Why bra sizes are letters

Measure around your chest, just underneath your arms and around the top of your bust. Round your measurement to the next nearest even number. This is your Glamorise band size. Different companies may measure in different ways. Your cup size is the letter or letters next to your band size. For example, if your bra size is a 40DD, your cup size is DD. In the United States cup sizes range from A to N. The cup sizes get larger as the letters go up in the alphabet.

Size D is bigger than A, and H is bigger than D. Cup sizes are a way of labeling the volume that each cup holds. This changes depending on the band size. This is because the cup size is relative to the band size. Are the sizes the same? What follows is the method with which we have had the most success. Always measure while wearing your own best fitting bra - This should NOT be a sports bra, but rather a "lingerie" style bra, as you would typically wear underneath a blouse.

To determine the band size: Measure snugly around your ribcage, directly under your breasts. Add 3 inches to this measurement. For example, if your ribcage is 31 inches, your band size is If your result is an odd number, go UP to the next band size.. To determine the cup size: Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust.

Subtract the band size from this measurement. Use this number to determine your cup size according to the table below. Fitting hints:. Compression Compression uses elastic support fabrics to hold breasts closer to the body. Encapsulation Encapsulation is another method of reducing bounce, encapsulation typically uses molded, often semi-rigid cups to contain the breasts.

The shape of the cup, and the way it's built into the bra, limits movement of the breasts. Many bras use a combination of compression and encapsulation to support breasts.

May also contribute to the overall support of the bra. Straps Straps support the weight of the breasts by cantilevering it off the shoulders, much like a suspension bridge. Larger breasts require broader, non-stretchy straps.

The number portion of the size the 34 in 34C for example represents your band size or the measurement around your rib cage just below your breasts. To get this number pull a soft measuring tape tightly around the bottom of your bra band while wearing it. Round to the nearest whole number and add four five if the number is odd. This is your band size. The letter portion of your bra size is your cup size. Measure around your chest again this time placing the measuring tape at nipple level.

This is your bust measurement. Get your cup size by subtracting your band size from your bust size. If the difference is a 1 your cup size is an A, 2 a B, 3 a C, etc.