How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home in 5 Simple Steps
By Huit | French Designer Lingerie, Swimwear & Sleepwear | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to measure your bra size at home with five clear steps, from band and cup measurements to checking the fit on a balconette or tanga.
Quick answer
Measure your band size snugly around your ribcage directly under your bust, then measure your bust at the fullest point. Subtract the band measurement from the bust measurement: a 1-inch difference is an A cup, 2 inches is a B, 3 inches is a C, and so on. If the result lands between sizes, size up in the band and down in the cup, then confirm with a real try-on.
What you need before you start
A soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a non-padded bra you already own are enough. Wear the bra if you have one that fits reasonably well; if not, measure without a bra. Keep the tape parallel to the floor around your body and don't pull it tight enough to compress your skin. Write down every number in inches or centimeters and stay consistent — mixing units is the fastest way to get a wrong size.
Why a bra size calculator guide still needs a try-on
A calculator gives you a starting point, not a verdict. Two bras with the same labeled size can fit differently depending on cup construction, band stretch, and the brand's grading. A padded balconette with structured cups will feel firmer than an unlined style, and a high-waisted bikini brief follows different sizing logic than a tanga. Use your measurements to narrow the field, then judge the fit on your body.
Five steps to your size
- Step 1: Measure your band size: Wrap the tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust, keeping it level all the way around. Round to the nearest whole inch. If the number is even, add 4 inches; if odd, add 5. This is your band size. Common mistake: letting the tape ride up at the back. Check in a mirror that it stays parallel to the floor.
- Step 2: Measure your bust size: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple line, without compressing the tissue. Keep the tape level and relaxed. Checkpoint: breathe normally. A measurement taken on a deep inhale will read too large.
- Step 3: Calculate your cup size: Subtract your band size from your bust size. Each inch of difference equals one cup size: 1 inch = A, 2 = B, 3 = C, 4 = D, 5 = DD, and so on. Common mistake: using the band number before the +4/+5 adjustment. Always subtract from the adjusted band size.
- Step 4: Convert to your starting size: Combine the adjusted band number with the cup letter. For example, a 34 band with a 3-inch difference gives 34C. If you fall between two cup sizes, try the smaller band with the larger cup first. Checkpoint: sister sizes work too — a 34C can often wear a 32D or 36B depending on band stretch.
- Step 5: Try on and adjust: Fasten the bra on the loosest hook. The band should stay level and snug without riding up; the center gore should sit flat against your sternum; cups should lie smooth without gaping or spilling. If the band rides up, go down a band size and up a cup. Common mistake: judging fit by the straps. Most support comes from the band, so adjust the band first.
How real styles map to your measurements
- HUIT - Eclipse - Padded Balconette: HUIT - Eclipse - Padded Balconette has soft cotton lifting cups and Swiss-made embroidered geometric lace, available in midnight blue. Structured padded cups hold their shape, so if your band and cup measurements are correct, this style gives a defined cleavage without needing to size down.
- Desir Tanga - Blush: Desir Tanga - Blush features intricate floral lace at the front and a seamless back. A seamless back removes visible lines under clothing, so you can check whether your measured size sits flat rather than digging in.
- Huit - Citron Vert - Brief: Huit - Citron Vert - Brief is made from premium microfiber with a classic design for flattering coverage. Microfiber stretches with movement, so a bikini brief in your measured size stays comfortable in the water instead of loosening.
