How To Measure Bra Size
How To Measure Bra Size To Get The Perfect Fit
8 out of 10 women wear the wrong size bra. Taking the time to determine your cup size will help you find a bra that not only fits, but looks good under clothing too. Bras are uncomfortable. They pinch and leave red marks and do not stay where they are supposed to. Did you ever wonder why your bra does not fit correctly? It could be the wrong one. Bras are not created equal even bras of the same size have slight differences. In order to get the best-fitting bra, you need to know how to measure bra size. Bra retailers in your local area will be happy to measure your bra size for you. You want to have some basic knowledge if you let the store measure for you. Remember they are their to sell you a product. If you want to purchase on line or just don't want to measure your own bra size, here's how.
Step By Step Guide on How to Measure Bra Size
Step 1
Measure you band size. Put on a bra that does not have any padding and does not 'lift' or have other enhancing features. Use a soft tabe measure, one that can mold to your body. Place the tape measure across your back around the rib cage at the band level of the bra you are wearing. Bring the tape measure ends around to the front, just below your bust, making sure the tape measure is not twisted. When you have your meassurement, refer to the Band Size Chart: Band for your Bra Band Size.
Step 2
Measure your bust. Keep the tape measure around your back at band level. Bring the tape measure ends around to the front again, making sure the tape measure is directly across the nipples of your breasts. The tape measure should fit loosely and comfortably around your body do not squeeze your breasts together. Take note of the measurement size.
Step 3
Next we will figure out the cup size. The center section between the cups should lie flat on the chest. Breasts should never buldge or spill out of the cups. Your bra should never leave lines or marks on your skin after prolonged wear.
Use the measurements from steps 1 and 2 above and follow this equation: Bust measurement minus (-) Band size = cup size. Refer to the Bra Sizes for Most Bras chart below to calculate your cup size.
If you would like more help check out this online bra size calculator.
Because bras tend to stretch in back, your bra should fit firmly on the loosest hook when new. Keep in mind that every person's body is different and you may not fit perfectly into one of those categories. Chances are, the difference will be minuscule and you should still be able to find a comfortable bra using the above method.
Video: Fit Fundamentals Best Bra Fit
How to Tell If Your Bra Does Not Fit Correctly
Your body gives you signs when something is not correct. If, at the end of the day, you find red marks from your bra or deep indents, chances are, your bra does not fit correctly. Below are some other signs of an ill-fitting bra
* Breasts touch.This gives the annoying 'uniboob' look.
* Breasts overflow the cup or the sides of the bra.
* The back of your bra rides up and is not level with the front.
* The cup is wrinkled. This is due to the bra being too big.
* The bra moves when your arms are raised.
* Your breasts are squished inside the cup.
If you find any of the above are happening to you, your bra does not fit correctly. Of course, this can be annoying, but it can also be harmful to your health. The constant use of ill-fitting bras can cause back problems and change the shape of breasts over time.
Common Problems and Some Tips To Fix Them
If your bra straps mark or indent your skin, loosen them.
If that does not help, try either a larger cup size or a smaller band size.
If your bra straps fall down frequently, tighten them or go down a band size. Keep in mind, the smaller the band size, the closer together the straps.
If the underwire pinches, pokes or rubs against your ribcage, go up a cup size.
If the center panel will not stay flat or pinches your skin, go up a cup size.
Knowing how to measure your bra size is not enough to find the perfect bra. Each brand of bra is made a little differently, and therefore can mean almost infinite possibilities.
When you are looking for a new bra, resign yourself to the fact that you will have to try many on before finding your perfect fit...just remember, the extra time and hassle will be worth it when you have a bra that is comfortable and fits well.
Video: How to Find Your Bra Size
