Going bra-less or not is a matter of personal choice, but whether you only wear them occasionally or never the leave the house without one, knowing how to measure your bra size is essential. The right fit ensures your bras flatter and support you and remain comfortable throughout the day.
As our bodies naturally fluctuate and change over time, it’s important to update your bras accordingly, rather than sticking rigidly to the size you were given once at a long-ago fitting appointment. To ensure you’re getting the best from your lingerie, it’s essential to keep measuring.
Read more: Who Invented The Bra?
The bra wearers among us will also know that style preferences can be affected by a multitude of factors, including – but not limited to – the rest of an outfit, the time of the month, and changes in the size and shape of breasts. We’d recommend starting with a clear out of your collection – there’s no need to hold onto those grey, threadbare pieces. If you do come across a bra that you’re no longer attached to but is still in good condition, consider donating it to charity.
So, onto the practical tips: below, we’ve broken down everything you need to do to get the right bra size for you.
Getting started
Georgia Larsen, founder of Dora Larsen, recommends starting with a bra you already own and love. “If it’s a 34B, for example, and you want to work out your size with a new brand, then I would recommend ordering 34B, but also some similar sizes to compare (such as a 34A and a 34C).” Trying multiple sizes at home allows you to find the best fit across different brands.
Amy Wigmore, garment technician at Dorina, adds that the first step is understanding how you want to feel in your bra. “Underwear is really personal, and each woman will expect something different according to what her day looks like,” she says.
What are the tell-tale signs you’re wearing the wrong size or style?
Sarah Shotton, creative director at Agent Provocateur, outlines the telltale signs that something is wrong: “You’ll know in a hurry that your bra’s not the right size when you’re spilling everywhere, the cups are gaping, the straps dig into your shoulders, or the band keeps riding up. If the style is wrong, you’ll feel gaps in the balconette, you’ll be overflowing in a plunge bra, or the straps just won’t sit still and keep slipping. It’s all wrong if you’re fidgeting all day – and trust me, I’m a 34F, so I know how insufferable it is to have a bra that doesn’t fit.”
