How to measure your bra size at home

Short answer: You can measure your bra size at home with a soft tape measure. Measure around the body under the bust and around the fullest part, and use the two measurements in the maker's size guide. Then try the bra on, because the fit decides whether the size is right.

Why it is worth measuring

A bra in the wrong size can press, cut in or slip, and then the day feels harder than it needs to. A measurement at home gives you a good starting point when you choose a size. It is not an answer sheet, but it saves a lot of guessing before you try a bra on.

What you need

You need a soft tape measure, the kind a tailor uses, and a mirror. Wear a bra that is not padded or strongly shaping, or measure without a bra if you want a more neutral figure. Stand calmly with your arms down and breathe normally, so the measurement is not distorted.

Measure under the bust

Measure around the body just under the bust, so the tape lies level and snug, but without squeezing. This measurement is used to find the band size, which carries most of the support. Look at bamboo bra styles, and compare your measurement with the size guide for the very model you are looking at.

Measure the fullest part

Then measure around the fullest part of the bust, with the tape level and without pressing in. The difference between the two measurements is used in the size guide to find the cup size. It is a good idea to measure twice, so you are sure the number is the same both times.

Use your measurements

Every maker has its own size guide, and you should use that one, because sizes are not always the same between brands. Find your two measurements in the table and read which size they point to. Treat the result as a starting point and not as a final answer.

Check the fit

When the bra is on, the band should lie level around the body and not ride up your back. The cups should not spill over or have large wrinkles, and the straps should not dig in. Lift your arms, bend forward and walk around, so you see whether everything stays in place.

When the measurement and the fit do not agree

It happens that the measurement points to one size while another feels better. That is quite normal, because bodies and styles differ. Trust what feels right, and try one size up or down. If you are unsure, a professional in a shop can help you.

Measure again from time to time

Your body can change over time, so measure again when the bra no longer fits properly. It takes a few minutes and can save you from buying the wrong size. Remember too that the fabric can become softer with time, so the fit may change a little.

In short, measure at home

Measure under the bust and around the fullest part, use the maker's size guide, and try the bra on before you decide. Look also at bamboo socks and the range for women, so you get everything at once. Then you have a good starting point for everyday life.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure my bra size?

Measure around under the bust and around the fullest part with a soft tape measure, and use the two measurements in the maker's size guide.

Is the measurement always right?

It is a starting point, not a final answer. Try the bra on, and choose a size up or down if another feels better.

When should I measure again?

Measure again when your bra no longer fits properly, or if your body has changed.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.