How to correctly determine breast size - a simple guide for an accurate result
Kyiv • UNN
To choose lingerie, measure the circumference under the bust and at the most prominent points. The difference in these measurements determines the cup letter, and the rounded first number determines the volume.
Correct breast size determination is crucial for choosing comfortable and functional lingerie. An inappropriate size can cause discomfort and fail to provide adequate support. To avoid this, it is sufficient to perform basic measurements and correctly interpret the results. UNN found out how to do it.
Details
Breast size can be determined independently using two measurements: underbust circumference and bust circumference at the fullest point. Based on these data, the cup size is calculated, and the appropriate lingerie size is selected.
What the breast size numbers mean
Breast size in everyday life is usually determined by bra size. It consists of two parameters: underbust circumference (number) and cup volume (letter). For example, 75B or 80C. These indicators are calculated based on body measurements.
The number indicates the chest circumference under the breasts. The letter indicates the difference between the bust circumference and the underbust circumference.
What measurements are needed to find out breast size?
To determine your breast size, you need to take two main measurements:
- underbust circumference. For this, a measuring tape is placed horizontally under the breasts. It should fit snugly against the body but not constrict it;
- bust circumference. The tape is passed over the fullest points of the breasts. It should lie flat, without distortions.
Measurements should preferably be taken without clothes or in thin lingerie without a push-up effect. You should stand straight, without raising your shoulders.
How to determine the correct underbust circumference
The obtained underbust circumference is rounded to the nearest standard value:
- 63–67 cm - 65 cm;
- 68–72 cm - 70 cm;
- 73–77 cm - 75 cm;
- 78–82 cm - 80 cm;
- 83–87 cm - 85 cm.
This will be the number in the lingerie size.
How to calculate the cup size of a bra, bustier, or bodysuit
After measuring, the difference between the two indicators is determined using the formula "bust circumference minus underbust circumference."
The resulting number corresponds to the cup size:
- 10–12 cm - cup A;
- 12–14 cm - cup B;
- 14–16 cm - cup C;
- 16–18 cm - cup D;
- 18–20 cm - cup E.
How to determine underwear size: example
If the underbust circumference is 74 cm and the bust circumference is 90 cm, then the rounded underbust circumference will be 75 cm, and the difference between the bust circumference and the underbust circumference will be 16 cm. A value of 16 cm corresponds to a D cup. Therefore, the approximate bra or bustier size for the woman will be 75D.
When, how, and why the size may differ
Even with correct measurements, the size may not match the actual size across different brands. There are several reasons, including:
- different manufacturer standards;
- cup shape;
- cut features;
- material elasticity.
Therefore, choosing lingerie always requires trying it on.
The most common mistakes when determining breast and lingerie size
These mistakes include:
- measuring over thick clothing;
- incorrect holding of the measuring tape;
- choosing lingerie with a smaller circumference with the reasoning "to make it tighter";
- ignoring the difference in sizing charts between different brands.
As a result, breast size is determined incorrectly. Consequently, clothes that distort the figure and are uncomfortable for the owner, as well as too tight or loose underwear, which also creates discomfort.