A lot of people think that the number in a bra size is the measurement around your chest. That’s not actually the case!
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Introduction
There are a lot of numbers associated with bras – band size, cup size, sister size – and it can be confusing to keep them all straight. But the number that perhaps causes the most confusion is the one in the middle: the bra size.
So, what does the number in a bra size mean? The answer is actually quite simple: it is the measurement around your ribcage, directly under your bust. To find your bra size, you will need a soft measuring tape and a mirror. First, wrap the tape around your ribcage, making sure it is level all the way around. Be sure not to squeeze too tight – you should be able to slide a finger under the tape for comfort. Once you have your measurement, round to the nearest whole number. This is your band size.
Next, use the mirror to determine your cup size. Place the tape at the fullest part of your bust, again making sure it is level all the way around. Once you have your measurement, subtract your band size from it. Each inch difference corresponds to a cup size:
1 inch = A cup
2 inches = B cup
3 inches = C cup
4 inches = D cup
5 inches = DD or E cup
6 inches = F or FF cup
7 inches = G or GG cup
8 inches = H or HH cup
9 inches = I or II cup
So, if your band measurement is 34 inches and your bust measurement is 37 inches, you would be a 34C – 34 inches around with a C cup. Easy enough!
What is a band size?
The number in a bra size indicates the measurements of the rib cage below the breasts. For example, if your measuring taperead 32 inches around your rib cage just below your breasts, you would wear a size 32 band. The tape should be snug but not constricting, and should rest level around your body—not ride up in the back.
What is a cup size?
A cup size is the volume of a woman’s breast. The size of a cup is indicated by a letter, with most manufacturers using the letters A through D. However, some companies use different sizing systems, so a woman who wears a 34B from one brand may need a 36C from another.
volume = π * r2 * h
How are bra sizes measured?
Most bras are sized according to a system that assigns a number (usually ranging from 30 to 44) for the chest band and a letter (A, B, C, or D) for the cup. For example, 38C. The chest band is the piece that runs around your rib cage and fastens in back. The cup is the part that covers and supports your breasts.
The problem with this system is that it doesn’t take into account the shape of a woman’s body or how her breasts attach to her chest. As a result, two women who have the same chest measurement may need different size bras. In addition, a woman’s weight can fluctuate and cause her bra size to change. And finally, as we age, our bodies change and we may need a different size bra than we did when we were younger.
So how can you be sure you’re wearing the right size bra? The best way is to get fitted by a professional who can help you find a style that fits well and provides the support you need.
What do the numbers and letters in a bra size mean?
The numbers in a bra size (32B, 34C, etc.) indicate the band size while the letters indicate the cup size. Cup sizes vary across brands, so it’s important to always try on a bra before purchasing it.
The band size (the number in a bra size) is the measure of the rib cage just under the breasts. Band sizes typically range from 28 to 44. The cup size (the letter in a bra size) is the measure of the fullness of the breast. Cup sizes range from A to DDD, with some brands offering larger sizes.
How do I find my bra size?
There are a few different methods you can use to find your bra size. The most common method is to use a tape measure. You can also use a measuring chart or get fitted by a professional.
To measure your bra size with a tape measure:
1) Measure around the bottom of your rib cage, under your bust. This is your band size.
2) Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your breasts, over the nipple. This is your bust size.
3) Subtract your band size from your bust size. This is your cup size.
4) Use this chart to determine your bra size:
Band Size: Under Bust Measurement (in inches)
Cup Size: Bust Measurement minus Band Size (in inches)
————————- ————————–
34 0″ = AA
36 1″ = A
38 2″ = B
40 3″ = C
42 4″ = D
44 5″ = DD or E
46 6″ = F
48 7″ = FF or G
Conclusion
To summarize, the number in a bra size (32, 34, 36, etc.) indicates the band size, while the letter (A, B, C, etc.) indicates the cup size. Bra sizes vary by brand and style, so it’s important to try on a few different styles and sizes before settling on the perfect fit.
