Cart
0
Bras have evolved in design since their first invention in 1914 by Mary Phelps Jacob. Since then, the modern-day bra has undergone several changes, thanks to technological advancements and innovative designs. As the fashion world began to grow, lingerie styles also evolved. Body positivity and inclusiveness started gaining importance, and the lingerie world too adapted to the changing consumer sentiments. Different sizes became available for women as a part of inclusiveness. Bras that were once available only in limited sizes are now manufactured in varied bra size numbers and letters, from extra small to extra large, to accommodate busts of all shapes.
Bras give you comfort only when you wear the right size. The wrong size makes you hate every moment of wearing it. It irritates your skin, restricts movement, spoils your mood, and, above all, ruins your silhouette. This is why it’s crucial to understand bra sizes. Understanding bra sizes is easy once you know the meaning of the numbers and letters. But how do you decode this number? How to figure out which size is appropriate for you?
Keep reading to understand bra sizes in detail.
How to take accurate measurements?
All you need is a measuring tape if you are taking measurements at home. Wear a regular bra and grab a measuring tape. Two areas are focused on when measuring - the underbust and overbust.
The underbust is just below your breasts. The overbust is the biggest part of your chest, where the bra cups usually rest. You need both the measurements for understanding bra sizes.
Measure the underbust area by wrapping the tape around your rib cage. Note down the number. Let’s say the number is 32. Now, proceed to measure the overbust area. Wrap the tape over your breasts and note the number. Let’s say it’s 34.
Calculating the size
You have the underbust and overbust measurements. You can now proceed to calculate the size. Subtract the underbust measurement from the overbust measurement.
In this case, 34-32=2.
Your bra size is 32B.
What does the number mean?
32 is your underbust, which means it is the band size. The band size is where the band of the bra sits, which means the portion of the chest just under the breasts.
What does the letter mean?
-
Letters denote cup volume. The difference between the underbust and overbust is converted to a letter by matching it with the letters in the alphabet series. If the difference is 2, 2 = B because B is the second letter of the alphabet series.
-
This is how bra size numbers and letters are calculated. Understanding bra sizes becomes easy once you know the calculation method.
-
The letters signify the cup volume. Larger cups are demoted by letters D and beyond. You will find cup sizes ranging from A to D in all stores. Beyond D sizes may be available only in select stores.
Sister sizes
If your bra doesn’t fit well despite taking accurate measurements, you can always go for sister sizes. Sister sizes help you wear a bra comfortably by moving a size up or down.
If your band is tight, increase your band size by one size and reduce the cup size. That means if your original size is 34B, the sister size would be 36A.
Similarly, if your band is loose, you can reduce the band size and increase the cup size. In this case, it would be 32C.
Conclusion
The secret to understanding bra sizes lies in decoding the numbers and letters correctly. If you think your measurements are not accurate, you can go to a nearby lingerie store and get measurements taken by a professional. This will help you arrive at the right bra size. Bras are your best companions if you wear them right. They boost confidence, enhance support, and flatter your silhouette. Shop your bras at Bold And Bae Fashion and empower yourself with vibrant styles.
Team Bold And Bae Fashion
