How To Find the Right Bra Size for Your Body
Let’s be honest: Sometimes, bra shopping is no easy walk in the park. Between the different styles, sizes, and fits, the market is full of these undergarments and finding the “right” one is pretty challenging, to say the least. Not to worry, though; TomboyX is here to help!
In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know to find the right bra size for your body. So if you’re under the impression that a comfortable bra is as elusive as a Leprechaun's pot of gold at the end of a rainbow — keep reading. Your new-found treasure is only a scroll away:
Why Is Bra Size Important?
Before we dive into the steps to finding the right bra, let’s go over the benefits of wearing the perfect bra size for your body.
Improved Comfort
The wrong bra size can be uncomfortable. Having the perfect fit in a bra can make a huge difference when it comes to comfort and preventing any spillage.
With the right fit, you won’t have to worry about straps digging into your shoulders and breast tissue or the cup being too tight. You’ll be able to forget about the annoying bulge from the back band of your bra. Then, you can focus on what really matters on your to-do list.
Enhanced Confidence
Knowing that you look and feel your best is a great way to boost your confidence. With a flawless bra fit, you’ll be able to be confident in how you look and how you feel.
More Support
Having the right size bra can also provide you with more support. A well-fitting bra can help to reduce the strain on your back and neck. This can help to keep your spine aligned and reduce strain on the muscles in the back and neck.
Better Posture
Having a bra that fits properly can help to improve your posture. With the right fit, you’ll be able to have your shoulders pulled back and torso upright. This can help you to look taller and help to improve your overall posture. When a bra is too tight, it can pull you down — physically and emotionally.
Minimized Back Pain
A well-fitted bra may reduce back pain. This is because the right size bra can help to reduce strain on the muscles in your back and neck. The right fit can help to keep your spine aligned and reduce any pressure that can lead to back pain.
Complements Your Outfits
With a well-fitting bra, you won’t have to worry about sagging or bulging in the wrong places. Now, clothes will fit exactly like they are supposed to, making every outfit a 10/10.
How To Measure Bra Size: Find the Correct Bra Size Every Time
Now that you understand how beneficial a good bra can be to your overall health and wellness, you might be wondering how to find the right size.
The three steps listed below can help guide you:
Step 1: Measure Your Bust Size and Bra Band Size
The first step in finding the perfect bra size is getting your bust measurement and band size. To do this, you’ll need a good quality measuring tape. Start by wrapping the measuring tape around your ribcage, just under your bust. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight.
Once you’ve got a measurement, round it up to the nearest whole number — this is your band size.
Step 2: Measure Your Cup Size
Next, measure the circumference around your chest with a tape measure at the fullest part of your bust. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the floor for the most accurate measurements.
Take the measurements and subtract your band size from it. Each inch difference determines the cup size. For example, if your band size is 34 inches and your chest circumference is 36 inches, the difference is two inches. This results in a cup size of B.
Step 3: Bra Size Calculator
Once you have the measurements for your band size and cup size, you can combine them to find your size. For example, if your band size is 34 inches and your cup size is B, your bra size is 34B. The same goes for a larger cup size like a C cup or D cup — match up your band measurement with your cup, and you’re good to go.
What Are Different Types of Bras?
Once you’ve taken your measurements, it’s time to start shopping. Researching the various bra styles and understanding the fit of each can help you find a style you love and ensure you get the right amount of support.
With this in mind, here are some of the most common types of bras to consider:
Traditional Bras
Traditional bras are the most common type of bras and often come with straps and cups. They provide support to your breasts and can come in a variety of fabrics and styles.
The most popular traditional bras include t-shirt bras, balconette bras, and push-up bras. Traditional bras are typically well-suited for everyday wear and will help keep your breasts secure and comfortable.
Sports Bras
Sports bras are specifically designed to provide support during physical activity. They usually feature an adjustable band and straps that can be adjusted for a snug fit. Sports bras come in a variety of materials and styles; some are more focused on compression (like extreme sports or rigorous activities). Others are more focused on general comfort while we’re moving and grooving.
Soft Bras
Soft Bras are designed to be more breathable and lightweight with patterns and colors meant to bring a smile to our faces. Soft bras have no underwire or built-in padding (though many of our bras come with a pocket to add a bra insert), and the silky stay-put chestband helps the bra stay in place but never squeeze or pull.
Bralettes
Bralettes are generally non-padded bras that combine what we love about crop tops with what we love about bras. What do we mean? Well, bralettes are so often worn as shirts that the fashion world basically considers them outwear as well as innerwear.
Strapless Bras
Strapless bras provide support without the need for straps. These bras are great for when you want to wear a strapless dress or top, as they provide support and coverage.
Strapless bras come in various styles and materials. For instance, some strapless bras come with detachable straps, so you can easily transition from strapless to a more traditional style. Others have a sticky lining that helps keep the breasts in place. Strapless bras come in a range of different levels of padding and are either molded or have an underwire providing support.
Push-Up Bras
Push-up bras are designed to provide a little extra lift and cleavage, usually via underwire and extra padding. These bras are great for when you want to accentuate your curves. Push-up bras come in various styles and tons of various fabrics and colors. Additions like lace, rhinestones, and similar details are common.
Note: Keep an eye on sister sizes when it comes to all manners of bras, but especially those in the traditional bra category — a bra size chart is your BFF here.
Bandeau Bras
Bandeau bras are a type of strapless bra that is usually made from a stretchy fabric. These bras are great for when you want to achieve an effortless and comfortable look without the need for the snuggest straps or the tightest hooks. Bandeau bras are also great for layering and can provide extra coverage when you’re wearing a low-cut top.
Plunge Bras
Plunge bras are designed to provide minimal coverage and maximum cleavage. These bras come in clutch when you want to show off your curves and create a dramatic look.
Tips and Tricks for Picking the Best Bra
When selecting a bra, there are many tips and tricks you can keep in mind. For example, for max comfort, avoid bras with underwires, as these can be uncomfortable and cause irritation. Instead, you may want to opt for soft, comfortable bras with wide or padded adjustable straps that provide more support.
Another trick of the trade is when you try on a new bra, throw on a t-shirt over top and check to see in the mirror if there is a smooth transition under your top. You don’t want to see any bumps on your bust or underarms, as this is a clear sign of spilling out and the cups are too small. You also dont want to be able to see a very obvious ridge at the top of the bra as this typically means the bra cups are too large. When you bend over in the mirror you should not see any space between the cup and your breast tissue. Cups should be flush to breast tissue at all times.
You can also look for bras with seamless edges, as these have a more natural and flattering fit. Finally, always check the size chart — our sizing guide at TomboyX ranges from 3XS to 6XL so everyone can get the boost and support they need.
By taking the time to consider all the factors, you can be sure to find the bra that fits you best. Remember to consider comfort, support, and style — and don't forget to take into account additional considerations such as padding and undergarments.
With these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect bra for you!
Sources:
Relationship Between Brassiere Cup Size and Shoulder-Neck Pain in Women | PMC
Can You Blame a Poorly Fitted Bra for Your Back Pain? | Cleveland Clinic
How to measure your bra size at home for a perfect fit | Glamour UK
A Bra That Fits Calculator | A Bra That Fits Visual Measuring Guide