Ladies- your real bra size <3

[ShyMer]

I want to talk about proper bra fitting. You may have heard that most women wear the wrong size, but if you're like me, you may not have understood completely what that means.

You guys, I thought all this time that all cup sizes are the same no matter the band. I thought that because my 36 DD was too loose that buying a 34 DD would fit. NOPE. Here I thought I was stuck with too tight (and falling out) or way too loose. I could tell something was wrong, but I was puzzled as to what exactly that was.

Turns out the cup size is relative to the band size. A 34 DD is not going to have the same size cup as a 40 DD. So to get the right fit, I probably need to go another band size or so down and a few cup sizes up. I can't wait to go out tomorrow and see if I can find something that fits better.

I found a blog that was particularly interesting and has some good info to start with.
Check out thatbradoesnotfither.com (http://thatbradoesnotfither.com/)
Also, if you find that some bras feel more or less comfortable than others, it may be worth it to check out what kinds of bras would work best for your breast shape.

So for those who already know this, what difficulties have you run into trying to find a properly fitting bra? Color and style selection seems to be pretty poor in the department stores I've seen.

I'd love to hear about any bra fitting stories you may have <3

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Always measure the band first. Get a measuring tape and measure right under the bust. That's your band size. So if you measure a 33.5, round up. 32.5, round down. Find your band, let's say 34, now you can get into measuring again but I wouldn't. I would go to a bra store and eyeball the cups. Grab a 34c, 34d, 34dd, whatever and try them all on! You shouldn't have any gaps when you stand up straight. And you shouldn't have that cupcake effect where your boob is spilling out. You should be able to fit your band on the LOOSEST hook. Bras stretch overtime, then you can start tightening it more.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Okay, now here's my problem. I have a 25.5inch underbust and a 30inch bust. So according to how you're supposed to measure, that's a 26DD. LOL does anyone know where I could find that?! Or a 28DD. I wear a 32C right now and the band constantly slips up and depending on the bra the cup just feels weird. Even though 28DD and 32C are sister sizes, doesn't mean they fit the same. A 34B, and a 36A will not fit my tiny ribcage. HELP :)

[PearlieMae]

Doesn't sound like you need a bra at all, actually. :D (said the mostly flat, large 38B)

[Mermaid Veruliya]

LOL no I need a bra. I got 5 inches of boob that needs to go somewhere.
Guys! I found one of my favorite models lingerie brand online that I think solves a lot of our bigger and smaller needs ;) Rosie for Autograph on MarkandSpencer.com
She has 30D which I plan on getting. But she also has up to 40G. And down to 32a for the smaller ones! And each bra is 30 euros which I think isn't too bad in dollars either haha :) it's by Rosie Huntington- Whitely. A famous VS model, replaced Megan Fox in transformers, and left VS to create her own lingerie line with ample size. And colors! Her newest collection will be out this fall!
And the best part- matching undies! :D

[Mermaid Oshun]

I decided not to say my bra sizes. It's too embarasing

[Thalassa]

I am SO confused. I'm small. Pretty much my body goes straight down (see my mermaid picture here (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=396504137099425&set=pb.339812389435267.-2207520000.1376060277.&type=3&theater) to see what I mean. I have nearly nothing!). I've worn a 32A, 34A, and 32AA. According to this measurement guide, I'm a 30C! How the heck... I mean, I'm willing to try it out and see if it fits, but...I'm pretty much training bra size, usually. :-S

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Women usually wear a size smaller than they actually are! Check your underwire. The end of the underwire should be resting on rib bone, not breast tissue. That was what made me check my 32As, I had red marks under my armpits that eventually gave me bruises. I was a 32b a short time and now I'm at my own conundrum. I plan on ordering the 30D on MarkandSpencer.com.

[Mermaid Oshun]

I used to drink Fennel tea and Fenugreek teas everyday. I think that has a lot to do with me. Try it ladies if you want some more boobage.

Kerri if you have red marks from a 32a you need a 34a. It is your band size that is too small .

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Or push-ups, to build the muscle underneath and add perkiness. Or birthcontrol! Haha :P

[PearlieMae]

Other than genetics, pregnancy and surgery, there is nothing that will change your boob size.

Get fitted at a real lingerie shop by an expert. My daughter worked at a specialty lingerie shop and had to go through a whole training process. They did specialize in women with post-mastectomy issues.

[Thalassa]

I don't wear underwire bras, they tend to hurt me. XP Although, maybe that was because I was wearing the wrong size? :-S LOL, it's so silly that this is throwing me for such a loop! (But imagine going from "AA" to "C" overnight and not having changed bodily at all!)

[PearlieMae]

Or push-ups, to build the muscle underneath and add perkiness. Or birthcontrol! Haha :P

Haha! you can only build up those pectoral muscles so much before you start looking like a guy!

13429

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Lol well if you really have that little breast tissue like a man and you start pumping some hard iron I'm sure! But like when women get augmentations, you can choose over the muscle or under, and when the implant is under the muscle, it gives a more realistic look and feel. So there is a pretty thick layer of muscle, and just like you can squat to perk up your booty, you can press to perk up your chest! I'm not saying lets all go out and start 30 reps of 200 haha. You cant shed breast tissue through cardio, only fat tissue, so it's not like you lose tissue and gain muscle in its place

[Mermaid Veruliya]

And Golden Pearl, I spill out of a 34A, it barely covers nip, also the band 34 on any bra is way too big

[malinghi]

Get fitted at a real lingerie shop by an expert. My daughter worked at a specialty lingerie shop and had to go through a whole training process. They did specialize in women with post-mastectomy issues.

Yep. My family's business was a lingerie store for 40 years. I'm not sure why, but for some reason many people seem to be unaware that selecting the right size bra isn't trivial.

[Mermaid Oshun]

Fat does store estrogen and increase breast tissue. Also women who are thin and exercise too much not only have irregular periods but will also have a hard time getting pregnant because their estrogen levels will go way down. In addition, if you are too thin, you may have a really hard time during child birth.

[Aziara]

WTF! It says I'm supposed to be a 30FF?! Then why on earth does a 36B fit me?!

[PearlieMae]

Breasts are mostly fat, so I would argue the loss through cardio.
A comfortable and well fitting bra is important. But I can say, from more than forty years of having breasts, they are SO much less an issue than you might think. :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Veruliya]

I agree, never get sized at somewhere like Victoria's Secret though, most of them are teenagers. A lot of my friends worked there and they didn't know the first thing about sizing someone, one even told me they got so nervous they just pretended to measure and eyeballed it.

[Mermaid Oshun]

here here mae. Ive had mine for almost 50 yrs lol
@Aziara. I do not see how it is possible you can wear both a 30 band and a 36 band unless youve gained lot of weight in your torso and now your trunk is thicker

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Lol yes that's what I said, breast tissue and fat tissue are different, mammary glands are not fat, therefore if your breasts are made up of a lot of fat, you will definitely lose some cup sizes! That's why most fitspo models have implants haha. I'm speaking about women like me who have always been naturally skinny, cardio won't make me lose any bra size because I don't have a lot of fat especially up top. And like my mother, who was smaller than I am at my age and when she gained a lot of weight, the only thing that changed was her ribcage, her breasts stayed practically the same. It's genetics

[Mermaid Oshun]

Keri everyone's cup size does go up if they gain weight. Yours can not go down now because you cant possibly get much skinnier.

[Aziara]

here here mae. Ive had mine for almost 50 yrs lol
@Aziara. I do not see how it is possible you can wear both a 30 band and a 36 band unless youve gained lot of weight in your torso and now your trunk is thicker I guess I wasn't clear. I currently, and just about always, wear a 36B. But the measurements from the linked site in the first post of this thread, my band measurement was 30, with a 8" difference to my biggest around measurement (done bending over). I once was told I should wear a 34C (Victoria's secret), I couldn't even breathe when I tried it on. So I certainly couldn't wear a 30 band! There was some mention on the website of fitness level though, and my ribs are practically sticking out (I'm not too skinny, all my weight is in my butt and hips, lol).

