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Calculating Bra Size

Bra sizes consist of

a band size and a cup size

 

The band size is an even number (such as 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 and so on). 

 

The cup size is a letter (such as A, B, C, D, DD (which is a fancy name for E), DDD (which is a fancy name for F), G, H, I, J, K and so on).

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See below for instructions to easily calculate band size and cup size

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Ready? Get a tape measure and put on an unlined or lightly lined bra  

To calculate band size:  

- Wrap the tape measure snugly around the bottom band of the bra (at your ribcage directly under your breasts)

-Write down the number on the tape measure

-Add 3 to the number on the tape measure

The final number is YOUR BAND SIZE

-If the final number is an odd number, round up to the next even number -- because U.S. band sizes are even. 

Examples:

*If the number on the tape measure is 33, you would add 3 (33 + 3 = 36).  In this example, the band size is 36, the final number.

*If the number on the tape measure is 32, you would add 3 (32 + 3 = 35).  In this example, the band size is also 36.  Why?

-The final number is 35.  However, 35 is an odd number.   

-Since US band sizes are even, you would have to round up to the next even number, which is 36.

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To calculate cup size:

-Wrap the tape measure loosely around the fullest part of your breasts

-Write down the number on the tape measure

-Subtract the band size from the number on the tape measure.

The difference (final number) is used to help calculate YOUR CUP SIZE

- 1 inch is equal to a cup size of A.

- 2 inches are equal to a cup size of B.

- each additional inch is one cup size up.

Examples:

Difference   1"   |   2"   |   3"   |   4"   |       5"      |        6"         |   7"   |   8"   |   9"  |   10"  |   11"   |

Cup Size      A    |   B    |   C    |   D    |   DD/E   |   DDD/F   |   G    |   H    |    I    |     J    |     K    |

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Most importantly, your bra should be comfortable! 

Take advantage of adjustable bands and straps when available.  Adjust band size and cup size if the formula does not work for you!

Notes:

-Band size and cup size work together. 

-If one is adjusted, the other one must be adjusted. 

-If the band feels too tight, go up a band size and down a cup size. 

-If the band feels too loose, go down a band size and up a cup size.

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