In general, your bust refers to the measurement of your torso at the breast level.
This measurement impacts your bra size and how your clothes fit. Having a good idea of your bust size helps you find well-fitting and supportive bras.
It also helps you choose clothing cuts and silhouettes that flatter your body.
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The Benefits of Knowing Your Bust Size
Knowing your precise measurements benefit you in a variety of ways.
- Deciphering size charts: With the invention of vanity sizing, most sizes aren’t consistent. A size 6 in one brand could fit a size 4 in another or an 8 in yet another. Having your exact bust measurement lets you look at the sizing guide and seeing what fits by inches.
- Choosing a swimsuit: whether you like bikinis or you’re interested in a one-piece, knowing your bust size will help you choose a flattering and supportive style, even if you’re ordering online.
- It helps you find the right bra: Only having a general idea of your bust size can lead you to wear bras that don’t fit correctly. This can lead to physical pain, bad posture, and other health problems.
Common Clothing Size Comparison
| US | UK | Australia | France | Italy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 4 | 6 | 32 | 36 |
| 4 | 6 | 8 | 34 | 38 |
| 6 | 8 | 10 | 36 | 40 |
| 8 | 10 | 12 | 38 | 42 |
| 10 | 12 | 14 | 40 | 44 |
| 12 | 14 | 16 | 42 | 46 |
| 14 | 16 | 18 | 44 | 48 |
What Impacts Your Bust Size
- Your breast size: The size of your breasts is only one factor in determining your bust size. To find it, you measure around the largest part of your breasts.
- Your frame: People come in all shapes and sizes. Some women have large breasts with a narrow rib cage. Others have medium-sized breasts with a wide rib cage. These two factors will determine your bust size.
- Your overall size: Gaining and losing weight may change your bust size. For this reason, it’s important to get measured occasionally, so you can choose clothes that flatter your body.
Choosing Clothing to Flatter Your Bust
Your bust size and shape impact how clothing fits.
Consider your body type as a whole, but keep these tips in mind when shopping.
- Small bust: Higher necklines like crew necks and boat necks help broaden your top and even out your silhouette. You can also balance your frame with horizontal stripes, ruffles, and other design elements.
- Medium bust: You can get away with many styles, but scoop necks and v-necks tend to flatter. You can also even out your silhouette with button-down tops, leaving the top button or two open.
- Large bust: You might think that high necklines are best, but these tops draw attention to your bust and can make it look larger. Scoop necks, v-necks, and halter tops can help draw attention to your shoulders, taking the focus off of your breasts. Make sure you have supportive bras in your wardrobe.
Factors that Can Change Your Bust Size
The size of your bust can change entirely due to the following.
- Birth control: Hormonal birth control can impact your breasts. You might gain weight or increase a cup size as a side effect of taking birth control pills.
- Breastfeeding: When new mothers stop breastfeeding, many notice permanent changes in their bust size. Some notice that their breasts have gotten larger and less perky, while others notice smaller breasts. You might return to your original cup size, but the only way to know for sure is to get measured once you’ve finished breastfeeding.
- Medication: Some medications cause you to gain or lose weight. If you’re treating a long-term condition like depression or anxiety, your bust size could change.
Whether you’re working with a small, medium, or large bust, the key to confidence is to accept it.
Appreciate what you’ve been given and choose bras and clothing that makes your body look its best.
Find the most flattering styles for your body, and then pick what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
