Mumsnet Talk

Do you like to wear them super tight so you know they are there and leave bra marks when you take them off, or have them at a looser more comfortable setting? Im asking this because i have realised all of my old bras are pretty super tight on me, but my new ones are so comfortable and no way as tight but i wonder if they will still support my bust the same?

They should be tight but able to slip 2 fingers under the sides .

Measure under your rib cage - pull it quite tight.

I measure around 31 and buy a 32 C/D bra.

I used to buy a 34 A which was completely wrong

Sorry- meant measure under your bust- top of ribs!

They need to be quite tight don't they?

I may be wrong but I thought that the strap around your underbust should be tight enough to provide the support. This avoids the shoulder straps bearing the weight and avoiding the "digging in" ridges on the shoulders. This is how strapless bras are meant to work!!

I thought that when you measure you shoudl add 4 or 5" depending on whether its an odd or even number

not any more with the adding.....

mine are tight, but they should be, they ride up if loose and are bloody annoying.
i wear a 34 c or d and am a size 14.

i used to wear the wrong size - i went to a small shop where the elderly woman fitter did everything by eye - not a tape measure in sight.

no haunted that's very old hat now!!

you measure under bosom and note the size....say 33 inches

you measure round the widest part and take away your under bosom measurement this give you the cup size....each inch of difference is a cup size

then you go to try on all the bras because they are all different sizes and 33 c means bog all!

Tight. I'm also 31 around and wear a 32D

But M&S still add 4-5"

here

Yes, but they're also infamous for the dire quality of their fitting service! That adding inches thing isn't done by any reputable fitter any more. If you want a department store fitting service, try John Lewis - they're normally fairly OK.

Yes, but they're also infamous for the dire quality of their fitting service! That adding inches thing isn't done by any reputable fitter any more. If you want a department store fitting service, try John Lewis - they're normally fairly OK.

<hides with my Tesco bras which I try on and keep if they fit and return if they don't>

Incidently I measure 33" and am currently wearing 36. Even that feels tighter than I would prefer but they don't make a 38A, so the adding 4-5" seems to work for me

I measure less than 30 round my ribs but wear a 32d and it fits me well and gives me a good shape.

A 30 would give me back fat and I'm really not that fat. My bras don't ride up at all and give good support but no red marks when I take them off.

The old add 4 or 5 inches never worked for me. I measure 27 in under my ribs and 33 round my bust and wear a 28dd or e. Used to wear 32c, back when 32 was the smallest you could find, and it just rode up and gave me no support.

It's the band that gives the support.

I measure 30-31- under and about 35 over. Depending on style I go for a 32 C, sometimes D.

You have to remember that bras stretch a lot after washing. I am now fastening my 32s on the first hook ( tightest) and could possibly wear a 30 back- but all makes are different. Elle McPherson ( not that I own any) are tiny, J Lewis own brand are generous IMO and I could maybe wear a 30 inch, and M&S are , IMO, all different! Some 32s are really tight, others generous.

I wear a 10 size top but occasionally an 8.

HauntedLittleLunatic Your 36 probably feels too tight because the cup is too small (even if it doesn't really seem it at the moment). Measure across the widest part of your bust and deduct the underbust (33" in your case) from that measurement. For example, if your across bust measurement is 37" then you should try on a 34D or a 32DD and the sizes closest to it (e.g. 32C/D/DD, 34C/D/DD/E).

The adding 4 or 5" definitely doesn't apply now as bra manufacturers no longer make/size bras that way.

According to that M&S chart I should be a 36DD. I wear (fitted by Rigby and Peller, John Lewis and Debehams) a 30G.

MrsCampbellBlack Bra fitters at R&P, John Lewis and Debehams (plus many on line bra expert bloggers!) all say that back fat (and under arm bulge) is actually migrated breast tissue caused by wearing a too small cup. I had back fat in a 34DD but now have none in a 30G.

Erm....I most definitely don't need a bigger cup...I don't even fill an A...I have just gone down from a 38B cos the cups were too big.

I have just measured myself at a 33" under bust and 37" on fullest part (which on the M&S chart would put me in a 38C )

And the Next sizing chart puts me in a 38AA. It is Next bra's that I usually buy.

They don't even make a 38A, let alone 38AA.

But haunted an A cup on a 32 in bra is not the same as an A coupon a 38 inch bra

Cup on

OK.

So my 38B fit nicely under the bust, but cups REALLY gape.
My 36A are tight under the bust but bareable, and gape for most of the month.

I'm confused where I go next.

Haunted you are more like a 32 or 34D. Yes, the bra can still be tight, as it does not support properly and rides up.

To answer OP's question, yes I certainly wear mine tight.

To debenhams/fenwicks/JL to get a fitting. Not m and s. they will find you a perfect fit and a perfect bra and you will live happily ever after.

and as musttidy said, the cups are not all the same size, 38B has the same cup size as 34D or 32DD

Sorry that was for haunted
To answer OP I wear them tight tight tight otherwise by poor saggy boobs would be too far south

As the Leia lady orders

I wear mine tight but the correct size for my boobs.

I've even educated my daughter on how to tell when a bra fits correctly. Band fits snugly and you can fit 2 fingers underneath it, boobs are fully encased by the cups, no spillage over the top or sides and the wires in the middle sit flat against the skin not poking forwards.

Haunted, the M and S chart is bollox - it would put DD in a 32C (she is a 28D, but would be 26D if they made them!) and me in a 34C (I am a 34 A)

Sorry for hijack

So. With my measurements of 33" and 37" and an online survey...

M & S say 38C
John Lewis say 38AA
Next say 38AA
Tesco say 38B
Debenhams won't even tell me but 33" and 38" would be a 38A
Dorothy Perkins is a 38AA
Bravissimo and Rigby and Peller a) won't advise based on measurements (fair enough) and b) won't make a bra small enough,.

I get what you are saying about cup size changing. But if all these sites are advising a 38" back size and that is what find comfortable (and a 36 too tight) I just don't get how I am even going to get a 32 or 34 done up

<I am currently wearing a 36A cos thats the closest to what I can find to what I self measure.>

I have been professionally measured in teh past and (whisphers M&S and mothercare) for nusring bras - came out at 38D and I know that I am way way way smaller in cup than I was then.

I cannot understand how that can be so. With an under bust measurement of 33 inches you should be in a 34 or maybe evens 32. Not not not a 38!

Haunted when you get your head around the the fact that 38C is the same size as 36D and 34DD and 32E then you start to see how having a tighter band but bigger cup size can still be a comfortable bra.

I see women all the time with boobs around their waistband because they are wearing such badly fitted bras. It must be hurting their shoulders and back with all that weight dragging on them.

Trust me you will . I can't fit into a 30C/D/DD etc but fit perfectly into a 30G (30FF in a few brands). Bras are funny things and the wrong cup size can really affect the fit of the band.

Please ignore all those online guides, they are rubbish and out of date. My local Debenhams however are quite good at fitting so obviously take no notice of their on-line chart!

Have a look at these links for more info:

www.thinandcurvy.com/2010/10/how-to-measure-your-bra-size-correct.html

www.investinyourchest.co.uk/diy-measure-yourself-at-home

Don't even start me on mothercare

Haunted M&S are notorious in putting people in wrong sizes - too big back and too small cup. There is no way you are A or AA with 4 inches between under and overbust measurements. Bravissimo sells D, go get measured there, they will of course tell you if you would really need a C.

Haunted - I measure 37 under bust and I wear a 36, a 38 is too loose on me.

M&S would have me in a 42E I wear a 36GG/H depending on the make.

Believe it or not, all those sites are wrong!

Measure underbust, this is your band measurement. If you are an odd number try the band sizes either side.

Measure overbust. Each 1" of difference equals one cup size.

So your starting point should be
32DD/E and
34C

(I think)

there is absolutely NO WAY you should be wearing a 38band size though, of that I am certain!

Next time I am in the city I shall head off to JL to get measured and report back, althought could be a few weeks.

<Keeps whittering, I just don't get how if the band on a 36, on the loosest setting feels too tight around the ribs and is visibly stretched after a couple of months a smaller band will fit...and I don't get how a bigger cup can make a band looser....although do get how a bigger band changes the cup sizes...and now I am terribly confused....wanders off after seriously hijacking thread for last hour>

I wear a 30" and have just measured myself at 31" under bust. It's nice and tight, but can still do the two finger thing.

Am off to bravissimo next week for some proper fitting advice, am somewhere around a 30GG or H I think (41" over bust).

I don't get the adding 4 inches thing??

HLL - it might surprise you how tight a properly fitted bra feels at first

I have just had a look at that m&s link That would have me in a 36!! Even an m&s 32" (smallest they do in a lot of styles ) is too big on me!

I wear Triumph Amourette. Have been wearing the same style for 10 years or more. Can't find anything else that fits like it. Originally fitted at John Lewis. When I'm a bit porky I wear a 36D when I am a better weight I wear a 34DD.

But my 36" is currently hurting me (physcological from this thread maybe - kind o like itching the head on a headlice thread???) and gives me red marks.

And I don't wear it on its tightest clip cos it is uncomfortable and digs in to my ribs even more.

And I am wearing a 36" (and would be a 38") cos that is what I find comfortable not cos of what a tape measure says. I measured myself for the first time in 11 years tonight for this thread (i.e. I didn't buy this size cos of measurements, but because I felt that a 38B was too big (and I couldn't get a 38A).

I will be back after I have been to JL.

<And I am not disputing that the M&S chart is bollocks...just that me wearing a 32" band sounds ludicrous>

HLL - it's hurting because your cup is much much too small. Your flesh is being squeezed into the wrong places and not being properly supported.

Enjoy your fitting

Looks down T-shirt

But with the bra that I am currently wearing (moulded cup) I currently have a gap of 0.5cm at the breastbone between breast and edge of cup and a gap of 1.5-2cm between breast and cup near my armpit....

OK, I am slouching...and not sitting properly but I promise my cup gapes even when standing with a good posture (which is why I went down a size from 38B).

Honestly I don't have boobs. They are non existent. I lay down and I am as flat as a pancake.

You must have some, otherwise why the 4 inch difference in measurement? Have you got your shoulder straps really short or long?

Definitely go and get fitted - and then report back!

Remember that the cup on a 36B is the same volume as a 34C and a 32D. If you wear a smaller back size your flesh will be held and supported in the right place and will fill the cup properly. The links I gave you up thread should give info about 'scooping' your flesh into the cup when putting your bra on.

My skinny size 6/8 niece with hardly any lumpy bits to speak of has been fitted as a 28D.

I went to m and s and la senza and got measured at a 38C a few months ago. Forked out a fortune on bras to there size.

Got fed up of wearing there bras so went to bravissimo and they measured me at a 34F!! Best day of my life, much more supported and comfortable now!

When I first started wearing bravissimo ones they did feel too tight but that was because I was so used to wearing too loose and they feel brill now I am used to it! X

I know about "nestling it in" by leaning forward. Admit I don't do it religeously, but I definietely don't have lumps of fat under my armpit...

I just have a broad back.

Honestly if I thought I would get away with posting photos I would.

Right I am off to take off my bra and get some sleep . I might see if I can get to JL at the end of the week. I can get to M&S or BHS easily but JL or Debenhams which seem to be recommended require a trip to the city and Bravissimo is miles from me (and they won't make a bra small enough )

Sorry, I have read all this and it's just not making and sense. I have really small boobs and normally wear a 34B.

So I've just measured myself as you say. Just under the boob = 31 ins. Around boob = 36.5 ins!! Making me apparently a 32DD??

That's just impossible, there is no way my mini boobs are a DD cup!!!!

If I see pics of someone in a D cup (say on shopping websites), the always have this full, voluminous look to their boobs, I definitely do not have that 'volume'!!

Just measured again and I've changed to 30 underneath and 36 around, it's all madness I tell thee

I used to wear a 36A when I first wore bras.

Now I wear a 32D.

i always thought a D cup was massive but it's not - it's about the same size as your cupped hand (if you are about a 32)

<cups>

<nods>

I do have small hands though

Links arms with mirai.

I tell you it don't work on the mini-boob club

Haunted, it is totally possible that your 36A is too tight, but 32DD might fit fine - 36A cup is the same size as 32C, so it's simply too small and the breast have to go somewhere.

mirai as ItsAll said, D is not necessarily massive, it depends on your underbust measurement as well. A 30D is the same size breast as 34B or 36A.

The idea that D is massive and DD out of this world is simply because most people with big breasts are wearing the wrong size of bra. You often hear claims that a busty person is something ridiculous like 52DD - the heck they are. Or Lindsay Lohan claims to be 36DD - she is tiny and could wrap a 36 bra around her twice.
This woman here is wearing a 28G bra. Yes, G. Does she look massive?
www.investinyourchest.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/SAM_1428.jpg

You both should go to bravissimo and don't forget to report back later - I bet you will discover that you are not so flat chested after all.

No it doesn't look like a G.

But...

The band looks too tight. Surely if it fits you shouldn't have 'bulges' (for want of a better word) like she has on her right under the band?

I actually pulled my top tight over my bra last night and I have bulges where fat overhangs my tight bra band on my back. If I was to wear tight clothes I certainly wouldn't have a smooth profile.

I get that cup sizes change with the band. I just don't get that I will need a smaller band when the band that I currently wear is uncomfortable cos its too tight. My cups certainly aren't and don't make it too tight...its the band on its own!

And I am way smaller than that model - cupwise

My 34B often feels tight and I was considering buying a 36 but I'm starting to see why that would be silly on a chest size of 30/31 inches.

So.... In yet another installment of "mumsnet made me do it", I've taken the plunge (see what I did there?), and I've ordered a lovely set in... a 30D - it doesn't hurt to give it a try does it Haunted?

I live abroad hence having to order online but I shall continue to watch this thread and will definitely report back!

I shall await your report...(but I will get measured when I can, but won't be bravissimo cos none near me)

Honestly, I know it sounds mad and you can't see that it'll work, but please trust us . In a good fitting bra you will not get lumps, overspill or back fat. Yes, the band may feel tight at first after wearing such a loose one but you will soon get used to it.

Your current band is uncomfortable because it is the wrong size and your boobs are unsupported as dragging on your band. A 36C would be excruciating on me but a 30G is very comfortable.

As mentioned a few posts ago, bra sizes given for busty celebs (eg Christina Hedricks) are wrong. The media promoted that anything above a D is 'outsize' and therefore celebs never say that they're bigger than a DD they just increase the band size and say "oh yes I'm a 36DD"! For example, I've seen a magazine saying Katie Price is a 38DD. She is tiny and is probably something like a 26GG.

A D, DD, E, F etc are not big sizes it's just we've been conditioned to think they are.

Can you post some pics? Side, front and back views would enable some of us to give you a better opinion about possible problems. Obviously, a fitting at Bravissimo or JL is the best idea. Don't discount Bravissimo, I bet they'll have bras to it you .

mirai, if you measure 30-36 then the 30D might be too small. Could you order a 30E as well?

was just checking and yes apparently it is claimed that Christina Hendricks is 36 or 38DD. NO way.
Here's an interesting blog post:
sophiajenner.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/christina-hendricks-bra-size-controversy/

Fascinating, I have learnt a lot, cant wait to get measured now

That's such a good blog post.

Hazlenutt, I have read a lot of the bra fitting blogs today and apparently I have a lot of boob fullness at the bottom but not so much volume in the top half so... An E cup would give some serious gappage I think. That said I still can't imagine being a D cup for one moment... But we'll see!!

mirai that's where style comes into play - a plunge might help (forget the old wonderbra cleavage thing) or a balcony might compensate for the empty top bit. Or maybe not, you may need something different. An open mind and an excellent fitter is what you need. I used to wear full cups but now mine are a bit 'emptier' on top I find a moulded semi push up makes them look full and pertish but without top wobble.
Also the size you need will differ depending on the style that suits. You really need to find a wonderful lady and an hour or 2 in a decent fitting place. It will be sooooo worth it.

Mirai - agree about trying different styles. I am increasingly finding that more fullness on the lower part means that plunge bras = spillage, whereas half-cups = Marie Antoinette-esque splendour and fullness.

