Everything Women Should Know About Bra Fitting: The Complete Guide

That uncomfortability turns into confusion when you notice multiple numbers and letters labelling the bras into specific categories throughout the entire store. A brand ambassador helps you pick out a few styles and guides you to a fitting room. Then, you throw the most awkward fashion show in your fitting room until you find the best-fitting bra(s). 

Finding the perfect bra is no one-time task; it’s a responsibility you’ll need to revisit as you grow in age and stage, from adolescence, to adulthood, maternity, through sickness, and for health. No matter the stage, bras are necessary to support, shape, and flatter the female body throughout their daily lives.

But how do you determine whether you’re wearing a proper fitting bra? Read to learn everything you need to know about the bra fitting process.

How to Understand Bra Sizing: The Basics

There are two important factors that will determine the right bra size: your band size and your cup size—also known as the numbers and letters labelling all of the undergarments in your local bra boutique. 

To get started, measure your band size. Lightly trace a tape measure around your body. Measure from two to three inches above your bust around to the middle of your back and record the inches. If you are in between sizes it is best to round down, as bra straps stretch significantly over time. To measure your cup size, loosely trace a tape measure directly on top of your bust around to the middle of your back. Record this number in inches as well. 

To get your final bra measurement, subtract the first measurement from the second measurement, ((second measurement (-) first measurement)). The sum of this will determine the letter grade of your bra size. 1=A, 2=B, 3=C, 4=D. Pair this with your initial band size (your first measurement), and you’ve discovered your final bra size. An example of a bra size is 38C. Check out our Bra Fitting Guide for more details

How to Find the Right Fit 

A proper fitting bra is determined by three distinctive features: the straps, the band, and the cups. Your bra straps should be tight enough to hold your breasts up between your shoulders and elbows, without cutting off your shoulders’ blood circulation. Test your straps’ tightness by slipping your index finger underneath both bras straps. If you can do this with ease, you’re in the clear. 

Pay attention to the middle front of your bra to test your band size. This section should sit securely against your breastbone. Your band should lay straight along the front and back of your body on the loosest hook.

You’ll know you’re wearing the right cup size when your breasts are fully supported within the bra cups, whether you are wearing a compression bra (resembling tank tops or crop tops) or an encapsulation bra (a two-cup bra, encapsulating each breast separately). In either case, make sure that your breasts are pressed tightly to your chest with little to no wiggle room, and completely covered with no spillage.

With all of these features in their proper place, you should feel the most confident in any thing you wear. The best fitting bras bring out the best in you—the best shape, the most flattering curves, an upright stature, and undeniable comfort.

When Should You Revamp Your Bra Collection?

Out with the old, in with the new. Revamping your bra collection is an absolute must. Bras are a part of a woman’s everyday wardrobe and are susceptible to wear and tear every so often. 

You’ll know it’s time for a new bra if the best part of your day is taking your bra off. A well-fitting bra looks and feels seamless, as if there’s nothing underneath your clothing. You won’t experience bruising from exposed wires and worn straps or appear to have deformed breasts while wearing old, stretched-out and distressed bras. 

Breast sizes also tend to fluctuate due to weight, dietary standards, medical state, or illness, so it’s best to book a bra fitting once every six months.

Why Bra Fittings Are Necessary

Setting annual time aside for a professional bra-fitting is a true form of self-care. The breasts are one of the most delicate areas of the female body. To avoid physical stress, breasts—large or small—need full support as often as possible to protect women from experiencing back pain, headaches, and other potential debilitations. Wearing the right-fitting bra has also proven to improve overall posture. 

Bra fittings equip you with in-depth knowledge as your body evolves overtime. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get the inside scoop for the top-performing bra styles and types (and those best for your body type) on the market as new bra innovations arise.

A typical bra fitting can last up to 30 minutes, with a quick measurement to start, followed by several style try-ons and consults.

Due for a Bra Fitting? Sports Bras Is Ready to Help

At this point, you’re likely wondering when or where to start or continue your fitting journey. Start with an online E-Bra Fitting Quiz to find the perfect bra for you.  Our customers have been using the E-Bra Fitting Quiz since 2003, and even more in the last couple of years as the demand to purchase bras online has increased. 

Our bra fitting experts will pick out the top three bras best suited to you and your needs.

At Sports Bras, we promote healthy living, quality products and sustainable support. Let us help you find your next perfect bra—we’ll give you less bounce for your buck.