Are you wearing the right bra size?  According to Oprah’s Bra Revolution close to six years ago now, 8 out of 10 women aren’t. Sadly, that stat hasn’t changed.

If your favourite lingerie store doesn't offer professional fittings, we’ve got a few tips to help you measure up DIY-style. 

Band 
Bra sizes are measured in a letter and a number, the letter is the cup size. The band measurement is the number of inches around the chest. Get your measuring tapes out. If you measure 36 inches around, that’s the band size for you. Most of us don't measure an even number around, so here’s what you have to know about your band: this is what does all the work. It’s the band that supports the cups, the band that holds everything in place. If you’ve ever thought to yourself “gee, my straps keep falling they must be doing nothing for me.” The solution to your problem is to try a smaller band size. The smaller band size means that it won’t ride up up up and make your straps fall down down down. 

Cups
To find your perfect cup size, measure the circumference around your bust (that is chest plus your cleavage). Once you have that measurement subtract the band size from it (let's say 38-34 = 4). That final number determines your cup size. Starting at one inch for A cups, two for B cups, etc. But when it comes to fit, when your cups runneth over, it’s time to move up a letter not a number. Likewise, that gaping space between your breast and the bra itself means it’s time to move down a letter. Ideally, the centre gore - where the two cups meet - needs to sit flat against your clavicle (that area between the breasts). It you find it rubbing, irritating or a few inches out, your cup size is too small. 

Sister sizing
So now you know how to find your bra size, but when you take that knowledge to the store you can’t find your size in that cute pink lace bra! Most ladies assume “I’ll just go one band size down, from a 34C to a 32C and I’m good to go right?” Not so! Going down in the band means the cup is a little shallower too, so if you’re moving down a band size, you’ll also move up in the cup. When a 34C isn't available, try the 34D for a start. 

Now you’re ready to go shopping, because nothing boosts your confidence better than the perfect bra. 

What fit issues have you found with your bras?