[Thalassa]

I'd love to get measured and fitted by an expert, but I can't find one! I've gone to Victoria's Secret who (by many accounts) don't know what they're doing, and a couple of other places that don't tell me my bra size but instead say, "Well, here's the closest thing we carry to what will fit you." Lovely.

Historically, I've had a lot of problems with bras riding up, tenderness, digging in and all sorts of uncomfortableness, so I'm always on the lookout for a better fit...I just wish I could find it! ;-P I'm quite happy with being small (I've found quite a few handsome men prefer small women and I'm not so shallow that I think my breasts define me) but what I wouldn't do for a comfortable bra!

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Golden pearl I don't think you're quite listening. I said speaking for myself, not everyone. Me and my own mother, aunt, and sister. We do not gain weight up top and if we do, the distribution of fat doesn't really hit the breasts, leaving the actual size of the breast barely changed. I'm just speaking for us.

[Mermaid Oshun]

there are girdle, bra and corset shops in my area. Not the commercial victoria secrets.. look for just a bra, girdle, corset shop in your area.
@Keri, upping your soy, fennel and fenugreek might help while gaining weight

[Thalassa]

there are girdle, bra and corset shops in my area. Not the commercial victoria secrets.. look for just a bra, girdle, corset shop in your area.


I'd love to get measured and fitted by an expert, but I can't find one! I've gone to Victoria's Secret who (by many accounts) don't know what they're doing, and a couple of other places that don't tell me my bra size but instead say, "Well, here's the closest thing we carry to what will fit you."

Yeah, those are they. There aren't terribly many lingerie stores that do fittings round here due to the ultra-conservative general population. I keep looking and trying, but mostly what I've experienced is above. I'd love to find a place that could say, "Well, according to your measurements you would be (size), we don't carry that but (their size) should be okay..." Or something like that.

[ShyMer]

And by real lingerie, we don't mean Victoria's secret or Nordstrom. They can sometimes be poorly trained or trying to fit you into one of their sizes. If you must, measure yourself first so you have an idea and then go to VS.
I don't think anyone should be afraid to post their measurements :) we tend to have a weird idea of what's normal in the US anyway. I think I may be a 32 G or so. Yesterday I wore my super loose but doable 36 DD. The difference is that it'll be the waistband supporting me, not the bra straps, and I'll be shaped in the cups, not squished flat as I can make it.

Iforget the link, but there's a site out there that has real, unedited photos of women all wearing their proper size. It's great for getting an idea of what the various sizes actually look like. I'll post the link if I can find it. That might help you figure out your size, thalassa.

Keep in mind that measuring yourself properly is only a starting point- you may find that you like to make the band smaller or bigger than you measured for. Check out this post (http://thatbradoesnotfither.com/post/49475244987/fitting-guide-part-2-exceptions-to-the-starting) for some insight.

I'd suggest learning about the scoop and swoop method of putting your bra on, because apparently there's a correct way to put your bra on. This will help you figure out if your bra really does fit you as well as you thought.
I'd also suggest checking out what boob shape you have to figure out of your current bra style isn't the best for you. If the wires are poking you, it may be your shape.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Golden Pearl, I don't need to gain weight and I'm perfectly happy with my weight, I don't know when my weight was brought into the conversation but Id like it to be put somewhere else, because I find it offensive.

[ShyMer]

I once was told I should wear a 34C (Victoria's secret), I couldn't even breathe when I tried it on. So I certainly couldn't wear a 30 band!

If your cup size is too small, you tend to compensate by using a bigger band size, because your breasts have to go somewhere. Put the bra on backwards with the cups on your back to see if the band is really small enough.

Don't be afraid to try on something bigger. Wearing a C cup does not mean you have big boobs.
There's an interesting graphic on this page (http://thatbradoesnotfither.com/post/45948053995/this-is-the-picture-i-show-anyone-who-tries-to) (sorry, it won't let me post the image here.) Even D cups aren't that big.


I forgot to mention in my last post- I checked out Brastop.com and they have awesome discounts on gorgeous bras. If you're considering buying bras online, check out bratabase.com to see reviews and comparisons. This site is frequently recommended to help you decide if a bra is going to work out without even trying it on.

Another option is to try on bras on in stores and write down the ones you like so you can buy them online later. Not that I would know personally, but I've read that it's almost always cheaper that way.

[Thalassa]

Keri, calm down. You've been really defensive of your viewpoint and I think this is where the weight thing started. You did mention your mother's weight and that it was genetic, and that you were skinny...and then you mentioned weight again. YOU brought it up.

I guess I've never understood how someone's weight can be offensive. I have a quite large mother and quite skinny grandmother, I've fluctuated between being over and under-weight and never hesitated to give my weight. I don't understand being ashamed of one's weight. Concerned about health, yes, but ashamed?

This thread is about breasts and bra sizes, and I think weight has been brought into this in that context. Golden Pearl is trying to help in her way.


Lol yes that's what I said, breast tissue and fat tissue are different, mammary glands are not fat, therefore if your breasts are made up of a lot of fat, you will definitely lose some cup sizes! That's why most fitspo models have implants haha. I'm speaking about women like me who have always been naturally skinny, cardio won't make me lose any bra size because I don't have a lot of fat especially up top. And like my mother, who was smaller than I am at my age and when she gained a lot of weight, the only thing that changed was her ribcage, her breasts stayed practically the same. It's genetics


Me and my own mother, aunt, and sister. We do not gain weight up top and if we do, the distribution of fat doesn't really hit the breasts, leaving the actual size of the breast barely changed. I'm just speaking for us.

[Thalassa]

Shymer, you've been tremendously helpful. Thank you!

[Mermaid Oshun]

Keri I just recall that you said you wanted to gain weight in the body goal thread.
PS No offense intended.

[ShyMer]

Thanks, thalassa:) I only really learned anything about this last night, and I don't know a whole lot, but I'm glad you were able to get something out of my late night research binge. I had bras on the brain :/

[Mermaid Veruliya]

I was simply agreeing with what the others were saying. My wording must have been read wrong or taken out of context, and I was simply responding that yes that's what I meant. I didn't start getting defensive until my weight was brought into it like an issue. Yes I did mention my family's weight but in the way that breast size can change and band size can change, it depends on genetics how fat effects the breasts. I use it as an example.
I never said anything about me needing to gain weight or expressing the want to gain fat or anything of the sorts. I get defensive about my weight because I've been bullied since I was 10 about having bulimia and anorexia to the point of depression and suicide attempts, so yes excuse me if I get offended when people assume Im trying to gain weight when I'm happy with how much or how little fat I have on my body, and I don't think it should be assumed that I need to gain weight because of small breasts just as I wouldn't assume someone was wanting to lose weight because of their bigger size.
So I apologize for being defensive but I don't regret defending my self, if that makes sense.
Edit: I said I wanted to gain muscle mass weight. Which has nothing to do with breast tissue or fat
I apologize for being hot tempered and defensive, but I'm also very calm and I believe I handled it quite politely and calmly.

[Thalassa]

That makes perfect sense, Keri. I've been teased for forever about being anorexic (I'm not, eating just isn't a priority for me when I get busy...) and have depression and anxiety, so I guess I understand being defensive about THAT. I guess I just don't connect it to weight. I was just (hopefully) letting you know that no one was meaning offense, that we're all trying to help. I know I get really worked up when I think people are persistently misunderstanding me or being unduly harsh over the internet (silly of me, you'd think I'd have a thicker skin by now) and I thought you might be the same.

