Find your perfect fit with our easy-to-use bra measurement guide and calculator.
Measure snugly around your ribcage, just under your bust.
Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust.
Standard (Full Coverage)
Balconette/Demi
Push-Up
Select the style of bra you are measuring for.
Your Estimated Bra Size
—
—Band Size
—Cup Size
—Cup Letter
How it works:
The band size is typically your underbust measurement, rounded to the nearest even number (e.g., 32, 34, 36). The cup size is determined by the difference between your bust measurement and your band measurement. A difference of 1 inch usually corresponds to an A cup, 2 inches to a B cup, and so on. Victoria's Secret may have slight variations based on bra style and specific fit technology.
Victoria's Secret Bra Size Chart (Approximate)
Band Size (Inches)
Cup Size (Difference: Bust – Band)
Victoria's Secret Cup Letter
28
1″
A
28
2″
B
28
3″
C
28
4″
D
30
1″
A
30
2″
B
30
3″
C
30
4″
D
32
1″
A
32
2″
B
32
3″
C
32
4″
D
34
1″
A
34
2″
B
34
3″
C
34
4″
D
36
1″
A
36
2″
B
36
3″
C
36
4″
D
38
1″
A
38
2″
B
38
3″
C
38
4″
D
40
1″
A
40
2″
B
40
3″
C
40
4″
D
Note: This chart provides a general guideline. Victoria's Secret bra sizing may vary slightly by style and collection. Always try on bras for the best fit.
Bra Size Distribution by Measurement Difference
Visualizing the relationship between bust-band difference and cup size.
Understanding Your Perfect Bra Fit: The Victoria's Secret Bra Measurement Calculator
What is Bra Measurement?
Bra measurement is the process of determining the correct bra size for an individual. It involves taking two key measurements: the band size (around the ribcage directly under the bust) and the bust size (around the fullest part of the bust). These measurements are then used to calculate both the band and cup size, ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit. For brands like Victoria's Secret, understanding these measurements is crucial to navigating their diverse range of styles and finding a bra that feels custom-made.
Bra Measurement Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The core of bra sizing relies on a simple yet effective calculation. The process generally involves these steps:
Band Size Calculation: Measure your ribcage snugly just below the bust. If the measurement is an odd number, round up to the nearest even number. For example, a measurement of 31 inches typically becomes a 32 band size. Victoria's Secret often uses standard even numbers for band sizes (e.g., 32, 34, 36, 38, 40).
Cup Size Calculation: Measure the fullest part of your bust. Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. The difference determines the cup size. The standard scale is:
1 inch difference = A cup
2 inch difference = B cup
3 inch difference = C cup
4 inch difference = D cup
5 inch difference = DD cup (or DDD/E depending on brand)
And so on…
Victoria's Secret follows this general principle, though specific styles might fit differently. For instance, a push-up bra might require a slightly different fit than a full-coverage style.
The formula can be summarized as: Cup Size = Bust Measurement – Band Measurement. The resulting inch difference is then mapped to a letter (A, B, C, D, etc.). Our Victoria's Secret bra measurement calculator automates this process, providing instant results based on your inputs.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let's consider a few scenarios to illustrate how the bra measurement calculator works:
Example 1: Standard Fit
Sarah measures her underbust at 33 inches and her full bust at 37 inches. She's looking for a standard full-coverage bra.
Band Calculation: 33 inches rounds up to a 34 band size.
Result: A 6-inch difference typically corresponds to an F cup (or DD+ depending on the brand's specific sizing). Emily's estimated size might be 30F or 30DD+. This highlights the importance of checking brand-specific charts.
Example 3: Similar Measurements
Jessica measures her underbust at 35 inches and her full bust at 37 inches. She's interested in a push-up bra.
Band Calculation: 35 inches rounds up to a 36 band size.
Result: A 2-inch difference corresponds to a B cup. Jessica's estimated size is 36B. For push-up styles, she might consider trying a 36C for a fuller look.
These examples demonstrate how the calculator provides a starting point. Factors like breast shape and bra style can influence the final fit. Exploring Victoria's Secret's fit guides or trying bras in person is always recommended.
