Bra help really needed- I can't breathe in mine, but I can't believe the online calculators

[freckles20]

I have put on a lot of weight recently. I'm currently wearing two battered Next bras which are 34D. But by god they are so tight around the strap. They have stretched to much bigger than a 34 but I can't wear them any more- I'm getting stomach aches and restricted breathing from them.

I've measured the strap area at 38, and the fullest part of my bust at 43 (this was braless, hope that's right).

The online calculator I used came out at 38E.

Can anyone tell me if this is roughly correct please. Sounds so wrong!

I realise bra fitting is an art but TBH anything would be better than what I have atm. I'm even considering going to work braless because I just can't bear mine anymore.

I usually measure the bust with a bra on ( I think they’d be in the wrong place otherwise, lol). The 38E sounds like a good place to start, can you go to a shop to try on and see what fits? I tend to have a guide size but then tweak it when trying on as different bras fit differently.

@JohnNutLips ah yes that does make sense, although my current contraption is more like a leaky vice so they are probably still not in the right place .

Trying a few on is a logical and great idea, but I'm desperately short of time which is partly why I've let things get so bad. So I'm just planning to buy the bullet and order one online for now....

If you have put on a lot of weight, 38E isn’t a massive stretch from 34D. It’s only 2 strap sizes and one cup size up.
Just try it.
Depending on the manufacturer, you might need to try different cup sizes, but giving yourself the extra band length will immediately feel better.

If you’re short of time, order a few sizes and return the ones that are no good.
If you don’t think your cup size is bigger, order a 38D as well for example

Have you got good experience of a particular manufacturer in the past?
I can only use one brand of bra, i’ve tried so many others and just can’t get a good fit. Once you have found a good manufacturer, stick to it!

Doesn’t sound unreasonable.

I was wearing 34F uncomfortably ; got professionally measured and am now wearing 36 G comfortably.

Can you get to a supermarket and buy one to tide you over?

Have you done the Boob or Bust calculator? You measure tight under the bust and then snug, around your boobs (braless) leaning forward and then again standing up so you put four measurements into the calculator to get your bra size. It comes out accurate though different brands and styles will vary a little. I love Elomi and Curvy Kate for comfortable, supportive bras but I am much more comfortable in a full cup than balcony style. It can take a bit of trial and error.