We're all trying to help each other but have no idea of the history behind our experiences and opinions...that can lead to misunderstandings, sometimes. I'm glad we can all learn from each other and keep helping despite the occasional rough spot. ;-)

Anyway...back to bras...do you think if I specifically asked for my MEASUREMENTS (not "size") then I could go off of that? I see that bratabase has measurements for many bras...I'm not confident in measuring myself (apparently I royally messed up my tail measurements, but that's another story).

[Mermaid Veruliya]

I'm not hurt or upset or anything over it, but I'm usually quick to stop people and blunt, as I've always been with my parents and grandparents and other people that should have no say in my weight. Just as a curvier woman doesn't want people suggesting she lose weight and may be quick to get offended, as she is perfectly healthy. Thanks for understanding, it just took me a few attempts to get my points across.

[MerEmma]

Reddit.com/r/abrathatfits is a great community to help you...if you're confused just give them the measurements and they can help you. :)

[Mermaid Oshun]

I was a C until I got pregnant with my daughter. Then I went up several cups

[ShyMer]

I couldn't find anything in my size today, so I'm going to have to order online. I'll probably use brastop and bratabase to figure out what I need. I haven't really used them much yet, so this should be interesting.

It's funny, the woman who helped me at the outlets wanted to measure me herself, and out of curiosity I let her. She told me I was a 36 DD, which is what I happened to be wearing at the time and definitely did not fit. Perhaps wearing a poorly fitting bra when you're being measured can throw things off? To be fair, I have a decent amount of pudge around my band, so if you measure that without pulling it tight enough, it's going to give a bad measurement.
I tried their only 34 G and found it to be still too small in the cup. I think I'm asymmetrical, so that makes things more interesting also. I'm actually wondering if I should move down to a 32, as the 34 seemed maybe looser than I liked. I don't want to go too tight.

I honestly wasn't expecting to find anything (as I expected, none of the department stores carried anything beyond a DD in any size) but I hoped to find something to help me figure out what to expect when I order online. I'm not sure if I achieved that, but I noticed that in that 34 G that my back felt better, and when I put my old one back on, I realized there was pressure on my chest I hadn't noticed before, because it's just always there.
So I'm hoping my back issues will improve once I get a better fitting bra. That would be awesome.

[Mermaid Varshana]

Okay, what do you do when your sternum is super wide? I have problems getting bras that don't gap on the inside.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

MV, I read here that if you have a gap between skin and that piece where the bra connects, the cup is too small
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2115183/So-thats-bras-fit-We-sent-32C-model-bra-shopping--needed-different-size-store.html

[Mermaid Veruliya]

What's the deal with straps? Is there a secret there?
I tighten my straps depending on how much push up I want, but I find that (if it's not so loose it's falling off my shoulders) that my boobs start falling out from underneath!
Edit: I know it's probably because my band is way too big but I was wondering if anyone else has this problem with their bras vs boobs

[ShyMer]

Keri- not that I'm an expert of course, but it sounds as if your band is too large if it pulls up like that. I think the straps are supposed to be for adjusting cleavage (is that I've heard anyway) and shouldn't be the main support.

It's funny how often the problem seems to be that the band is too wide and the cups too small.

Varshana- do you mean that you have a larger gap between your breasts? Maybe you needs something with wider spaced cups. Later I'll post a helpful guide I found for breast shapes and bras that work well for them.

[Mermaid Varshana]

I had that problem when I was 5'8" and 130lbs. My cup size was too small and my band size, too big. Keri's problem that is.

[AptaMer]

I'd love to get measured and fitted by an expert, but I can't find one! I've gone to Victoria's Secret who (by many accounts) don't know what they're doing, and a couple of other places that don't tell me my bra size but instead say, "Well, here's the closest thing we carry to what will fit you." Lovely.

what I wouldn't do for a comfortable bra!

Just thought I would mention that if you fall outside the average range of measurements, ie. in a size group that has fewer numbers,the mass-market companies won't produce in those sizes because of low profitability. You can still get bras in non-average sizes. They tend to be made by the very high-end manufacturers, though, and you should steel yourself to pay eye-watering prices for a very nice bra.

Also many major cities have one or a few real lingerie stores where women who know what they're doing fit you personally, and well.

There is one go-to store in Toronto that any woman who falls outside the mass-market size range needs to visit- Sophia's Lingerie. She has every size combination made in the world, and some gorgeously luxurious brands like Lejebay, Papillon, Aubade, and their ilk. Of course, the brands that tend to fit non-mainstream women the best are the pricey ones, so expect to come out of the store having spent way more than you would have at a chain store, but what is comfort worth? There's a nice article about her store here http://www.thestar.com/life/fashion_style/2012/05/22/sophias_lingerie_is_intimate_and_not_intimidating_ stealth_shopper.html

That's the kind of store you should try to find in your city, or a major city near you if you live in a smaller place.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

I feel sort of the same way. I feel like I have wide set girls for my frame, but they're flatter on top and bigger on bottom. Which causes the underwire to dig into breast tissue on the side. So I go up a cup size. And depending on the day, there's a gap at the top if I bend a certain way. This may just be bc my band is too large and so all my boob falls underneath instead of being pushed up to look round. Do you think a better fitting band and tighter straps will help? I can tighten the straps now to get rid of the gap but like I said, it rides up. I'm 32c now, but measured as 25.5in underbust and 30 overbust. Any advice on what size to buy? I was thinking 30d or 28dd but that just sounds so strange for my flat chest..

[Mermaid Oshun]

http://www.herroom.com/bra-fitting-advice,901,30.html
Measurements say 28d according to this website but 28c would give you some cleavage and roundness.

The problem is that with a band measurement of 25 a 26" would really be best but the smallest band most make is 28. If you could find a 26" band or take one in you would have less problem with it rising. You def don't want to go up to 30 if your band measurement is 25.5 bc that measurement determines the 1st number in your bra size. The difference between 25.5 and 30 determines your cup size or D. But I find going down one cup size makes you look fuller.
So according to the measurments you gave, it calculates as a 26d but since most dont make 26 you could get a 28d and take up the band 2" for a perfect fit. To make your bust look perkier go to 26c (take a 28c's band in 2") They use that formula on the page above a bra shops
28c (reduce band 2") then grab each boob, lift up and inward for perky overflowing model look ;)
HTH
http://www.thelittlebracompany.com/bras/new.html?bra_size=213

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Eeee, I'm a little worried about that 28c.. If Youre supposed to go down in band and up in cup, 32c, then 30d, then 28dd.
That means 28c goes 30b then 32a. Lol I'd DEFINITELY get some push up in that cup, up and out haha

I guess I'm just having trouble trusting that the 28dd cup will be the same cup size as my 32c cup, same for 30d.
And I think we all know that trick, pull them up to the top haha
But I definitely don't want that cupcake overflow look yikes

[Mermaid Oshun]

Well if you don't want to look full then just get a 28d. But your breast may just be covered up by the whole bra (the cup might feel loose). You would not want to go up to 30 or 32 bc your band measurement you say is 25.5

[ShyMer]

Aptamer, that place sounds great! One thing that people suggested is trying on bras at places like this, taking notes on styles you like, and buying them online for less. It's good to buy at least one at the store you visited though, as we want these places to stay in business.

Keri, I betcha a smaller band should fix your problems, but you know yourself better than I could, so do what seems right for you :)
There are places that sell smaller band sizes online. I've seen it suggested to find a place with a great return policy or deeply discounted bras to start out, that way you don't lose out on too much if you end up liking another size better. I'm like you in that I'm but likely to find anything in my size to see if that's even a comfortable fit to start with, so I'll probably start out with a cheaper one just in case I measured wrong.

