A well-fitted bra is comfortable from morning to evening: it doesn't dig in, doesn't ride up on your back, and doesn't require constant strap adjustments. A poorly fitted one can ruin any outfit and your mood. In this guide, we show you step-by-step how to measure yourself, how to read your size from a chart, and how to tell if a bra fits properly. If you want to know the result immediately, use the calculator on the bra size chart page.
What makes up a bra size?
Bra size in European labeling has two parts, e.g., 75C:
- The number (65, 70, 75, 80…) is the underbust circumference in centimeters, rounded to the nearest 5 cm. It indicates how snug the bra band should be.
- The letter (A, B, C, D…) is the cup size, which is the difference between the bust circumference and the underbust circumference.
Important: the cup letter does not indicate a constant volume. A C cup in size 70C is smaller than in 85C. We explain how to use this in the guide on sister sizes.
How to measure yourself: two measurements
You will need a soft tape measure and a mirror. It is best to measure yourself in a thin, unpadded bra or without one, standing straight and breathing naturally.
1. Underbust circumference
Wrap the tape measure horizontally just below your bust, where your breasts end. The tape should be snug, but not painfully tight. Check in the mirror that it doesn't ride up at the back. Write down the result in centimeters.
2. Bust circumference
Measure the circumference at the fullest part of your bust, usually at nipple level. This time, the tape measure should be loose, without compressing. For large or soft breasts, it's also good to measure while leaning forward and take the larger result.
How to read the size from the chart
Round your underbust circumference result to the nearest band size:
| Underbust circumference (cm) | Band size |
|---|---|
| 63–67 | 65 |
| 68–72 | 70 |
| 73–77 | 75 |
| 78–82 | 80 |
| 83–87 | 85 |
| 88–92 | 90 |
| 93–97 | 95 |
| 98–102 | 100 |
Then subtract your underbust circumference from your bust circumference and read the cup size:
| Difference (cm) | Cup size |
|---|---|
| 10–12 | A |
| 12–14 | B |
| 14–16 | C |
| 16–18 | D |
| 18–20 | E |
| 20–22 | F |
| 22–24 | G |
| 24–26 | H |
Example: underbust 76 cm, bust 92 cm. An underbust of 76 cm corresponds to size 75. A difference of 16 cm falls between C and D. It's worth trying on 75C and 75D and choosing the one where the cup better encompasses the breast. You can find models in this size in the 75C bras collection.
A full chart with conversions to UK, FR, and US sizes, as well as a calculator that will determine your size for you, can be found on the how to choose your size page.
How to tell if a bra fits well
Measurement is a starting point. The final answer comes from trying it on. Check five things:
- The band lies horizontally and doesn't ride up on your back. Fasten a new bra on the loosest hook, as the material will stretch over time, and you'll move to tighter ones.
- The gore, which is the center part between the cups, lies flat against your breastbone.
- The cups encompass the entire breast. Nothing spills out at the top or sides, and the material doesn't wrinkle.
- The underwires encircle the breast from the side and do not press on breast tissue under the armpit.
- The straps don't dig in and don't slip off. Approximately 80% of the support should come from the band, not the straps.
Symptoms of a poorly fitted size and what to do about them
| Symptom | Probable cause | What to change |
|---|---|---|
| Band rides up on the back | band too loose | smaller band, e.g., from 80C to 75D |
| Band digs in and leaves marks | band too tight | larger band, e.g., from 70D to 75C |
| Breast spills out at the top or side | cup too small | one cup size larger |
| Cup wrinkles or gaps | cup too big or unsuitable style | one cup size smaller or different style |
| Gore lifts off the body | cup too small | one cup size larger |
| Straps hurt or slip off | band too loose, weight shifted to shoulders | tighter band, adjust straps |
Why sizes differ between brands
Every manufacturer has its own molds and sizing. The same size 75C can therefore fit differently in a Kris Line bra than in a Selene or Mat model. The style also plays a significant role: a balconette exposes more of the bust than a full-cup model, and a soft-cup bra usually forgives more than a padded one. If there is a manufacturer's chart with the product, treat it as more important than a general one. We write about styles in the bra styles guide.
When to remeasure?
Bust size changes with weight, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, after changes in physical activity, and for many people, also during their cycle. It's worth remeasuring every few months or whenever your favorite bra stops being comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
My result falls between two sizes. Which one should I choose?
For the band, choose the smaller one, as the bra will stretch over time. For the cup, choose the larger one. It's best to try on both adjacent sizes.
Can I wear a sister size?
Yes. If the band is too loose and the cup is fine, choose a smaller band and a larger cup, e.g., instead of 80B, size 75C. More in the guide on sister sizes.
What if the size doesn't fit after purchase?
You have 14 days to return it. If you want a different size, return the product and place a new order. Details can be found in the frequently asked questions.
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