Bra sizing and care
How to Fit a Bra : Three Easy Steps to Fitting a Bra
1. Band Measurement: Measure under your bust, without a bra, using a cloth tape measure. Gently pull the tape measure around your rib cage. Add 3 to the number to get the band measurement.
Example: If your measurement is 37", add 3" for a band size of 40.
2. Bust Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your bust. Do not pull the tape measure too tight.
Example: Your bust at the fullest part is 45".
3. Cup Size = Bust Measurement - Band Measurement:
Cup Size Conversion: 2" = B, 3" = C, 4" = D, 5" = DD, 6" = DDD
Example: 45" - 40" = 5". Your cup size is DD and your bra size is 40DD.
BRA SIZING
Bra sizing is in U.S. terms. A-D is A-D, DD is E. F is DDD.
It is estimated that 70% of women wear the WRONG bra size!
Poorly fitting bras can cause back strain and loss of firmness.
Get your cloth tape out and see if you are among that 70%.
Determining your bra size
Band size
1. Measure around your chest where your bra strap would go.
2. Round the number up or down one depending on your choice of snug or loose fit.
3. If you round the number down it is possible you may need to go up one-cup size.
Cup size
1. Measure around the fullest part of your bust.
2. Take this number and subtract your band size from it.
3. Now the chart below tells you what size cup you are.
{Difference in inches = cup size}
0 to 1 ½ inches = A cup
1 ½ - 2 ½ = B
2 ½ - 3 ½ = C
3 ½ - 4 ½ = D
4 ½ - 5 ½ = DD/E
5 ½ - 6 ½ = F
6 ½ - 7 ½ = G
How do you know if your bra fits?
1. First- remember that the elasticity of bras naturally wears out decreasing the function of the
bra.
2. Most bras should be replaced every 6 months.
3. The band fits if it is level (not riding up or drooping) across your back. It should be snug,
but not too tight for comfort, when you use the center hooks.
4. The underwire and centerpiece should be flat against your chest.
5. If a bra does not fit you can try a smaller band width and larger cup size or vice versa.
6. The back band of your bra should be anchored at or below your shoulder blades.
Fitting tips:
1. Wrinkled cups. Go down a cup size
2. Spilling breasts- larger cup size or fuller coverage bra
3. Falling straps- adjust the straps or go down a cup size
4. Band rides up in back- Try a tighter hook or loosen straps. If that does not work go down
one band size
5. Strap marks- Try loosening straps or try more supportive bra with padded straps
Bra Care
1. Hand wash bras.
2. If you do use a washing machine use a mesh
lingerie wash bag. If you do not already use a
wash bag you will be surprised at how they
prolong the life of the bra and keep it
looking new.
3. Using the dryer for bras or panties will
greatly decrease their lifespan.
4. Rotate your bras. A day of rest for your bra
will give it time to return to its original
fit and will prolong the elasticity of the bra
fabric.
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