Something else to keep in mind is that even if you measure to one size, it's not bad to prefer a different size. I may get a 32 band but realize I'd like something a little less snug (though the 34 has to be on its tightest setting for me, so I doubt it.) Maybe like pearl said, you may like a cup one size smaller.

You could also use a clip to make the bra smaller, just make sure the cup is the right size, as we know that a 26 C is not the same cup as a 32 C.

I feel like once I start wearing a tighter band, it might be uncomfortable for a while as I'm not used to it, but it'll be tons better than what I have now. Bonus- they'll look cute and fit correctly. No more plain beige bras for me! I want lace<3

[MerEmma]

Ooh, ooh, another link I meant to post for you guys! http://www.reddit.com/r/braswap

Personally I'm only a 28D and I just wear camis or sports bras. They work for all I need, and I don't really like any sort of padded bras.

[Blondie]

I agree with this!

My friend and I always joke about how small chested I am. I always wore 34Bs because that's what I just assumed fit. I had issues with not really fitting those perfectly. I even doubted myself in being a 34B because of my issues with it. Well I went and got measured last week and turns out I'm actually a 34C! I was ECSTATIC to try on a new bra and have it fit perfectly! Even after getting it. My friends complimented me saying I looked more filled out and was "finally" getting my real chest. Their jaws dropped when I told them I was a C cup!

[ShyMer]

I've heard about bra swapping, that would be a nice option for if I get something that doesn't fit quite right! Emma, you're awesome <3

I found a chart on sister sizing. This chart tells you what bras share the same cup volume. It would be helpful for understanding what cup size you should get for the band size you settle on. Unfortunately I can only seem to send you a link, so here it is (http://www.hotmilklingerie.com/vdb/image/174).

Also I found what I was looking for before, the Bra Band Project (http://www.brabandproject.com/). You can search for any size and see real unedited photos of people wearing their correct size. It's awesome.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Shymer both links were really helpful!!! I think ill go with a 30D and a 28DD from mark and spencer. Ill see which I like better, because as you said sometimes measurements aren't always the spot on best when it comes to feel.

[MerEmma]

I've heard about bra swapping, that would be a nice option for if I get something that doesn't fit quite right! Emma, you're awesome <3

I found a chart on sister sizing. This chart tells you what bras share the same cup volume. It would be helpful for understanding what cup size you should get for the band size you settle on. Unfortunately I can only seem to send you a link, so here it is (http://www.hotmilklingerie.com/vdb/image/174).

Also I found what I was looking for before, the Bra Band Project (http://www.brabandproject.com/). You can search for any size and see real unedited photos of people wearing their correct size. It's awesome.

I've got some online friends who have used it quite a bit before and they've loved using that subreddit, so hopefully it'll help you guys out some! :D

[Thalassa]

LOL. Trying to find a bra fit, I've tried 5 different calculators/guides and got 5 different sizes.

For reference, my measurements are 31" underbust, 35" bust, 33" over bust.
http://www.85b.org/bra_calc.php : 36B
http://www.herroom.com/bra-fitting-advice,901,30.html : 34D
http://www.babycenter.com/bra-size-calculator : 34B
http://www.lindasonline.com/bra-fitting-calculator.html : 34D
http://thatbradoesnotfither.com/tagged/fitting-guide : 32D

I really don't know that one is more accurate than another, so I guess I'll go looking and trying on. There is another place specifically for hard-to-find bra sizes that does fittings in my state, but they're an hour and a half drive away so that's a later option.

[Anahita]

Ooof, I don't want to know my "real" bra size. I cram my breasts into a 34G as it is....

I know they're bigger than that, and my band size could probably go down a bit too, but I don't want to deal with it. I'm not sure I want to deal with finding 32 H-I-J-K whatevers that look nice. G-cups are hard enough to order, the image on the site is rarely the bra you get (same colors, sure, but they're usually unlined or flat-lined with LONG shoulder-straps that you can't shorten enough... WTF is with that? Because I have big boobies you give me straps that put the bra on my stomach practically? What logic is that?!?!)

[Elle]

I'm a 14F....so I think that's like a 34F in your sizes......
A helpful hint, if you go up a dress size, so for example 34 to 36 you need to go down a cup size, so from an F to an E.
So while I fit into a 14F, I can also wear 16E.
If you have an underwire it should always contain all breast tissue, so all of you looking at the scale going, "That doesn't seem right" you're probably wearing the wrong sized bra.
take your top off, and your bra and have a look as to wear your breast tissue starts. It actually starts quite close to your arm pit.
How do you tell? Breast tissue is squishy if it's hard you're touching your ribs. Go in and get yourself re-sized! and go get yourself sized by a corsetier! Basically I find that if you can walk into a bra shop, that can look at your chest and hand you the right size (or pretty close to) you're in the right place.

I thought for ages that I had back problems. It was actually caused by me trying to shove F's into C's....

[Azurin Luna]

If i follow the chart I'm a 32FF, as I'm european they don't always sell bras with that size chart. I normally wear an 80B as european size. I know that 32" is around 81cm so the band size is correct, but I would never have thought that my cup size B is wrong, that I need an FF instead :S

[Mermaid Veruliya]

Thalassa, if you take the underbust, 31in, the band is 32. Then subtract the other, giving you a 32D. Since yours is pretty common, it'd be easy to go try some on :)

And Azurin going from a 32b to a FF almost sound impossible, I thought putting mine into an a cup was painful enough. What is your underbust and bust measurements? Double check them :)

[Mermaid Oshun]

I am 37 underbust so I wear a 38
My over bust is a 46 or 45 depending on how tight I pull it
so according to http://www.herroom.com/bra-fitting-advice,901,30.html
45-37=8 which is an H cup. I have never tried an H. But 38 G fits fine. In a pinch I can wear my old 38DDDs but I have too much hanging out in the middle.
So that formula works for me of going down a cup bc I don't like to swim in a bra I like it to lift me up and it can only do that if it is fitting.
I am not worrying about cupcake look (I call that cleavage), I am worried about the bra being too loose and not doing anything. So going down a cup or 2 from an H or and I to a G works fine for me.

[Mermaid Veruliya]

http://www.plussizebras.info/img/bulge2_.jpg
That's what I keep saying by cupcake, that bra is obviously too small haha! It can happen to anyone wearing too small a bra, even us smaller girls. You can still have a ton of cleave by still looking smooth :)

[Mermaid Oshun]

Haha :lol: Yes she is trying to put texas into ny lol

[ShyMer]

Sigh, I'm almost always a cupcake. I try my best to tuck in so this doesn't happen, but it always sneaks back out. I've also heard this referred to as quadboob, but I think I like cupcake better ^-^

Some calculators use the +4 method, which is the one VS uses. I've heard it was to compensate for bras that didn't stretch, but we don't really have that issue anymore, so it's outdated.
Thalassa, maybe you used one of those?

I like the ones that simply have you check your underbust, check your overbust, and figure out the difference for your cup size. It needs to be adjusted for shape of course, but I like how simple it is.
Interestingly, when I signed up for bratabase, they had me do different measurements that ended up giving me a 34 G, which is too big in the band and too small in the cup. It's puzzling.
While I'm on the subject of bratabase though, I found it to be really difficult to use as a main tool. I found it much easier to look through some sites to see what I liked, compare it to blogger reviews, and then look it up on bratabase.

Here are a few I'm looking at now :)

I'm looking at mycurvesandme.com as they actually have my size in stock. It's weird though, the add to cart option doesn't seem to work on my tablet, so I'd have to browse on my pc.

http://www.mycurvesandme.com/lingerie/elsa-balconnet-bra.html (http://www.mycurvesandme.com/lingerie/elsa-balconnet-bra.html)

http://www.mycurvesandme.com/lingerie/meg-balconnet-bra-in-coral-spot.html

http://www.mycurvesandme.com/lingerie/andorra-full-cup-vintage.html

From the photos I've been able to dig up, I think I'll like the shape in my size and they seem to have decent reviews.
I did manage to find a bra place in the next town over that may have a decent selection of sizes, so I'm hoping to try a few on. Maybe if I'm lucky they'll have some of the ones I've been looking at.

