How to Measure Bra Size in Australia: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Wondering how to measure bra size in Australia? Finding the right bra size starts with taking two simple measurements: your underbust and your full bust. Australian bra sizes commonly use band numbers such as 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16, followed by a cup letter such as A, B, C, D, or DD.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure bra size in Australia at home, calculate your approximate cup size, use an Australian bra size chart, understand international size conversions, and check whether your bra actually fits correctly.
What Do You Need to Measure Bra Size in Australia?
You don’t need any special equipment to measure your bra size at home. You only need:
- A soft measuring tape
- A mirror
- A non-padded bra or no bra
- A pen and paper or your phone to record measurements
For the most accurate result, avoid measuring while wearing a heavily padded, push-up, or compression bra because it can change your natural measurements.
How to Measure Bra Size in Australia at Home
There are two important measurements you need:
- Your underbust measurement
- Your full bust measurement
Let’s go through each one step by step.
Step 1: Measure Your Underbust
Your underbust measurement helps determine your Australian band size.
- Stand straight with your shoulders relaxed.
- Place the measuring tape directly underneath your breasts.
- Wrap it around your ribcage.
- Make sure the tape stays straight and level across your back.
- Keep the tape snug but not painfully tight.
- Record the measurement in centimetres.
For example, if your underbust measurement is around 75 cm, your starting Australian band size may be 12.
Step 2: Measure Your Bust
Your full bust measurement is taken around the fullest part of your breasts.
- Stand naturally without pushing your chest forward.
- Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust.
- Keep the tape level across your back.
- Don’t pull the tape tightly enough to compress your breasts.
- Record the measurement in centimetres.
For example, if your full bust measurement is 91 cm and your underbust measurement is 75 cm, the difference is 16 cm.
Step 3: Find Your Australian Band Size
Use your underbust measurement as a starting point for finding your Australian band size.
| Underbust Measurement | Australian Band Size |
|---|---|
| 63–67 cm | 8 |
| 68–72 cm | 10 |
| 73–77 cm | 12 |
| 78–82 cm | 14 |
| 83–87 cm | 16 |
| 88–92 cm | 18 |
| 93–97 cm | 20 |
| 98–102 cm | 22 |
| 103–107 cm | 24 |
| 108–112 cm | 26 |
These measurements are a general guide. Individual Australian brands may use slightly different sizing systems, so always check the brand’s own size chart before purchasing.
Step 4: Calculate Your Cup Size
Once you have your bust and underbust measurements, subtract the underbust measurement from your full bust measurement.
Formula:
Full Bust − Underbust = Cup Difference
For example:
- Full bust = 91 cm
- Underbust = 75 cm
- Difference = 16 cm
A difference of around 16 cm may correspond to a D cup in some Australian sizing charts.
Use the following as a general starting guide:
| Difference | Approximate Cup Size |
|---|---|
| 10–12 cm | A |
| 12–14 cm | B |
| 14–16 cm | C |
| 16–18 cm | D |
| 18–20 cm | DD |
| 20–22 cm | E |
| 22–24 cm | F |
| 24–26 cm | FF |
| 26–28 cm | G |
Cup-size measurements can vary between brands, so don’t treat the chart as an absolute rule.
Measure Bra Size in Australia: Example
Let’s say your measurements are:
- Underbust: 75 cm
- Full bust: 91 cm
- Bust difference: 16 cm
Your starting Australian band size would generally be 12, while the cup calculation may place you around a D cup, depending on the brand’s chart.
Your estimated starting size would therefore be approximately 12D.
Remember that your calculated size is a starting point. The actual best-fitting size can change depending on the bra brand, style, fabric, and your breast shape.
Australian Bra Size Chart to Measure Bra Size
Here is a quick reference for common Australian band sizes:
| Australian Band | Common Cup Examples |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D |
| 10 | 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D |
| 12 | 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D |
| 14 | 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D |
| 16 | 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D |
| 18 | 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D |
| 20 | 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D |
The cup letter cannot be considered separately from the band size. A 12D and a 16D do not have the same overall cup volume.
How Should Your Bra Size Fit in Australia?
Measuring your bra size is only the first step. Once you put the bra on, check how it fits.