Mirai - I have sailor shape boobs (all the fullness on the bottom!) and I find that half cup and balconette styles work well for me. Plunge styles (e.g. Freya Deco) just don't suit me. Be prepared to try different styles in a range of sizes before you find some really great bras for you.

In my drawer I have sizes 30FF to 32G in a range of makes and styles. The lovely thing and going somewhere like Bravissimo or R&G is that they will take the time to find the right style and shape for you. A good local independent lingerie shop should be able to do the same. Where do you live?

Oops, similar not sailor!

Mumsnet, what the f* have you done to me? I never thought in a million years I'd be posting my bust sizing on an interet forum, but here goes:
32 and 36
Please can someone advise on a size.

Try a 32D (and sizes around that like 32DD).

So, if I am 42 inch under boob, and 46 across boob, that would make me a 42 D?

If yes, that is what M&S measured me as but i have a real problem with back fat (the hamster look, you know!). What do I dooo????? !!! <wails>

lose weight yes, but that's not quite as immediate as an undergarmentage solution!

at people who blog about boob size.

It is nice to hear that the media as usual talk bollocks about bra size. I am a 30J (I think ). People usually look aghast at "J" (not that I wander round discussing my bra size with everyone )

I am fairly norky but I think that's because I'm not tall and fairly slim elsewhere. I am of all those rounded boobs. Mine look like sad mangoes after having 2 kids

travailtotravel Hmmm. Did you measure tightly underneath and loosely across? I would try a 42DD/E and maybe a 40D/DD/E. TBH, I never find that M&S bras fit properly no matter what size or style I choose!

Remember, to really scoop all your flesh into the cups when you put your bra on (be quite firm and really drag everything into the cup). Is the centre gore sitting flat to your body?

changeforthebetter The media really do have a lot to answer for! I wish that someone like Katie Price or Christina Hendricks would be open about their correct size (if they know what that is of course!).

A J really isn' that big anyway. As I said up thread, if my size 6 niece is a D/DD then relatively speaking a J isn't that large. Interestingly I look much bigger in my Ewa Michelek bras than I do in my R&P ones. Differnt styles and all that.

My boobs certainly aren't round either.

SorrelForbes I spent five minutes wondering what sailor shaped boobs were!? Annoyingly I live in Asia where the chance of me finding a shop that stocks a C cup, let alone a D or E, is nigh on impossible. So online shopping trial and error is all I can do...

Bandersnatch - I am all for Marie Antoinette-esque splendour and fullness!!

Oh god, I remember when I lived in SE. The bras were miniscule, about a 28AA and had lots of padding in the bit where your boob should go!

Good on line sites are Brastop, Bravissimo, Ewa Michelek.

Hapy shopping!

Sorrel, have you tried many Ewa Michalak bras? Any impressions of band size/cup size/shape/uplift? I am dying to try them, but the whole ordering process looks like such a nightmare that I haven't got round to it yet.

Oh, and Mirai - in that case: Curvy Kate Tease Me, CK Thrill Me and Masquerade Rhea are your friends. First two less practical than the third, and also come up small in the cup, but give truly stupendous uplift.

Bander I've only tried the CH Biszkopty and the CH Karmelki.

I have the Karmelki in a 70G (32G) and it fits very well. However, it really does give a lot uplift and makes my boobs look enormous very ample. The shape it gives is great. There is removable padding but I found that my boobs fitted the bra better keeping the padding in.

The Biszkopty in a 70G was much too big in the cup. I meant to order a 70FF but ordered a 60G (30G) by mistake and it fits well.

The quality seems very good and they are well made. Delivery, return and exchange was very simple and quick. I'll definitely be ordering again. However, they're still not as nice as my R&Ps - sigh.

Ooh yes, Curvy Kate. I have a Thrill me (£14 from Bra Stop) and it's lovely. Brings my boobs up to chin level .

Ohmylife that Rhea bra is just gorgeous. But I just can't imagine for a second that these little things could ever fill one, much less in a D cup!! Can't wait to get the one I've ordered and see how it fits. Imagine the shopping I'll have to do if it fits!!! Heaven.

Ah, now I'm always in pursuit of uplift (hence my love of the ones I recommended to Mirai!) so that is very good news about Ewa M. Unfortunately, though, I've just had a look and they appear to have pretty much no stock!! I know they do a made-to-order service, but wouldn't want to risk it - I'm not even sure what size I am (maybe 60G as I'm normally a 28G, but can't really tell). Damn.

YY to chin-level boobs in the Thrill Me. Although I do find it a bit...much (the bra, not the uplift). The Tease Me is a bit quieter, but a lot less support - makes me a bit self-conscious walking up the street as I feel that I'm accidentally putting on a show even if everything's completely under wraps!

mirai, hope it works for you! They are beautiful bras.

How odd that there are no 28Gs (60G) on the site. Might be worth emailing them to check just in case they haven't updated the website? I suppose you could try a 30FF?

You really do need to try them on Haunted and Mirai.

Evidently Rigby & Peller put you in a very tight band- that's what gives support.

Apricot- try a 32D, 32DD, or 32C.

My Eureka moment cam e when I went into a small lingerie shop and the owner took one look at me and said I was never a 34 back (I wear size 8 or 10).

I measure anywhere from a 29 -30 under bust, and 35 over.

For comfort I wear a 32 back and can wear either a C or D cup.

I spent years in a 34A, then a 34B and now realise the band was far too loose.

sorrel, thanks - yes, tight and loose but will jolly off to JL or Debs and see what they have to say for themselves. Anywhere but M&S, eh.

I think Halfords would make a better job of fitting someone with a new bra better than M&S

Heads off to halfords...

arf at Halfords!

I'm sure the mechanics behind the parts counter would happily examine my breasts!

This is fascinating!

I've just measured myself and I think I'm a 36 round my ribs, and a 39 across the widest point of my boobs.

I currently wear a 38B.

What should I be wearing? I hate tight bras, in fact I wear an extension bit in the back to make the band wider as you can't really get 40Bs off the shelf.

Any help please, oh wise ones?

I would say a 40A...but then I keep getting told I'm wrong

36C probably Tooth. If you don't like them tight, try this one:
http://www.figleaves.com/uk/product/FRA-AA1313/Freya-Carys-Underwired-Padded-Long-Line-Bra/?size=&colour=Browns
Incredibly comfortable and supportive, no digging in. Quite low cut so you might want to go up a cup size to 36D.

gah.
www.figleaves.com/uk/product/FRA-AA1313/Freya-Carys-Underwired-Padded-Long-Line-Bra/?size=&colour=Browns

Without reading the thread, or even the OP, I can state in answer to the title that at the moment mine is twisted in the middle of the cups but as it feels comfy and I have only just realised despite being fully dressed, it's damn well staying like that for the day now!

I've got my size down pat just right. 32F.
My trouble is the WIRE manufacturer is the same no matter where you get the bra from.
The wire doesn't fit me, they are too narrow in the U shape. I need a wider U because my boobs seem to be further round towards my armpits.

All wires from all UK brands simply dig in under arm. And I def am in right size, been to R&P etc.

I like Anita but they aren't sold except online and are pricey.
What are these Polish ones like?
I can't wear Fantasie, Freya, Curvy Kate, Bravissimo, Panache, triumph, boux avenue. The wire is identical throughout.

And also the straps are too far across, too wide for my shoulders.
Shops always pull the straps towards my neck to make them fit (stay up) but they are then an inverted V and not straight.

Hate hate hate buying bras.
I'm a size 12 because of large cups. I don't particularly have narrow shoulders.

Tight! And I have massive tits so they leave marks. Pretty sure I'm going to have scars soon from lugging these things about.

40A and 36C are a bit different (I think!) but will try on both when I next go shopping and report back

shattered - have you tried debenhams gorgeous range? I find the wires in those much lower under the arms than any other bra

Agree with all good advice, before child I was wearing old biddy 4 fastening horrible no wired bras as when I tried underwired I felt like a million pins had been pushed in me.

Finally got myself to a bravissimo, never looked back. I think before I was wearing 38/40 D and I ended up in 32FF!! After having DS I stayed in underwired bras even though breast fed but got checked reguarly as I was a 36HH at one point. Now I seriously need to lose weight but am comfortably in a 34G - I am a good sized 16 up top.

Also used to have the most appalling red marks on my shoulders and so so painful, now I do not have a mark on my shoulder at all - you can see where my bra was round my rib cage but not at all painful but I am a bit of a fatty atm!

tooth I was being a bit tongue in cheek with the 40A. But I think an A cup on a 40 is the same as a C cup on a 36 so kind of in agreement about cup size...

From Wikipedia:

The band measurement system was created by U.S. bra manufacturers just after World War II when the supposed ideal American female hourglass figure measured 36"-24"-36". Tomima Edmark, founder of a major lingerie company, reported that manufacturers wanted to convince women that their measurements matched this ideal. They conceived of the idea of adding inches to the actual measurement so the woman's resulting measurement would be closer to the artificial ideal.

When you think about it, what is the rationale for adding those 4/5 inches? We don't measure our waists and add 4 inches when we're shopping for jeans. Ohhh I so hope this experiment works!!!

Tooth yes, def. try a 36 inch back- that's what you measure. Add a cup size foe every inch difference- 3 inches = a C cup.

A tighter band will feel tight to start with but you do get used to it.

Shattered have you tried Playtex? They have a new bra that is sooooo comfy, I am sure the wires are 'wider'.

Totally agree with maxybrown about Bravissimo, they're amazing. I hated my huge bust before them, now I can wear really pretty, lacy, NORMAL stuff and it's so supportive, just fabulous.

I think that the make of the bra often has a lot to do with the fit and comfort. I'm a Panache girl, but can't wear Freya at all, even though it is the same size. The best thing to do is get measured properly, the try lots of different styles to see which you get on best with.

As an aside, avoid M&S for fitting, they measured me as a 38 C.......I'm actually a 36H. Not much difference.......

So I'm 27 under bust and 33 across.

What do I try first? A 28E or summat? Do they even exist?! I used to wear 32C or D depending on style but have noticed that I'm spilling over the top a bit now having (thankfully) gained about 1/2 a stone.

Ta!

28E is a good place to start.

I'm pretty sure all my bras are too small - I'm wearing a 30B and all my bras give me red lines where the band is and where the edges of the cups are, and dig into my boobs. I don't have a tape measure handy but when I was last measured I was 28 around the band and so I'm not sure how a 30 can be digging into me so much now... Tried on a couple yesterday (in a 30B) which felt fine but had bulges of back fat above the band so didn't buy (no time for a fitting, so will go back this week). I don't have any back fat, I don't know where it came from! I'm a size 6 And I have tiny boobs.

Tempted to go to Bravissimo for a fitting now as they're meant to be so good but I'm pretty sure everything they have will be much too big, will it still be okay to ask them to measure me? My boobs are pretty much nonexistant...

I don't understand my size at all
JL says I am 30E but I am not big busted at all.
I am oddly shaped and I can't see to get bras that fit nicely without bulgy bits.
I am not in shape but I am a size 10 so not overweight.
I need support (dc5 was pushing my luck boob-wise) so I can't buy my old asda bras. The straps are like cheese wires.

I am definately NOT big busted. So how can I be such a it cup size?

I will only wear matching underwear so have been forced into wearing only black and flesh tone underwear for over two years (sad face)

ComeAlongPond - it sounds to me that if you are still measuring about 28 around and wearing a 30 you may need a bigger cup. That would probably solve the bulging/back fat/uncomfortableness issues for you. What is the measurement (loose) around the fullest part of your bust?

Remember that the cup size changes in relation the band size so a C/D/DD etc isn't necessarily big at all. My skinny 13 yr old size 6 DN wears a size 28D. My size 8/10 best friend wears a 26FF.

The volume of the cup in a 28DD is the same as the volume of a cup in a 30D, a 32C, a 34B.

OhDoAdmit - honestly, a 30E isn't big. That's only a 6 inch difference between the over and under bust measurements.

Do you measure 30 underneath and 36 across? If so, then that's probably the correct size for you but you may need to try different styles and makes.

However, if you have bulges then you may need to go up a cup (or more!).

My measurements are 30 and 38 which puts me in a 30FF but I wear a 30G in most brands. I'm a size 10/12 and don't really look big busted .

Try your 30E on back to front (don't put the shoulder straps on!). If it feels ok (not too tight that you can't breathe but not too loose that you can fit more than two fingers under the band) then you have the right band size. Keep going up the cups until ALL your boobs are enclosed in the cup. This is where different styles come in. I can't wear plunge styles as I always spill over but balconnettes work very well with my shape.

EllieorOllie - a lot of the good bra manufacturers (e.g. Freya, Panaches, Debenhams Gorgeous) do a 28E. Have a look online on Bra Stop.

hanuted R&P do make small bra's. They measured me about 10yrs ago, and the bra I bought was the only one I've ever worn until it was almost worn out. I really recommend them. Because I don't live in London the nice saleswoman wrote down a list of bra brands / styles that would suit my small chest and I might find in other stores.

M&S and JL were awful when I went for fittings. I need to make a special trip to London for bra's I think. I'm currently surviving in some old Primark soft bras in 32B but I don't think they're quite right.

having read this thread, it's obvious the answer to 'how do you wear your bras?' is not 'on my tits and under my clothes'

badaboom tish

I'm really .
I was fitted by mothercare 6 months ago when i had dd, and was given 40E but the strap is almost around my neck and my boobs are around my ankles, and are spilling out the top.
My current measurements are 35 and 43, what should i be wearing and where's a good place to be measured?

village, 34 or 36 and around G cup

Village Unfortunately Mothercare is right up there with M&S in the 'How Badly Can We Fit A Bra' awards.

I agree with HazleNutt, a 34/36 G (or maybe FF in the bigger band).

I find Debenhams fairly good or JL. If you can get to London or Guildford then it's definitely worth visiting Rigby and Peller.

Thanks HazleNutt and Sorrel, I'll probably go down into my local debenhams sometime this week and get measured.

Don't get b
Me started on mothercare
Went there when pg with dc5. I was about 12 weeks. My boobs get enormous when I am pg, very quickly.
The women looked me up and sown, said 'oh are you pregnant?" then 'well I can tell you won't be more thana c cup'

Ffs I was a c before I was prg. I turned out to be a g cup when I was measured properly at JL.
My mate swears by r&p.
I honk I will just give in and go there.

Think, not honk.

FWIW all my bras leave red marks on my back. I think this is normal.
I measure 29, as I keep saying, and buy a 32 so don't think I need a bigger band.

I do tend to wear push-up bras with gel padding half way up the cup- these are smaller IMO than unpadded bra cups.

I don't have big boobs but can fill a padded 32D.

MissBoPeep I get marks from my bras, but they are comfortable (tight but comfy) so I'm happy they are the right size (and R&P said so too!).

If you measure a 29 then I think a 30 back would be better for you than a 32. The back shoudl take all the strain, so to speak, so if you are wearing a back that's too big (which I think a 32 is on you if you measure 29) then your boobs will be dragging down and could be causing the red marks. What do you measure across the fullest part?

I agree that while it should of course not be painful, it's totally normal that you will get some marks from your bra. It has to support and hold the bust up, after all. Only way you could have a bra that is loosely around your rib cage and not tight at all is if you have tiny and/or totally gravity defying boobs and the bra is there only for decoration/nipple coverage.

I would also agree that marks from your bra are normal, just like I can be left with marks from a pair of jeans, or the elastic at the top of socks, or pants.

I also think the perception that DD=Jordan=HUGE still exists in a lot of places. I have had a friend (who was queen of the badly fitting bra) comment that she though I had "a pair of saggy c cups" (cow) - I was a frigging GG at the time. I'm a HH now, and I still wouldn't say my boobs look especially huge.

Sorrel am happy to try a 30 back although I know M&S won't fit- they tend to be smaller backs. I am waiting to try my best bra ever from J Lewis- gel push up- when it's in stock- if EVER!- in a 30 D.