Also, American sizing is stupid. We should just be using European sizes.

[AptaMer]

a cupcake. I try my best to tuck in so this doesn't happen, but it always sneaks back out. I've also heard this referred to as quadboob, but I think I like cupcake better ^-^


Another term for it I've heard used (by the Brits) is "a lusby"

[Ponytales]

I tried a similar method to this and found out my 38Bs were actually 38Ds (which are SO much easier to find). Even when I went to a Victorias Secret they measured me wrong, the woman did it too quickly and over the sportsbra I had on, and just tossed an ugly and stupidly expensive nude colored bra at me. It was pretty flimsy (yeah I bought it, I was too embarassed to say no) and wore out so fast. Finally got a larger size at a Torrid (the girl was SO NICE OMG) and holy crap this thing is built like a tank. Its lined and boned and reinforced and extra wide straps and I actually look curvy instead of lumpy. Its nice to actually be able to find cute lacey bras now.

[Amphitrite]

I find that to a point every bra BRAND can be a bit different. For instance, Victoria's Secrets in my opinion suck because they tried to fit my size (which is larger) into one of their tiny bras. Whereas, when I buy the Cachique brand, sold at Lane Bryant stores in America (or at least in MI?), they size differently. Also, it pays to go to a store where they know what they are doing. *Feels the impending rant of dumb people pretending to be pros coming and going*. :p

[Mermaid Varshana]

*Feels the impending rant of dumb people pretending to be pros coming and going*. :p

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FeqYheQWQOU/UY7YypQs6wI/AAAAAAAAAao/-XZ-Q0z4TBc/s1600/What+the+gif+doctor+who.gif

[Amphitrite]

DAVID TENNANT IS MY FAVORITEST DOCTOR EVER! *cough* p

I meant when I have gone to a store and they measured me incorrectly and tried to make me buy bra extenders so that their bras would fit when in fact they were pitiful in comparison to bras that would actually fit (at a whole nother store).

[Mary Marine]

To the women who are going "OMG there's not WAY I'm a (this size), my boobs aren't that big!" remember that cup sizes are not standard, they are relative to the band. A 34B is not the same cup size as a 38B and a 34D has a bigger cup than a 30E.

I read that a lot of the problem is that many stores only stock sizes A-D so they'll force you into the closest equivalent in whatever they stock. I have NEVER had a bra fit right that I can recall, but after doing some measuring it looks like I'm actually a 32DDDD/H, not a 36DD. I guess it's time to start buying online since there's a snowballs chance in hell I'll find that in a store.

[Amphitrite]

I just found out that an older bra wasn't fitting quite right because, of course, it had stretched over time so all I had to do was use the tighter hooks. :D

[Mermaid Varshana]

I worked it out today that I was not a 36B, or a 34C, but a 36C O.O That size has no painfully tight band, and no sideboob spillage. surprising, because about 5 years ago, I barely filled out a 34B. I put on 10ish pounds though and drank a lot of soy milk XD Do anyone else's boobs grow significantly during their ToM? I was spilling out of a C-cup a few days before!!!

[MerEmma]

Good video right here on why you shouldn't go to VS for sizing!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&amp;v=lowxFmjbtrE

[Mermaid Kelda]

Seems like Victoria's Secret is advocating the bra size that gives you the most cleavage, rather than support xD

[PearlieMae]

Victoria's Secret will support your bewbies all the way up to your chin!

[ShyMer]

You can get bras that fit correctly and are good for cleavage. You just have to find the right style/model:)

[MerEmma]

Seems like Victoria's Secret is advocating the bra size that gives you the most cleavage, rather than support xD

So true! I can't believe they even think that works...seems like the band would just be falling wayyy off if you were sized that way. I also read about a lot of people being measured with a bra on, or just the fitters eyeballing it.

[Mermaid Kelda]

You can get bras that fit correctly and are good for cleavage. You just have to find the right style/model:)
I realise that - but that was a normal bra the girl was trying on, not a push-up. VS sizing = ALWAYS CLEAVAGE FOREVER xD

[PearlieMae]

I've got cleavage. I just keep it in the back and a foot and a half lower. ;)

[Anahita]

I've got cleavage. I just keep it in the back and a foot and a half lower. ;)

:lol ^: LMAO That deserves a reward... Seriously, I'm laughing so hard over here!

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Okay... I measured myself. (I know, terrible idea, but my best bet at the mo'.)

Underbust- 32"
Overbust - 34"

Now, I can't seem to able to find what cup size I would be. I'm on my mobile and it is very difficult to navigate.

>< Barah!

[Mermaid Kelda]

By overbust, do you mean on your bust line or above it?
If you mean on, then according to this (http://www.sophisticatedpair.com/bracalculator.htm) calculator you're about a 32B. But take a look for yourself and measure exactly, to be sure (and choose how tight you like your band size to be).

[MerEmma]

I guess about 32B as well: http://i.imgur.com/tgrX4zO.png

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Ah! Thank you! I tried opening the calculator and it doesn't work on my mobile. -.-

I was thinking I might be a 32b after having looked through so many images of proper bras.

Wow! A b-cup! Haha and here I thought I was barely an a-cup!

*dances*

I'm going to try on bras soon. At least I have a good general starting point. :-D Oh. I am so happy right now, it should be illegal. XD

[ShyMer]

So I'm learning about another fun aspect of bra sizing- migrating breast tissue. It's not proven, and basically treated as a rumor by doctors and other people who are supposed to know about these things, but many women have claimed to experience it.
The idea is that your improperly fitting bras can squash your breast tissue so that it eventually moves elsewhere, like your armpits. When you start wearing a bra that fits, it starts to move back, and a month later you find that you're mysteriously spilling out of your previously well fitting bras.

I don't know if it's due to breast migration or just getting better at the scoop and swoop technique, but my new bra I bought last month is too small in the cup now. I suspect it was slightly too small to begin with, but now it's pretty obvious.
I used to keep my bra comfortably on the loosest setting, but now it feels best on the tightest, though I can't wear it there because of the cups. If I wear it on the loosest hooks, the cups are still too small, but I can almost squeeze them in much like I used to do with my older bras.
I haven't used it yet, but I'm considering using braswap to trade this one out once I get another that fits.

Anyone else experience something like this?

[MerEmma]

That comes up a lot, I haven't experienced it but to me it sounds like that's the issue at hand for you. :c Hopefully it wasn't too pricey, anyway?

[ShyMer]

I bought it at a salon, so yeah, it was fairly pricy... I did get to try on a few other models while I was there, so I have an idea what to do next.
I still feel pretty good about the whole thing though. I don't think I care so much about how much it costs, I just want to feel as awesomely supported as I did when I bought this bra. It's a great feeling, and makes you realize how terrible a poor fitting bra feels.

Once thing I didn't mention how a bra breaks in with some use, and that may be a factor here, but it wouldn't have made the cups smaller.

[PhaylennMurúch]

A woman's breasts don't stop growing until they are almost thirty, I went from nothing in 6th grade to a C cup overnight, now after three kids I special order my 44G bras

[Blaze]

To the women who are going "OMG there's not WAY I'm a (this size), my boobs aren't that big!" remember that cup sizes are not standard, they are relative to the band. A 34B is not the same cup size as a 38B and a 34D has a bigger cup than a 30E.