A well-fitting bra should have:
- A band that sits level around your body
- Cups that comfortably contain your breasts
- No major gaps in the cups
- No breast tissue spilling over the top or sides
- Straps that stay comfortably on your shoulders
- A supportive but comfortable band
- An underwire that doesn’t dig painfully into your breast tissue
What If Your Australian Bra Band Rides Up?
If your bra band keeps moving upward at the back, the band may be too loose.
Try a smaller band size while adjusting the cup size appropriately.
What If Your Australian Bra Cups Spill Out?
If breast tissue is spilling over the top or sides of the cups, the cup may be too small.
Try going up a cup size and check whether the new cup gives you better coverage.
What If Your Australian Bra Cups Have Extra Space?
If the cups have noticeable gaps or wrinkles, the cup may be too large or the bra shape may not suit your breast shape.
Try a smaller cup or a different bra style.
Australian Bra Size vs UK and US Bra Sizes
Australian bra sizing can be confusing when you’re shopping internationally because different countries use different band numbers.
A common band conversion is:
| Australian | UK/US |
|---|---|
| 8 | 30 |
| 10 | 32 |
| 12 | 34 |
| 14 | 36 |
| 16 | 38 |
| 18 | 40 |
| 20 | 42 |
However, cup-size conversions aren’t always identical between Australian, UK, US, and European brands.
If you’re ordering a bra from an international retailer, always check that retailer’s specific conversion chart before choosing your size.
Common Mistakes When You Measure Bra Size in Australia
Measuring Over Thick Clothing
Thick clothing can add extra centimetres to your measurements. Measure over bare skin or a thin, non-padded bra whenever possible.
Pulling the Tape Too Tight
Your tape should be snug but shouldn’t dig into your skin. Pulling it too tightly can make your measurement smaller than it actually is.
Letting the Tape Move
The tape should remain horizontal around your body. If it slopes upward or downward, your measurement may not be accurate.
Using the Wrong Size Chart
Don’t automatically use a UK or US chart when shopping for an Australian bra. Check whether the retailer specifically uses Australian sizing.
Assuming Every Brand Fits the Same
A calculated size can fit differently from one brand to another. Bra construction, cup shape, fabric, and band elasticity can all affect the final fit.
How Often Should You Measure Bra Size in Australia?
You don’t necessarily need to measure your bra size every time you buy a new bra. However, it is useful to measure again when your current bras stop fitting comfortably.
Consider measuring again if:
- Your weight has changed.
- Your bras feel tighter or looser.
- Your cups are gaping.
- Your breasts are spilling out of the cups.
- Your band rides up.
- You have experienced significant body changes.
- You are shopping from a new brand.
Taking a few minutes to recheck your measurements can make online bra shopping much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Bra Size in Australia
How do I measure bra size in Australia at home?
Measure your underbust around your ribcage and your bust around the fullest part of your breasts. Use your underbust measurement to estimate your Australian band size, then compare the difference between your bust and underbust measurements with an Australian cup-size chart.
What size is a 75 cm underbust in Australia?
A 75 cm underbust generally falls around an Australian band size 12. Your cup size depends on your full bust measurement.
How do I calculate my cup size in Australia?
Subtract your underbust measurement from your full bust measurement. The difference gives you an approximate cup size. Because sizing varies between brands, check the specific brand’s Australian size chart as well.
Should I measure my bra size with or without a bra?
You can measure without a bra or while wearing a thin, non-padded bra. The important thing is that your breasts remain in a natural position and aren’t pushed up or compressed.
How tight should a bra measuring tape be?
For your underbust, the measuring tape should be snug and secure but not painfully tight. When measuring your bust, the tape should rest gently around the fullest part without compressing your breasts.
Are Australian and UK bra sizes the same?
No. Australian and UK bra sizes use different band-numbering systems. For example, an Australian 12 is commonly equivalent to a UK 34 band, although cup conversions can vary.
Why doesn’t my calculated bra size fit?
A measurement-based size is only a starting point. Different brands and bra styles can fit differently, and breast shape can also affect how a bra fits. If your calculated size doesn’t feel right, try a nearby size or another style.
Can I measure my bra size without a measuring tape?
Yes. You can use a piece of non-stretch string or ribbon instead. Wrap it around your underbust or bust, mark where the ends meet, and then measure the string against a ruler.
When should I measure my bra size again?
Measure again when your bras no longer fit comfortably, your body measurements have changed, or you’re purchasing from a new brand with a different sizing system.