I cup bras

What to look out for

In practice the letter describes the difference between two measurements, not the absolute size of the bust: the same cup on a 70 band and on a 90 band holds a completely different volume.

Which style to choose

At cup I practically every style has to have a full cup, a high side panel and wide straps. It is worth keeping two sister sizes in the drawer, because the band fabric stretches over time and what holds on the first row of hooks at the start only holds on the third after a season.

Fabrics and comfort

Check your size with two measurements: take the underbust measurement firmly, breathing out, and the bust measurement loosely, at the fullest point. The difference gives you the letter, the underbust measurement - the number. Every size has its sister sizes: the same bust also fits a band one size smaller with the next cup up, and a band one size larger with the next cup down. If your size is temporarily unavailable in a particular style, that is the first place worth looking.

Delivery and returns

The band should sit horizontally and pull away about two fingers, the underwires should rest on the ribs rather than on the breast, and the straps should not leave marks. Wash in a laundry bag at 30°C, fastened, and dry flat. Orders over PLN 199 ship free, 14 days to return.

Cup I is a difference in measurements of around 33-35 centimetres, one of the deepest sizes in European sizing. There are few styles in this range, because sewing such a roomy cup calls for a different construction rather than simply scaling up the pattern: it needs extra seams, a firmer finish at the side and a fastening that spreads the weight over a larger area of the back.

Every style in this collection uses lace and comes in bands from 65 to 80, usually as part of a series covering several neighbouring letters. That is useful in practice: if a particular series fits you well, you will most likely find the neighbouring size in it as well, which makes buying a second bra easier without guesswork.

At this cup depth there is no point rescuing the fit by pulling the band tighter. If the breast does not fit in the cup, a tighter band only moves the problem: the tissue will come out over the top or at the side anyway, and your back will start to feel the pressure. The right move is to take the letter up and leave the band unchanged.

Pay attention to the straps as well. At this weight they should be at least two centimetres wide and fully adjustable, otherwise they dig into the shoulders. You will find the neighbouring cup volume in cup H, and the remaining styles in this range in larger sizes. Convert band sizes using the size guide.