I read that a lot of the problem is that many stores only stock sizes A-D so they'll force you into the closest equivalent in whatever they stock. I have NEVER had a bra fit right that I can recall, but after doing some measuring it looks like I'm actually a 32DDDD/H, not a 36DD. I guess it's time to start buying online since there's a snowballs chance in hell I'll find that in a store.

Mary (and others looking for larger sizes) there is a great store here in Texas (saw that you were in Texas but not sure where) called Intimacy: http://www.myintimacy.com/ They also have many stores around the country & online ordering.

Anyways, they are GREAT. I was wearing a 34FF (lost weight, need to be re-fit) and they stocked it; they will also do a real in person fitting as well.

Best to go when they are having a sale as the bras are REALLY pricey but REALLY worth it!

[PhaylennMurúch]

JustMySize has all sorts of bras for all sorts of boobs online, and if you catch Frederick's of Hollywood at a sale they tend to have bigger sizes

[Aziara]

Ok, I've run into a serious problem with measuring like this... I just measured my brand new 36 bra, and the band is only 28"! The most I can stretch it to is 33", and that's nearing the breaking point. I keep having to remember to breathe, as it is squeezing my 31.5" chest so tight I'm lightheaded. I guess I need an extender. So yeah... The reason most fitting guides say to add inches is because the band is much smaller than you would think.

[ShyMer]

That's weird. What does the tag say on the band? 28 inches is probably too tight for you, as you've discovered, but it shouldn't say 36 on the label.
Some bras do run more small or stretchy than others, and different dyes can have an effect on the sizing. Black, for example likes to run smaller than something in a different color. You may have to try on a few before you find one that fits you properly. It might be wise to check your measurements again in case you made an error
If you haven't already, try bratabase and find a bra blogger similar to your size and shape (also important!) so you can see what bras run true to size.

Also you may need some adjusting a size up depending on your preference. I have some back fat, so I tend to like mine tighter for a more secure hold. Someone with less insulation may need a bigger bra so it doesn't feel too uncomfortable.

For the most part, adding inches is an outdated practice, though. It comes from the time when bras were not very stretchy. It also allows bra manufacturers to only have to make a few sizes of their product.

Consider braswap or returning the bra if possible. If you could write a review of your bra on bratabase, you could help other people as well.

Don't give up! You just haven't found the right bra for you yet <3

[Aziara]

I bought 3 in the 36 size, beige, black, and mauve, all are precisely 28". Unlikely that all are missized. I even measured my 38 band that I have in a different brand, and it's only 29.5 inches.... I'm going to measure every other bra I own now and find out if my current theory is correct: the actual size is 5-6" smaller than the size listed.

[ShyMer]

Oh, I wasn't thinking completely. I'm laying in bed sick with an angry cold.

I don't remember details, but they measure smaller when not stretched out. I'm puzzled as to why a36 is tight on you though. Did you try them all on? Your bras might also need to break in some, but I still find it puzzling.
If you describe all the ways it doesn't fit, we might be able to help you. Did you do the scoop and swoop? How did the cups feel? Sometimes when we wear a bra with cups too small, it makes the right band (even one too big) seem too tight.

[ShyMer]

I feel like even if the add several inches method was correct, a 36 inch band should fit better, so that tells me that something else is wrong. Good news though, if your cup size is smaller than a ddd, you should have no trouble finding bras in around a 36 band in department stores..

[Aziara]

Yeah, my thing is I guess I have sensitive ribs. I've always gone up a size even after the 'add 5"' method. When I was told I needed a 34 at Victoria's Secret, I couldn't breathe and got a 36. I've gained 20 lbs since then, so guess I'm 38 now. As for the cups, they fit me well, with even a tiny bit of room in the front in case the bit that migrated to my armpit decides to come back, lol.

[ShyMer]

Did you scoop and swoop? This ensures all boob tissue is in the right place. What is your over bust measurement?

[Aziara]

I'm not sure what scoop and swoop means, lol. My overbust measurement was 38 (bending over so everything falls forward)

[Aziara]

Nm, I looked it up. Fits slightly better now, but I think I'll still go get and extender until it stretches out some.

[ShyMer]

http://brasandbodyimage.wordpress.com/2012/09/05/putting-your-bra-on-properly/

I don't think this has a video, unfortunately, and I'm having trouble finding one I like. maybe when I'm feeling less crummy I'm fine one for you'
The photos are good though, and I think she described the technique father down the page

I forgot to mention that when your bra fits correctly, it should tack, which means the center part where the wires end should lay flat against the chest. There are a few times when it's because the bra it's the wrong model that it won't do this, but this should happen on a fitting bra. If it doesn't do this, it's because the band is too big and or the cups too small.

[Aziara]

Oh dear God... Why can they not make bras to contain the existing boob, instead of forcing the 'scoop and swoop'? My boobs hurt so bad today that I can only wear a camisole, and even the weight of my shirt against them is painful... Forget it, I'm going back to my comfy softcup, no wire bra type... either that or I'll just slap on some breast petals and call it a day. I'll wear another underwire the same day that men start wearing something that forces their balls into their navel. I'm sure the pain level would be similar.

[ShyMer]

?? The scoop and swoop shouldn't be painful, you're just putting and the boob tissue where it belongs in your bra. That's what the bra is designed for. If it hurts, you might be doing it wrong. Underwires generally hurt when you're wearing the wrong size/model for your shape. If you do the scoop and swoop and your breasts are spilling out, it means your cup is too small. If you gave info describing in detail like I asked, we might be able to figure out what's wrong.

You do what you like though, I just want to make sure you understand everything before giving up. The important thing is that you're comfortable and supported properly. That's all we're trying to achieve here.

[Aziara]

*sigh* I'm sorry, I realize my last post was a bit of a rant...I wasn't trying to direct anger at anyone in particular (unless you count bra manufactorers, lol) just pain--gah! I also was very frustrated because this is common for me to buy something (usually bras or shoes), then have to return them a few days later because they hurt. As for the fit-- The cups were filled without spillage when I scooped and swooped, but my boobs kept slipping back down and sideways. I don't see how the band could possibly be too big though, as it was hard to inhale even when the 'girls' were up in the cups. I even felt my ribs creaking and cracking at one point and panicked with the thought that I had broken something. Maybe my breasts sit a bit lower on my torso than most folks? It always seems that the cups on many bras are set way too high.

[ShyMer]

When you put the bra on, did you put the underwire as close up under your breasts as you could? It should sit right at the base of your breasts. Also what set of hooks are you using?

I get your frustration about having to return things a few days after getting them. I'm terrible about that :/ I could never buy clothes or shoes off the internet, so I'm a bit apprehensive about buying bras online. Good thing there are extensive reviews to help me figure out what would likely work for me.

[Aziara]

I did notice that the wire would not sit against me, it just sort of hovered nearly an inch away from me. Sinching it up tighter or looser didnt do anything to move the wire. Design flaw, maybe? It was also a 'flexi-wire' that isnt metal but plastic (metal in my energy field drives me nuts) and I put it on the loosest hooks I could. Sometimes I wish my body wasn't so picky about what I put on it!

[ShyMer]

Ah, so it does not tack. Remind me again, what was the band and cup size you just purchased?

Does your bra look like this when you wear it?

14661
14662

14664

This one's awesome- you can really see the shadow under her bra because of the huge gap (sorry, it won't link here) - click here (http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image/BonTon/230714?$ibm_large$)

Here's an awkward but useful top down shot demonstrating what I'm talking about-

14663

If you're having trouble seeing what's going on, the center (gore) of the bra does not touch the chest. It's actually floating away from her body by at least an inch. What is happening is that the band is too big and the cups are too small. It probably feels tight to her, so she probably thinks it's the right size. In reality, the cups don't have enough room for the breasts, but they have to go somewhere, so they're holding the band away from the body.


