Bra Sizes

[crapmemory]

I have decided to treat myself to some new bras so I thought I would measure myself as I hadn't done it for a while. I am now completely confused! According to different sites (M&S, Gossard, Asda etc) I take either 36D, 36F or 38B! Any foolproof measuring tips out there? TIA

[LyndaB]

Yes - get someone who knows what they're doing to do it for you. Most M&S stores have a fitter in store.

[EcclesCake]

There is a wild difference between sizes, manufacturers and styles.

The only way to be sure is to try them on.

[baza]

I have warm hands and available providing no one tells Mrs B.

[janbee]

No sorry, I've done it myself twice with different measuring charts. They all fit badly. Is there such a thing as a really COMFY bra? I've been measured at M & S, Debenhams, BHS, local shops. Every single one is entirely different. VERY confusing. I'm anything between 32, 34,36,38, C,D, DD,E, F. Take your pick !! Good luck. xx

[Lynn_M]

No, it's like that for women everywhere: Your bra size will depend on which shop you get measured up at. I'm a 34B at M&S, which is the size I've decided upon, even though other stores came up with different results

[bluegaloo]

Be careful with M&S as they measure you for their own bras so any size they tell you may not (and did not in my case!) apply in any other make/brand. I found them to be quite unhelpful to be honest.

[LyndaB]

I have a friend who owns a specialist lingerie shop and she fits bras. She told me my size without measuring me. Since then, practically every bra I have been bought has been comfortable - the correct size and fit is vital to comfort.

[maggiebee]

Fitter in M&S told me I should try on their bras. They can measure you, but they use several manufacturers so the sizes may vary.

[ethandron]

I agree with Eccles, the only sure way is to try them on. Even the same size, in the same style, in the same shop, can vary.
Or you can do what I've been doing lately, ditch the bra! I find them restricting and uncomfortable and asked myself why I was actually wearing one.
I still wear one if the top I'm wearing needs it, or if I'm dressing up a bit, but for general day to day purposes I don't bother. And very liberating it is too! :)

[Elina]

Cm, find your size here then ask what's the equivalent closest match/ size whichever shop you buy in.

[crapmemory]

It's not just me then! LyndaB, is your friends store in London and what is it called?
Baza and Jordyboy.....you made me laugh :)

[JOBOBABE]

Check on www.bravissimo.com, they are bra specialists!

[queenofmean]

John Lewis are brilliant at fitting, won't go anywhere else. They bring you a selection of bras all different makes and sizes once they have measured you and they will then fit you into them. The women in the store know me and know what i like...the last woman that measured me asked if I wanted to sit down before she told me the size. But it is best to go to a shop get fitted and take it from there. Good luck

[crapmemory]

Thank you all for your suggestions :)