Why You Might Not Be a B Cup
Finding the perfect sports bra can feel like a nightmare! Having to not only figure out your ideal style but also your correct size. Sometimes there can be conflicting advice too! Which is why our friends at MAAREE thought they’d clarify everything for you.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Fit
A well-fitting sports bra can be the difference between leading an active lifestyle and being unable to take part in any sort of sports activity. Don’t worry, we get it! An ill-fitting bra can lead to discomfort, chafing, and even long-term tissue damage. The right fit helps to maintain breast health and enhances your workout experience.
And one of the biggest culprits? Thinking you’re a B cup when… you’re not.
Why is this such a common one? We see it all the time in our virtual fittings, and it’s the most common fit issue that occurs. The problem stems from brands measuring differently, especially one prominent retailer known for offering fittings.
This retailer is known for adding inches to your underband. This is to make the bra more comfortable, however we know that a loose underband leads to chafing and a lack of support. Adding 1-2 back sizes to your underband measure can change your cup size by 2-3 letters. Therefore that 36B is often a 32DD.
How to Measure Yourself Accurately
Step 1: Measure Your Back
Use the inches side of a fabric measuring tape to measure just under where your breast tissue begins, ensuring the tape is snug but not tight, and taken at mid-breath.
If the measurement is an odd number, round up to the nearest even number.
Example: 33 inches becomes 34, this is your underband size.
Step 2: Measure Your Bust
Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level and relaxed. Write this number down to the nearest whole inch.
Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size
Subtract your new underband measurement from your bust measurement. The difference determines your cup size:
- 1 inch = A cup
- 2 inches = B cup
- 3 inches = C cup
- 4 inches = D cup
- 5 inches = DD cup…and so on.
Example: If your underband is 34 inches and your bust measurement is 37 inches, the difference is 3 inches. This means you’ll need a C cup. Therefore your bra size would be 34C. Easy!
Common Myths Debunked
Myth 1: “I’ve always been a B cup.”
Reality: You might be measuring incorrectly or holding onto outdated sizing. Our founder Mari sees this all the time, many women assume they’re B cups when they’re actually D, DD or even an E. To be a B cup your bust is just two inches bigger than your back.
Myth 2: “Smaller means more support.”
Reality: A bra that’s too tight won’t offer more support, it’ll just cause discomfort. A snug, correct fit is what you’re after.
Myth 3: “All brands use the same sizing.”
Reality: Nope! Just like jeans, your bra size can vary depending on the brand. Always check the brand’s specific chart.
Myth 4: “One bra suits all activities.”
Reality: Different sports need different support levels. Your yoga bra might not cut it on a 5k run!
Tips for Trying On and Testing Fit
Band Fit
It should sit level all the way around and feel snug, not suffocating. You should just about fit one finger underneath. If you can pull it away from your body by more than 1 inch, it’s either too old or too big.
Cup Coverage
No gaping, no overspill, no breast tissue sneaking out the sides.
Strap Adjustment
Firm, not digging. Adjustable straps make a huge difference.
Movement Test
Jump around. Feel excessive bounce? That’s your sign to check your size or try a more supportive style.
New Bras
Bras loosen over time. If you’re between sizes, opt for the tighter fit initially, it’ll soften after a few washes and wears.
This sounds like me, how can I get a Bra Fitting?
MAAREE offers FREE virtual fittings everyday of the week. They are 15 minutes long, 1 to 1 with MAAREE’s expert fitters. All you need is a tape measure. There is no nudity involved, and you can get fitted over a loose fitting T-Shirt if required. MAAREE has completed thousands of fittings since they were introduced due to Covid, and their reviews score 4.9/5.
Book your virtual fitting today and get the perfect support you deserve — plus enjoy 15% off any purchase with code CASTLE15.
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