Bra Sizes In Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

what are the bra sizes in australia

Bra sizes in Australia and New Zealand are based on measurements in centimeters, with the number representing the band size and the letter representing the cups. Band sizes are measured tightly under the bust, while cup sizes are measured loosely over the fullest part of the bust. In Australia and New Zealand, band sizes refer to dress sizes, with naming in steps of two, such as 8, 10, 12, and 14. Each size corresponds to a measured difference of 5cm. Cup sizes are represented by letters, including AA, A, B, C, D, DD, and E, with each size stepped at a difference of 2cm. Bra size systems vary across the globe, and there are many international and Australian bra sizing charts for reference.

Characteristics Values
Band size Measured tightly under the bust
Cup size Measured loosely over the fullest part of the bust
Band size naming In steps of 2 (e.g. 8, 10, 12, 14, etc.)
Band size increments Each size corresponds to a 5 cm measured difference
Cup sizes AA, A, B, C, D, DD, E
Cup size increments Each size stepped with a difference of 2 cm
Sister sizes A 12C belongs to the same family as 14B and 10D
Average sizes 14C and 12D

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Band and cup size

Bra sizes in Australia follow a banding system, where the band size refers to the measurement around the torso, directly under the bust. This measurement is taken in centimetres and rounded to the nearest 5 cm. For example, if the measurement is 71 cm, the band size would be 70

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International size conversion

Bra sizes in Australia are denoted by a number-letter combination, similar to other countries. However, the sizing may differ slightly between brands, and a bra may not always fit true to its labelled size. This is why it is important to refer to the fitting notes provided by the brand or retailer. Additionally, your current bra size has sister sizes, or bra-size equivalents, that share the same cup volume but differ in band size and cup letter. For example, a 12C is equivalent to 14B and 10D.

| International Size | Australian/New Zealand Size |

| --- | --- |

| 6C | 60 C |

| 6C | 75 C |

| 6C | 28 C |

| 6D | 60 D |

| 6D | 75 D |

| 6D | 28 D |

| 6DD | 60 E |

| 6DD | 75 E |

| 6DD | 28 DD |

| 6E | 60 F |

| 6E | 75 F |

| 6E | 28 E |

| 6F | 60 G |

| 6F | 75 G |

| 6F | 28 F |

| 6FF | 60 H |

| 6FF | 75 H |

| 6FF | 28 FF |

| 6G | 60 I |

| 6G | 75 I |

| 6G | 28 G |

| 6GG | 60 J |

| 6GG | 75 J |

| 6GG | 28 GG |

| 6H | 60 K |

| 6H | 75 K |

| 6H | 28 H |

| 6HH | 60 L |

| 6HH | 75 L |

| 6HH | 28 HH |

| 6J | 60 M |

| 6J | 75 M |

| 6J | 28 J |

| 6JJ | 60 N |

| 6JJ | 75 N |

| 6JJ | 28 JJ |

| 6K | 60 O |

| 6K | 75 O |

You can use this table to convert bra sizes from Europe, France, the UK, and the US to Australian/New Zealand sizes.

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Bra size and health

Bra sizes in Australia follow the same lettering system as the UK, US, and Europe, though band sizes may differ. Bra sizes are an important consideration for health, comfort, and body confidence.

Breast Health

Breast tissue does not migrate, contrary to some claims that ill-fitting bras can cause tissue to move to other areas, such as armpits or back. However, the tail of Spence, often mislabeled as armpit fat, is part of the breast structure and contains important lymph nodes. The American Cancer Society states that there is no evidence that bras cause cancer by obstructing lymph drainage.

Body Confidence

Wearing a well-fitted bra can positively impact body confidence. Women with larger breasts may be more likely to feel embarrassed or desire a change, and they are less likely to be satisfied with their bra fit.

Physical Wellbeing

Wearing the wrong bra size can contribute to back, shoulder, and neck pain, as well as poor posture and sagging. Larger breasts are associated with a greater likelihood of upper back pain. For each increase in breast size, women are 13% more likely to report upper back pain.

Finding the Right Fit

To find the best bra, it is recommended to focus on how it fits rather than the size on the tag. A properly fitting band should stay level around the rib cage and not ride up in the front or back. The wires at the center front, or gore, should sit flush against the body. The underwire at the side should be behind all breast tissue, and all tissue should be scooped in front of the wire.

