Bra sizing is a nightmare. Many women struggle to find a bra that fits properly, and the fact that there’s no real standard sizing across different brands or countries just makes things worse. A size 34C in one brand might fit perfectly, but in another, it might be too tight or too loose.
That’s where a bra sizing chart conversion comes in handy. These charts are designed to help you convert your bra size from one system (like US sizing) to another (like UK or European sizing).
This article will walk you through how to use these charts and better understand the weird world of international bra sizing.
Measuring Your Bra Size: The Foundation for Accurate Conversion
Before you even think about a bra size conversion chart, you’ve gotta get your measurements right. Here’s how to do it.
Measuring Your Band Size
Grab a measuring tape and wrap it snugly around your ribcage, right under your bust. Make sure the tape is level and flat against your skin.
Some older measuring guides will tell you to add inches to that measurement, but that’s an outdated practice.
Measuring Your Cup Size
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level. Wear a non-padded bra to get the most accurate measurement.
Then, subtract your band size from your bust size. Every inch of difference corresponds to a cup size. So, 1 inch is an A cup, 2 inches is a B cup, 3 inches is a C cup, and so on.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
If you want to use a conversion chart effectively, you have to start with accurate measurements.
It’s a good idea to remeasure your bra size once a year or after any major body changes, such as significant weight loss or weight gain, or pregnancy.
Understanding international bra sizing systems
Bra sizes aren’t standard across the globe, so here’s a quick look at some key sizing systems.
Key sizing systems: US, UK, EU
In general, band sizes in the U.S. and UK are pretty similar, but cup sizing? Not so much. A DD cup in the U.S. might be an E cup in the UK.
The European Union uses a numerical system for band sizes (70, 75, 80, etc.), and the cup sizes are different than they are in the U.S. and the UK.
Other sizing systems: France/Spain, Japan, Australia
France and Spain are similar to the EU, but not exactly the same. Japan uses its own special sizing system, and Australia generally goes by UK sizing practices.
Common pitfalls and considerations
Sizing can vary quite a bit from brand to brand, even within the same country, so if you can, check the company’s sizing chart. Shopping for bras online can be tricky, especially if you’re ordering from another country. Take a look at the sizing chart and see what other customers say about the fit before you click “buy.”
Using bra size conversion charts and calculators
There are plenty of bra size conversion charts and calculators online, but here’s how to make the most of them:
How to use a conversion chart
- First, measure yourself or have a professional measure you to find your band and cup size in your current sizing system (U.S., Europe, UK, Australia, etc.).
- Next, find the corresponding size in the sizing system you’re targeting, using the chart.
Online bra size calculators
Online bra size calculators can give you a faster conversion, but they’re not always perfect.
Simply enter your band and bust measurements, and the calculator will give you the converted size. But keep in mind that different brands may cut their bras differently, so calculators won’t be 100% accurate all the time.
The importance of trying it on
The best way to make sure a bra fits you properly is to try it on in the converted size. You may have to go up or down a size, depending on the brand and style, to get a bra that fits well and feels comfortable.
Troubleshooting common bra-fitting issues
- Band too tight or loose: Your bra band should sit comfortably around your ribcage. If it feels too tight or too loose, adjust the band size.
- Cup size too small or large: You should fill the cups without overflowing or having gaps. If this is happening, adjust the cup size.
- Straps digging into your shoulders: Adjust the strap length. Or, consider a bra with wider straps.
- Underwire digging into your skin: The underwire should sit against your ribcage without digging in. If it is, try a different bra.
- Still not sure? Consult with a lingerie specialist for personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 36C bigger than a 34C?
Yes! While both are “C” cups, a 36C is bigger overall than a 34C. The number refers to the band size, which represents the circumference around your ribcage directly under your bust. So, a 36C has a larger band size than a 34C. The cup sizes are relative to the band size. This means that a 36C cup will hold more volume than a 34C cup, even though they’re both labeled “C.” Think of it like this: the “C” cup is sized to fit proportionally on the 34 or 36 band.
Why add 4 inches to band size?
The practice of adding 4 inches to your underbust measurement to determine your band size is an outdated method that was common in the past. This method was originally created to accommodate bras that were less stretchy and less true-to-size than what we have today. Nowadays, it’s generally more accurate to simply measure your underbust snugly and use that measurement (or round to the nearest whole number) as your band size. Using the old method can often lead to an incorrectly sized bra, especially one with a band that’s too loose, so it’s best to avoid it!
Key Takeaways
Bra size conversion charts can be helpful, but they aren’t perfect. Always check the sizing guides for the specific brand you’re buying, and whenever possible, try on the bra before you buy it.
To find a bra that fits well and gives you the right support, you need accurate measurements, an understanding of different sizing systems, and a willingness to try on a few different styles.
Remember to measure yourself regularly, and if you have questions, don’t hesitate to get help from a professional fitter.