I'm pretty relieved to get out of a 32 by the end of the day so a 30 may be oushing it- though agree that on paper they should fit. Depends a lot on the style though.

My boobs are still very pert they point straight out!

M&S don't fit me either.

Am at your pert boobs

Ah but Bo, you might be relieved to get out of the bra exactly because it's too large and does not offer proper support. I certainly found my 36's more uncomfortable than my 32's.

hazle I hate to say it, but I don't actually need support! My boobs are not big, but they are round and point straight out. The tightness is across the back.

SorrelForbes

Remember, to really scoop all your flesh into the cups when you put your bra on (be quite firm and really drag everything into the cup).

OMFG my annoying back fat has mostly gone!!!!!

I simply cannot thank you enough. My bras still fit as I have lost weight recently and pulling all my flesh in has just filled up the cup.

why didn't I already know this? My back fat has really been bothering me lately.

sorry, I should have bolded your quote

amazing isn't it. Happy scooping.

Have you tried proms Donna range? Their basic bra revolutionized my life! I also went from 36c where the gap between the cups was never wide enough to 34E that actually doesn't hurt at all and fits perfectly.

Sorry that should be Prima Donna range

my prima donna bra broke whilst I was on holiday the glue just seemed to melt on the clasp.

I have replaced with a new one though, I agree it is a really good bra. Very comfy.

My favourite bra is a Prima Donna bought at R&P. So comfortable and gives me a great shape.

If I wear them tight as advised I get indigestion & back ache.
If I breathe in my rib cage (the under boob measurement) literally expands by 4-5".
So I'm not surprised to also report that I get red marks & feel like I can't breathe properly if I wear them tight as advised.

Do other people not huff or puff or ever eat when wearing a bra? Is that the secret?

I have a wide back and small boobs - 37/41
I can't tolerate a band less than 36 inches. As for cup size, I measure 41 inches which would seemingly be a D cup??? Yet my boobs are tiny - I can do the pencil test although I am over 40.
I don't need a tight strap to support my boobs as to be frank they don't need much support, and a tight backstrap is uncomfortable. I find most bras shove my breasts forward which is less comfortable for me. I don't want them forced together to create a vague impression of cleavage!
I struggle to fill many B cups and balconette styles suit me best.
I honestly think there is much more to getting a well fitting bra than 2 measurements.

Snog - but the correct size back shouldn't be uncomfortable, tight yes, but not uncomfortably so.

I'd start you in a 36D but depending on style etc, a 36DD or even a 38D could be better for you. As you say, there is more to it than two measurements but they are a good starting point.

The point is though that we all should stop thinking of a D as being big. It really isn't at all. My 13 year old skinny size 6 DN wears a 28DD and yet looks almost flat chested at first glance.

I don't like having a lot of squashed cleavage on show so tend to avoid plunge styles and stick to full cups or balconettes. You may find that a plunge works ok for you though.

IIjkk - it did take me a few wears to get used to a tighter band (30). Now, though I can't stand a 32 as it feels so loose.

A good bra should have some stretch in it to accommodate things like breathing but some have more than others.

Does a few wears mean more than 2 weeks solid?

Ah, no, probably less than a week.

The thing is though, that if I'm wearing the wrong cup size, it makes the band unbearable. But, we're all different

Is my rib cage weird? If other people take a regular breath, and then take a deep breath, how much does your rib cage expand from the circumference when breath all out. Anyone fancy getting a tape measurer & seeing what difference you get?

Just measured. I go from 30 1/4 to 33 3/4 so not as much of an expansion as you.

I go 34-38/39.

That's quite a difference. What's your across bust measurement? I wonder whether you need a 34 and then a much much bigger cup?

For example, I wear a 30G but couldn't fasten a 30D or 30E and would be in agony in an 30F

Bras are funny old things!

SorrelForbes thanks for your thoughts. I will try a D cup!
I am not really filling a B cup but will give it a go!

You can but try . Get the right first, trying it on back to front if needs be and the sort the cup. Some of the links up thread give some excellent tips about fitting.

Sorry: get the back right first!

I measure in at just under 32" back and 38" around the busters.

REcently started wearing a 32E. Soooo much better than the 34C I used to try and cram them in to. Or the 36B which I used to wear after being measured in M&S!

It felt a bit strange at first, having the underband so tight, but I look so much perkier and uplifted. A miracle.

the only issue is that it isn't a popular size, so have to go into the DD+ departments, and some of theirs don't start at 32". Le sigh.

Recently bought some nice bras in Debenhams - in the sale. Athough I am glad I tried them on, as even though they were all Debenhams own brand they fit very differently.

Sorrel my around bust is a 37-38.
So it's official. I am a freak?
I actually wear 36C, that's what feels comfy. The like of M&S or tiny brassiere place went very sniffy that I didn't want the 34Ds they offered, but said if I must do wrong, the 36C was next best.

LLJKK, Would it possibly be worth trying a variety of different bras, rather than just sizes. There is a massive difference with mine in terms of how stretchy the fabric for the back is. For EG, my Bravissimo Alana only stretches a couple of inches, whereas the back on my Freya Arabella link grows massively when stretched, probably by a good 8 or so inches.

My measurements are 34 under bust and 39 overbust so that would make me a 34E? I've been wearing 36C so I got the cupsize right but not the back?

Or have I got it wrong?

Gonna order me some new bras

I agree that a D cup does not usually seem big boobed (unless accompanied with a very big back size). In fact, the average bra size in the UK is a 36D (according to google!). So a D cup in any back size smaller than 36 (eg 32, 34D would mean that the woman has smaller than average breasts. So I'd say 36D or E even would be a generous normal size, but not particularly large. Although, obviously perspective plays a big part. I'm a 32/4 G/GG/H so most sizes look smaller to me (on women my size) .

I remember my first Bravissimo fitting. For years M&S had fitted me into a 36C, and then I heard about Bravissimo. This was way back before they had their regional shops, so I had to travel up to London (Covent Garden) for a fitting. They measured me as a 30F (I was in my 20s then, only weighed 6st 12, so was petite back then) and I just could not get my head around how I could go from a 36 to a 30. But it gave me my waist back and loads of people thought I had dieted. I find that tricks works even now, when all my bras are a bit old and saggy, ill splash out on a load of new ones and everyone thinks I've lost weight . It took ages to get used to the feeling of,for wearing tight bras, but now I am used to it, I find my boobs ache if I don't wear a tight bra.

Last thing to say is that it really does vary on the style of bra... In some styles I can easily fit into a G cup, but other styles (same brand) I find I need a Hand (or bigger, and then I refuse to buy . But I can vary a good couple of cup sizes depending on the style.

Rikalaily - I'd try a 34DD and maybe a 34E.

It will feel tight at first but if the band feels comfy (but no looser than allowing two fingers under the band) done up back to front then just keep going up the cup sizes until you find one that covers the whole boob.

<thinks Sorrel should start drawing a salary>

Ha, ha, I would love to have a little lingerie shop and make everyone perky!

<wonders if that sounds wrong?>

I often want to tell strange women on the street that they are wearing a totally wrong size. There are just sooooo many 4-boobed women with bras up to their necks on the back..

That would be a bit creepy though, no?

Totally with you Hazle, I want to run up behind those sporting the "back around the neck" look and just hoik it down violently!

Mind you, even DH can now spot a badly fitted bra, it's quite funny.

Oh I want to do that too! Yes, I think if we approached anyone we might get this or this . Where I live it's likely to be the latter!

One of my friends was especially bad, I had to take her measurements for a bridesmaid dress that was being custom made. I swear the quad boob was so bad I didn't know whether to measure the bit in the bra, or the bit popping out.

Yes, I did tell her it didn't fit and frogmarch her to Bravissimo!

Oh yes I've ranted about this so much my DH can spot the badly fitted bras too!

And I have a friend like that. We're not from UK and were always told that what your underbust measurement is in centimetres, that should be your bra size. She measures 85 cm. If you check your bras or any conversion tables, they have sizing in both EU and UK. Eu 85 bra is UK 38, so this is what she has been buying.

But that's wrong! 85 cm is not 38 inches, it's 33,5. So she should be in a size 34 bra. I've tried to explain til I'm blue in the face, but she does not believe me, wears a 38f and has her breasts somewhere around her bellybutton. Sigh..

I have an evil plan though. She will come visit me soon, so I'll get a bra in 34G or H that I think is significantly closer to her real size and just pretend I bought it on ebay but they sent the wrong size, so maybe she could try..

My friends know that I'm desperate very happy to help them with the purchasing of new bras.

Oh wise bra ladies

29.5 under bust and 38.5 over bust???

I am wearing a 30J Tango (which keeps slipping off my shoulders )

Band should be tight enough that you can just slip two fingers under the band at the back.

I wear a 32E, down from a 34FF after losing weight. It's nice to be able to (sometimes) find the right size in conventional shops and not have to pay quite the bravissimo prices.

I fear that as I lose more weight I will be a 30 though which will make finding bras more difficult again.

Change, is it possibly a brand issue rather than size? 30J seems big for those measurements but I suspect you would know if it was too large in cup. I'd normally say roughly one inch=one cup size. How are you measuring across the widest part - most people seem to recommend bending over so they are as far out as possible!

However I can't wear panache because the straps are too wide and get on far better with Bravissimo own brand or Freya as a result.

PippiL I have spent a fortune recently on expensive bras and am now trying to rein it in a bit. However, the difference in comfort, fit and look between my Prima Donna (purchased from R&P) and my other (very well fitting) bras by makes like Freya and Curvy Kate is astounding. The Prima Donna one is just wonderful and I am practically living in it at the moment.

I'm saving for another PD or maybe an Empreinte.

Change I'm not a huge fan of Panache either, thet just seem to suit my shape boobs!

On those measurements I'd receommend a 30G or a 30GG and go from there. Maybe even a 28 back, depending on how tight you light the fit and how stretchy the bra is? However, if you are filing a J cup then as Statisically says above, it may just be the style of bra you need to review.

Thanks Statistic. The Tango cups never seem to sit right unless I am pushing my shoulders back à la Barbara Windsor . But I also get back fat if I try tightening the band.

I would love to go down from a J as it is really hard to find stuff in that cup size - especially combined with a 30 back.

Am going to try a Curvy Kate Thrill Me in a 28GG from Amazon. Fingers crossed. I do like a tight band and to feel well supported.

I'd definitely try a different manufacturer, I cannot get on with Panache for love nor money. Something to do with the shape of the wires just doesn't suit me at all. I also find their backs are smaller than Freya/Bravissimo so you may find you need to go down one in different brands.

I'd agree with Sorrel - I'd have reckoned around a G at those measurements but you would probably have a lot of spare fabric if you were a G wearing a J.

The Curvy Kate thrill me apparently comes up small in the cup (I have it on order too!) I haven't tried them before so I have ordered about 4 different sizes to try and get the fit right.

I'm a fan of Curvy Kate. The bands are fairly tight but not uncomfotabley so. I've a feeling that 28GG you've ordered is going to be ideal (the Thrill Me is a very nice bra too!)

Sorrel, how's the sizing of Empreinte or prima Donna compared to Freya?

Agggh, uncomfortably even

I haven't tried any Empriente bras unfortunately. My Prima Donna Wonderland is a 32G and I usually wear a 30G. I think I would get a 30 next time though as it does appear to 'give' a little once on. So, I'd say they run true to size.

My Thrill Me is a 30g and whilst it doesn't give me quadra boob (and the GG was too big) it doesn't give a lot of coverage. It make your boobs stand up and proud if you get my meaning

Gosh interesting thread. I struggle with tight bra straps, but still don't get the adding/minusing 4 inches thing tbh.

I measure 32 under, 37 over, so should be a 32 D/E? I have tried 32 D/E bras before on this basis, but they were excruciating and there is no way I would have spent money on them. I have tried lots of styles and makes.

Out of interest, have just measured the strap length of three of my more comfortable bras:

Gossard 34D (full cup moulded)
Strap length unstretched: 28 inches
Strap length stretched (to the length I wear it at): 32 inches
The strap feels about right on this one, but the cup comes up a little too high at the front and under arms.

Gossard 36B (same style as above)
Strap length unstretched: 30 inches
Strap length stretched (to the length I wear it at): 32 inches
This one feels a little loose on the strap. The B cup fits better than the D cup on the 34D though.

M&S 36D (plunge style, moulded)
Strap length unstretched: 28 inches
Strap length stretched (to the length I wear it at): 32 inches
This one isn't really great for comfort tbh, the underwire scoops down at the bottom and digs into my rib cage. The strap feels ok though.

So from my (admittedly very unscientific and elderly bra sample) it seems like these strap sizes are already 'compensated' for in the adding 4 inches thing? ie:

- if you measure 32 under the bust, according to the eg M&S charts you are a 36

- the strap itself on a M&S 36 measures 28, but allows 4 inches for stretching to right size (32) when worn

Is this right? Or should they be stretching 8 inches?

Oh gosh, my head's aching now! TBH I have no idea but what I do know is that I can never find a Gossard or M&S bra that fits properly!

I would say to start with a 32DD and take it front there. However, you say that 32D or E is too tight? Have you got one to hand that you can put on back to front (don't put your arms through the straps)? If, back to front, a 32 feels ok (and it should be tight, probably tighter than you're used to) then that is your right band size. You then need to keep going up through the cup sizes until you find one that is right for you. It might be that you do need a 34D for instance if you really can't stand the tightness of the 32 but I'd be surprised.

Are your boobs fuller at the top or the bottom? If the former then a plunge style might be a good fit and if the latter then try a balconette

The measurements of your bras just shows the massive differences between manufacturers. No wonder we all struggle!

Ok, equally unscientific

Brand new freya 30GG (plunge style so fits differently) 26 unstretched, with effort will stretch to 35"!

Bravissimo Satine 30HH - quite new - 26" stretches to 32"

Suggests a massive difference between brands. IME M&S do have some interesting (and very inconsistent even with itself!) sizing, but even taking that out they don't know what a well fitting bra looks like. I dont care what the numbers are, I have quite a mix of sizes, but the bras they have tried to put me in were far too big in the back, and had quad boob.

How do M&S get away with measuring so badly? Why do they do it?

No wonder people are all walking round in the wrong size, because for lots of them M&S is the first place they go. They measured me as 36C. Twenty years later and I'm about to get married so go to Rigby & Peller and lo, I'm a 34D. Way more comfortable.

Can we i.e. Mumsnet have a word in M&S' ear? It's a health issue as well as a style one. They (M&S) should not be doing this.

Thanks Sorrel . I don't have a 32, but have tried on loads and they all felt very scratchy and sore (I've got ridiculously sensitive skin). I suppose if I could find one with a very wide soft strap it would be worth another go.

Boobage is fairly 'bottom heavy' , so I think you are right, balconettes would probably suit me better.

It is strange. I just measured myself and was 32 under bust and 39 (!) round the bust which makes me a 36E according to the M&S sizing, but current (Sainsbury's £5) bras fit very nicely, uplifting, not too tight, no spilling over and I'm in a 36C.

An E cup would drown me. It makes me laugh even to think about it!

(p.s. when I say a health issue I just mean general strain and posture etc.)

I would expect a 32F to be more like your size Marysbeard.

M&S size chart is just plain crackers, and if you are wearing a 36 then it would make sense that you would wear a C cup, as there would be 3" between the band size, and your overbust. However, you should probably be wearing a significantly smaller back, and therefore bigger cup.

Hmm - went to a lingerie shop where she kept insisting I should wear a 32' band. Every GG she put me in was too small (think Z-Lister spilling out of nightclub ) So I've cancelled the 28GG order. The woman kept wittering on about different sizes.It was incredibly confusing. I wish I had the money to go to R&P and get a proper fitting and bras made for me. There wasn't a single bra in the whole naffing shop that fitted me - yes, in a lingerie shop <dejected, may need wine>

OK, so after their not-terribly-great recent results M&S has had a management shake-up. From September 1 there's a new head of style called Belinda Earl (formerly at Debenhams, Jaeger and Aquascutum). I wonder if she'd be receptive to some "welcome, can you do something about the terrible bra sizing?" emails...

www.retail-week.com/a-z/m/marks-and-spencer/profiles-marks-and-spencers-new-management-team/5038485.article

Marys yes 36E would most likely be too big. But the E cup of a 32 band bra is significantly smaller than an E of a 36 size.

