How to find a bra that fits

An incredible 85% of women reportedly wear the wrong bra size. If you’re one of them, you could be opening yourself up to a host of problems, from backache to breast pain. Bras that are too tight can restrict the lymph flow inside your breasts, as well as ruining the line of your clothing; conversely, loose-fitting bras will be uncomfortable and won’t do the job they are intended for.

So, when browsing the range bras on offer at a high street staple such as New Look, how should you go about finding the right size for you?

The first step is to find the band size, which is represented by the number in the size label (for example, the ’32′ in ’32B’). Use a tape measure to measure the circumference of your chest, just below your breasts. The tape should rest flat on the skin and go straight across your back. Confusingly, opinions have historically differed as to how many inches to add to this measurement in order to find your band size. Most manufacturers used to advise adding around five inches to your chest measurement – but nowadays, with elasticated bras the norm, it’s more usual to add 2-3 inches. As a rule, then, if your chest measure 32 inches then your band size will be 34. It’s important to get this measurement right, because the band will provide between 80 and 90% of the support offered by the bra, compared with the 10-20% carried by the straps.

When you’ve identified your band size, the next step is to find your cup measurement. The most effective method is to use your tape measure to measure the circumference of the fullest part of your breasts. Make sure that your breasts aren’t flattened by your current bra, and that again the tape is resting flat against your skin. You can then identify your cup size by recording the difference between this number and the band size number. For example, if the difference is less than 1 inch, your cup size is AA. If it’s 1 inch then your cup size is A; 2 inches and your cup size is B; three inches and you’re a C; and so on.

These measurements can provide a rough guide to your bra size – but one of the issues women face when looking at bras is that, just as with clothes, sizing can differ between manufacturers. It’s therefore important to get a feel for your size and then use your judgment to find the right bra for you.

Perfect fit: The Wonderbra full effect bra, £28.99 from New Look

Category: News