How to Accurately Measure Your Bra Size at Home

1. Are you sure you're wearing the right bra size?

As Sandi Simon, a fit consultant at Bra Smyth in New York City, explains, there are several clear indicators that your bra might not be the correct size:

• Wrinkles forming in the cups
• Underwire pressing into the sides of your breasts
• A band that constantly rides up your back
• Overflown cups
• Straps that keep slipping off your shoulders
• Bra hikes up when you raise your arms
• Underwires sitting on top of your breasts instead of beneath them

If any of these issues sound familiar, visit a professional bra fitter—or grab your measuring tape and follow the steps here to accurately measure your bra size at home.

2. Step 1: Find your correct bra band size

To measure your band size, use a tape measure around your torso, just beneath your bust, ensuring it sits snugly and level. Round to the nearest whole number. If it's even, add four inches. If it's odd, add five inches. Your final band size will be this number. For example, if you measure 32 inches, your band size will be 36. If it's 33 inches, your band size will be 38.

Step 2: Measure your bust size.

Place the measuring tape loosely around the fullest part of your chest, which is at nipple level, and round the measurement to the nearest whole number.

Step 3: Determine your cup size.

To determine your cup size, subtract your calculated band size (Step 1) from your bust measurement (Step 2). Use the bra cup size chart to find your size. For example, if your bust is 37 inches and your band size is 34 inches, the difference is 3 inches, which corresponds to a 34C.

Step 5: Adjust your size using a bra sizing chart.

If the cup size feels too large, consider going down a cup size and increasing your band size by one. Conversely, if the cup size feels too small, decrease your band size by one and increase your cup size. For example, if a 34C feels too big in the cups, try a 36B. Refer to the bra size chart to ensure proper size adjustments.

6. How to make sure a bra size is correct

• Bend forward at the waist, then slip on the bra and hook it. This ensures your breasts are completely in the cups.
• Adjust the band. The back of the bra should be level with the front.
• Make sure the bra is not too loose. You should be able to slide only one finger underneath the band.
• Fix falling straps. First, tighten the band, then shorten the straps.
• Put on a close-fitting shirt over the bra. If the cups pucker or your breasts bulge, you are not wearing the correct bra size.
• Look at yourself sideways in a mirror. Your breasts should sit midway between your shoulders and elbows. If not, you need a more supportive and better-fitting bra.
• Choose a bra that fits perfectly when secured on the outermost hook. As the bra loosens over time, you'll be able to make the band taut by moving toward the tightest hook.
• Check for comfort. If the straps or the underwire are digging in, it isn't the bra for you.

Bra Size Measurement FAQs

What should I do if my cups gape or cause spillage?

If your cups are gaping, it's likely that your bra is too big, and you might need to downsize your cup. On the other hand, if you're experiencing spillage, your bra may be too small. Ra'el Cohen, co-founder and CCO of ThirdLove, advises that your cups should be comfortably filled without any gaps or spillage.

Why do my bra straps keep slipping off?

Cohen shares that your bra straps may be slipping for two main reasons:

1. If your bra is too big, the straps may keep falling, even if you've tightened them all the way, indicating you might need a smaller size.
2. If you've had your bra for a long time, the elastic could have worn out, signaling it's time for a new one.

"I suggest buying a new bra every six months to a year, depending on how frequently you wear it, to make sure you’re getting the most comfortable and flattering fit," says Cohen.

What are the best bra styles for my body shape?

No matter your breast shape—whether asymmetric, large, small, round, slender, or anything in between—there are bras that will perfectly suit you. You can find these options at various great places, including specialty brands and department stores.

Finding the best bra for your shape is key. Cohen suggests the best fitting bras for six common breast shapes.

• Asymmetric: If your breasts are different sizes, you're not alone—about 40 percent of women in ThirdLove's Virtual Fitting Room identify as having this shape, says Cohen. She recommends a bra with removable inserts, allowing you to add an insert on the smaller side for extra lift.
• Athletic: Women with wider breasts, more muscle, and less tissue often experience cup gaping. Cohen suggests opting for t-shirt style bras for a better fit.
• East West: These wide-set breasts have nipples pointing outward, as the name implies. If you struggle to create cleavage with certain tops, look for full-coverage bras that help gather your breasts toward the center.
• Bell Shaped: These breasts are narrower at the top and fuller at the bottom, often associated with larger cup sizes. You may experience overflow in minimal coverage styles like balconette or demi. Instead, try a full-coverage bra with wider memory foam straps for comfort and support.
• Relaxed: These breasts have looser tissue with downward-facing nipples. Since they tend to be longer, a balconette-style bra with a slightly shorter cup will give more fullness at the top.
• Round: Most styles suit this shape, but for light support, a wireless bra works well, or choose a balconette for an ultra-flattering fit.

How can I measure my bra size without using a measuring tape?

Even without a measuring tape, you can still determine your bra size at home. ThirdLove offers a simple two-step method:

1. Use a charger cord, piece of rope, or string to mark your measurements.
2. Lay it flat and use a hard tape measure or ruler to measure your bust and underbust sizes.