Are You Wearing the Wrong Cup Size? Here’s How to Tell

Countless women unknowingly walk around wearing the wrong cup size, and not to scare you, but you could be one of them. Luckily, figuring out whether your bra fits or not isn’t rocket science, and we have a few easy tips and tricks to help you get on the right track. Continue reading to make sure you’re wearing the right size!

Why wearing the right cup size matters

Support

We all know that support is important in a bra – but why? Well, not only does ample support feel better, but it also minimizes strain on your back, neck, and shoulders.

Less need to adjust

Wearing the wrong size bra can lead to a range of issues like spillage, pinching, and gaping, which can cause you to constantly have to adjust.

Better look

While your bra is often hidden, when you wear the right size, your clothes will drape and hang like they’re supposed to and look better.

Comfort

Your bra is supposed to enhance your comfort – never detract from it. When you wear a bra with cups that fit correctly, you won’t have to worry about digging wires, slipping straps, or painful pressure points.

Confidence

A well-fitting bra will help you stand taller and give you that extra confidence boost. 

Signs you’re wearing the wrong cup size

Straps slip or dig

One of the tell-tale signs that you’re wearing the wrong cup size is if your straps feel off. If your cup and band fit correctly, your bra straps shouldn’t be too loose or too tight.

Lack of support

If you don’t feel like your chest is getting enough support, your bra cups aren’t doing their job – likely because you aren’t wearing the right size.

Band rides up

Your bra band should sit comfortably under your chest and across your back. If it’s constantly riding up, this likely means that your cup size is too big and you need to size down.

Irritation or red marks

Your bra should never irritate your skin or leave noticeable marks. If it does, this is a sign that it’s a little too tight.

Spillage

If your chest is spilling over the top or sides of your bra, that means your cups are too small.

Gapping

If you notice a space between your chest and bra, you likely need to size down.

Need to adjust

If you find yourself frequently adjusting your bra, chances are it’s not the right size. Pro tip: a bra should be easy to wear and go unnoticed throughout the day.

Floating center gore

Your bra’s center gore – AKA the piece of fabric between the cups – should sit flat against your skin. If you notice it floating, you likely need to size down.

What’s the difference between cup size and band size?

Cup size explained

When measuring your bra size, your cup is the letter (ie the “C” in 32C). Your cup size represents the volume of your chest.

Band size explained

The band is the number in your bra size (ie the “32” in 32C). This number represents the circumference just under your chest.

How to measure your bra size at home: a step by step guide

Step 1: Measure your band size

To measure your band size, all you’ll need is a tape measure. Wrap the tape measure all the way around your ribcage just under your chest. Make sure that the tape lies flat against your skin, but isn’t too tight. The number you get is your band size! Note: If you land on an odd number, just round up to the next number.

Step 2: Measure your bust size

Next, you’re going to do the exact same thing, but this time you’re going to measure around your bust – right across the nipples.

Step 3: Calculate your cup size

Once you have these two numbers, you can easily determine your cup size. Simply subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement and you’re golden!

Additional tips for measuring bra size at home

Use a mirror

If you don’t have someone assisting you in measuring your bra size, we recommend you use a mirror. This will help you ensure accuracy.

Check twice

When measuring your bra size at home, leave some room for error! Be sure to check your numbers twice to make sure that everything is accurate.

Check again in six months

Even as an adult, bra size can fluctuate due to factors like weight loss or gain, pregnancy, and more. It’s a good idea to make measuring your bra size a regular thing!

Try different styles

All bras don’t fit the same, so we recommend you try out a couple different styles (balconette, plunge bra, bralette) and see what feels best.

Find your perfect fit

If you’re looking for a bra that looks good and feels good, shop Negative’s women’s bra collection today. We offer a range of styles, from bralettes to demi bras, triangle bras, and so much more. Start shopping now!