This is what the center gore should look like-

This link here won't let me put the photo up for some reason, but this is a really good shot. click here (http://broodsbigbrasblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/romance-centre-watermark.jpg?w=640&h=453)

This one's good too, same issue as above -_- Click here (http://i2.wp.com/thefemininecurve.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/untitled-10-2.jpg?fit=1000%2C1000)

14665

[Aziara]

Yeah, something like that. The bras I got are 36 Cs. I guess they're sort of longline bras? It continues below the wire, and that's what touches me. It's actually worse than the pictures you posted, but it was hard to see at first because it's smooth from the outside. I think I might be a 36 D? I did try a few on when I was shopping, and the underwire did tack much better, but they were metal, and drove me nuts within a few seconds. I wonder if I could find a good fitting bra, and just carefully remove the wires?

[ShyMer]

Well, I guess you could find a style that uses plastic or just get a decent no wire bra if the metal bothers you, but by your measurements and the problems you've described to me, it seems your bras are too small in the cup and too large in the band.
If your ribcage just under your breasts measures 31.5 and your overbust measures 38, that should put you around a 32 F. This is going up in the band, so it should be a little loose.
I've heard some people say you should always go down and some say you should go up, but seeing as tightness is a concern for you, I'd suggest going up. A C cup should be way, way too small for you.
Put the bra on backwards. this will help you see if the band fits without any influence from the boobs. Make sure it's level and hiked up just under the boobs.

I wouldn't suggest removing the underwire, but I could look around and see if I can find some suggestions for wire free bras that should fit.

Check out http://www.brabandproject.com/ to see people wearing correctly fitted bras for comparison :) I didn't see any 36 c's posted on the site, unfortunately, but if you click around similar sizes, it'll give you an idea what you're looking at.

Is there a reason you have chosen to get a smaller cup? If you are concerned about embarrassment about sizes, you shouldn't be.
Keep in mind that cup size is relative to band size- a G cup (I'm around a 34 G myself) isn't really that large. Check out that website for proof :)

[deepblue]

You know - a good lingerie department such as the one in Nordstrom will have people trained to fit you for a bra. That might sound really personal, but if it means exchanging 10 minutes of feeling a little exposed for a lifetime of comfort and the correct bra size, it's worth it. :)

[Aziara]

I'm thinking that Walmart and Target's bras might not be true to size like specialty bras would be. I did get them at Target, so I dunno. But if they're vanity sizing them, aren't they going in reverse? Bigger name on what is really smaller? Maybe I'll just bring a measuring tape with me, lol. I would think the band should be no more than an inch less than my chest when it isn't stretched... And I should be able to stretch it to my measurement without tremendous effort. This is just so complicated... Anyone know a quantum physicist? I need an anti-gravity generator for my chest please :D

[deepblue]

My biggest problem is the current most popular style of molded bra. I don't know how they fit anyone right. I need fabric, sewn together to fit me. And you have to try on a lot to get the right one. But omg these melon style... also, a guy had to have named that style molded cup.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Wow, so I put on an old bra and did the scoop and swoop.... I am very much wearing the wrong size.

Also! I remeasured and.... my tight measurement for chest is 29", snug is 30" and loose is 32"... my overbust (widest part) is still.... 34"

I used a calculator and well... I don't wanna believe it. ><

[ShyMer]

It's crazy, isn't it?

I just bought an Andorra by panache (http://www.amazon.com/Panache-Womens-Andorra-Full-Cup/dp/B003P9WFVU) in the summer fashion color- Caribbean blue. It's lovely <3 the lace is so nice, and it didn't feel weird at all without the molded foam cup. The gore is narrow, which I like, but the wires do poke a bit into my armpits.
Some of the material is already falling apart, though, and I've only worn it one day. I'm considering sending it back, though It'd probably still work okay :/ it's that power mesh on the sides- the elastic is unraveling near the seems. It's not too tight, because it stretches much more than when I'm wearing it. It's odd.
I purchased mine on Amazon, by the way, so I got free shipping.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Yikes! A bra shouldn't fall apart that quickly! You should definitely send it back. That's poor workmanship/quality. :-(

I haven't had a chance to go try on bras, but I wanna measure my roommate first so we can go together and help each other. :-)

[ShyMer]

Sweet! That'd be awesome to get your roommate involved. Do you have anywhere interesting close by that you're planning on visiting to try on bras?

I'm curious to see how easy it will be to return the bra, particularly because it has damage, even though it's a quality issue. If I send it back and they say the damage is my fault for some reason, would they just send it back? I guess I'll find out. I'll probably email Panache to find out first, just in case.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

We don't, really. We have Target and Kohl's, there's Victoria Secrets, but every bra site warns against them heavily. So, we're going to try some department stores first. Also, she's extremely shy and is barely letting me do this. ><

Emailing them first is probably the best idea. Let them know what happened and find out their return policy. :-) Good luck!

[PearlieMae]

A good bridal shop should be able to point you in the direction of a lingerie shop that could fit you properly for a variety of bras, that is, if they don't have an in-house fitting expert. Think about it, they aren't going to sell many wedding dresses if they look like crap because the foundation-wear doesn't fit well.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Gooooood point, Mae! :-) We have a bridal shop over here. I could probably call and ask.

[SeaSister]

So, I just went bra shopping today (mine are all pretty old and worn out) and found out that I've been wearing the total wrong size for, well, ever. o_o

I have pretty small boobs, not gonna lie. I always thought that I was a size A... B at most. But I went to La Senza today and this older lady measured me and said that I was either a 36C or a 34D. I gave her a "what the heck are you talking about?" look but she insisted, and I'm now the proud owner of two 34D bras.

Apparently I've been wearing bras wrong all this time - I've basically flattened my boobs with the bras I used before, both because they were too small and improperly wearing them. Also, I have wide shoulders which makes a difference - even though my "visible" boobs are small, apparently I have lots of extra "boobage" that isn't very noticeable until it's put in a cup... kind of hard to explain.
Anyways, the point is I'm super happy with what I have now. I might post a couple of pictures later with the "before" (old bra) and "after" (new bra). I'm just super happy right now - I feel so much sexier than I did a few hours ago. XD

[MerEmma]

Congrats! Sounds totally great. If you can, I totally recommend double-checking by sizing yourself with some of the references posted before as even pro fitters are often wrong. So happy for you though :D

[ShyMer]

Wow, sea sister, that's awesome!

[SeaSister]

Thanks for the suggestion, MerEmma! Unfortunately, I don't have a measuring tape (the best I have is that yellow kind used for construction stuff LOL) but I did double check the gore/center part between the cups, and it's definitely on my chest, not floating. Everything else feels comfortable, yet snug and secure.
I took a couple of pictures comparing the two bras, but I can't upload them because they're apparently too big and I don't know how to "shrink" them. x_x

[ShyMer]

You could take string, wrap it around yourself, and measure the string after you take it off. Just don't use anything that stretches :)

[Mermaid Varshana]

Apparently I've been wearing bras wrong all this time - I've basically flattened my boobs with the bras I used before, both because they were too small and improperly wearing them. Also, I have wide shoulders which makes a difference - even though my "visible" boobs are small, apparently I have lots of extra "boobage" that isn't very noticeable until it's put in a cup... kind of hard to explain.


I totally get it! Congrats!

[PhaylennMurúch]

it's like getting a visit from the boob fairy

[SeaSister]

LOL! Yes Phaylenn. Yes on so many levels. XD

[PhaylennMurúch]

back when I was younger (and wasn't in charge of buying my own bras) my mother would ONLY purchase minimizing bras for me (level of controlling mom=expert, she would cut the sizes out so I didn't even KNOW what size I was). The very first time I tried on a bra that didn't try to force my boobs into my lungs I was so surprised I said, (to my boobs while in a dressing room, mind you) "sonofabitch where did you guys come from?!"
which amused the heck out of the lady who was helping me and the women in the stalls around me. made perfect sense as to why I was always sore, it was like being a size 10 trying to squeeze into a size 2 dress.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

So, I have a friend who has been wearing the completely wrong size and I just told her. We measured and she has a 9" difference between ribcage and the fullest part. I have no idea what cup size that is.

