According to a study, 80% of women wear ill-fitting bras. This means either a bra that’s too big or too small.
An ill-fitting bra means that the wearer hasn’t properly measured her bra size or doesn’t know how to select a bra correctly. Wearing the wrong size can be uncomfortable, but it can also lead to various problems.
If you need clarification on whether you’re wearing the correct size bra, keep reading. We’re explaining how to measure a bra size to fit perfectly on your body.
Benefits of Wearing a Proper Fitting Bra
There are many reasons, aside from being comfortable, for wearing a bra. A correctly fitting bra can help a woman feel more confident and can also help improve her posture. In addition, a correctly-measured bra can offer much-needed extra support if you have large breasts.
Unfortunately, most shops that sell bras don’t stock every size. This means that women with very small or very large breasts often battle to find a properly fitting bra. As a result, many women end up settling for the next closest size, even if it’s uncomfortable.
Finding a dedicated bra or lingerie store will help you find more uncommon sizes, and you will often have someone on hand to help measure a bra size for you.
Wearing the Wrong Size Bra
Wearing the wrong size bra can cause a few problems. Some of them are minor, but some can get more serious. For example:
- Skin irritation
- Shoulder and back pain
- Chronic discomfort
- Stretch marks
- Reluctance to exercise
- Spinal problems
- Bad posture
How to Measure a Bra Size
Your body is constantly changing, so it’s advised to measure your bra size every few years to ensure you’re still wearing the correct bra. If you’re currently sitting in a bra that’s feeling uncomfortable, grab your tape measure because here’s how to measure a bra size correctly.
There are two primary steps to follow: measuring band and cup size. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Measuring The Bra Band Size
The bra band is the part of the bra that goes all the way entirely around your ribcage. Typically it’s this band that has the clasps. To measure the correct size, remove your bra and do the following:
- Stand upright, so your posture is correct
- Bring the tape measure around your back and under your bust (where your bra would usually sit)
- Make sure you don’t pull the tape measure too tight (it should feel snug but not squeezing)
- Measure your bust size in inches, and if it measures to an odd number, round up to the next nearest inch
Now that you have your band size, you need to measure your cup size. You will need one of your current bras for this.
Step 2: Measuring Cup Size
When measuring for a bra, you want a cup that will support the full breast. To do this measurement, do the following:
- Put on your most comfortable bra (you need your boobs to be where you want them)
- Measure around the fullest part of your chest (over your nipples)
- Take note of the number for converting your bra size
- Finally, subtract the number you landed on when measuring the bra band
The number you are left with is your cup size. For example:
- 0=AA
- 1 = A
- 2 = B
- 3 = C
- 4 = D
- 5 = DD
- 6 = F
- 7 = FF
- 8 = G
- 9 = GG
- 10 = H
- 11 = HH
- 12 = J
- 13 =JJ
- 14 =K
For your final bra measurements, add this result to your band size, and you’ll have your ideal bra size, for example, 32B, 36G, or 38FF.
Is My Bra Fitting Correctly?
Finding your correct bra size is only one of the stages in fitting a bra. The right size bra should sit comfortably and almost feel like it’s not there. First, you want to make sure the straps are tight enough. Next, you must loosen them if they leave marks or indents on your skin. Finally, adjust the straps until they’re snug over your shoulders.
When fitting a new bra, always fasten it on the loosest clasps. As the bra ages, it will stretch, and you can tighten the hooks accordingly. When it’s too loose, even on the last clip, this indicates that you need to buy a new bra.
Once the bra is fitted, look in the mirror. Your bra should have your breasts sitting midway between your elbows and shoulders.
- Pro Tip: Put on your tightest top over your bra, and if you see any lumps or bulges, it’s not the correct size for you
Bra Fitting FAQ
Sizing your bra is quite simple, but you may still have questions. Here are some of the most common we hear.
1. Why Are My Straps Falling Down?
Straps will stretch over time, so you should check your straps every four to five wears. You may also need to readjust the straps if you’ve put it through the wash.
2. How Do I Measure for a Sticky Bra?
If you want to wear a sticky bra, follow the exact instructions for a regular bra. Once you have this number, it’s recommended to go one size down for the best fit.
3. What If The Band Is Uncomfortable?
The band may be uncomfortable if it’s not the correct size. If your band is leaving a mark around your body or creeping up towards your shoulders, then it’s too tight. You can either try a tighter clasp or go up a band size.
4. Why Are My Cups Gaping?
If your cups are gaping, try tightening the band to a tighter clasp or the straps. If neither of these works, you may have a size too big.
Never Wear an Uncomfortable Bra Again
Now that you know how to measure a bra size, there’s no reason that you should be battling with an uncomfortable bra. However, if you need clarification on measuring yourself, be bold and visit a bra shop and ask them to help. They will also have the tape measure if you don’t own one.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, self-adhesive backless bra, look at the options we have for you in our shop. You’re sure to find something you like.
