How to determine your bra size without trying it on

Which measurements do you need?

Two basic measurements are enough to determine your size: the underbust and the fullest part of the bust. It is best to use a soft measuring tape and avoid bulky clothing that could affect the result.

Do not rely only on the size printed on an old bra. Body measurements can change, while sizing systems and the fit of individual styles may differ. Before buying a bra online, it is therefore useful to take fresh measurements.

How to measure your underbust

Place the measuring tape directly beneath the bust. It should run horizontally around the body and feel snug without digging in.

Your underbust measurement is the main guide for determining the band size. Do not deliberately hold in your stomach or loosen the tape - you need a measurement that reflects your normal posture.

Write down the result before moving on to the second measurement.

How to measure your bust

Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of the bust. Check in a mirror that it remains approximately level at the front and back.

The tape should not compress the bust or hang noticeably loose. If you are unsure about the result, repeat the measurement, as even a small difference can affect the cup size you select.

You can then compare both measurements with the bra size guide for the specific brand.

How to understand cup size

A bra size consists of two connected elements: the numerical band size and the cup letter. Cup volume is determined by the relationship between the bust and underbust measurements according to the brand’s sizing system.

This means that saying “I wear a C cup” does not provide enough information on its own. A bra cup size should always be considered together with the band size.

When shopping with Anabel Arto, it is useful to compare your measurements with the size guide first and then check the available sizes on the product page of the bra you are considering. The range includes different constructions, including soft-cup, push-up, balconette and bralette styles.

Common signs that the size may be wrong

Even accurate measurements need to be considered alongside the actual fit. One clear sign of an unsuitable size is a bra band that regularly rides up at the back. Other reasons to reassess the size include cups that do not comfortably contain the bust, straps that constantly need adjusting or individual parts that noticeably dig into the body.

Not every fit issue is solved by moving to a larger or smaller bra size. Sometimes the style itself is the reason: different constructions can feel and look different even when they carry the same size label.

What to do if you fall between two sizes

If your measurements fall between two values in the size guide, do not automatically round up. First compare both measurements and check which sizes are available for the specific style.

The construction also matters. For example, a bralette and a moulded-cup bra may feel different even in comparable sizes, so one number alone is not enough to make the final decision.

Before ordering, follow a simple process: soft measuring tape → two measurements → size guide → specific product page → exchange terms.

On the Anabel Arto website, bra product pages provide direct access to the size guide. It is also worth checking the current exchange terms in advance, as the brand separately explains the conditions that apply to lingerie that may be difficult to choose without trying on.

Frequently asked questions

Can you determine your bra size from your clothing size?

No. The size of a dress, T-shirt or other clothing does not provide enough information to choose a bra accurately. You need separate bust and underbust measurements. These are the measurements that should be compared with the brand’s size guide.

Does the bra style affect which size you should choose?

The size label remains an important guide, but different constructions can feel different. Cup shape, band design and other features all affect the fit. When shopping online, consider not only the size but also the description and construction of the specific bra.

When should you measure your bust again before choosing a bra?

It is worth taking fresh measurements if your previous ones were taken a long time ago or if your usual size no longer feels comfortable. It is also useful to measure again before buying lingerie from a brand you have not worn before. This is more reliable than automatically carrying the same size label over to a new style.

Conclusion

When choosing a bra online, the most useful guide is not the familiar size printed on an old label but your current measurements. Measure your underbust and bust, compare both values with the size guide, and then assess the construction of the specific style. After that, you can explore the Anabel Arto bra range and compare suitable styles in your size.