Bras: How To Find The Best Fit For You

We’ve all been there - finding the right type of bra can be a challenging process. That’s because when it comes to size, style, and fit, every person is unique. To make it easier on you, we’ve compiled a bra guide that’ll help you find the perfect one. No more uncomfortable bras over here!

What Is My Bra Size?

First things first: when shopping for bras, you’ve got to find the right size. Guessing never works… believe us, we’ve tried it all. The best way to find the right size is to take your measurements (we recommend every 6 months!) and use our handy bra guide below. We’ll walk you through all the steps to make it as simple as possible.

Bra Size Calculator

If you’ve ever wondered how to measure bra size, then we’ve got you covered. Here are some simple tips, plus a handy DIY bra size calculator. Also, if you don’t happen to have a measuring tape, don’t worry. We have a few ideas for alternative tools you can use.

First off, you need your measurements.

Measuring Tip: If you can’t get your hands on a measuring tape, find a piece of string, a scarf, or even just an article of clothing that is long enough to wrap around your chest. Then, you can use a ruler, smartphone app, or other measuring device on that item later.

Whatever you use, you’re going to take two measurements: one around your ribcage and one around your chest. The measurement you get from around your rib cage is your band size. The measurement from around your bust is going to help us determine your cup size.

Your cup size is the difference between your band and bust measurements. Subtract your band size from your bust size, then use the bra size chart below to find your cup size.

Department Store vs. Online Store

Trying on different types of bras and sifting through bra sizes in a store is way different than shopping online. So, how do you find the right size?

In a department store, you do get to try before you buy, but you may end up with 12 different bras in your dressing room. To your dismay, the most expensive one fits the best. If you’re an online shopper, you know you can get a better deal elsewhere. We’re here to help you find the best fit and the best deal anytime you need to shop for a new bra.

And we even have Fit Experts that can help you from home. No more dealing with uncomfortable dressing rooms!

Bra Size Conversion?

Bra sizes and measurements vary from country to country. For instance, US and UK bra band sizes are equivalent, but cup sizes vary. When you start to get into EU, Australian, French, and Czechian sizes, though, things start to really get confusing.

For example, a size 36DDD in the US is a size 36E in the UK and a size 80E in the EU. Rather than trying to re-take your measurements for each country, it’s best to use a bra size calculator to determine which size you should buy depending on which country you’re sourcing your bras from.

The Best Bras for All Functions

Most bras will say that they can be worn for any occasion, but it really isn’t true. You wouldn’t wear high-heels to go hiking or a hoodie to have dinner at a fancy restaurant, would you? Of course not. Just like your outer layers, your bra also needs to be appropriate for different activities and outfits.

High-impact activities, like aerobic sports, require more support. Conversely, a corseted, fitted dress probably calls for a strapless bra with minimal fabric. Other solution-focused types of bras include front-close bra, minimizer bra, sports bra, side support bra, unlined bra, and wirefree bra to name a few.

In each case, each style of bra plays a very specific function; it’s not a job for your everyday day bra.

Here’s a short guide on how to choose the best bra options for any function.

Front-close Bras

It’s no secret that wearing a front-close bra is the magic you need to have your back appear as smooth as if you weren’t wearing a bra at all. Front close bras also open up your wardrobe options since the clasp front is usually lower than traditional bras.

The Maidenform One Fab Fit Full Coverage Lace T-Back Bra will let you wear dresses with plunging necklines and tight tops. The surprise lace detail on the back makes this bra a combination of function and beauty.

Minimizer Bras

A seamless underwire minimizer bra reduces the bust line up to one inch, allowing you to wear tighter or more revealing tops while still having coverage and control.

Wacoal’s Visual Effects Minimizer Bra is the ultimate wearing experience. It features full coverage cups made of supportive lace with a sheer mesh lining. The band is lined with soft sheer stretch mesh providing total comfort.

Sports Bras

A supportive sports bra is a non-negotiable for your bra drawer. When participating in active sports like running, power-walking, cross-fit, or a barre class you want to keep the girls from flopping around﹘and hurting your back. The Truekind Reactive Sport Bra is the active woman’s best friend.

Breastfeeding women should take note of this bra if your breasts are of greater size than pre-baby. This sports bra provides coverage and extra support at a great price. You may even want to get all four colors!

Side Support Bras

It’s not just your front you want your bra to fit well over, your sides are equally important. A side support bra not only gives you ample coverage for your breasts, but can also reduce a splaying bust line.

The Bali One Smooth U Ultra Light Illusion Neckline Underwire Bra provides amazing side support to keep your boobs from spilling over. Plus, the convertible straps make it super versatile for different outfits.

Unlined Bras

A bra with too much fabric can appear bulky under clothing. Unlined bras are the solution for this dilemma. Whether you like it sheer or lacy, there is an unlined bra for you.

For a refined look and all day comfort you need to have the Wacoal Basic Beauty Underwire Bra. With no extra padding, this bra supports you and gives you a natural shape.

Wirefree Bras

Here’s a riddle: what looks and feels like a sports bra but functions like your favorite everyday bra? It may sound too good to be true but there is a real answer: The Truekind Daily Comfort Wirefree Shaper Bra.

Combining hook-and-eye closures with no-wire structured support, nothing beats this bra for comfort plus the non-stop breathable support. With smart sizing from 34A to 46DD this is as close to being an all-occasion bra for any body size that you’re ever going to see.

No matter what you do, there is a bra for you. Love your body and love your life and wear a bra that makes you feel like your best self.

Does your bra wardrobe lack something for a specific function? We have the solution. Check out our bra collection and find the best one for your active life!

Now that you’ve learned how to measure for a bra and how to find the perfect bra for your girls, we hope that you feel more confident in buying a bra online. In fact, we have a huge selection of bras in our online store, with bra styles for every size and shape.

We care so much about you finding the perfect fit that we even offer a right-fit guarantee.

At Shapermint, our mission is to help women find their confidence through inclusion in a body-positive, judgement-free zone. Join our community and allow us to support you and your lifestyle.