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Bra size and body shape

Bra sizes in Australia are standardised, but the actual size of the bra can vary between brands. It is recommended to learn how to measure your bra size to ensure a perfect fit. Bra sizes are made up of two components: an even number that represents the band size (e.g. 32, 34, 36) and a letter that indicates the cup size (A, B, C, etc.), determined by the size of the breast. To measure the band size, measure snugly around the rib cage, directly under the breasts, and add 3 inches to this measurement. For example, if your rib cage measures 31 inches, your band size is 34. If the result is an odd number, opt for the next band size up.

To determine the cup size, measure loosely around the fullest part of the bust. Subtract the band size from this measurement. For example, if your rib cage measurement is 31, and your bust measurement is 37, your bra size is a UK 34C: 31+3=34 (band size), and 37-34= 3 (cup size C). If the band size is an uneven number, try the next band size up. If you are in between sizes, you can try going up in cup size and down in band size, or vice versa. For example, if a 42D is too tight around the band, try a 44C. If your breasts spill over the top or sides of the cup, the cup is likely too small.

Breasts come in a variety of shapes, and knowing your breast shape can help you select the right bra style. Breasts can be asymmetric, round, bell-shaped, relaxed, or East-West-shaped. Asymmetric breasts are very common, with around 40% of women having breasts that differ in size. For this shape, it is recommended to fit the smaller breast. Round breasts are versatile and can suit most bra styles. A wireless bra can be a good option for days when you want light support. For a more flattering fit, a balconette style bra can be a good option. Bell-shaped breasts are slimmer at the top and fuller at the bottom and usually require a larger cup size. Full-coverage bras with wider memory foam straps can provide support without digging in. Relaxed breasts have lax tissue and nipples that point downwards, and a balconette style bra with a slightly shorter cup can provide more fullness at the top. East-West breasts are wide-set and have nipples that point in opposite directions. Full-coverage bras can help bring the breasts up and together.

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Bra fitting specialists

In Australia, several bra-fitting specialists offer their services to help women find the perfect bra that offers both comfort and support. One such specialist is She Science, an award-winning bra shop that provides comprehensive bra-fitting services and bra education for all women. They aim to ensure that every woman feels comfortable, confident, and empowered. She Science offers both in-store bra-fitting appointments in Melbourne and online consultations for those who cannot visit their physical store. Their bra fitters help women find their ideal match from a large selection of sports and everyday bras in sizes ranging from cup sizes A to J and band sizes 6 to 22.

Another renowned bra-fitting specialist in Australia is Brava Lingerie, the country's only D-cup-and-up lingerie specialist chain. Brava has been fitting fuller-busted women in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and online since 2006. Their expert bra fitters specialize in D to K cup sizes and offer a curated selection of everyday bras, swimwear, sports bras, and maternity bras. Their customers appreciate the well-organized online experience and the option to try on bras for 30 minutes with tags, ensuring a satisfactory fit.

It is important to note that bra size systems vary globally, and understanding "sister sizes" or bra-size equivalents can be crucial to finding a well-fitting bra. For example, a 12C bra is in the same family as a 14B or 10D, meaning that the cup volume remains consistent even when the band size or cup letter changes. Utilizing clothing size, under-bust measurement, cup size, and bra size converters can assist in determining the most suitable bra size.

By consulting bra-fitting specialists and understanding sister sizes, Australian women can benefit from improved bra-fitting experiences and make informed decisions when purchasing bras, ensuring comfort, support, and confidence in their daily lives.

Frequently asked questions

Bra sizes in Australia are based on measurements in centimeters. The number represents the band size and the letter represents the cup size. Band sizes are measured tightly under the bust, and cup sizes are measured loosely over the fullest part of the bust. Cup sizes range from AA to H, with each size stepped with a difference of 2cm.

To find your Australian bra size, you can use your clothing size, under-bust measurement, and cup size. You can also use an international bra size chart to convert your bra size into your Australian size.

Some common Australian bra sizes are 14C and 12D. It's important to note that there is no such thing as an "average" woman, and bra sizes can vary depending on brand and style.

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