Bra size confusion! Help please...

[KingRolo]

I'm still bf so don't really want to bother getting a proper fitting done but I do need to buy a new bra or two as my breasts have changed shape completely since having DD.

I measure 31" under the bust and 37" around the bust. I wear size 12 / 14 tops.

I am confused as to what size to buy - on one website I am 36A, on another 36D!! But the 36D bra I have now is way too loose round the back so I suspect I need to go smaller?

If anyone can help I'd be so grateful .

[TheChewyToffeeMum]

I would guess around 32E. If you are 31" under the bust there is no way you are a 36 - either 30 or 32 then add a cup size for each additional inch to 37"(doubles eg DD are usually half sizes). You do need to try several different makes and styles though as they are all slightly different.

HTH

[foreveroptimistic]

36B.

When determining the back size you add 4 inches to your measurements if it is an even number or 5 if it is an odd number. Then to get the right cup size you add an extra cup for each additional inch. Does that make sense?

[foreveroptimistic]

If the 36 is too big I would try 34C/D.

[theDreadPirateRoberts]

Noooo! Don't add inches to back size! Back size is exactly that and adding inches will just make it ride up/sit 3 inches out from your ribs...

[Kayzr]

Yes do NOT add inches!!! I was told I was a 44DD but it was round my knees!!

[ruddynorah]

noooo! try 32e.

the back should be the same height as the front, not loose and riding up if you lift your arms.

the middle of the cups should sit against your breast bone.

the cup itself should go around the breast tissue. if it has wiring no wire should touch the breast tissue at all it should sit against the boddy.

if you've lost shape following pregnancy/feeding you may find a moulded cup gives you some shape back.

[ruddynorah]

'the middle' i mean the part that joins the 2 cups together.

[KingRolo]

Thanks everyone!

So I don't need to add inches then? I've been doing that for years - hence the 36D bra I have on today that doesn't bloody fit!

Is it this confusion that's responsible for the oft quoted figure of 80% of women wearing the wrong bra size?

I quite like the sound of being a 32E .

[KingRolo]

Good advice re moulded cup too ruddynorah - will try that!

[foreveroptimistic]

You really are supposed to add inches to the back size, even bravissimo will tell you that. If not that makes me a 27K which is cartoon like!