Vesela, this topic comes up every now and then and people always have horrible stories to tell about M&S fitting. Once someone actually sent the thread to M&S and suggested that they need to review their advice and train fitters. Unfortunately the reply was something in the lines of "Thanks for comments, we are offering a good service, now please go away".

Been there Changeforthebetter. We have an independent round the corner from us, who advertise as doing big cup sizes -but unfortunately they are more desperate to sell than anything else. So they kept trying to jam me in to a 32F when i was a fricking 28HH at the time. Was very annoying, she got all offended that I wouldn't try it on. It was the nearest thing to my size that she had.

Have you tried Bravissimo if R&P are too pricey?

I don't think I could get a 32 round me! I wore a 34C Wonderbra when I measured 29 round my back ans 32s didn't fit then... In some shops a 36 has been too tight. As I said, the Sainsbury's 36C bras fit really nicely and I was really just posting to illustrate the sizing daftness!

HazelNutt - it apparently came up as complaint at this year's AGM, so hopefully it will be near the top of Belinda Earl's to-do list!

"Shareholders and customers also complain of "utterly confused" shop layouts, mountains of poor quality clothes "piled up like a bring-and-buy sale", lack of staff, poor bra-fitting services and the company's apparent failure to understand its customers and the clothes they want."

Shareholders also complained of "utterly confused" shop layouts, a lack of staff, poor bra-fitting services and a lack of demure dresses with sleeves."

Changeforthebetter Bra Stop do some good offers on bras and do stock a good range of bigger cup sizes in some (but not all) styles. Try ordering some GG and HHs etc, be brave.

MarysBeard Yes, I agree with others on here, start with a 32F. An F cup in a 32 back really isn't that big volume wise. If you measure 32 underbust then try a 32 on back to front. If it does up without cutting off circulation and breathing (!) then it's the right size and you just need to work up through the cups until you find one that is comfy and covers everything. I found this stage quite scary as I went from a DD to a G in one fitting! You might even need a 32FF. Give it a go, I think you'll be surprised at how better it will look than the 36C (or I might be totally wrong of course! ).

Vesela Thanks for the link. Got to be worth an email or two hundred

Vesela I'm definitely going to email Ms Earl

<needs a new job>

Yes, she put me in a Curvy Kate and the shape was horrible plus I felt completely unsupported

I just want a decent sodding bra that doesn't cost a king's ransom. I have tried brastop.com before but had a few duff ones. Aaargh <frustrated>

Anyway, I luffs you ladies for talking norky sense Perhaps we should have our own Topic!!

Can I recommend fuller figure fuller bust? She has a Facebook page, and a blog, will point you in the right direction with any bra problem and also can do skype fittings (plus she's a lovely person)

http://fullerfigurefullerbust.com/2012/05/09/one-year-on-most-frequently-asked-questions/

Thanks to you lovely ladies on here I have just had a most enlightening shopping trip.
I can now confirm my previous 32A bras are rediculously badly fitting, however a 34D feels snug and supportive and perfect.
It has also really changed my body shape.
Thanks guys!

Great link brighthair. This says it all:

"I see and hear a lot of women talking about their bust as a letter and nothing else, something that infuriates me.

“This dress was perfect on me, and I’m a DD!”

“I don’t get how she’s a G? I’M a G!”

Here’s the thing: to label yourself solely as a letter or make assumptions about a letter is misguided. Without a back size a cup size means nothing. It would be like telling the time and only telling the minute not the hour. It’s half past…but half past what? The two pieces of information need to go hand in hand as without one the other does not make sense.

So when we see a women and she is labelled as being a “32DD”, we cannot, in our 40DD bra, scoff and say ‘But how can SHE be a DD when I am a DD?!’ – it just makes no sense. A 32DD and a 40DD have nothing in common at all apart from the fact that they both have the DD label. They are not the same size, they are just the same relative size – by that I mean the ‘DD’ is an indication of how proportionally large the bust is in comparison to the frame, NOT how large the bust is all on it’s own.

" The assumption that ALL DD cup women have huge breasts is false ..."

Cup size ignorance leads to ill fitting bras – women assume, for example, that they can’t be a D cup as D cups MUST be huge, and therefore they suffer in too small cups and riding back bands. Do yourself and womankind a favour and wise up about bra sizes. Don’t always put it down to ‘vanity sizing’.

ApricotPoodle - a new bra! So pleased you're happy with your new look

I'm surprised you went up in the band and the cup though. Are you positive the band isn't too loose? I wouldn't be surprised if you end up in a 32 eventually! I bet you feel much more comfortable now?

Change - TBH the only Curvy Kate bras that really work for me are the Show Girl range ones (Thrill Me etc).

I know £50+ is a lot of money to spend on a bra but I am practically living in my R&P and Prima Donna ones (and doing a lot of hand washing!). I wish I hadn't bought all the Freyas and Lepels that are now languishing in my knicker drawer!

This site are offering 10% off first orders:
http://www.jolielingerie.co.uk/lingerie/prima-donna

I obviously have too much time on my hands today and decided to measure my collection!:

Curvy Kate Thrill Me 30G - 25" unstretched, 31" stretched
Debenhams Gorgeous padded balconette 30G - 25" unstretched, 29.5" stretched
Freya Sophia plunge 30G - 25" unstretched, 30" stretched
Freya Polyanna 30FF - 26" unstretched, 30" stretched
R&P Vintage 32G - 25.5" unstretched, 30" stretched
R&P Alondra 32G - 24.5" unstretched, 29" stretched
Prima Donna Wonderland 32G - 24.5"unstretched, 30" stretched
Ewa Michalak CH Karmelki 32G - 26" unstretched, 30" stretched
Lepel Fiore full cup 30FF - 25" unstretched, 30" stretched

So (if anyone is awake!), not a huge difference. I think it shows than the R&P and PD ones come up slightly smaller in the band which is probably why they fitted me as a 30G but put me in a 32G in the bras I chose.

Mn you are blowing my freaking mind!

So before kids I was a 34a, after DS1 it all looked very sad and still vaguely bfing DS2 but I now measure 30 and 37 so does that make me 30g?

I've got 34a, d and 36a, and b bras but seemingly nothing that will actually fit. I'm off to r and p as soon as I can!

hawters, as most brands also have DD cup, I would recommend 30F. Just a guess though, nothing beats a good fitting.

M+S measured me at a 40C. I was a 36FF at the time. They then told me that if they didn't have a 36, I could try the 40 they had in stock instead?

So it turns out I'm between a 28D and a 28DD! You are all amazing. There wasn't a huge amount of stock in my size so I've done an online Bravissimo order in both sizes, fingers crossed!

I am going shopping on Friday. I AM going to buy some new bras.
For my 30e (afaik) I won't be able to buy primark but I can't afford really expensive.

I will be in west end do lts of choice. Are la senza crap? I really want matching knickers and it's easy to get them there.

I just find bras so uncomfortable now. I am quite ribby with my boobs being much softer droopy than before. I also find low cups look awful. The didn't used to be a problem!

I like decent support, not so much because of size but for shape.

It used to be so easy when I was 32 c.

Just checked out R&P.
No way I can afford even their cheapest. Bravisimo looks more hopeful.

La senza are shite. Sorry
Debenhams? Even m&s if you select your own size and totally ignore the bra fitters

I get confused in department stores. I will never buy one in there (although I luffs Debenhams)

What about Bravisimo? Are they ok? I can make an appt to get fitted and they have a sale on.

I go all cold at the idea of bra shopping and I usually love shopping.

I can tell if a frock will look good on me from 50 paces but bras defy me.

I agree with brighthair re: la senza.

Bravissimo is great, you should certainly go there for a fitting. The bras are usually not the cheapest, but decent brands and sale sounds good. you can check out the brands you like and find them cheaper on Brastop.com or ebay.

I will do. Thanks.
It's just so confusing because all the brands ardor differently.
Oh for the days when I could pop into asda and buy them by the handful.

Can anyone tell me why I can't wear the lower cup styles now?
What has changed about my cpshape that makes them look so awful?

Try as many brands as you can and styles
Make note of style and brand
Come home, search eBay and bra stop. I picked up a panache bra for £15 with tags. Amazon surprisingly is also cheap, I got a curvy Kate bra for £13

Re brands generally people fit panache or Freya better. Freya doesn't fit me, panache does while my friend is the opposite
Bravissimo have good own brand stuff, their satine bra is a great plunge

I never could get a panache to fit me Freya always fitted brilliantly before DS though not tried since, I seem to need a fuller cup - so Fantasie fit well atm for me

Oooh MrsDeVeere I am going to Bravissimo in Covent Garden on Friday - I will eye the other customers suspiciously, wondering if they are you...

Listen out for the wails and moaning in the next cubicle.
I usually say something like 'but I can't be an 28e that tooooooo weird, I used have normal boobs <sob>'

Bravissimo recently stuck me into a 34G - rather than my usual 36D .
After some initial problems (you don't have to yank the shoulder straps up until your circulation is cut off apparently ) and them adjusting me, my life has changed.
I have perky, round, perfectly seperated boobs, almost as nice as 20 years ago .

Brastop has seen some serious business from me - thank you to whoever it was who linked to it on my thread.

Bravissimo also do not measure, but do everything by eyeing you up and offering lots of bras to try on.

I have just splurged and ordered myself a Prima Donna in a 36G, which is my usual size in Fantasie.

I have got a Playtex in this size as well, but the band is quite loose after only a month's wear - so I am hopeful that it will be the right size if as Sorrell says it comes up a little on the tight side.

Ali - enjoy. I love my PD bra.

I think that was me, Pacific. I am definitely going to demand commission from them. Although I am annoyed with them atm as have discontinued my PERFECT Flirtelle bra.

I'm in a 34FF having added an inch to my bust somehow (while losing weight, WTF?)

I measure 33 under, 40 over.

Might go and try a 32 G or H and see if I can't shift some back fat!

I'm 42DD according to M&S (terrible fit - boobs falling out of bottom of bra as band too lose & cup too small). I've just ordered two 38Fs to try.

phelbas I am excited for you - you won't believe the difference in your posture and how your clothes fit!

OH FFS!

Done the scoopy thing, on the grounds that I had bigger boobs under my arms than in my bra

34FF has gone from gaping to too bloody small!

Bra shopping tomorrow then.

(THANKYOU, after only doing it once the difference is unbelievable, and according to that link doing it for a month makes it much better, YAY for non-saggy bits!)

Agree with everyone else - avoid M&S like the plague they try to fit you to the bra instead of the bra to you.

M&S tried to put me in a 40 B/C. R&P and Bravissimo put me in a 36FF.
(note - I am a bit over average height and a size 18-20 so if you are rather slimmer than that it is unlikely that you should be in a 36 band or bigger - can't measure as I am in work and might get some funny looks )

I had an awful shape with the M&S bras but the proper size actually makes me look smaller. R&P told me to put the bra on leaning forward then have a scoop around (I usually do it whilst leaning forward) to make sure everything is in the cup - the band and wires should be flat against your chest.

I'm very excited!

And don't get me started about sports bras. I teach some fitness classes and it's just painful to see the breasts bouncing all over the place.

Ladies, if you have more than a perky A-B cup, yes you do need a decent sports bra. No, those inner support shelf bra sports tops will not work. Nor will those no-support-whatsoever crop tops that are advertised as sports bras. Nor will actually most stretchy things called sports bras. You need proper support, as not only is exercising then significantly more comfortable, you can otherwise also seriously damage your Cooper's ligaments. If anybody is interested, I can recommend some models I've personally tried.

HazelNutt - It's horrendous isn't it? I take part in quite a few classes and oh dear, the bouncing that goes on around me! I actually helped my instructor get a new bra the other day. She was wearing a 34B and is now in a 28E .

I like the Freya underwired one (although I do need one in my new size!). Which ones do you recommend? I do a variety of classes from high impact aerobics and step to Yoga Fitness and Body Conditioning.

Let's move this to the sports bra thread

Peopel who have bought new bras thanks to the discussion here, please report back! How does it feel to get your waist back and boobs at the height where they belong again?

Yes I am waiting for mairi to report back.

I think I totally derailed the thread so I appologise to the op.

I wear a shock absorber sports bra and it's excellent. Keeps them in even when running.

<<hugs Bandersnatch to her now well supported norks>> It WAS you - thank you again!
I move to get Brastop to give you comission - anyone with me??

I am most interested in the sportbra thread : I've eyed up the Shockabsorber Max 4 or summat? I'll go and look to get it right.
So far, I have not invested...
Anybody with experience of these?

This one

I have a ShockAbsorber Run and nothing moves. It is fecking tight to get on though and I'm only a 32D

Or this one by Triumph? But only goes to a 34F - I wonder whether I could risk a 36F??

ItsAllGoingToBeFine, I looked at the SA run too, but it stops before it reaches my size. And it comes up small, does it? - Pointless then for me .

I would really like one that closed in the back with hooks, rather than having to wrestle it over my head and boobs...

What do those in the know think of miss Mandalay www.missmandalay.com
I usually wear Prima Donna or sometimes panach. Wou
D be good to know whether MM any good as they have some lovely designs

Pacific Try the Freya, it has proper hooks like a normal bra

londonone a new brand to me. Pretty bras, I like the Sejal and the Paige. I am saving the site to my favourites

No Pacific the Triumph one is useless, no support. Shock Absorber Run is small but only the back I find, so I can go down a cup usually. Or what about the new Panache? www.boobydoo.co.uk/sports-bras/panache/sports-bra.html

Right I have done some scooping of flesh into my bra cup today, and my Playtex 36G does not fit me. Suddenly the band is way too big, and there is the merest hint of four-boob! Will need a 34H I think
Hoping it is just that brand that is loose in the band, really want my Prima Donna to fit when it arrives

Pacific I've got a SA 4 max thing - it has two clasps, is that the one you have seen?

It is bloody fabulous, I wear it to Shred and nothing moves.

Thanks for sportsbra tips.

Hazelnutt, that Panache one looks good. I am tempted...

Alibaba, I am a bit confused about the SA range: there is the D+ Classic, Acitve, Max (level 4), the RUN...

They all seem to be @ £30, give or take, which I would be more prepared to pay if I knew they'd be the Right Thing for me. To have to buy 2 or 3 before I find the perfect one, of which I then might want more than one, seems a very expensive undertaking to me .

Having said that, my rather sad, too small, stretched efforts from before I had children (when I actually DID exercise regularly ) is really not an option

<goes to hug Pacific back. Realises combined perky norkiness of Pacific plus Banders means that arms are too short to reach. Gives up and high fives instead>

If you go and try a range of sports bras on at Bravissimo, you may be able to pick up cheaply on the internet. Ebay often have brand new Shock Absorbers of some variety or other for a few squid. But you do need to try them on first - I used to be an SA girl, but then I lost weight, changed shape, and now only Freya Active do it for me.

I have been alurking on this thread. I was wearing a 38dd, and today got a cheapy 34g. Much, much better even in cheap! Thanks all.

Shock Absorber Run is indeed small in the back size - I wear a 30E standard bra but a 32DD SA. Bit of a task to get in to but nothing budges so much as a millimetre once on and straps are comfy.

new bras arrived this morning - OMG it is a miracle!

I have been in 42DD (M&S) measured & ordered 38F. I look about 3 cup sizes smaller & 10 years (before 4 dc) younger! The band is a bit lose on tightest fitting so am going to try 36G now. Incredible. Why did I not know this before????

yay! Another convert!
(if the band is loose even on tightest fitting then you might even need 34 - you're supposed to start with the loosest fitting hooks)

I bloody love MN for threads like this. I've been putting off sorting out my bras but yesterday I took myself off to be fitted and came home with one perfect Lepel bra. I've since been on Brastop ( found a code for free delivery) and order loads more of the same brand and even found one on amazon, the same as the one I bought yesterday but half the price

I demo'd the scooping thing to my DD who was amazed at how much more boobage I have. I measure about 28 under my bust but am now wearing a 32E.

one fits perfectly (lepel) the other one is too lose/cup too small (bestform) so will try both 34 & 36G in that one

gypsy 32 on a 28-inch ribcage still sounds big, where did you get fitted? Sure 30F or 28G wouldn't work?