Tightest - 27.5"
Snug - 28"
Loose - 29"

Fullest - 36"

[MerEmma]

28G? Rough guess from this guide: http://i.imgur.com/tgrX4zO.png

[ShyMer]

According to the chart at r.abrathatfits, she might want to start at 28 G. She might find that she wants a different size as she's trying them on.
This is European sizing, by the way. American sizing is different for each company and doesn't usually make these sizes anyway.

What does she think about her new size?

[Winged Mermaid]

Urgh, I keep getting different results too. I'm pretty sure I need to get sized.. maybe there's some place in Seattle that specializes. All I know is I'm pretty sure my band and cup size are both too small from what I've been wearing. I am wearing a 34D now and those are already really hard to find :/ I guessed a year ago I should be wearing more around a 32 band size (or smaller) but no one carries a 32D, man. All the Ds tend to be 36 and up which is :mad: when I'm bra shopping. Trying to find a strapless 34D for my abalone top was a nightmare. I hate that all the more common sizes are cheaper. Under $45 for a decent bra for me? Forget about it. Bet that base line will go up once I figure out my real size. -_-

[SeaSister]

Ouch! That really sucks Iona. Btw, where do you guys all buy your bras? I shop at la senza which is expensive, but the bras last a long time. Plus they have a huge selection - it was pretty easy to find a 34D there. On the other hand, I'm not sure if they have any size bigger than D. Then again, I've never looked for anything bigger than a size B until recently, so maybe they do.

[MerMarla]

Urgh, I keep getting different results too. I'm pretty sure I need to get sized.. maybe there's some place in Seattle that specializes. All I know is I'm pretty sure my band and cup size are both too small from what I've been wearing. I am wearing a 34D now and those are already really hard to find :/ I guessed a year ago I should be wearing more around a 32 band size (or smaller) but no one carries a 32D, man. All the Ds tend to be 36 and up which is :mad: when I'm bra shopping. Trying to find a strapless 34D for my abalone top was a nightmare. I hate that all the more common sizes are cheaper. Under $45 for a decent bra for me? Forget about it. Bet that base line will go up once I figure out my real size. -_-

Hi Iona,

Try HerRoom for bras... they seem to have a huge inventory of all kinds, and the first one I picked, just random, came in a 34 D. Here's the email addy:

http://www.herroom.com

They have a neat calculator and video on measuring, was informative as I ended up changing sizes, too! But up, not down!

Hope this helps!

(((Hugz))) and Bubble https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/e/B0C'z
Mermaid Marla

[Mermaid Kelda]

Urgh, I keep getting different results too. I'm pretty sure I need to get sized.. maybe there's some place in Seattle that specializes. All I know is I'm pretty sure my band and cup size are both too small from what I've been wearing. I am wearing a 34D now and those are already really hard to find :/ I guessed a year ago I should be wearing more around a 32 band size (or smaller) but no one carries a 32D, man. All the Ds tend to be 36 and up which is :mad: when I'm bra shopping. Trying to find a strapless 34D for my abalone top was a nightmare. I hate that all the more common sizes are cheaper. Under $45 for a decent bra for me? Forget about it. Bet that base line will go up once I figure out my real size. -_-
34/32Ds are easy to find in Australia it seems... But try finding a 32E which I apparently am xD I usually have to go to the fuller-figure area.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

According to the chart at r.abrathatfits, she might want to start at 28 G. She might find that she wants a different size as she's trying them on.
This is European sizing, by the way. American sizing is different for each company and doesn't usually make these sizes anyway.

What does she think about her new size?

She hates that she's going to end up being a weird size, but she's looking forward to wearing something that fits. XD I just told her that she should probably start with a 28G, though, she might just go with a 30F.

I'm still trying to figure out my size. T.T I've been so busy I haven't had a chance to try on anything. I haven't even had someone else measure me! I've measured myself and I get the same results:

Tight - 29"
Snug - 30.25"
Loose - 31"
Fullest part - 34"

@.@ I got like a 30D on one calculator... -pokes boobs- There's no way. @.@

[Aziara]

Hi Iona,

Try HerRoom for bras... they seem to have a huge inventory of all kinds, and the first one I picked, just random, came in a 34 D. Here's the email addy:

http://www.herroom.com

They have a neat calculator and video on measuring, was informative as I ended up changing sizes, too! But up, not down!

Hope this helps!

(((Hugz))) and Bubble https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/e/B0C'z
Mermaid Marla

It finally makes sense!!! The quiz says I have wide set breasts (my whole hand can comfortably fit between them. Wide is 3 fingers or more. No cleavage for me, ever), which are almost never comfortable in underwires because too much of my breast tissue extends into my armpits. So I need to find either plunge or frontclosure bras that are wirefree, because it says that those have wider set cups. However, the measurements say I am a 32 DDD or F.... I can't even get a 34 closed around my chest... I must be measuring wrong or something, or maybe my skin is just too sensitive for a tight fitted bra.

[Aziara]

Ok, 32 DDD is exhaled... But INHALING I am a 36 D... I should probably go somewhere in between those two. I do want to be able to breathe, lol :D

[ShyMer]

Aziara, keep in mind that if your cups are too small, it can make a band that is too big seem tight. Your boobs will push the band away from your body if there isn't enough room for them in the cups. Check the band by turning it backwards or looking to see if the Gore sits snugly against your sternum.

Before being re fitted, I thought a 34 DD was too small, but I'm wearing a 32 G quite comfortably now. It's funny that way. It's also funny that the fitter I saw a couple months back said I was a 36 band. Measure yourself without a bra on, ladies, or you're gonna get incorrect measurements :)

Remember that the size you get with the calculator is a starting point. You might find you like a band size up or down from where you started. Your shape might also affect your size unexpectedly. You might find that you need to get a different size after you get used to wearing a tighter band like I did.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

So, went to K-Mart yesterday and they did not have any bands smaller than 34.... -.- Gonna check other stores when I have days off again.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

So, it's official! I am a 34A! I tried a 32B and the band was too tight, but the cups were perfect. So, I tried a 34A thinking It was a 32A. I was confused because the cups fit exactly the same. Then I realised it was a 34! First hand proof that cups are relative! Haha

[ShyMer]

Cool, you shouldn't have much trouble finding cute bras in your size most anywhere you go :) I envy you in that you could walk right out of a store with half a dozen bras on sale. I have to order online.

Have you found any bras that you prefer being a different size? My freya deco, for example, has a stretchier band than my Andorra, so they fit differently.

[MerEmma]

Woo! Congrats, I know you were having a bunch of trouble with your size. Very lucky you have a common size too, haha!

I measured as a 28D and although it seems like it'd be a common size...I can't find it anywhere. Nowhere has below 30, I could understand for a bigger cup size but it seems kind of outrageous that I can't find a 28D anywhere RL. :s

[Mermaid Kalliope]

I haven't had a chance to really try out a bunch of bras yet, but I most likely will stick with 34A in everything. I don't have much room to vary, really.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

So! Get this, ladies! I went to bra garden with my roommate so she could get her new bras and I was like "Hmmm. I'm fairly certain I'm a 34A, but can I try on a bra or two?"

Aaaaaaaaand I'm not. I'm a 32C... Holy carp. o.o

[MerEmma]

Based on your pictures I thought you looked too small to be a 34 band buuuut a 32C shouldn't be impossible to find, right?

[Mermaid Oshun]

Emma use ebay

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