by wrapping the measuring tape snugly around your ribcage just below your bust. Make sure the tape is level all the way around and write down the measurement in inches. Next, measure your bust size by placing the measuring tape across the fullest part of your breasts and around your back. Again, make sure the tape is level and record this measurement in inches as well.
Once you have these two measurements, subtract your band size from your bust size to determine your cup size. Each inch difference corresponds to a different cup letter: 1 inch difference is an A cup, 2 inches is a B cup, and so on. For example, if you have a 36-inch band measurement and a 40-inch bust measurement (a 4-inch difference), you would typically wear a D cup bra.
A common misconception about bra fitting is that once you know your measurements, any bra in that size will fit perfectly. However, this is not always true as different styles and brands may fit differently due to variations in design and fabric stretchiness.
An interesting fact to note is that our bodies can change over time due to factors such as weight fluctuations or hormonal changes. Therefore, it’s important to re-measure yourself periodically to ensure that you are wearing the correct bra size.
Now that you understand how to take accurate measurements for bra fitting, I recommend trying on bras in multiple sizes within one brand or style to find which fits best for ultimate comfort and support. Remember that proper sizing can make all the difference.
| Measurement | Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Band Size | Measure under your bust, snugly | Round to the nearest even number for band size |
| Bust Size | Measure around the fullest part of your bust | Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground |
| Cup Size | Subtract band size from bust size | Each inch of difference equals one cup size (1 inch=A, 2 inches=B, and so on) |
| Underbust Measurement | Measure snugly around your ribcage, just below the bust | Use this measurement to determine band size |
| Overbust Measurement | Measure around the fullest part of your bust, over your bra | Use this measurement to ensure an accurate bust size |
| Shoulder Width | Measure from the end of one shoulder to the end of the other | Helps determine strap length and placement |
| Center Gore Height | Measure from the top of the band to the top of the center gore | Helps ensure proper coverage and support |
| Underwire Length | Measure the length of the underwire in your current bra | Use to determine proper underwire length in new bras |
| Side Seam Height | Measure from the underarm to the top of the band | Helps determine proper coverage and support |
| Strap Length | Measure the length of the straps on your current bra | Use to determine proper strap length in new bras |