Bra Size Measuring Guide and Bra Fitting

Don't fall into the booby trap!

Finding a perfect fitting bra can be a daunting task for most women. Many fall into the 'booby trap' by either making do with what they have or simply choosing the bra size they think they are. Most of us still don't seek expert advice when buying a bra. We go on buying the same sized bra for years without considering whether it still fits. Wearing the wrong sized bra may not just affect our appearance, it can also affect our health. Incorrectly fitted bras can be responsible for problems with the skin, back and posture, as well as causing the obvious aching breasts.

If you aren't able to visit one of our stores for a free expert fitting, follow the simple steps below and measure yourself. When doing this, please remember to wear the most comfortable bra you have (avoid push-up bras) and relax.

Your Bra Size

Measure around your back and directly underneath your bust, ensuring the tape is held firmly in place (see diagram - line a). Use the chart below to determine your bra size:

Measurement in inches	27-28	29-30	31-32	33-34	35-36	37-38	39-40
Bra Size	32	34	36	38	40	42	44

Your Cup Size

Measure around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring that the tape is held firmly in place (see diagram - line b).

The difference between this measurement and your bra size will give you your cup size. For example, if there is no difference between the two sizes, your cup fitting will be 'A', and so on. If your measurement is an odd number, e.g. 33 inches, round up to the nearest even number, i.e. 34. See table below for further details.

inches	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
cm	0	2.5	5	7.5	10	12.5	15	17.5	20
Cup Size	A	B	C	D	DD	E	F	G	H

Get The Perfect Fit

Before you try on a bra for the first time, let the straps out almost fully (just allowing a finger width), and fasten the back on its loosest setting. You can then re-adjust them if necessary. To get a full fit, lean forward and allow your bust to fall into the cups.

Your Guide to a Perfectly Fitting Bra

La Senza has a wealth of experience having been established as a lingerie specialist for over 50 years. Trained staff in every store offer a professional fitting service to ensure you leave with lingerie in the right style and size. Below you will find some of the most common complaints from women wearing the wrong sized bra, together with a solution.

Problem: Bulging Bust?

Solution: A bulging bust creates unsightly curves in the wrong places! It will ruin yor outfit, not to mention causing red marks and sore skin. Bulging busts, which create the 'four boob syndrome' are usually caused by a bra which is too small, especially in the cup area. To remedy this, get measured and fitted regularly as many women do not realise that bust size can change.
Problem: Wrinkles on your cup?

Solution: If the fabric on your bra cup wrinkles, it is probably because there is too much fabric which means it's too big for you! A well fitted bra should fit smoothly over your bust without excess fabric showing. Your cup size should be measured accurately to ensure a smooth fit.
Problem: Bra riding up?

Solution: Your bra should be level front and back. If it rides up, it's not supporting your breasts properly. This is probably due to the underband being too large and can be remedied by being measured so your correct back size can be determined.
Problem: Digging in?

Solution: Bras that dig in cause major discomfort and affect your posture - even mood! This can be caused by ill fitting underwires and straps, leaving tell tale red marks on the skin. Initially, ensure that you have the correct sized bra after being measured properly, but also pay attention to fitting, which is often overlooked. Adjustable straps should be correctly positioned and underwires should be flat against the contours of your bust.
Problem: Visible Straps?

Solution: It´s important to look good as well as feel good when going out. With the numerous party dress styles available - such as halterneck, backless and strapless - it is often difficult to find the appropriate underwear to match. La Senza can advise and supply the correct style of bra for your outfit. So whether it´s a multiway or strapless bra you need you´ll feel confident in your appearance.

International Bra Sizes

UK	32	34	36	38	40
France	85	90	95	100	105
Europe	70	75	80	85	90
USA/Canada	32	34	36	38	40
Australia	10	12	14	16	18

Hosiery Sizes

S =	Hips	34"- 42"	Height	5´ 0" - 5´ 4"
nbsp;	Hips	34"- 38"	Height	5´ 4" - 5´ 7"
M =	Hips	34" - 42"	Height	5´ 4" - 5´ 7"
nbsp;	Hips	23" - 42"	Height	5´ 7" - 5´ 10"
L =	Hips	42" - 48"	Height	5´ 0 - 5´ 10"
FF =	Hips	48" - 54"	Height	5´ 0 - 5´ 10"

Washing advice

Always hand wash or follow manufacturers instructions. Machine washing the bras can cause damage to the machine if the underwire comes out. Machine washing the bras can also effect the structure and shape of a bra and can damage the wires, which can lessen its wearable life. Some bras are not designed to be worn day in and out and will not give good wear as more functional bras. Customers should try and wash matching sets together to prevent fading one or other pieces. The skins natural body oils can contribute to the discoloration of bra fabric and it is recommended that a bra is worn no more than twice before washing.