H ere is an easy way to Measure...

• Using a tape measure, measure around the rib cage, under the natural breast where the breast tissue joins the body.  Do this without a bra on.  Take a snug measurement.

• Now, add 5” to this measurement (3” for measurements over 39”).  Example: If you measured 31”, add 5” which equals 36”. This is your band or bra size measurement. With this number, you should probably wear a size 36 bra.  If you measured 39”, added 3” to equal 42”, you should probably wear a size 42 bra.

• If, after adding 5” or 3” there is an uneven measurement, like 37” or 43”, go up to the next even size.  Example: 32” + 5” = 37”, so start with a size 38 bra.

Now, measure for the correct cup size...

• Measure from the center of the chest all the way around the fullest area of the natural breast back to the center of the front. Example: 38”

• If this measurement is the same number or up to 1” larger than the bra size number (36”, 38”, 40”, etc.). You are an A cup.

• If this measurement is 1”- 2” larger than the bra size, you are an B cup.

• If this measurement is 2”- 3” larger than the bra size, you are an C cup.

• If this measurement is 3”- 4” larger than the bra size, you are an D cup.

• If this measurement is 4”- 5” larger than the bra size, you are an DD cup.

• And so on for bigger cup sizes.

With these two measurements, the band number and the cup letter, you should be able to properly fit your figure.  But remember, these measurements are only a guide line.  Look for these characteristics when judging if a bra fits you correctly...

Checkpoints for a well fitting bra...

• The straps should comfortably support the breasts and not cut into the shoulders.
• The bra band should not be constricting around the rib cage. It should be loose enough so you can comfortably slide two fingers under and around the band.
• Your breasts should fully fit into each cup (even a pushup bra) without creating an uneven bulge at the top of each cup.
• The space between each cup should lie close to the body and not gap.
• The back straps should line up over each shoulder blade.
• Always hook to the middle or inner row of hooks.

W hat if...

Question: My straps slide off my shoulders?
Answer:   You are probably wearing too small a band size. Go up a size.  Do not use a bra extender as it misaligns the straps.

Question: My breasts touch in the middle?
Answer:   The cup is too small and the breasts are forced to the middle.  The band size also may be too small forcing the cups toward the center of the chest. Go up a cup size first and then try a bigger band size as well.

Question: I have deep grooves in my shoulders?
Answer:     Look for a bra style with a broader strap and band for better support.