Introduction
Have you ever struggled with finding the right bra size? You’re not alone. In fact, studies show that up to 80% of women wear the wrong size bra. Ill-fitting bras can cause discomfort, back pain, and even affect your posture. The key to finding a comfortable, supportive bra is accurately measuring yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to measure for a bra and help you find your perfect fit.
A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Accurately Measure Yourself for a Bra
To determine your bra size, you’ll need to take three measurements: your band size, bust size, and cup size. Here’s how to do it:
- Band size: Measure around your ribcage, just below your breasts, using a cloth measuring tape. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight, and keep it parallel to the ground.
- Bust size: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, again using a cloth measuring tape. Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and not too loose or tight.
- Cup size: Subtract your band size from your bust size to find your cup size. Use the chart below to find your cup size based on the difference between your band and bust measurements:
Difference Cup Size 0-1″ AA 1-2″ A 2-3″ B 3-4″ C 4-5″ D 5-6″ DD/E 6-7″ DDD/F 7-8″ G
Make note of your band and cup size, as this will give you your final bra size (e.g. 36D).
The Importance of Proper Bra Sizing and How to Measure Yourself at Home
Wearing the wrong size bra not only causes discomfort but can also lead to poor posture and back pain. Many women believe that the only way to get an accurate bra fitting is to visit a store and work with a professional bra fitter. While this can be helpful, you can also measure yourself at home and get accurate results. Plus, you can take your time and try on different bras without feeling rushed or uncomfortable.
Studies show that up to 80% of women wear the wrong size bra.
Comparing measurements of home vs. in-store fittings show that measurements taken at home can be more accurate in some cases. This is because you can take the time to get the perfect fit and understand the subtleties of how the different styles fit across your body.
DIY Bra Fitting: How to Measure Yourself for a Perfect Fit
Not all bras are created equal. Different styles and shapes can affect fit, so it’s important to measure yourself for the specific type of bra you plan to wear. For example, a strapless bra may require a tighter band size to stay in place. Here are some tips for measuring yourself for different types of bras:
- T-Shirt Bras: Measure as described above, making sure to wear a well-fitting T-shirt bra (or no bra) to start.
- Push-Up Bras: Measure as described above, but be aware that push-up bras may require a larger cup size to avoid the dreaded “quad-boob” effect.
- Wireless Bras: Measure as described above, but consider ordering a looser band size for comfort.
- Sports Bras: Measure as described above, but consider ordering a tighter band size to ensure support during exercise.
If you try on a bra and it doesn’t feel quite right, make small adjustments to your measurements until you find the perfect fit. For example, if the band feels too tight, try measuring around your ribcage again while exhaling.
The Dos and Don’ts of Measuring for a Bra: Tips and Tricks for an Accurate Reading
When measuring yourself for a bra, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to an inaccurate reading:
- Don’t measure over clothes.
- Don’t measure when you’re bloated (e.g. during your period).
- Don’t measure with a bra that is too tight or too loose.
- Do keep the measuring tape parallel to the ground.
- Do measure around the fullest part of your bust.
- Do measure at the same time of day each time.
- Do measure in front of a mirror to ensure accuracy.
By following these simple tips, you can get an accurate reading and find your perfect fit.
The Ultimate Guide to Bra Sizing: How to Measure Yourself Correctly Every Time
To get the most accurate measurements, it’s important to understand how bra sizes are categorized. The sizing system varies by country, so it’s important to know which system you’re using:
- US sizing: The band size is measured in inches, while the cup size is measured in letters (e.g. 36D).
- UK sizing: The band size is measured in inches, while the cup size is measured in letters (e.g. 36D).
- European sizing: The band size is measured in centimeters, while the cup size is measured in letters (e.g. 80D).
To convert between sizing systems, use an online conversion chart. It’s important to note that different brands may have slightly different sizing systems, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the sizing chart for the specific brand you’re interested in.
If you’re struggling to find your perfect fit, consider getting a professional bra fitting. Many lingerie stores offer this service for free and can help you find the perfect bra for your body type and size.
Bra Measuring 101: Expert Advice on How to Get the Right Fit
We reached out to industry professionals for their expert tips on measuring for a bra:
“When taking measurements, we always recommend customers measure in front of a mirror and ensure that the tape measure is parallel to the floor.”
– Lacey Johnson, professional bra fitter“It’s important to try on different styles of bras and adjust your measurements accordingly. For example, a plunge bra may require a different cup size than a balconette style.”
– Maria Williams, lingerie designer
Some common questions women have about bra fitting include:
- How often should I measure myself for a new bra size? You should re-measure yourself every 6 to 12 months to ensure you’re wearing the right size.
- Should I factor in weight gain/loss when measuring? Yes, if you’ve gained or lost more than 10 pounds, you should measure yourself again to ensure you’re wearing the right size.
Conclusion
Measuring for a bra can seem daunting, but with the right tools and tips, it’s easy to find your perfect fit. Remember to take accurate measurements, consider the specific type of bra you’ll be wearing, and avoid common measuring mistakes. With these steps, you can say goodbye to uncomfortable, ill-fitting bras and enjoy a supportive, comfortable bra that fits you perfectly.