Use a mirror to check that the tape is positioned parallel to the floor as it extends under your arms and across your lower shoulder blades before noting your measurement. Avoid holding your breath since doing so can expand your chest. Exhale to release the air from your lungs and return your ribcage to a natural, non-expanded size.
If you measured 29. 5, you’d round up to 30 and add 4 to reach a band size of 34. If your measurement was 33, add 5 to reach a band size of 38. The band size is the first part of a bra size, and it’s followed by a letter indicating the cup size. So a 36C bra and a 36DD bra have the same-sized band, but different cup sizes.
A difference of 0 means you’d wear an AA cup. A difference of 1 means an A cup, 2 means a B cup, 3 means a C cup, 4 means a D cup, 5 means a DD cup, 6 means a DDD or F cup, and 7 means a G cup. [4] X Research source If your band size is 34 and your bust also measures 34, you’d wear an AA cup without any padding. So you could purchase a bra in the size 34AA. If your band size is 38 and your bust measures 40, a B cup might fit you best. Try a bra sized 40B if you don’t want to use any padding.
In bra sizes, subsequent letters indicate larger cup sizes. So, if a 34AA bra would fit your natural, unpadded form, you could go up to a 34B or 34C for a larger cup size. Feel free to try out different cup sizes and breast forms. Just make sure you have the right bra to wear with each one.
If you’re nervous about requesting a fitting, consider contacting the shop in advance. Find out whether their staff knows how to assist males with bra fittings, and see if you can make an appointment. [5] X Research source
Since there may be a gap between your chest and the top of the bra cup, these options work best if you’ll be wearing an outfit that conceals your bra.
Foam inserts are sometimes called “cookies,” while silicone inserts are often called “chicken fillets” or “chicken cutlets. ”
Try symmetrical breast forms for versatility with any type of bra. Consider wearing an asymmetrical set (i. e. a left and right breast form) if you desire a more natural breast shape. [7] X Research source Choose silicone breast forms with cleavage for a full-looking, exposed bust. These consist of 2 breast forms connected by a silicone chest piece that extends up to your neck. Choose one that matches your skin tone. [8] X Research source
Lingerie shopping can be lots of fun! Bring a friend or your partner with you and consider making a day out of it.
The underwire sits in a U-shaped curve below each cup within a channel in the band. To find out whether a bra has underwire, pinch this part of the bra to see if it’s rigid. Make sure you choose the correct band size. Otherwise, the underwire may start digging into your chest.
If you’d like to ease into wearing a bra, start off with a non-padded bra to see how you like it. Some wireless bras feature hook closures while others are stretchy and can be pulled on over your head. Try whichever style you prefer.
If you’re using large or heavy breast forms, a pocket bra will provide extra support and will keep them in place. Make sure you pick out a pocket bra that’s compatible with the breast forms you plan to wear. Avoid buying one in too small a cup size; you might stretch it out trying to fit the inserts inside.
Many longline bras feature a row of hooks and eyes at the back, which can be difficult to close up at first. Take some time to practice doing up the closures, starting with the top hook and working your way down.
The straps on a convertible bra can be crisscrossed at the back, arranged in a one-shoulder shape, slung around your neck in a halter style, and more. Most styles can also be worn strapless. [9] X Research source Purchase a set of clear plastic straps for an invisible look.
Front closures consist of 2 pieces of plastic that click into place between the cups. [10] X Research source Look for a band with extra stretch if you’re worried about the feeling of a tight band around your ribcage. Avoid a band that’s too tight since it will cause the skin around your back to bulge out. Plus, it won’t be comfortable.
Keep in mind that lace, trims, pleats, seam lines, and other textured details will show through on tighter-fitting tops. Try a padded t-shirt bra with molded cups under a form-fitting top. Depending on the style and fit you want, experiment with different coverage options. Options range from full-coverage styles to demi-cup and balconette cuts.
