Bra Size Calculator

From LoveToKnow Lingerie

Believe it or not, statistics say that up to 85% of women are running around wearing the wrong bra size, which is precisely why every woman will benefit from using a bra size calculator.

Different Types of Bra Size Calculators

Every calculator meant to tell you your bra size takes measurements and calculates the perfect fit for your body, but there are a few different types of calculators. Finding which ones are the most accurate takes a little trial and error, but here are the two basic types:

Two measurement calculators – For this calculator, you measure around the top of your ribcage and around your breasts. You then enter in your measurements and the calculator tells you your ideal bra size.
Three measurement calculators – This calculator is often referred to as the International Bra Size Calculator and uses measurements from the top of the bust line, around the breasts or the middle of the bust line and around your ribcage at the bottom of the bust line.

How to Get the Proper Measurements

Yes, measuring your own bust line is as easy as it sounds, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind so you don't end up buying a bra that is too loose, offering no support whatsoever, or too tight, revealing the dreaded "back fat":

Hold the measuring tape taut against your rib cage and upper chest – This mean snug enough so that the measuring tape isn't sliding all over the place, and loose enough so you aren't cutting off the blood circulation in your chest.
Be sure the measuring tape is lying flat against the skin – This makes for a more accurate measurement. Stand in front a full-length mirror to make sure the measuring tape is not twisted or sagging on any part of your body.
Get the measuring tape as level as possible – When you're holding the measuring tape around your body, try to make sure that it's as level or straight as possible. If it's higher or lower in one spot, your calculation will not be accurate.

Online Size Calculators

It's definitely always best to go to a store that offers bra fitting services in order to get your perfect bra size, but when time doesn't allow for this or if you're a little bit shy, here's where you can find these types of calculators online:

The Bra Guide – This guide uses a two-measurement system, has an international size converter and gives a few tips and hints as to whether or not your bras are fitting correctly.
85b.org – This calculator uses three measurements and gives you your size results for multiple countries. So, if you want to buy that gorgeous French bra but are worried you won't get the size right, use this bra size calculator before you buy it.
Bali Company – Get an accurate bra size by entering your measurements in Bali's calculator. While you're at it, check out their Fit Tips and Solutions to get the most comfortable fitting bra.
The Breast Guide – This calculator works like the others, but asks your for your Frame Size and Bust Size. The frame size simply refers to the circumference of your rib cage right below the ribs.

Proper Fit Makes All the Difference

Every great looking outfit starts with a good foundation; without a good foundation, it tends to ruin the entire look. Keep in mind that few women are exactly a size 36C or 34B and only a few companies sell bras in half-sizes, but don't despair, bra fits generally vary by manufacturer or brand name. Sometimes, even bras made by the same manufacturer but from different lines fit differently, so once you find your proper bra size, plan on spending some time in the fitting room trying on different bras from different lines.

Finally, don't forget to look at the straps on whatever bras you are buying. Because you don't want to spend all this time finding the right size and trying a bunch of different bras only to have the straps that are flimsy or dig into your shoulders.

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