What size bra should I try on next? Help!

[73kittycat73]

Hi, I've recently lost some weight so am in the process of buying some new autumn/winter clothes, including bras. I can't go out for a fitting as I'm agoraphobic, so I got the trusty tape measure out. I measured under the bust of 38". I know there has been a trend lately of just ordering your chest size and not adding any on. So I ordered a 38 D (Used to be DD, but they've shrunk a bit too!) from Bon Prix, and Yours clothing. The Bon Prix one is a little bit snug but the cup fits perfectly. However, the Yours clothing fitted the cup but was too tight in the band. I ordered another one and decided to add the 4 inches this time, so ordered a 42D. This time the band is a little loose and the cup is much to big. So I want to try one more time. I will go for a 40 band, but what cup size? Stick with the D, or go for a C? Any help will be gladly appreciated! My Under buts is 38" and across the fullest part is 42"

Is the 42 with you leaning forwards? If not do that and measure and post the result.

If it is with you leaning forwards you’d need a 38D or possibly DD/E. It might be the brands you’re trying rather than the size - try Bravissimo, proper department store lingerie departments to try lots of brands, Brastop, etc.

Yes, the same leaning forwards. I can't get out to any shops because of the agoraphobia.
Thank you for your reply.

I'd say you need to try a 38DD or E too.

abrathatfits.org will tell you how to measure and what your starting point is.

The Bravissimo website has an online chat facility to advise.

Thank you. Will try the suggestions.

It's coming up as 38C/D in abrathatfits.org. Still don't know which cup size!

Just a thought, but how about trying those stretchy crop top type bras, and you won't have to worry about cup size so much? I know Sainsbury's do loads online to choose from.

Have you tried different bra styles? I had no idea there were so many but I've finally found my best fit!

try the Boob or Bust calculator is uses more measurements so tends to be more accurate than a bra that fits

@Byheckythump

Just a thought, but how about trying those stretchy crop top type bras, and you won't have to worry about cup size so much? I know Sainsbury's do loads online to choose from.

Thanks but I already have two crop type bra tops. They're not very supportive so that's why I'm looking for a more traditional bra. My boobs go flat and wide in them!

@YerAWizardHarry

try the Boob or Bust calculator is uses more measurements so tends to be more accurate than a bra that fits

I've been quoted 36 F. I guess I'll just have to buy a bra, try it on and if it doesn't fit, send it back and buy another.

The problem is that it depends on the style of bra too. And how much you "scoop" into the cup when putting the bra on.

It sounds like the 38" band size is right though.

Is it the Boob or Bust site that talks about "sister" cup sizes? It says which size cup has the same volume for the next band size up or down.

If boob or bust says 36 F then I would order a couple of different styles in that size plus maybe a 38E from Bravissimo. Bravissimo takes Boob or Bust measurements unlike high street shops like M&S.

Sister size of 36F is 38E. I'd maybe try a 38DD and E. Do you actually measure 36 under your bust rather than 38?

Thanks but I already have two crop type bra tops. They're not very supportive so that's why I'm looking for a more traditional bra. My boobs go flat and wide in them!

Ah - try a side sling bra!

I have a Bravissimo Illusion using measurements off Boob or Bust. Fits perfectly!

Are you doing the bra up on the tightest or loosest fastening? It should be the loosest IIRC.

There is so much variation between and even within bands. I wear everything from 30GG (Freya) through 32G, GG and H (curvy Kate) to 34F (triumph, who make their bras less stretchy).

Try different styles, too. A full cup on me is empty at the top of the cup. A plunge doesn't even touch me in all the right places. Even within balconettes, some have the cups too close together for me.

Think of it a bit like buying shoes. Even if you measure a 6E, you might be a 5EE in one shop and a 6.5 elsewhere. There might be styles that don't fit you at any size - I can't wear Birkenstocks because my outermost toes hang off due to the shape of my foot. You can't expect bra shopping to. Involve any less trial and error, unfortunately.

Good luck.

Do you have a Bravissimo shop near you?
They are brilliant at sizing and will help you find one that really fits properly.

It's not going to help on sizes, but a MNer put me onto brastop who do free returns (if you have someone who can drop them at a pots office for you). That way you can buy a few options and send back what doesn't fit?