Fitting Room

Sizing

Every style in every brand we stock fits somewhat differently, which is part of why we are so happy to work with customers individually to find the perfect fit. Below is a set of guidelines that help determine sizing, but should you have any questions or hesitations regarding what size would fit best, please do not hesitate to contact us - we are here to help! 

Please note: while band size is an easy starting place to determine the best size to fit you, cup size is also a factor. If you are above a D cup, you may want to size up to accomodate your bust. Given the delicate nature of our items, we recommend choosing sizing for the fullest part of your body.

How to Measure Yourself for a Bra

A well-fitted bra is something every woman deserves. A bra that fits correctly should never pinch or bind, and should provide support and shape without sacrificing comfort. Sizing can change radically over time; many women even fluctuate between sizes within the month. Please, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions regarding fit.

Unfortunately, standards of bra sizing are each quite unique, and every bra fits differently. The guide below will help you find a “base” size, but there will be variations in fit between brands and styles. The language of the bra is mysterious indeed! Your size may need adjustment depending on the placement and allocation of your breast tissue; you may also find your size is different between demi-cups and styles with fuller coverage. If ever we notice that a particular piece runs unusually small or large, we will note this in the item's description, and we are always happy to address any questions you may have. No method of bra fitting is foolproof, but the below should give you a starting point for a well-fitted bra.

Band Size: Using a fabric measuring tape, measure directly under your bust and around your ribcage. Be sure the tape is snug, but not so much so that you are unable to take a breath. As the band of the bra is the part that provides all the support, it is very important that it fit closely. For this reason, we advocate a more snug method of bra fitting than many. If the measurement around your ribcage is an odd number, add 3” to find your band size. If your measurement is an even number, add 2” for your band size (ex: 30” measurement = 32 band, 33” measure = 36 band).

Cup Size: Using a fabric measuring tape, measure from directly under the breast to the fullest part of the breast (typically at the nipple). This is best performed while wearing an unshaped (no padding or molding) bra with an underwire. For each inch on the measuring tape between the underbust and nipple, you gain a cup size. (ex: 1” for an A cup, 4” for a D).

Fit Tips

THE BAND AND STRAPS:

Always start with the band on the loosest hook: it should be snug and straight against your back. You should be able to slip fingers beneath the band without trouble, but not enough to pull it away from your back. If the band lifts in the back, the band size is too big.

Try lifting your arms above your head. Does the bra shift dramatically up? Do your breasts slip out of the bottom? This means the band is too big.

Straps should be snug, but not too tight – the support of a bra should come from the band, not the straps.

THE WIRES:

The underwires at the front of the bra should sit flat on your sternum. If the wires are standing away from your chest, the cup size you are wearing is too small.

The underwires at the side of the cup should extend to the edge of your breast tissue, without digging in. If you appear to be spilling out the sides of the cup or can see a “dimple” from your underwire, your cup size is too small.

THE CUPS:

Make sure all your breast tissue is pulled into the cup (an easy way to do this is to learn forward as you put the bra on, or pull the tissue into the cup).

Turn to the side and look at the edge where the bra meets your breast tissue. Is it digging in? Are you spilling out? The cup size is too small.

Is there puckering or excess fabric in the cup, especially at the top or at the seams? The cup size is too big or too deep.

You will find that there is a lot of variation in fit between demi bras and fuller cups, and your sizing may need to be different depending on which kind you are buying. There are also differences with every piece in how far apart the cups are spaced, and how wide the “u” of the underwire is – these can also affect the sizing and fit of the bra.

Care & Use

The garments we offer are like little works of art: each piece is made from high-quality, but often delicate, materials. The more gently you care for your treasures, the longer you will maintain their beauty.

Please read the care tags on each item, and follow the manufacturer’s suggestions.

We highly recommend hand-washing lingerie in cool water using a gentle detergent formulated for lingerie. Please be aware that some colors, especially in silks, may bleed. Line dry, do not wring or twist, and avoid direct sunlight.

Store flat whenever possible, avoiding rough surfaces.