I went to bra dept of a local independent store that came highly recommended. They did me by eye and then poked and prodded every one I tried on; discarding loads that weren't right. It'll be interesting to see what the ones I've ordered are like. If they don't fit as well as this one what size should I try next?

Well different brands fit differently as well so this particular one might still be the right size (havent' tried Lepel myself). Generally with 28 underbust I would try 28 or 30 bras, going up a cup size or two.

OK; will have a trying on session and see how it goes. If I am unsuccessful I'll take a trip to JL.

Okay, bras arrived this morning. I can't tell if they fit or not. I an't work out whether the 28d or the 28dd is better - they both feel really comfy and there's no obvious flaws in either. They did say I'm between sizes, so maybe either will fit... Would it be okay to go in tomorrow and ask their opinion, then return the one that doesn't fit?

Also got a couple of plain ones from Freya but they don't fit at all, both are gapingly huge on me! And another one from Cleo but I think it's too small, the underwire is digging into me. So will have to send all those back.

I find there is quite a big difference between Freya and Panache on me, especially in the back.

Is it the back or the cup that feels wrong, do you think? I've worn 28's, and I found that size-wise the bravissimo own branded ones (particularly the alana) was kind of a half way house - tighter back than freya, but looser than Panache.

Am now in a 32H panache superbra.

VERY comfy, minimal escaping bits (scooping makes a big difference, before I did that the 34FF I was in was too big!)

In the Freya? The cups. They just gape at the top. The Cleo is the cup too, the underwire feels like it's pressing against breast tissue rather than sitting where it should. But the Bravissimo own brand fits fine - in both sizes

OK.

Is there an equivanent of Bravissimo for little chested people.

Based upon all the stuff above I would need a 34C (don't see it myself but I'm humouring you) (33.5" band and 37" bust without a bra on are actual measurements).

Bravissimo on;y start at a D cup.

I generally have found John Lewis quite good for fitting and they stock everything from a AA I think so might be worth a shot

ComeAlongPond, how is the bottom of the cups in the Freya/Panache? If you find it fits OK at the bottom but not the top then it's possibly a style/cut issue rather than size. I find some bras which I just don't fill at the top, even though there is no way I could go down in the cup because then the wires would be on my breast tissue.

What shape are they?

It fits fine at the bottom, it's just the top. Think you're right, it's probably the shape - it kind of feels like it doesn't need to be smaller, just not quite as 'tall' in the cup. It's this one brastop.com/SetDetails2.aspx?setId=3711 - I ordered the dd in black and the d in nude to try and the dd was too big all over, the d just too 'tall'.

This is the Cleo and after a bit of scooping and fidgeting I think I'm going to keep it after all - I loosened the straps and that seemed to make a lot of difference, I think it was being hauled up by the shoulders but it feels much better now.

Finally this is the one that seems to fit in both sizes, but I've decided to go for the dd, because it just seems more secure. I'm wearing it now and it's lovely and amazing.

So now I have two lovely pretty bras and no plain practical ones. Tragedy.

Ah, I find the Deco is very odd sized and I know a lot of people have extra space in the top of that one. I can wear it, but quite a bit smaller than my regular size. And it is VERY tall in the cup. I wonder if you are slightly more hollow towards the top outside - I used to be like this and it was a real pain!

The masquerade one is beautiful.

It may be worth trying some of the half/demi cups if the bra being too tall is an issue - Bravissimoo have a couple (demi diva/rococo charm are 2 of them) You might also get on with something like the Curvy Kate Tease Me. I've just received this and it seems really nice.

I am back!
30f
Have to wear a plunge with high sides and a band at the bottom.
This avoids the pokage and spillage.

I have a black bra. Not exciting but I couldn't afford to buy the new patterned one and the knickers.

But now I know what range to buy - the satine

Phew

MrsDeVere, the Satine is lovely, I have it and absolutely adore it. Although my shape has changed a bit recently when I was younger I used to really struggle with anything that wasn't very plunge shaped as it felt like the wires were digging in to my chest in the centre - I have literally no space in the middle of my breasts. This is something I've got better at over the years.

If you like the Satine then you may get on with the Freya Retro Basic Plunge - I've not worn it for a couple of years (too big now!) but it used to be a favourite and it's been around for years so probably pops up on Ebay.

They are bringing out the new colours in the satine. I had a sneak preview
I can't wear anything with a 'bit' in the middle because I am a bit scrawny and it digs in, same with wires if there is no band underneath.

Hurrah for nice bras

I also found out they are collecting old bras for charity. I have been wondering what to do with my DD's bras. They are only small (she was 14 when she died) and hardly worn. I can't bear to chuck them or give them to charity shops. This feels right though. They can be worn by girls in Africa who would have to go without underwear otherwise.

It will be hard letting them go but I can't keep them forever.

I think that is a lovely thing to do

That is lovely, Mrs DV, do you have a link for the charity? Since I now have about 8 bras that need to go.

They have collection bins in store. The money goes to Tommy's and the bras go via BCR Global Textiles.
I assume they are one of those companies that sell on to developing countries but I asked in store and it does seem legit. They have raised a lot for Tommy's so that has to be a good thing.

I know some of those companies can be a bit dodgy so I will do a bit of googling first. Silly I know but I don't want DD's bras being mixed up in anything dodgy

That's lovely MrsDV

Thank you for your help statisticallychallenged! I don't think I can justify anything else until I've got a plain black and a plain nude but I will keep note.

What a nice idea MrsDV. Im so sorry for your loss.
I know that charities are desperate for bras a friend of mine collects from us and sends them somewhere -I'll find out where.
This is a great thread. The bra clun.

Please do must
I read an article about donated underwear (knickers too) women and girls who owned underwear are much less likely to be raped
Such a small thing can make such a difference

I really like the idea of being able to send on bras and would love to know where I could send them to as well musttidyup. Gosh what a dreadful thought MrsDe Vere - it is amazing what we take for granted in our lives.

Oh, the Tommy's bin in the Glasgow shop was virtually filled with my old bras - well, the Not Grey ones anyway... they went into the RagBag, I am sorry to say ! Good riddance too.
What a lovely idea to send your DD's bras on to somebody who will make good use of them, MrsDV.

Re 'tall' cups - I find the 'full cups' on almost any style too much... matronly, I suppose. I much prefer balconette/half cup styles.
Plunge bras? Not tried them - I always thought they were for a killer cleavage and I get enough of that without plunging/pushing .
I like v-necked tops because they make me look less fat but don't want to look too Benny Hill at work IYSWIM

I thought that about plunge but they are good because they don't have the high bit in the middle. I am all boney there so the non plunge give me gip.

I did try a few on that made me go at the sight of my cleavage
I have been wearing teeshirt bras for so long I had forgotten what a vaa vaa voom pair of norks looked like!

Ah, but you are all slim, aren't you, MrsDV?

Wot with my glasses and bum, I'd look like a Naughty Secretary if I went down the cleavage route... mind, my DH might approve <<sigh>>

Wow, just found thus thread. I currently wear 36c. I've just measured myself and around my rib cage I'm a 32-33 and a 37 around the full part of my bust. Does that make me a 32dd? I can't get my head around that!

I usually just buy t-shirt bras with slight padding from la senza. Where is a good shop to go? I'm not into all satin and lace etc.

Yes I am slim but surprisingly bulgy.
My shape is all over the place, hence my previous inability to find comfy bras.

I don't have any padding to protect me from the wires but I bulge under the arms if the sides are too low

I am off down the gym. Anything to make bra buying easier!

Sausagedog27 Yes, I'd start with a 32DD and take it from there. There is no way you should be wearing a 36 back with those measurements . Bear in mind that you might need a 34D or even a 32E etc etc depending on make and style.

I'd recommend Debenhams, House of Fraser and John Lewis for plain t-shirt bras. Bravissimo are great if you've got one near you? La Senza are rubbish and will try and fit you in to whatever they have in stock. The La Senza fitter in my local mall insisted I was a 36C. I'm actually a 30G!

Has anyone got this
bravissimo spotty dots
Looks lovely and might be good for those of us who have less on top (which I now think of as sailor boobs following someone's typo earlier). Worried it might be too pointy though - I'm more of a rounded shape kinda girl.
I ordered on of these curvy Kate princess as it was a bargain. Not had a CK before....

I like the look of that spotty one!

(that was my typo )

Now I can help here Mrs DV
Red Magazine ran a campaign recently for old bra's. Totally legit, via Oxfam. Their Editor wouldnt agree to publicise it otherwise.
Hopefully working link here

The big bra hunt - top feature

I have dotty spot, it's very similar to the Alana and I like it

I'm trying out some Curvy Kate at the moment - got the Emily today in 4 different sizes, it feels odd as it has a lot less coverage and isn't is stiff as my Bravissimo/Freya ones. But, I think I like.

I also got a Kris Line one - this reminded me of the older Freyas (which I think gave better lift) - the uplift on it was amazing.

Thanks sorrel - will go shopping next week as I'm on holiday and report back! I'm surprised I measure at 32- size 36 bras always feel snug (I have a thing about seeing women with bras riding up their back!)

On my Norks?!

Tight and leave marks, but mostly because I'm pretty sure that 34G is the wrong size but it's the closest I can buy in my town!

The cup size fits, the underband doesn't. My guess is that I have changed size and need a 36F. No money to buy a new bra with though.

Thanks for that link shattered

After seeing this thread the other day I decided it was time to get myself some new bras. I measure 32" under the bust and 39" over. So that should make me a 32F.

The ones in M&S were really big around the back so I ended up buying two 30G's from there. Then in La Senza I tried 32F and 32FF's but they were too small in the cup although fine round the back.

It's so annoying that shops are all so different.

Oh and when I was in M&S there was a woman coming out of the changing room talking the 'bra fitter' who was telling her she definitely needed a 38E or 40DD and it was strange that none of the bras she'd tried on didn't fit. This woman was clearly more like a 34 back, that would be why they didn't fit! <sigh>

Ok it really seems that we need a "M&S, your bra fitting sucks!!" campaign.

Sausage, if you like slightly padded t-shirt bras, check out this Fantasie model. There is padding, but is very light and soft, not stiff like some other models.

I think I may be on a mission to convert people one at a time! Last time I saw my niece she was wearing a blatantly wrong bra - when I went round this morning I took a few of my no longer fitting (but brand new, rage at pregnancy making them grow) which I guesstimated were around her size. After a bit of training (i.e. hoik your blooming side boob in lessons) she went from a 36D to a 28G/GG!

Next mission - her "36b" size 8-10 mother

Long time lurker, first time poster just popping on to thank the knowledgeable ladies on this thread. I've been soldiering on in a 34C with four boobs and arm fat for years thinking it's just because I'm overweight. Didn't even cotton on when my nips would slip out of certain bras!

So, I measured myself and came out at a 34DD or E. Couldn't quite believe it so ordered some 34Ds from Bravissimo. Definitely all too small so I have a selection of styles in 34DD and E on the way. Cannot wait for them to arrive as I wear a lot of dresses and I think they'll make a huge difference around the arms and neckline!

This is my first ever post but I just feel this overwhelming urge to thank you all sooooo much for this thread. I have been wearing a 36A which has never felt comfortable. I've tried 34b's but still no better. I am now in a 32D and it feels so much better. My whole body shape has transformed and I feel more confident in my clothes too. There is no way I would have tried a D cup before reading this thread. Thank you all!

IMustStop be warned you may find yourself developing the urge to go up to random women on the street and point out they are wearing the wrong size bra. It is such a revelation what a difference the right bra makes that you want to share the joy.

As shattered posted earlier, Oxfam collect old bras for Senegal here is the link again. I would like to know more about the knickers collection that someone mrsDV? Talked about earlier?
I recently went back into nice bras after 5 years of pregnancy/breastfeeding and a quite big weight loss. It's great. I feel like tits on a stick me again and even better with some scooping! Actually, bought a fab new bra last week (not cheap at £44 but great shape) and with scooping it's a little small in the cup so need to scoop a little less. This bra also addresses some asymmetry - dare I bring this up?

I also want to write to Salma Hayek, who reportedly is a 36C. As if.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/08/31/article-2196507-14C5884F000005DC-867_634x402.jpg

gah I always forget this site does not convert links
i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/08/31/article-2196507-14C5884F000005DC-867_634x402.jpg

SH must be a 32H or summat, surely! Is she still BFing, I wonder? <<random noseyness>>

Still following this thread, I get the impression that there are so many women with norks bigger than D/DD cups, non? So why oh why is a larger cupsize almost a specialist item? Don't get it... we are an untapped market. Well, under-tapped anyway.

I am currently bidding on a SA sportsbra on ebay - fingers crossed for tomorrow. Mind, if I win there will be NO excuse left to not exercise - damn!

I'd guess she's more like a 28/30 back - she has a teeny waist.

I think there are a LOT of women with D+ boobs - based on random sample of friends/family/colleagues and factoring in those who are D+ in denial, I'd actually reckon it's pushing 80%

You are probably right re her band size - as soon as I had pressed 'post' I though if I am a 34 band size, SH must be a 28 .

Yy re D+ denial .
Maybe we should offer therapy - there is an untapped market...

Salma Hayek as a 36C
Hahahahahaha
<<picks herself of the floor>>

She is small 5.1-5.2 in height. I am around 4 ins taller than her and several stone heavier and I wear a 36 band (admittedly a 36FF) but her back size must be a 28 or 30. I wouldn't be surprised if she was a 30H.

Halle Berry is close to my height but a lot lighter and apparently she is a 36C too (although one site did suggest 34C). Clearly this is utter rubbish too.

Therapy and an online fitting service! You give us your measurements and describe your shape/needs, we tell you what bras to order, and the you have a Skype session once they arrive where you get ordered to scoop, grab, smooth, adjust straps etc



D+ denial is rife! Mind, when I told my niece what size I thought she was today, she came out with " a 28, but do they even make that size" - which wouldn't have been so funny if she hadn't been standing there WEARING a 28!

It's the "But my mum has always been ...so I can't be.."

Well, your mum has aways worn the wrong size too!

Or the 'but I've always been a 40AA' - Me. Well not quite.
It's either always been wrong (likely) or you are no longer that size, what with all the 4 boobs and the backfat

If you've not come across Mimi Holiday they are another brand that are worth looking at if you have a small back and are D+. They are definitely in the 'something special' market rather than perhaps everyday wear. They are silk though. Naturally they are on the more expensive side and I can only afford to get in sales but they are worth it.

They also do shoulder bras which are slightly different in style to any that I've seen the likes of panache, Curvy Kate, Freya do. So perhaps if do have issues with cup shape they might be an alternative to try. They do 28A to 28GG all the way up to 40A to 40E so quite a range.

John Lewis occasionally stock, House of Fraser do, Asos do though fairly limited range, Selfridges do and also have just started stocking their own exclusive ranges and they are available direct from their own website who I have used and they have been very good (well packaged and delivered promptly).

This season's range

I've seen Mimi Holiday in TK Maxx too.

This thread has been quite an education! So when did the add 4 thing stop being useful? Or has it always been just some brands do it and some don't? Will have to go and investigate with a tape measure, and pass on this wisdom to my daughters.

Went shopping today for a new bra as I will be my sister's bridesmaid in a few weeks and am currently breastfeeding. I love my local fitter, she's rather excellent. 36H at the moment, and got a fab skin-colour Fantasie with knickers on order, and ordered in a purple Fantasie with both types of knickers, but not the thong. have to have fabulous underwear, regardless of the situation, and there's no way in wearing a BF bra under my fancy frock.

Happy Days.

Oh.

