Bra Fitting Guide
Bra Fitting Guide
Finding the right bra fit transforms how you look and feel. At Currans Lingerie, we carry premium European and North American brands in an extensive range of sizes — and we want to help you find yours with confidence.
Step 1: How to Measure Your Bra Size
For the most accurate measurement, use a soft measuring tape and measure in centimetres or inches. Wear a non-padded bra or no bra at all.
Measure Your Band Size
- Wrap the measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust.
- The tape should be level and firm — not tight, not loose.
- Round to the nearest whole number. If the measurement is even, that is your band size. If it is odd, round up to the next even number.
- Example: 32" → Band size 32 | 33" → Band size 34
Measure Your Cup Size
- Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
- Subtract your band measurement from this bust measurement.
- The difference determines your cup size (see chart below).
Cup Size Chart
| Difference (inches) | Cup Size |
|---|---|
| Less than 1" | AA |
| 1" | A |
| 2" | B |
| 3" | C |
| 4" | D |
| 5" | DD / E |
| 6" | DDD / F |
| 7" | G |
| 8" | H |
| 9" | I |
Step 2: Signs of a Perfect Fit
- Band: Sits level all the way around, parallel to the floor. You should be able to slip two fingers underneath — no more.
- Cups: Breasts sit fully inside the cups with no spillage over the top or sides, and no gaps or wrinkling in the fabric.
- Centre gore: The piece between the cups lies flat against your sternum.
- Straps: Sit comfortably on your shoulders without digging in or slipping off. Straps should provide about 10% of support — the band does the rest.
- Underwire (if applicable): Follows the natural curve of your breast tissue and sits flat against your ribcage, not on breast tissue.
Step 3: Size Conversion Chart
Our brands use European (EU) sizing. Here is how EU sizes correspond to North American (US/CA) sizes.
| US / CA Band | EU Band | UK Band |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 65 | 30 |
| 32 | 70 | 32 |
| 34 | 75 | 34 |
| 36 | 80 | 36 |
| 38 | 85 | 38 |
| 40 | 90 | 40 |
| 42 | 95 | 42 |
| 44 | 100 | 44 |
Cup sizes are generally consistent across US, CA, UK, and EU sizing, with the exception of DD (US/CA/UK) = E (EU), and DDD/F (US/CA) = F (EU).
Brand Fit Notes
Each of our brands has its own fit philosophy. Here is what to expect:
Chantelle
Chantelle bras are designed in France and tend to run true to size. Their cups offer a rounded, full shape. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing up in the cup. Chantelle is an excellent choice for full-coverage and minimizer styles.
Marie Jo
Marie Jo (by Van de Velde) is a Belgian brand known for precise, structured fit. Their bras are designed for a lifted, separated silhouette. Sizing is generally true to EU standards. If you have a fuller bust or wider-set breasts, Marie Jo's full-cup styles offer exceptional support.
Prima Donna
Prima Donna specializes in larger cup sizes (D through I cup) and is renowned for its support and comfort in fuller bust styles. Their bras are engineered for women who need serious support without sacrificing elegance. Sizing runs true — if in doubt, try your usual size first.
Wacoal
Wacoal is a Japanese brand with a focus on precision fit and comfort. Their bras tend to have a slightly firmer band for excellent support. If you are between band sizes, consider sizing up for everyday comfort. Wacoal is particularly well-suited for T-shirt bras and seamless styles.
Choosing the Right Style for You
Full Coverage
Covers the entire breast for maximum support and modesty. Ideal for larger cup sizes and everyday wear. Recommended brands: Prima Donna, Chantelle.
Demi / Half Cup
Covers the lower half of the breast, creating a lifted, rounded shape. Works best for A–D cups. Great under lower-cut necklines.
Plunge
Features a deep V-centre gore for low-cut tops and dresses. Best suited for A–E cups with closer-set breasts.
Minimizer
Redistributes breast tissue to create a smoother, smaller-looking silhouette. Ideal for D cup and above. Chantelle and Wacoal offer excellent minimizer options.
Balconette / Balcony
Sits lower on the breast with wide-set straps, creating a square neckline effect. Flattering for most cup sizes and ideal under wide-neck or off-shoulder tops.
Sports Bra
Designed for movement and impact. Choose encapsulation styles (individual cups) for larger busts, and compression styles for smaller busts.
Sister Sizing
If your size is not available, sister sizing can help. Moving one band size up and one cup size down (or vice versa) gives you the same cup volume in a different band size.
Example: If you wear a 34C and it is out of stock, try a 36B (larger band, smaller cup) or a 32D (smaller band, larger cup).
Still Not Sure? We Are Here to Help.
Our team is happy to assist you find the perfect fit. Contact us with your measurements and we will recommend the right size and style for you.