Measure bra size without tape | The cup size fruit method…

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You could go to a shop and try bras in different sizes. But how to get the right bra without knowing your exact sizes if you shop online?

woman wearing black lace bralette bra

Dobreva Padded Lace Bralette | See Amazon


First, decide on your band size

If you don’t know the measurements of your underbust here’s to pay attention to when you choose the band.


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Remember, the most support of a bra comes from its band.

woman determining her bra band size without tape
Always start with finding your best band size.
  • the band should feel a bit firm
  • but surely not too tight
soft retractable measure tape for bra sizing

Measuring tape for body | See Amazon.co.uk


If you have no soft measuring tape at home you can even print one from the internet. Also, you could use some soft rope and use a ruler to measure the length.


Secondly, decide on your cup size

woman in black fastening front close bra
Dobreva collection | See Amazon.co.uk


Ever heard of the fruit method to find your cup size? Well, it is a funny and simple guideline to get things started.

showing table bra cup size and fruit method


If your breasts are small you might start by trying an A cup. But it could as well be you need AAA or AA. Remember that sizes can be very close!

Remember that going up or down a band size will automatically change the cup volume!


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At Marks and Spencer, you'll find advice and tips on styles to suit you | M&S BraFit Guide


For example. You try the bra 34A and feel the band is a bit too tight. The cup size is fine. You should try 36AA to have a wider band and to keep the same cup volume.


Can I buy a bra without measuring myself?

woman in dobreva bra lace plunge

Plunge Lace Bra collection Dobreva | See Amazon.co.uk


When it comes to finding the perfect bra fit, many women rely on measuring tape to determine their size. And I think it’s the best way to get to know your best bra size.

However, there are alternative methods to measure your bra size without using a tape measure. There’s the funny fruit method I mentioned. Another method is the “sister size” approach.

The sister size refers to a bra size that has the same cup volume but a different band size. For example, if your usual bra size is 34C, your sister sizes could be 32D or 36B. By trying on bras in these sister sizes, you can get a better idea of your true size without the need for a tape measure.

More about your bra sister size you can read here

You might wanna take a calculated guess using an alternative method.

My advice is to get to know your sizes right by measuring your underbust and bust size with some tape.

You might surprise yourself by finding out your best bra size isn’t the one you always thought it was.


Other articles you might like

Measuring guide on all topics
Why it’s best to handwash your bras
How to choose a comfortable bra band size?
About the average bra size UK
UK bra size chart
9 Tops with built-in bra
Why is my bra hurting me?
Small bra size chart for AAA-B


What's your bra size? See my calculator

Marks and Spencer Lingerie

Find the right bra at your M&S Store
M&S UK | M&S US | M&S CA | M&S AU