I've been wearing mostly 36C. My current ones feel tight round the band, but I can fit both hands under it as well, let alone two fingers! Just measured and I'm 34" underneath and 40" across. So I guess should try something else?!? There's a Bravissimo in town ...

yes absolutely go to Bravissimo. You sound more like a 34E!

aliportico IIRC the 4" thing stopped when elastic was added to bras, so a really really long time ago, but so many places still do it.
You'll probably find a properly fitting bra is uncomfortably tight at first, but it's because you're not used to it. It'd be the same if you were a size 12 but had been wearing size 16 knickers for years, a 12 would then feel weird, but you get used to it, honest!

Hmmm, have just put on weight n binned all my bras. Bought a bra at m&s measured as a 34b/c well the c was massive so I got the b which fits well on the cup but I would prefer it tighter around ribs. Just measured self as 31 round ribs and 36/ 37 over boobs. My bras I slung were 32 cs they were really tight....I guess I should be a 32 / e??? Can't afford fancy shops so could I just buy those sizes from m&s or asda??

Am a size 12 in clothes if that helps

Yep 32DD or 32E

Ye gods! No wonder the 32cs were struggling

Ha! M&S tried to get me in a G. I'm a J wasn't a pretty sight
Should be able to pick that size up at Asda or any high street shop

Off for a tramp down t'asda when kids back to school!! Am quite excited by the thought

Ah, M&S with their "this is the biggest size we do so it WILL fit...."

well, yes, it covers my nipples - until I actually put my boobs in it rather than it just sitting on top, at which point I appear to acquire about 6 extra boobs (the ones escaping under the cup, the ones in the cup, the ones over the top, and the back hamsters!)

Iamgiulietta, I found before that the sizing in M&S/supermarkets can be a little less predictable. You will almost certainly be able to get something - I think Asda do a range by the woman who created Ultimo which is in that kind of size, and M&S go up to a GG in a 32 back. But, it might be worth taking a look at a few videos (e.g. bravissimo website) on bra fitting so you know what to look for. You've prob seen things like this upthread but it's a big thread so....

Basically:

Back should be horizontal, firm and only be able to run a couple of fingers inside it. Personally, I buy bras so they fit on the loosest hook, as they give a little when washed so this gives me room to tighten them up.

Wires should be completely encasing your breast tissue - you need to scoop everything in from the sides, and then feel whether the wire is lying on or outside your softer tissue.

The wires should sit flush against your chest in the centre - if they sit proud then the cup is too small.

If there is spare fabric, don't immediately assume it's too big (almost did this myself earlier)- whilst the bulk of the support shouldn't come from the shoulders, the straps are often set to be stupidly long and just tightening them can suddenly pull a lot of spare fabric up and away.

and the obvious - there should be two boobs, not 4

P.s. I'd also try a 30 back, in an E/F roughly

Yeah I struggled with asda - they do a J cup but it's not a true one, I think they don't do HH so it's smaller if that makes sense but if you're an E, it's ok as you can always go up a size or two

Soooo my package has just arrived.

My 30E was almost impossible to put it on, it was so tight and there's no give in it at all. However they're all like this to begin with aren't they, and get looser with wearing.

When I eventually managed to get it on, the cups were definitely too small and I had "4 boob".

Shall I exchange for a 30DD or a 32D?

Actually trying it on again I don't the the 30 band would be so bad if my boobs weren't being all squashed up at the front. Will go for a DD and report back.

Well, that's fecking depressing.

I read all 13 pages and levered myself off the sofa to rummage for a tape measure.

Apparently I am the only 5'2" woman in the land wearing 36C who is wearing the correct bra size.

Hey ho.

Perchance I need to get off the sofa more often.

Right, I've been measured at a 38A.

Tits not flat, but not huge. Shoulder straps always fall down.

Just measured myself, and I'm about 32 under boobs (pulled tight) and 37 across boobs (quite loose).

Have I done it right?

What size should I be, please, Wise Boob Ladies?

Well, there had to be one woman in Britain wearing the correct brasize and not suffering D+ denial, madwoman

mirai - if you have four boob the cup is too small so you need to go up a cup - try an F or an FF

rockinastocking - 32DD would be a good starting point

Please?

Am dying to know. Have been an A or B all my life

FUCK ME!

Really???



Wow!

Sorry for outburst

But...they look so little...

Just to echo - 4 boobs means you need to go up. On me, if the bra looks ok when I am breathing out, but gets a little overbump when I breathe in, then I need to go up one cup. If I have proper quad boob all the time, then it tends to be more like 2 cups.

Ha ha ha rockininastocking! I would agree with the recommended start point too - this is the point where you realise that darn near every news story which mentions a bra size is bollocks, and Katie Price is not a D/DD!

I find it hard to believe. I don't know why but I'm THRILLED.

Wait until you try one on and look at your boobs

Just catching up with all the new posts on here. It's so heartening to hear about everyone's new bra purchases and sizing discoveries (however shocking/thrilling!).

We will beat DD denial (apart from madwoman of course!)

<<clutches rockinastocking to the collective bosom of the D+Denial Club>>



'Tis lifechanging, believe me, it is

Katie Price - DD <<falls over laughing>>

This the the best mumsnet thread EVER

I will always remember the time I went bra shopping as a 34 E and came home a 32FF.

It look great but I was dismayed by the FF thing. My sister said it stood for Fucking Fantastic

I'm going to be banging on the door of Fenwicks in about an hour.

I've never FELT like a 38A.

I'll be gutted if the 32DD doesn't fit. Which size should I try next if they don't?

You could try 30E or 34D if the band feels too lose/tight.
If the band allows 2 fingers underneat but the cups seem big/small keep the back size and change cupsizes.

Remember to scoop !

And try different styles.
Have fun!

Try sizes round about - so if yo have space in the cup, try a D. If you have 4 boobs, try an E. It's a bit trial and error.

Your back will feel firm to begin with, and make sure you have scooped everything forward as this can make a back that fits feel far too small.

So excited!!

This thread needs to be in Classics. Public service broadcasting at its best!

Ok.

I am wearing a 36A. I have conceeded that I will try would try the tighter band after wearing mine on the tightest hook for a few days. The cup is too big though.
I measure 33" and a little bit and 37" naked, (36" if I am wearing a non padded bra -should you wear a bra or not when measuring??). I think this puts me in a 34C as a starting point? But surely that is a bigger cup than on my gapey 36A?

So I was going to try on a range of sizes in next yesterday but fitting rooms were closed (tis a bit of a pain to get to JL/Debs and I don't have a bravissiomo near (and they would laugh at lack of boobage).

But I bought a bikini top in the sale in 34B. I definitely found it a better shape (although with my nice bras I am a nice shape anyway imo). The cup was possibly on the small side so I will try a 34C when I can get to try them on.

And the other misapprehension I've been labouring under ALL MY LIFE is that double sizes are smaller than single. So, an AA would be smaller than an A.

I've comforted myself for years with that fact.

I would also like some guidance on what style of bra?

I usually go for t shirt or padded t shirt. I also like to have a nice lacey one in, and usually buy this 2 pack in.a new colour each year - gives a lovely shape imo.

http://www.next.co.uk/x502272s1

Hope the link works (it is a 2 pack of teal and navy embroidery bras).

I tend to avoid balcony bras (unless I want a multi-way) cos the straps tend to be set too wide apart and dig in near my armpit and/or slip off my shoulders all day.

AA is smaller than A and AAA is smaller than AA.

All the other double sizes are bigger than there single tho I think.

http://www.next.co.uk/x502272s1

And here's the link from.my previous post.

www.next.co.uk/x502272s1

And here's the link from.my previous post.

I feel like I've had a free boob job!

Oh, right.

Why is everything so confusing in the world of tit support?

Rockin, I think that bizarrely the AA is smaller than an A - but in all other cases the double is bigger - so AA,A,B,C,D,DD etc

Stupid I know

Haunted - straps being too wide is actually most likely due to the band being too wide. They are positioned for someone who is literally wider than you, so you might find this stops being a problem if you go down a back (p.s. I'd also be trying the 32 as you are between measurements)

In terms of style it's a very personal thing, and I have a total mix in my wardrobe to suit different necklines and tops. I would always make sure you have (if possible) at least one which is seam free (like a moulded T shirt) to wear under anything clingy. This may double up as your plunge depending on which you buy. I also find a half cup useful if you wear anything scoop necked so they dont show at the edges.

Most of my day to day are balcony styles as they give me the best support but I have a fair amount to hold up!

Interesting thread! I'm another one that spots a badly fitting bra at 50 paces. I'm losing weight at the moment, will have to replace all my bras when I stop.

My aunt is an M&S manager, I remember her telling me she'd been on the bra fitting course and she could tell I was a 38C. I'm a 32/34G. No wonder they get it wrong.

Sports bra wise, anyone tried the Enell? Ugly but oh so effective! I also like the Panache although it comes up big.

I have a Freya Active but it just doesn't cut it for anything higher impact than hill walking.

I really don't understand M&S. Ok, you've been told that a person measuring this should be around that size. But when you see her in a bra, it should still be obvious that a four-boobing, up-climbing bra with underboobs and middle part miles from the chest is NOT how a well-fitting bra should look like?

Celtic did you tell your aunt she is miles off?

Live OB from Fenwicks fitting room.

Chantelle 34D a perfect fit!

Will report on other makes...

Fantasie 34DD perfect fit!

<tries not to look smug and say I told you so>
Feel good? I love new bras, always make me look a stone lighter too

Hang on...sorry, Chantelle 34D a bit small.

I was an A cup when I got up this morning

Try a 34DD in that one if you like it

I feel fabulous!!

34DD so far...

Mumsnet advertises: Magic! From A to DD in 5 minutes, no surgery required!

Hazle I did, not sure it got through though! Even in the right size I find M&S bras crap.

Have just flounced out of Marks, perky DDs aloft!

and rock, now that you know your size, check out this site:

brastop.com/

rockin - remember to scoop your back fat in! You might be an E!

I love this thread

M&S balcony style are awful. They dig in horribly in the armpit and the cups are too deep.

Oh, I'm scooping like a mutha!

the cheapest boob job in the world

Cheap, riskfree boob job .

Brastop is dangerous - be warned!!

Well done, rock, sounds like you are having a great time

Did you see brastop are doing an extra 15% off but it ends tonight?

<digs out purse>

Hm brastop has some really cute Curvy Kate ones, but I haven't tried this brand - does anybody know how they compare with Freya and Fantasie, same sizing or should I go up/down a size?

They are more similar to Panache (Fantasie) brands than Freya sizing.

Are you guys all breaking brastop just now?? <<squinty eyes>>

I am trying to put this into my basket and it Will Not Go

Oh well.

I see M&S are advertising their new lingerie range by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. The pics looks nice but, yep, you guessed it, the size range is arse. The DD-G bras start at a 32 back. No good if you're a 30G!

M&S you are so disappointing .

Pacific it worked for me. Maybe that particular size is OOS? Or are you on your phone or on an app or something?

Sorrel did you see she was on Jonathan Ross the other night and talked a bit about how so many women are wearing the wrong size. There is no way on earth that woman could be a 32 back so she must have been wearing the wrong size for the photos!

ItsMyLastOne, am on laptop and I have tried a few random sizes thinking it might be out of stock in mine, but now joy.
Just out of interest which size did you successfully get? 'Tis rather gorgeous!!

I have that Fauve bra in a different colour - I think it comes up big in the cup so unless your boobs are very full on top I would probably go down a size

Curvy Kate - currently have a bunch of them in the house waiting to go back/stay. I wear a mix of 30H and 30HH in Freya, and a 30HH in Bravissimo Alans, Demi Diva, etc etc.

From Curvy Kate I fit:
Tease me - 30H seems fine although waiting for the HH to arrive to confirm.
Thrill Me - 30HH
Fleurty - 30HH
Emily - in between a 30H and HH but I don't like the lift it gives.

The back is slightly loose - more like Freya than Bravissimo or Panache. I am staying with a 30 but I did order the 28s to try in the Thrill Me and they did also fit, but the 30 felt a little better overall. So if you are on the small end of your back size I would consider going down one.

Right.

I got a lovely black and pink Chantelle, also a blue one. A teal Triumph too.

And a Chantelle t-shirt bra in flesh.

All 34DD.

It's weird. I'm actually feeling different. When you're an A-cup it's part of your identity. And now I'm a DD!!

I've gone from flat to buxom. It's fab!

Thank you all! So much!

I'm comfy!!

About the new M&S line - see here : she does not have big breasts to support, the bra is at its tightest hook and still wrinkled and climbing up, even though I'm sure she was standing still for the photo. Of course it's not the right size.

No, I didn't see her on JR but did read an article a week or so ago where she was saying the same thing. She is either deluded or being fibbed to!

psstt Pacific - if you like that one, look here

TBF, seeing as M&S don't do any clothes small enough for me, I'm not really that surprised that they don't go below a 32 in most of their ranges.

I just showed that pic of RHW to DH - his response "but it's not straight at the back, that doesn't fit"

It just worked - yeah, 2 more bras and knicks on their way

Statistically, thanks for that link - looks fab, not much in my size at the moment thank goodness .
Isn't it nice to know that your DH listens to you?

Rockinastocking, you're so right, I was thinking about that earlier today, the exact same thing. I've always hated my boobs, hated them. Their size is so ingrained as to part of your identity in this society and so because of that, ive never liked them. And now to know all along, for a decade, I've been wrong about that! It's gonna take some getting used to! A whole re-setting of my brain. Many to all you wise experts who have advised so many of us on this thread. You really don't know what it means.

I wish there was a 'like' button for that post, Marai.

I've always liked the look of my boobs, but defensive about the size.

A sad indictment, but nonetheless - I'm comfy!!!

Mirai, sorry.

now I just want to see how our fellow (formerly known as) small-boobed Haunted gets on!!

LOL!

I am trying to buy a new car ATM, as soon as I have got that out of the way I will be heading bra shopping

So if i measure 29 across ribcage and 36 boobage what would that make me?

I wear a 34 d/dd and it's a bit hit and miss with boob flesh everywhere...

28 or 30 and I'd try around F

Thanks!

I was always 33 but i suppose losing half a stone has changed that.

Can't wait to try bras on now.

None of my brastop bras fit, despite me ordering the same size as the new one I had from the bra dept the other day Horrible cups on two and all 4 too large on the underbust meaurement.

Silly question I know...when I measure myself and measure on my boobs I presume I do that with a bra on? If I do it without the inch difference is v small and if I do it with my favourite padded bra then it is much larger. So which is the accurate result?

If I am 28.5 underbust and 34 over in a medium padded bra, what should I look for? I am desperate for a decent padded tshirt bra in nude.

Unfortunately different bras can hugely distort your measurements. For me, if I measure my overbust with a bra off, but while leaning over so everything is sticking out (well, down!) - on me this gives a measurement which equates very well to my actual size.

I noticed upthread you say you got on well well with a 32e but given your measurements that might be a bit off. You could try the Freya Deco - I think it only starts at a 30 but it's a moulded nude t-shirt bra. I have previously got on well with the wonderbra version too.

I was going to ask about measuring with/without bra.

I get 37" without bra
36" with a non padded, lightly moulded t shirt bra, (not heavily squished in).
37 1/2" with a heavily padded t shirt bra.

I'm assuming the 36 or 37 is the 'correct measurement' so I'm going to start at a 34B/C or 32C/D (underbust is 33 1/2)

Hmm...I'm not really sure where to start am I cos that's 4 starting points.

Right I'll give the dangly udders boobs measuring thing a go . Yes, the 32E is what the bra dept gave me, after I'd tried on everything else.And it's fine, great shape , the hooks irritate slightly but I can fix a piece of fabric to cover that. The catch is that it is in lilac so fine under jumpers and not so great under cream blouses.

Oh no, gypsyfloss, NOT what I want to hear!
I am ridiculously excited about my brastop order - they must fit.

Aaaargh!

Hi Gypsy - going purely on the measurements you've given here I'd suggest a 28E. I think Bra Stop carry some t-shirt bras in that (and similar sizes).

Haunted - I've always measured wearing a bra (non padded) and those measurements work for me.

