Introduction:
Understanding bra sizes can feel overwhelming, especially when different regions and brands use varying measurement systems. Whether you’re shopping for bras in Europe, the US, or another part of the world, it’s essential to understand how these measurements correspond to each other. In this guide, we’ll explore popular bra sizes like 36B, 37 bust size, 42B, 42C, and 75A, how to convert them to different measurement systems, and how to ensure the perfect fit.
1. Understanding the Bra Size Measurement System
Before diving into specific bra sizes, it’s helpful to grasp how bra sizes are determined. Typically, a bra size consists of two components:
- Band Size: This is the numerical part of the bra size, such as 36, 42, or 75. It refers to the measurement around your rib cage, just below your bust.
- Cup Size: This is the letter part of the size, such as B or C. It refers to the size of the breast the band size, or how much difference there is between the bust measurement and the band measurement.
For example, in a 36B bra, the band size is 36 inches, and the cup size indicates a 2-inch difference between the bust and the band measurement.
2. 36B Bra Size in cm: What Does It Mean?
A 36B bra size is relatively common and tends to fit women with a medium build. To break it down:
- 36 is the band size in inches.
- B is the cup size, indicating a 2-inch difference between the band and bust measurements.
To convert inches into centimeters:
- 36 inches (band size) equals approximately 91.44 cm.
- To find the bust measurement, we add 2 inches (since B cup sizes typically indicate a 2-inch difference).
- So, the bust size would be 38 inches or 96.52 cm.
Therefore, a 36B bra size in cm would roughly translate to:
- Band size: 91.44 cm
- Bust size: 96.52 cm
How to Find the Right Fit for 36B:
- The band should be snug but not tight.
- The cups should hold your breasts without any spillage or gapping.
- If your current bra size doesn’t feel quite right, you may need to try a sister size (e.g., 34C or 38A) for a better fit.
3. 37 Bust Bra Size: Understanding the Measurement
A 37-inch bust size is an important figure, especially for those trying to determine their cup size. However, this measurement alone doesn’t provide a full bra size since you also need the band measurement to calculate the cup size.
Let’s break this down into potential bra sizes:
- If your bust size is 37 inches and your band size is 34 inches, the difference between the bust and band is 3 inches, meaning you would typically wear a 34C bra.
- If your bust size is 37 inches and your band size is 36 inches, the difference is 1 inch, meaning you would typically wear a 36A bra.
How to Measure Correctly:
- 1. Measure your band size: Place a measuring tape around your ribcage, just below your bust. Make sure it’s snug but comfortable.
- 2. Measure your bust size: Place the tape around the fullest part of your bust. This number will determine your cup size when compared to your band size.
4. 42B Bra Size: A PlusSize Fit
For women with a 42B bra size, this represents a larger band size but a relatively smaller cup size. This size is common among women with broader chests but smaller busts.
- 42 is the band size, which is 42 inches (or 106.68 cm).
- The B cup indicates that the difference between the bust and band size is about 2 inches.
- This means the bust size would be 44 inches or 111.76 cm.
Therefore, the measurements in cm for a 42B bra size would be approximately:
- Band size: 106.68 cm
- Bust size: 111.76 cm
Fitting Tips for 42B:
- Make sure the band sits level on your back and doesn’t ride up.
- If you feel uncomfortable, consider a wider band for additional support.
5. 42C Cup Size: A Full Figure Fit
The 42C bra size is one of the fuller-figured sizes, offering a combination of a larger band and a moderately larger cup size.
- The 42 band size corresponds to a measurement of 106.68 cm around the ribcage.
- A C cup typically indicates a 3-inch difference between the band and bust measurements. So, the bust measurement would be 45 inches or 114.3 cm.
Thus, the 42C bra size in cm is:
- Band size: 106.68 cm
- Bust size: 114.3 cm
Fitting Tips for 42C:
- Look for bras with thicker straps for better support.
- Consider underwire styles for enhanced shaping and lift.
- Ensure the cups fully encapsulate the breast without causing spillage.
6. 75A Bra Size in the US: Small Band and Cup Size
Bra sizing can be tricky, especially when comparing between countries. A 75A bra size is often seen in European sizing, but it can be easily converted to US sizing.
- 75 refers to the band size in centimetres.
- To convert this to inches, divide by 2.54, resulting in a band size of about 29.5 inches.
- An A cup means that the difference between the band and bust measurements is approximately 1 inch.
In the US, this would generally translate to a 30A or 32A bra size, depending on rounding conventions.
7. Bra Size Conversion Across Regions
One of the challenges many women face when shopping for bras is understanding how sizes vary across different regions. Here’s a quick guide for converting bra sizes:
| UK/US Size | European Size | France/Spain Size | Australia Size |
| 36b | 80b | 95b | 14b |
| 42b | 95b | 110b | 20b |
| 42c | 95c | 110c | 20c |
| 75a | 34a | 85a | 8a |
8. Common Bra Fitting Issues and Solutions
1. Band Riding Up:
This often happens when the band is too large. Consider going down a band size while possibly adjusting the cup size (e.g., from 36B to 34 C).
2. Spillage or Gaping:
If your breasts are spilling out of the cups, you likely need a larger cup size. If there’s gaping, go down a cup size.
3. Straps Digging In:
Tight straps can indicate that the band isn’t providing enough support. Loosen the straps or choose a bra with wider straps and a firmer band.
4. Underwire Digging In:
Underwire pain is often a sign that the cup size is too small or the style of the bra isn’t suited to your body shape.
Conclusion.
Finding the perfect bra size is about understanding both your band and bust measurements, as well as how they relate to each other. Whether you’re wearing a 36B, 42B, or 75A, the key is to ensure comfort, support, and a proper fit. Don’t hesitate to explore different sizes, especially across regions, to find what works best for you.
FAQs related to bra sizes:
1. How do I measure my correct bra size?
To measure your bra size, first measure your band size by wrapping a tape measure snugly around your ribcage, just below your bust. Then, measure your bust to its fullest point. The difference between these two numbers will determine your cup size.
2. What do the numbers and letters in a bra size mean?
The number represents the band size (measured around your ribcage), and the letter indicates the cup size (the difference between your bust and band measurements).
3. How do I convert my bra size between different countries?
Bra sizes can vary across regions. For example, a US 36B is a UK 36B, but in Europe, it’s 80B, and in Australia, it’s 14 B. It’s important to check a bra size conversion chart when shopping internationally.
4. What are sister sizes in bras?
Sister sizes are alternative sizes that have the same cup volume but a different band size. For example, if 36B feels tight, you might find a better fit in a 34C or 38A.
5. How often should I replace my bras?
Bras typically last 6 to 12 months, depending on how often they are worn and washed. If the band becomes loose or the cups lose their shape, it’s time to replace them.