The difference between band sizes is 2". Almost every bra comes with 3 hook closure options along the back. The difference between the loosest and tightest position is between 1" to 1 1/2". So, when you put a bra on for the first time, try it on its tightest position first. If it feels comfortable, I would go down a band size. The reason is that you have nowhere to go once the bra begins to stretch with wear, and the next band size down will accomodate that stretch. Say you are trying on a 38 band size on its tightest fastening and it feels comfortable. I think you should go down a band size to a 36. Note: when you go down a band size, you need to go up a cup size if you want to maintain the same cup volume.
Alternatively, when you put on a bra for the first time, you should fit to the loosest adjustment. Put on a bra and attach the hooks to the closest eyes on the bra’s other end. Does it feel snug? If it does, that’s your band size. Now, as you wear that bra, you have the ability to adjust it tighter as the bra stretches out over time. And, all bras stretch over time.
So, where do you start to find the right band size for you? Begin with a tape measure. Making sure it’s parallel to the floor, wrap the tape measure around yourself along your bust crease – the place where your breast skin turns into tummy skin. Do this while not wearing any bra, and exhale to make this measurement as small as possible. Now, to that measurement, add 3" or 4" to get you to an even number.
This should be your starting band size. But, it doesn’t have to mean it’s your final band size. You decide whether that band size feels comfortable to you and you like the support it provides. Go up or down a band size till you feel comfortable. But remember two things. 1. Each band increase/decrease means a 2" difference in the circumference. So, if one size is a little tight, and the other is a little loose, fine tune your decision by moving the bra closure in the back to the second position. 2. Cup sizes change in fit when you go up or down a band size. So, say you like the fit of a 38C bra in the cups, but the band is too tight, you should move to a 40B. If the 38C band is too loose, you should move to a 36D.
Again, let me emphasize that you should be the final arbiter on what band size you wear. Don’t let someone else tell you what it should be. There are a lot of women who own bra mistakes because they didn’t speak up or challenge the band size choice when they were fitted.
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