There is definitely a bit of trial and error in the overbust measurement. On me different bras make a huge difference - so something like my Bravissimo Demi Diva makes my boobs stick out less, but much 'taller' and quite rounded, where as an Alana or a Kris line makes them protrude from my chest a lot more, but in a more pointed shape. Going on how clothes fit over them I'd guess it probably makes a good 2-3 inch difference in my measurement but I may be a bit weird in that respect??

pacific the bras were fine just not right for me and the delivery was super quick. I'll have another go with a 28E as suggested by Sorrel. Should I also add a slightly bigger back size? If so do I keep the same cup size or go down?

Yes, you could order a 30DD too. As Statistically says, there is so much difference between brands and styles.

Thought I'd join this thread to tell you about a great bra shop I just discovered called boux avenue. They have a great website too if there isn't one near you. I spent £130 in there last weekend but they do a loyalty card similar to the boots one so I was able to justify it to myself.

Been wearing a 34B for years, just measured myself and apparently I'm more like a 30D?! Under bust 29 and bust 34, am I right?

I'd say it's the right start point - I'd also try a 28 back in a DD/E cup.

Quick Curvy Kate/brastop update for those who were discussing them:

Curvy Kate Tempt me (Plunge bra which I think is the same cut as the elegance plunge) - This comes up small in the cup, I would ideally have sized up to a 30J. I wear a 30HH in bravissimo and mainly a 30H in Freya. However, I am keeping it anyway as the cleavage is fucking a-ma-zing and my DH's eyes just about popped out of his head.

Curvy Kate tease me - I adore this and am ordering it in other colours - lovely and soft, nice soft and not too thick straps. Keeping it in a 30H although there isn't a massive difference between the H and HH.

Curvy Kate Emily - unpadded - just couldn't get on with this, the shape didn't have enough lift for me. However, the 30HH was the best fit.

Fleurty and Thrill Me - not keeping these although they fitted OK in the HH. The frill on Thrill me would be very obvious in most clothes too.

I don't know if anyone else has found this, but I found all the matching pants to be absolutely TINY - I ordered on the big side (usually between a 14 and 16 and went for the 16) and although they are lovely, I am seriously contemplating reordering in a 20 as they are that small. (and then cutting the labels off )

Thanks for the update Statiscally. I had the same issue with the Emily. It just didn't do anything for me. I love the Thrill Me but, yes, the frill is a bit noticeable. I think I'll try a Tease Me next!

Thanks, Statistically.

Interesting about the pants - now I'm worried...

Although the Bravissimo own brand knickers seem huge to me - I went for medium although consider my glutes to be large usually and they are large enough. And some... I think the large size would have done as a sail tbh.

Can't be long for my Brastop order now <squee>

I would hazard a guess that a 16 in Curvy kate is about the same as a Bravissimo medium. I am wide of hip but they are silly!

Statistically, why didn't you like the Fleurty? Looks so cute, was planning to order.

Am late to the party but would like to join anyway- I'm another bra fitter if you've got room for one more

I bought the Fleurty recently and can honestly say it's my most comfortable bra at the moment. I'm usually a 32FF/G and got the G. It's truer to size (for a change), CK are usually at least a band size too big and a couple of cups too small to make up for it

Their pants are bloody minuscule though- it's not you. I'm a M(12) in Freya, S in most Bravissimo styles. My Fleurty knickers are a 14 and they're not loose at all.

The Fleurty was lovely, just couldn't justify keeping them all and I really loved the Tease Me so decided to get that in other colours instead. Something about the Fleurty wasn't quite as nice on me- but really not much in it.

soooooo glad it's not just me with the pants, I was beginning to get seriously paranoid!

I ordered a Prima donna from R and P online on Wednesday night. I paid for express delivery.
It was despatched Friday p.m, and it still isn't here.

<stamps foot>

I sympathise, two of mine were swirling around Royal Mail all weekend, I was properly stroppy.

Thanks I might try the Fleurty then - trouble is that I'm in France, so no free delivery or exchanges and delivery itself takes ages as well. But ordering from UK is pretty much the only option, local shops do not believe anything above C-cup exists. Sigh..
There are many, many women in massively ill-fitting bras here.

Coming to this thread a bit late, but wow!

Can I ask what similar measurements to me have got to fit comfortably please?

29 under bust around ribcage. 32 around boobs (think that's with a bra on).

I have been wearing 34B with lots of gaping. Recently bought a 32B Triumph bra and it fits much better but as it was from TKMaxx I got the only one in the shop and need to get some more that are as comfy.

I'm glad it wasn't just me who didn't get on with the Emily. I have one, and it's so so pretty, but the uplift is non-existent. I don't understand why the girl on investinyourchest keeps going on about its marvellous uplifting qualities!

Re the Tempt Me, Statistically - what's the uplift like, compared to the Tempt Me/Thrill Me? Does it just push 'em together like the Freya Deco or actually push them up like the other two?

Medal you need to be wearing a 28 or 30, definitely not a 32. Try a 28D and 30C, but you do always need to take a few options in as different makes vary in size quite a bit.

The tempt mr is very different, it's far more cleavage than the tease me, but I think it does lift more than the deco. I would suggest going up at least one if not two cup sizes from your tease me size though. I have a tiny bit of central ahem bulge in it, but I always have this issue with very low bras as I have no gap at all between my boobs. But then I would only wear the tempt me under a plunging top anyway so all good .

ItsMyLastOne thank you!!!! I can't believe I am so off the mark. Will try some 28D and 30Cs on, feel much cheerier to be a C or a D than a B

I have been following and reading this thread for days now with great interest and finally this morning whipped my tape measure (and boobs) out to check on what size I am/should be wearing.

At the moment I wear a 34E but I do have problems finding a bra that my boobs don't kind of slip out of the middle of, if you know what I mean.

My measurements are: bust 37.5 (bra-less); under bust 32.

I'm wearing the wrong size then, aren't it? What size should I be wearing? And is the boob slippage to do with me wearing the wrong size?

I've just realised that I haven't seen any 28/30 bras in shops. Where can I find some online? Brastop? Thank you again.

Clara I'd try a 32DD/E and yes I suspect that the boob slippage is entirely due to the back being too big. However, you may find that in a plunge style you need an E or even an F depending on the shape of your boobs. Personally, I don't get on with plunge styles at all and just fall out of them, no matter how big the cup!

Wowcher have an offer today for Bra Stop. Buy a £20 voucher for £8.

Yes, Brastop are good. Have you seen this blog which gives some good links for smaller backed women?

<sob>

The Prima Donna I ordered is too small in the cup, back and armpit fat all over the place

They don't do balconette in bigger than a G cup it seems, I think I need an H.

<sob>

Got my CK princess this morning. Very pretty but too small :-( 32F was creating quadraboob. It felt small too, quite tight around the back. Don't know whether to try a 32G (or FF?) or a 34F. What do you think Gurus?
Anyone used chicken fillets? Thinking of getting one to even out the difference (about a size) but need a reccomendation for a good one.

musttidy, as has been recommended before, try the bra the other way around, hook in the the front just under your boobs. if it's still too tight, go up a back size.
If it's fine this way, then you should go up a cup. (or two - as I think Sorrel said, if it gives you slight spillage when breathing in, go up a cup. If you get a noticeable fourboob, it's usually 2 cups too small.)

I tried to go bra shopping today as I was passing an outlet village.

I went into a lingere shop (chantelle I think it was) but all the bras looked as though they were made for grannies (bar a few which looked badly shaped on the hangers) so I walked out and didn't have to guts to ask to be fitted cos I wouldn't have bought anything there anyway.

Then I went to the next clearance cos I quite like next bras, but they didn't have any lingere.

Then I went in m and s...then I thought about my crime. I ranked it up there with chain drinking fruit shoots and gregs and I thought that MN would never forgive me...so I wandered out again...

...there's always another day...

Haunted You did a Good Thing, trust me!

A very good thing [proud emoticon]

Nods in agreement - Haunted you are a wise woman!

Well.

I received my brastop order today, and I don't know.... <wails>

Fauve Lucia in ruby v pretty, maybe a tiny bit too Red Light District for me (but maybe I am just too used to boring grey white or black undies?), but the sheer panel at the top seems a bit lose/wrinkly IYSWIM. Not sure... Good fit at 34G.

Fauve Merissa balcony bra also v nice, not as flashy, v comfy, but again a teensy bit lose in the top part of the cup. I am wearing it now (can you tell??) and feel all perky. As long as I don't look...
Thong (!) in large fits my size 14 backside just fine .

Hm. I think the Lucia will go back - matching knickers were not available anyway <sour grapes>>

Haunted, well done for stepping away from the dreaded Mediocre+Sad underwear!

Stands back to avoid flaming

On the back of this thread I re-measured myself at the weekend. Well bugger me if I'm not a C cup rather than the B I've been wearing (and falling out of) for years. What with living in Woop Woop, there are few options for bra shopping (plus I am skint, and I wanted simple bras for work) so I went to M&S in Truro. And lo! My boobs are supported, are now the usual two separate boobs instead of the four they were last week. I just got some of their t-shirt bras for £16 for two pairs and I am really pleased. Plus several workmates have already commented on my excellent new chest.

That said, I did try various other non-t-shirt bras on and the fit just wasn't right. Some of the lace or embroidery detailing seemed to cause unnecessary double-boobage, and others were about the least sexy boulder-holders one is ever likely to see.

What does one do about having one tit bigger than the other, though? Anything I tried on that wasn't padded just made me look weird.

Pacific What do you think of the quality of the Fauve bras? I've never worn one but have seen a few online and am now dithering!

Would it be worth trying the Merissa on again tomorrow with an extra scooping session or do think you could go down a cup size? Intersted to know how the fit compares to any other brands you've got, before I order!

The quality is great. At over 50 pounds a pop when not reduced, it jolly well should be, too!
I am wondering about going down a cup size... The band size seems right. So, 34F? Or FF?? ]

Also, I have now --wasted- spent time on ebay where matching knickers are still to be had <<flexes PayPal account>>

I always thought I was a 34A, went to Debenhams earlier this year after a thread on MN to be told I'm a 32B.
My measurements are 28 inches under my boobs and 33 inches across my boobs, this would be what a 30C? this seems crazy, my boobs are tiny!
Just been on the John Lewis website who say with these measurements, I'd be a 32AA.
Needless to say, my current Primark 32B is too big, but not sure where to start and feel silly getting measured when there is hardly anything there to measure!
Can anyone help me?

Kernowgal - I'm a little further East than you, but not much, so feel your pain where bra shopping ops are concerned! I'm going to Ashburton on Thurday and apparently there is a nice lingerie shop there. Still a bit of a trek for you though. There is a nice little independant in Saltash if you find youself heading towards the dark side .

My biggest problem with M&S (crap fitting service aside) is the lack of sizes that they offer. In my nearest (very big!) branch, they didn't have any 30Gs at all. Madness.

Sorrel I have some Fauve ones and the quality and support are most excellent, but they are a bit hit and miss shape-wise. Some really cute, some narrow and pointy. I have them in same size as my Freya ones.

small, I would put you in 28DD.

Pacific Hmmm, I'd probably order an F and a FF and then send one back otherwise you'll always be wondering!

I'm actually going to R&P tomorrow with my DSiL. I haven't booked a fitting but may end up buying another R&P Vintage bra if they have one in stock. If not, I'll probably treat myself to a Fauve when I get back.

wasted

The shape is a bit pointy, but really nice uplift.
And lots of Fauve on ebay. Just saying...

I keep eyeing up Curvy Kate - what are they like shape-wise? They look <ahem> a bit huuuuge for their size if that makes sense.

Kernowgal, hey, nought really wrong with M+S (inspite of my pop at them earlier [win]) other than their awful fitting service. Enjoy your 'new' boobs!

Kernow Oops, didn't answer the uneven boob question. Yep, one of mine is definitely and noticeably (to me anyway) bigger. I always wear padded bras. All my unpadded ones are languishing in my underwear drawer practically unworn. I regularly put one on and then take it off again as the padded ones give me a much more balanced shape

I've just looked at the R+P website!
The prices!!
[faints]

Have fun, Sorrell

Thanks Hazle - but I just can't get my head around it! seems ridiculous that I could be anything like that!?

I'm looking at the Fayve Coco and Maya at the mo. Might place an order...

small, it's the DD denial as we call it
Don't judge by letter alone - a 28DD cup is the same size as 36A or 34B for example.

Pacific Oh I know, it's so expensive there but I'm finding that I'm constantly wearing the ones I got on my last (and only) visit. They are just fantastic. My DSiL has cash a plenty so I think I'll be by the time we leave!

I only have one Curvy Kate, the Thrill Me. Its nice and really gives that boobs up by your chin effect! That one ran true to size for me.

[small] my boobs are small too and I wear a 32D. Seems a bit ridiculous to me too but they definitely fit...as verified by the lovely bra fitter ladies at my local John Lewis.

Sorrel, Leia have some lovely Fauve in their sale section. I think the quality is lovely, but I find the sizing off (big in the cup) - mine is a size smaller than my CK Tease Me.

Link might help, doh leia lingerie

Sorrel - love the idea of the 'dark side' - still haven't been shopping in Plymuff. Even though there's a Primarni. Ashburton is gorgeous, thanks for the tip on the lingerie shop, I've been planning a trip up the A38 for a while (mainly to satisfy my Bovey knitting shop cravings). The wonky boob thing is annoying - padded definitely seems to help. Plus it avoids accusations of peanut smuggling in cold weather.

PacificDogwood a lot of M&S's stuff is tosh though! And why do all their pretty bras have to push your boobs up round your ears? I don't want or need extra cleavage thanks. Grrrr.

Thanks for the link, they have some lovely items. Nothing in my size alas

You have missed nothing by not shopping in the big P. The House of Fraser is OK but Zara closed recently which is v annoying.

I really have to try and step away from this thread - I am now totally bra-obsessing! You lot are enablers of the Worst Kind !

So, sports bras: The Panache looks lovely, and I like the racer back option, but clearly reading some of the reviews, as Shock Absorber seems to be the way forward for me.
So. Do I go for a D+ model? Or the famous B4490? I which case I want the limited edition red/white/blue one (I am not even British, but its purrty).
Any experience re sports bras for the Large of Nork out there?

I really must get off this thread/off MN in general and off my lardy arse
<<slaps self>>

Enell sports bra?

I wonder whether I should start my v own thread

<<obsesses some more>>

kernowgal and sorrel that's why I was wondering whether one chicken fillet might help? I tend to wear padded and when I don't I scoop a little less on the big side but end up with boob squish under arm. You have to buy to fit the bigger so the alternative is a gaping cup....
I bought a fantastic Chantelle (sp?) recently which is the best I've had for evening out the difference. I'll try and find a link....

It's this chantelle but in black.

Yy to Enell sports bra. Ugly but very effective. The sizes are strange though, you might have to do a bit of trial and error.

The Panache is good too and definitely looks better but I have to close the racer back to get enough support.

I haven't really got on with Shock Absorbers, but I haven't tried one for years since I switched to Enell. Both my Enells have gone baggy after several years' abuse faithful service and I'll be buying another.

Must - The Ewa Michalak bras come with removable chicken fillet things specifically to help with the unevenness issue, so yes, in theory that should work if you buy the bigger size.

I swear by my Freya active underwire. Not attractive at all but keeps my 30Gs under control

I have a brand new game boobie lovers

here

An American site that asks loads of questions about your boobs and then offers suggestions of what will suit. Now we can also compare nipples pendulous-ness and shoulder shape.

Fantastically, I am looking at the right shape to suit me. Less good was that some of the ones they suggest don't start till a 34 back (grrr)

But it has given me lots of google homework

Seems Chantelle would suit me. Someone mentioned up thread an outlet shop for them. WHERE IS IT??? Thanks

Sorrell what sports do you do? I have a Freya active and find anything beyond hill walking is beyond it! Running is positively painful. Funny how different bras suit different people isn't it.

Nonononono, I don't want to hear 'different bras suit different people'.
I want Certainty.
I want an unanimous vote.
One piece of advice that will solve all my problems.

