Select Your Bra Size Chart

Why Are There Different Bra Size Charts?

When it comes to finding the right fit, you may wonder why there are different bra size charts for various countries. This is because bra sizes are determined by two main measurements: the band size, which measures around your rib cage, and the cup size, reflecting the difference between your bust and band measurements.

However, measurement systems tend to vary across regions, resulting in unique size charts for each country. For example, the and United Kingdom use distinct methods for labeling cup sizes, which can make the process confusing when shopping internationally. Understanding these variations helps make the search for the perfect fit much easier.

Why Understanding Bra Size Charts Matters

A properly fitting bra ensures comfort, support, and confidence. Wearing the wrong size can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and even back pain. As women increasingly shop globally, knowing the difference between United States and United Kingdom bra size systems helps eliminate confusion and ensures you select the correct size.

Basics of Bra Sizing

Band Size: The number, such as 32 or 36, represents the measurement around your ribcage.

Cup Size: The letter, such as A, D, or G, represents the difference between your bust measurement and band size.

Although the concept is similar in the United States and United Kingdom systems, the specific sizing standards differ.

Key Differences Between United States and United Kingdom Bra Size Charts

1. Cup Size Variations

• United States System: Cup sizes increase in single-letter increments (A, B, C, D) until D. After that, the system uses additional letters such as DD, DDD (E), and so on.
• United Kingdom System: The United Kingdom cup sizing follows a similar progression but diverges after D. Instead of DDD, the United Kingdom uses E, F, FF, G, GG, and so forth. This creates more intermediate sizes, allowing for finer adjustments in fit.

Example:

• A United States 34DDD is equivalent to a United Kingdom 34E.
• A United States 36G is roughly equivalent to a United Kingdom 36FF.

2. Band Size Measurement

• Both the United States and United Kingdom measure the band size around the ribcage under the bust. However, the Bra size calculator methods differ slightly, which can result in discrepancies
• United Kingdom brands tend to emphasize tighter bands for better support, while some United States brands might add inches to the ribcage measurement to determine the band size.

Why the Differences Exist

The main reason behind the differences between the systems used in these two countries is the actual difference in the measuring techniques as well as the traditional shortcoming, which influenced the population, during the period of the twentieth century.

British companies Panache and Freya are more inclined to providing more cup sizes with better band support, whereas American VS and Wacoal brands are more inclined to provide standardized size bras for the general market.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size Across Systems

1. Measure Yourself Correctly

• Band Size: Use a measuring tape to measure around your ribcage, directly under your bust. Keep the tape snug but not tight.
• Bust Size: Measure the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape stays level.

Subtract the band size from the bust size to determine your cup size.

2. Refer to Conversion Charts

• Always that brand’s size chart before buying sports attire. This is true in some brands because the size that is used in United States and United Kingdom may differ.

3. Try Before You Buy

• If you can, wear the bras from both systems so that you will be able to tell the difference in the fit. While selecting the clothes for online shopping, try to buy them from brands that offer free return if the buyer doesn’t like it or free exchange policy.

4. Consider Your Breast Shape

• United Kingdom bras often cater to fuller busts with deeper cups and narrower wires. United States bras may provide a better fit for shallow or wide-set breasts.

Popular United States and United Kingdom Bra Brands

United States Brands

• Victoria’s Secret
• Wacoal
• Calvin Klein
• Maidenform

United Kingdom Brands

• Freya
• Panache
• Bravissimo
• Curvy Kate

Each brand has its unique sizing nuances, so it's essential to check their size guides.

Common Challenges in Converting Sizes

1. Confusion with Double Letters

• The United States uses terms like DDD or F interchangeably, while the United Kingdom separates these into distinct sizes like E and F.

2. Variation in Band Tightness

• A United Kingdom 34 band may feel tighter than a United States 34, leading some to size up in United Kingdom brands.

3. Availability

• Many stores in the United States don’t stock United Kingdom brands, making it harder to try before buying. Conversely, United Kingdom shoppers might struggle to find Unites States exclusive sizes.