How to Use This Victoria's Secret Bra Measurement Calculator
Using our calculator is straightforward and designed for accuracy. Follow these simple steps:
Measure Your Band: Use a soft measuring tape to measure around your ribcage directly under your bust. Keep the tape snug but comfortable. Ensure the tape is level all the way around. Enter this measurement in inches into the "Band Measurement" field.
Measure Your Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipples. Keep the tape measure loose enough to not compress your bust. Enter this measurement in inches into the "Bust Measurement" field.
Select Bra Style: Choose the type of bra you are interested in (Standard, Balconette, Push-Up) from the dropdown menu. Different styles can affect how a size fits.
Calculate: Click the "Calculate Size" button. The calculator will instantly display your estimated band size, cup size letter, and the combined size (e.g., 34D).
Review Results: Check the "Primary Result" and the intermediate values for band and cup. Read the formula explanation to understand how the size was derived.
Reset or Copy: Use the "Reset" button to clear the fields and start over. Use the "Copy Results" button to easily share or save your calculated size and key measurements.
Remember, this calculator provides an estimate. For the most accurate fit, especially when shopping for Victoria's Secret bras, trying them on is essential.
Key Factors That Affect Bra Measurement Results
While the basic formula provides a solid foundation, several factors can influence your perfect bra size and how it feels:
Breast Shape: Breasts come in various shapes (e.g., round, teardrop, East-West). Some bra styles are better suited for certain shapes. A full-coverage bra might accommodate rounder breasts, while a balconette might work well for East-West shapes.
Bra Style: As mentioned, different bra styles fit differently. Push-up bras add volume and may require sizing up in the cup, while demi or balconette bras offer less coverage and might fit differently than a full-coverage style. Victoria's Secret offers a wide variety, so consider the specific style's design.
Band Fit: The band provides about 80% of a bra's support. It should fit snugly on the loosest hook when new, allowing room to tighten as it stretches. If the band rides up, it's too loose. If it digs in uncomfortably, it might be too tight.
Cup Fit: The cups should fully contain the breast tissue without spilling over (quad-boob) or leaving gaps. The underwire should lie flat against the ribcage and not dig into breast tissue.
Body Changes: Weight fluctuations, hormonal changes (like during pregnancy or menstruation), and aging can all affect breast size and shape, necessitating a re-measurement. Regular bra measurement checks are advisable.
Brand Variations: Sizing can vary slightly between brands and even between different product lines within the same brand. Our calculator uses general guidelines, but Victoria's Secret may have unique sizing nuances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How often should I measure my bra size?
It's recommended to measure your bra size at least once a year, or whenever you notice changes in your body weight, experience hormonal shifts, or find your current bras don't fit as well as they used to.
Q2: What's the difference between Victoria's Secret band size and cup size?
The band size (e.g., 34) is determined by the measurement around your ribcage under the bust. The cup size (e.g., D) is determined by the difference between your bust measurement and your band measurement. Together, they form your bra size (e.g., 34D).
Q3: My calculated size feels wrong. What should I do?
Bra sizing can be tricky! If the calculated size doesn't feel right, consider the bra style you selected. Try the next size up or down in the band or cup. For example, if a 34D feels too tight in the band, try a 36C. If the cup feels too small, try a 34DD. Visiting a Victoria's Secret store for a professional fitting is the best way to confirm your size.
Q4: Does Victoria's Secret use standard bra sizing?
Victoria's Secret generally follows standard US bra sizing conventions for band and cup sizes. However, specific collections or styles might have slight variations in fit due to design elements like padding, underwire construction, or fabric.
Q5: What does "sister sizing" mean for bras?
Sister sizing refers to bra sizes that have the same cup volume but different band sizes. For example, 34D, 36C, and 38B are sister sizes. If a bra band feels too tight, you might go up a band size and down a cup size (e.g., from 34D to 36C). Conversely, if the band is too loose, you might go down a band size and up a cup size (e.g., from 34D to 32DD).