I can feel hours being wasted on that website, shattered; so thanks. I think...

Hahaha, I have 'archetypical breasts' - who knew!
Helpfully, 'most bra styles will suite you' - I do not deal well with choice...

Twas me that mentioned Chantelle outlet shop.

I've just double checked before you get exciteed and realisted that actually it was Camille not Chanetelle. Sorry.

Celtic I have the Freya Active non-underwired and happily go running in it. It gives the same effect as my Shock Absorber Level 4 used to before I lost weight and SA didn't work any more (even in the correct size). I think it's all to do with shape...

scooping video!

Her band looks wayyyyy too loose to me...surely she can get more than 2 fingers under

Celtic - I run (prob 3-5 miles at a time) and do a variety of classes from step to high impact aerobic/fatburner to Cardio and Core workouts to Yoga Fiitness. I also wear it for dancing in shows (am dram!).

Great website thank you shattered. I have just spent the last hour looking at my boobs in the mirror trying to answer the questions! Must stop and go to bed!

That site is fab! Thanks Shattered.
Now taking my wide, splayed norks to bed.

I have splayed boobs...wasn't sure if they were wide or not (I can get 2 fingers between but wasn't sure if that was cos they are non existent).

I need either a corded bridge or a triangle bridge...apparently.

Reminded me of something from when we were teenagers. I seem to remember measuring the distance between our nipples for something but I can't remember what. Was probably a "the number of inches between is the number of kids you will have" or similar inane teenagery nonsense.

Hmmm. Perhaps my freya active is the wrong size. Perhaps I'm used to the weird fit of the Enell. Who knows?

Also, thanks for the wowcher tip Sorrell!

The best high impact sports bra I've found is this Shock Absorber. It's a really tight fit so usually go up a back and down a cup e.g. 32G=34FF.

If you're seriously large of nork and find that compression doesn't work for you, the Elomi Energise is pretty good and goes to a J in some band sizes. Starts at a 34 back though.

I like Anita sport bra which I wear for netball

Nothing moves. It has lovely soft cotton cups too!
Fig leaves. Pretty true in back, maybe smallish on cups

Here is Anita bra
www.figleaves.com/uk/product/ANI-5527/Anita-Active-Extreme-Control-Sports-Bra/?size=&colour=Black

Starts at 30 back

Pacific I'm a fitness instructor in my spare time and have tons of sports bras and my favourite is clearly run. But the B4490 is not bad either, the turquoise one is the prettiest. I needed to go up a back size in both.

I've just had a thought.

Scooping doesn't do much for me in the sense that there isn't much to scoop. Also when I do scoop I find that the effects are short lived.

Now I totally appreciate that it may be because I have the wrong sized bra to hold the scooped flesh in the right place. I was also wandering about that breast shape link last night....the fact that my breasts are apparently splayed and possibly wide set, is that going to make if difficult for my boobs to stay up front and stop migrating back to the sides?

Haunted - I do think that scooping works in conjunction with the right bra, for my boobs anyway! Mine are splayed too and do seem to stay put post scoop but only in my balcony bras.

Hmm...they did recommend high sided underarm panels - but only for those with larger blobs (D+ and I still think I should only come up a C unless I can squeeze into a 32).

Personally I don't like balcony bras, but I might give it a go in my revised size whatever that ends up as.

I am small build with 30f and I cannot wear low sided bras because I get the most enormous lumps appear under my arms. I accept that I have to put up with a bit of middle aged spread....
But I can't deal with that.

So I couldn't buy that lovely duck egg pin stripe Bravisimo number that was perfect in every other way

Hello - I'm new to this thread but have been reading it and am pleased for all of the ladies who are discovering their new bra sizes!

I am now wearing a 30FF which seems like a glamour model size, but I'm really a 10-12 and boobs don't look particularly big. I was wearing 34 backs for years before going down to 32, then a John Lewis fitter put me in a 30 and suddenly everything is where it should be!

Anyway, I received an email from asos today and they have big discounts on bras at the moment so thought you may be interested! Seems like a lot of sizes out of stock for some types but you may get lucky...

Asos

I also suffer with the underarm escapage syndrome - it is definitely far far better in a well fitting bra but I also need one where the sides are of a decent height so that once things are scooped in, they stay in!

Just left Rigby and Peller a few quid lighter clutching another R&G vintage in almond. Interestingly, this time in a 30G and not the 32G I bought last time.

I think it is probably a blessing that my work trips to London are generally too brief to involve R&P else I suspect my poor credit card would cry.

I really want to go to R&P.

I would love to drag my Mum along, she is definitely in the wrong bra and it is such a shame because she has fabulous norks even though she is 63! I think she would resist though, on the basis of costs. Not that she can't afford it, just that she would consider it practically sinful to spend that much on a bra.

My BraStop order is on the way, it will be here tomorrow. <excited> I have ordered a Panache plunge in a 36H, and a Curvy Kate in a 36HH.

Today I'm wearing a Fantasie 36G and it is ok, but needs to be a bit bigger in the cup. Anyone else noticed that Fantasie cup sizes come up bigger than other brands though?

I have become completely obsessed by bras.

OK...I am checking in again...

So I went to next today (cos I like their bras and much easier to get to than JL or debenhams.

I tried a 34C and I will admit that it was.probably too small in the cup, I had a slight ridge of breast tissue along the top of the cup. I also could comfortably do up on tightest (even with a sodding security tag on the band), so I decided to try the 32D.

I probably could have got the band done up on middle or tightest but left it on loosest. Again the cup had a slight ridge again which I guess you would expect. And that was without scooping.

So I guess I would be needing a 32DD next which Next don't seem to do. Looks like I have to head to JL, or maybe order something from bravissimo or whatever, but I really can't afford huge prices especially if I am replacing my entire bra collection which I have done not so long ago.

My other concern was that with both the 32 and 34 I ended up with hideous rolls of fat over the top at the back. I know I'm not the slimest in the world but a muffin top on my bra is not a good look.

Ok,

Have had a look on the brastop website and sale prices are reasonable. Need to look for a basic everyday white and something a bit more flirty I think.

I need to go back through thread and check out the recommendations etc. Regarding brands and styles and sizing...I was ignoring that whilst in D+ denial..

That allll needs to be scooped

I have to scoop/smooth from surprisingly far back when I put my bra on (god, this thread is so not flattering image wise)

I would say if you already have a slight bulge without scooping then once you scoop it may actually be pretty sizeable - so it might even be up 2 cups.

Debenhams sale, leia outlet section and brastop will all have bras in those sizes which aren't too expensive hopefully. Debenhams have free delivery on all orders over £30 and I know some people get on very well with their Gorgeous range.

Alternatively Leia has some starting at about £9 for freya.

Well based on this thread I bought 2 bras today, went from a 40B to a 36F!

I am wearing one now. It looks MUCH better and suprisingly has removed back fat, and created illusion of waist. I am amazed I fill the cups tbh.

BUT is really uncomfortable! Is it meant to leave red welts? I can get 2 fingers under at the side but it feels so tight! Please tell me I'll get used to the corset feeling?!

Red marks yes, same as a waistband or a pair of socks marks your skin
It does take a bit to get used to, might be slightly uncomfy but shouldn't be painful

TY.

I went to tkmax after next and based on visual the cups seem to come up small in Next (I've generally thought they come up smaller than BHS which is where I used to get my bras), so was going to order a 32D and 32DD.

What measurements should I be subtracting to work out cup? Should I be subracting actual measurements or should I be subtracting the overbreast measurement from the band size on the bra I purchase.

So measurements are 33 and 37 which gives a 4" difference and D cup.
If.I buy a 32 band that gives a 5" difference and a DD cup.

I am tempted by the thrill me/tempt me on bra stop as my flirty bra based on all the gossip here, not the shape I would normally choose as I normally go for a moulded full cup. Will have a proper look when I switch laptop on, I may be back for further guidance.

Its not painful, but I cant WAIT to get it off!

Yes, like red digging-in marks. I mean, its lovely it fits and looks better but I feel like a constricted Victorian lady....

They do give a bit. I buy mine on the loosest hook and after a while use the middle hook so there will be some give

I would go for the difference between the band and the measurement - so a 32dd. The conventional wisdom is that if you go down one band, you go up one cup however I have never (personally) found that works for me - I always find it's more like two. So, on the rare occasions I buy a 32 back (I'm normally a 30) I go down two cups.

There was a blog post on one of the big bra blogs arguing it seemed a bit illogical to only change by one.

I liked the tempt/tease/thrill me range - I didn't keep the thrill me just because I don't have many clothes that you wouldn't see the frill through. The detailing on the tempt/tease is much flatter.

I sent some stuff back to brastop yesterday and they have already emailed saying they are processing the refund so they seem to be pretty quick. I ordered things in about 5 different sizes as I hadn't tried Curvy Kate before so needed to experiment a bit.

Thank god. Not v nice feeling in this heat. But I am very impressed by the bra, other than that. Thank you all, bra expert guru people...

Now can anyone recommend some nice black opaque tights to be worn with black floral dress and flat shoes? <hopes for miracle>

haunted you are getting bustier by the day!
Amazon is worth a look, some reasonable (£14 ish) curvy Kate's on there. Also check eBay - some ck new ones around the £10 mark if you're lucky with the sizes.

I was looking at £10ish per bra tbh so brastop have some in that price bracket. I love the patterned ones some are so pretty particularly on bravissimo but tbh I need quantity for my money at the mo.

I would like a plain white t shirt moulded cup but I don't think I'm going to get that in the sale. I might just get some pretty ones from brastop and then a couple of tesco t shirt bras to get me going in my new size.

I was in tkmaxx today and they had some in the £5-10 mark which I would.also use to fill my undie draws. They were brands I had heard of - triumph and Calvin kleine but I wasn't sure what the MN wisdom would be on those and I had run out of time to gaff about trying lots of sizes.

Sitting in Covent Garden almost opposite Bravissimo but am too squiffy on Prosecco to go in

Sorrell

Oops just told the waitress in the restaurant that she needs to go for a bra fitting (in my defence she was saying how great Victoria's Secrets was!)

Sorrel you are having a heavenly day!

LordFlashart, I had the same problem - red marks, could not wait to get bra off at end of day, felt bruised - until kindly bra fitter at Bravissimo had a look at me and my newly purchased bra and <drum roll> losened the shoulder straps a fair bit. I had my new bra simply hoiked up too far - maybe that could be your problem too?

I had a lovely chat to an advisor from the brilliantly named Bobbydoo website this morning and shall be ordering a Shock Absorber D+ Max support as a good allround sports bra. She suggested I order my usual size... If that goes well and I actually start running again I might invest into the Panache sports bra which looks really good. She advised 'down a band size, up a cup size'.
We shall see...

BTW, all you lot who know your bras, do you go for matching bra+knickers sets or do you not bother? If you have sets, what is your bra:pants ration ?

I've had - can you tell??

NOT ration, dammit, ratio

I've not had that much ...

Ooh I want to know ratio too or in other words how many days can you wear same bra for

I have been known to wear a bra for two days.

I only buy the matching knickers if the bra has a very distinctive pattern/material or if it's a slightly unusual colour.

I am fascinated by the rationale (not the ratio) of wearing matching pants and bra...

But what is the point?? What if you like the bra but the matching pants are nasty scratchy thongs or something?

Although since we are mentioning ratios, I nearly always wear bras for two or three days, unlike grundies. And that gets buggered up if you buy the two together and they don't sell spare pants, surely?

Pretty much exactly what sorrel said. Black/white/nude I tend not to bother, more colourful or unusual then I buy matching.

I don't get it though - why match bra to pants? Unless it's a special seduction outfit or something, then I can see the point of course.

Ok, I understand and it makes sense - white/nude/black George by ASDA 5packs; fancy-pants bras get fancy pants .

So I shoulde really send the Fauve Lucia in 'ruby' back as it would seem for love nor money are there any matching briefs to be had. And I draw the line at thongs although I now seem to own to go with Merissa bra.

Bought fetching turquise/purple ShockAbsorber B4490 in the end - my name is PD and I dither for Scotland

Unless its a plain black t shirt bra, I always buy a matching set. Ratio 1:1- wear once then wash. If I really like (and suit) both styles of bottoms available then I get both. The bra still only gets worn for one day though!

Why match? Cos it makes me look/feel good.

OMG- this thread is still going? How is there so much to say about a bra

FWIW if I buy a nice bra that has needs the matching knickers, then I buy 2 pairs of knickers at the same time. This gets around the wearing bra for 2 days and clean knicks every day.

Pacific, shorts?

Ah, thank, Hazle, my ample backside does not do shorts.

I just got some briefs off ebay - buy it now, an' all.

MissBoPeep, I many never stop going on a bout bras now...

Right I have been researching all niight.

I am hoping to convince myself that I have time to go for a fitting tomorrow as I am not confident in what to order.

So I have the option of JL, Debs or House of Fraser. Thinking I will try Debs as they seem to have the biggest range online in my size and budget.

My plan is to buy a pack of 2 basic Gorgeous black/white everyday T-shirt bras, and perhaps try on some other styles whilst I am there.

I shall then come home and order a couple of pretty Bras, probably from Brastop. I am seriously tempted by the Tempt me as my flirty bra (worried that the Tease me still has a frill?).

I have never been for a fitting before. What should I expect? How do they measure - should I wear a non-padded bra? Should I take some bras off the shelf into the fitting with me (but presumably I have to be 'measured' first?).
What if they try and tell me I am a 38A, should I say I am not happy with that I will fit myself or just smile and dump any bras they suggest before I get to till and come running back to you to put me right?

Haunted why don't you ask when you go whether they use the +4/5 method? If they say yes then walk away.

Cos that sounds like I am telling them that they don't even know what they are doing before I have given them a chance.

Wimpers...

If they do use it , then they don't know what they are doing

If they don't, they will do an eye roll or something and you know you will be in safe hands

I might go in and say "MN says I am wearing the wrong size bra cos the +4/5 is a load of bollocks now" and see what the response is.

Do they measure naked/with bra on - just so I am prepared.

Haunted, if you read this before you go: I'd wear any simple bra you are comfortable in (I wore a non-grey one ).
IME all the big stores measure with bra on. Bravissimo does the eyeballing thing. My Bravissimo fitter asked me whether I minded if she stayed in the (rather large) chaning cubicle with me. I didn't - but I have no shame .

I'd got and let them do their thing. Then you do yours: scoop. And if you end up with 4 boobs/backfat/underarm fat, then you just ask for the next cupsize up. Or 2!

Hope you have fun and success today!

In addition to what Pacificdogwood said, take/wear a stretchy vest top so you can see what shape the new bra gives you.

You were wondering which store to go to. I'd suggest trying all of them if you can. The size that's smallest in the back and biggest in the cup is likely to be the most accurate. Good luck!

Ok...I had avoided a vest because I didn't think I would get a true representation around the neckline...I shall go and get changed...

Oh and if they try to convince you that you need to hook your bra on the tightest or middle hook for "even balance" like M&S has been known to recommend, tell them to go away. Bras stretch and you want to be able to tighten them later, so you should always buy the one that fits when at loosest setting.

Right, I'm off for a proper fitting, with the power of mn behind me. I could be some time

Just walked out of house of fraser. Don't have anything bigger than a D in 32 band so suspect they would do a +4 measuring to find one.that 'fits'.

Off to Debs.

Am I allowed to buy from la senza after fitting. Just walked past and they have nice cheap flirty bras which would add quantity. Yay or nay?

Guide me around town oh wise ones.

nay to La Senza and besides, knowing your size does not help you in their shop anyway, they are half the size as other brands labelled the same.

Right I am not a member of the D denial club

I have gone from 36A to 34C, which is about where I measure (33.5 and 37). She seemed to know what she was doing. Strap is looser than I was expecting based on chat on this thread but comparable to what I have seen on the various links on here so I think ok.

Balconette half cups do not suit me. I have 4 t shirt bras. Could do with a padded and/or plunge and brastop is now out with those measurements although I wonder wether it would still be worth trying the tempt me in a 32D?

you can try 34D as well, I often go up a cup in plunge styles.