Put on your best-fitting unpadded, under wire bra. Measure underneath the bust line and make sure to measure tightly, also making sure the tape is straight across the back. If you come up with a half measurement or greater, like 32 ½, round UP to the next whole number (33" in this case). If you measurement comes out to less than ½", round DOWN to the nearest whole number. Now, remember that number for a moment. If that measurement is an odd number, add 5 inches. If that measurement is an even number, add 6 inches. HOWEVER, if that measurement is greater than 33", add only 3". Write the end result down so you don't forget it.Step 2:
Now, use the measuring tape to measure your bust size. Again, keep the measuring tape tight, but not so much so that it is uncomfortable. Place the measuring tape so that it covers the fullest part of your breast. Ensure the tape is straight across your back. Again, if your measurement is a half measurement or greater, like 38 ½, round UP to the next whole number, if less than ½", round DOWN to the previous whole number. Write this number down. This is your BRA size.Step 3:
Take the resulting number from Step 2 and subtract the resulting number from Step 1. This is the difference between the two sizes. Now, use the chart below to determine your cup size. Using the measurement from step 3, find your cup size below. Your CUP SIZE is
0" larger than frame size AA
1" larger than frame size A
2" larger than frame size B
3" larger than frame size C
4" larger than frame size D
5" larger than frame size DD
6" larger than frame size F
Fitting a bra
The fullest part of the bust should fall approximately at the middle point between shoulder and elbow. If the bra has a horizontal seam it should be parallel to the ground. (If the seam goes up from horizontal, the straps are too tight; if it goes down, the straps are too loose.)
Lean forward to let the breasts fall into the cups and fasten the closure to the MIDDLE set of fasteners.
The bottom band should ride across the middle of the back and pass under the shoulder blades thus providing the necessary support. It too should be parallel to the ground.
Adjust the straps to give firm but comfortable uplift to the bust line. You should be able to run one finger smoothly under the straps to prevent the straps from digging in the shoulders.
With the new bra on, look in a mirror and see if the straps are vertical, front and back. Straps not vertical indicate wrong size or a poor construction. It explains straps falling off the shoulder in normal use or cutting into shoulders.
It is good policy to buy nationally known brands in boxes. Unboxed bulk displays may be inferior.
As bra sizes increase for different body sizes and shapes, bra characteristics change as well to offer better support. Enhancements may include wider straps, wider sides, addition of side stiffeners, heavier materials, wider fasteners, and a wider underbust band.
fitting tips WHEN USING BREAST FORMS
The range of options available in breast forms is truly astounding. Some manufacturers make over 500 different shapes, sizes and colours of breast forms for the needs of different body types, breast shapes and surgeries. Since many in the TG community will be starting from scratch, matching a form to an existing breast will not be a factor.
DON'T EXAGGERATE THE SIZE!
This is the most important tip to be stressed if passing is your goal. Many of us wish to pass as well as possible, and this point was stressed to me by my fitter. Nothing will draw attention more than a bosom that looks too buxom. By the same token also, if you have a large frame, a smaller cup size can look unnatural. Try for as natural a look as possible, and that can be one less worry in passing.
Breast form sizing can be a little different than bra cup sizing. As much difference as there is in bra cup size or shoe size, or... between different manufacturers, there is as much difference between sizes of natural breasts. Instead of letter cup ranges, breast forms may often use a numbered sizing system (smallest sizes having the lowest number.) There will typically be 2 or 3 numbers within a given cup size range. This will affect not only the depth of the form but the volume and coverage of the form as well.
If you are lucky enough to be fitted for a form by a professional. It is recommended to bring a favourite bra that fits comfortably if you have a size that you already like. Another good idea also is to bring a blouse or some other piece of clothing that will give you a good idea of how you will look.
If you are having trouble finding a store that sells breast forms, try looking in the phone book under BREAST FORMS, PROSTHETICS, or ORTHOTICS for local retailers. Forms can also often be purchased through medical supply shops, and specialty lingerie stores. the measurement from step 3, find your cup size below.
Your CUP SIZE is
0" larger than frame size
AA
1" larger than frame size
A
2" larger than frame size
B
3" larger than frame size
C
4" larger than frame size
D
5" larger than frame size
DD
6" larger than frame size
F