Bust measurement, what is it and how do you measure it

Short answer: What is a bust measurement? It is the distance around the upper body at the fullest part of the chest, taken with a soft tape measure. Together with the measurement under the bust it is used to find a bra size. Here is how to measure yourself and what to do with the number.

What is a bust measurement and what is it used for

The bust measurement is a circumference, taken horizontally around the body over the fullest part of the chest. The number is used to choose sizes in bras, tops and other clothes for the upper body. It is a plain measurement, not a judgement of how you look, and it can change over time.

How to measure your bust at home

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms down by your sides. Place a soft tape measure around the fullest part and keep it level all the way round. Measure without pulling the tape tight. If you need a suitable bamboo bra, this is the number you compare with the brand's size guide.

Bust and underbust are two different numbers

The underbust measurement is taken just under the chest, where the bra band sits. The bust measurement is taken over the fullest part. The difference between the two is often used to find the cup size. Brands use different systems, so always follow the guide that belongs to the bra you want to buy.

Small tricks for a correct measurement

Measure in a thin top or without clothes, and avoid a padded bra, which can give too big a number. Stand straight and breathe normally. Ask someone to hold the tape so it does not sag at the back. Measure twice and use the average you get from them.

From measurement to size

Once you have your numbers, find them in the brand's size chart. Sizes are not the same across brands, so a bra in size M at one brand may fit differently at another. Also read the description of the cut, because a bra without cups fits differently from one with them.

What if the numbers fall between two sizes

If the numbers fall between two sizes, think about what you will use the bra for. Choose the bigger one if you want it loose and soft, and the smaller one if you want it close. Stretchy materials give a little, so they often forgive more than stiff ones.

Bamboo and fit

Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo and can be soft and stretchy. That often makes the fit more forgiving than if the fabric were stiff. Even so, the bust measurement is the most important place to start, because a bra should support in the right place and not dig into the skin.

Measure yourself again now and then

The body changes over time, and so do your measurements. Measure again every six months, or when a bra you normally like suddenly fits differently. For the rest of your underwear you can look at bamboo knickers and bamboo tops for women, where you can also check the size.

Frequently asked questions

What is a bust measurement?

The bust measurement is the distance around the upper body at the fullest part of the chest. You measure it horizontally with a soft tape measure, and the number is used with the underbust measurement to find a bra size.

Should I measure with or without a bra?

Measure in a thin top or without clothes. A padded bra can give too big a number. If you are unsure, compare with a bra you think fits well.

Is the bust measurement the same as bra size?

No. Bra size is a number and a letter, while the bust measurement is only the circumference. You need both bust and underbust measurements and compare them with the brand's guide.