Complete Lingerie Size Guide (Bras + Sexy Lingerie + Plus Size)
Measure once. Use the right chart. Buy with confidence.
This guide covers: bra sizing (band + cup), regular lingerie sizing (XS–XL), and plus size lingerie sizing (1X–4X). For the fastest path, start here: Shop by Size.
How to Measure (Underbust, Bust, Waist, Hips)
For bras, underbust + bust are key. For lingerie (regular + plus), hips and waist usually matter most.
What you need
- Soft measuring tape (best).
- Mirror (or a friend).
- Non-padded bra (optional) for bust accuracy.
1) Underbust (band)
- Tape directly under bust, around ribcage.
- Level and snug (not tight).
- Write the number (inches).
2) Bust (fullest point)
- Tape around fullest point of bust.
- Level and comfortable.
- Write the number (inches).
3) Waist
- Measure the narrowest point of your waist.
- Comfortable tension (no squeezing).
- Write the number (inches).
4) Hips (most important for lingerie/bottoms)
- Feet close together.
- Measure fullest part of hips/seat.
- Level and not overly tight.
- Write the number (inches).
Bra Sizes Explained (Band + Cup)
Your bra size has two parts. When both are right: comfort improves, shape looks better, support increases.
Band size is the number (32, 34, 36...). It provides most support.
Cup size is the letter (B, D, DD...). It’s based on the difference between bust and underbust.
Bra Size Charts (Cup Difference + Conversions)
Use these charts to estimate size fast. Then confirm with the fit checklist.
Cup difference chart (inches)
Bust − Underbust = cup estimate. Example: Underbust 34" and bust 37" → 3" difference → roughly D.
| Difference | Cup size |
|---|---|
| 0–½" | AA |
| ½–1" | A |
| 1–2" | B |
| 2–3" | C |
| 3–4" | D |
| 4–5" | DD / E |
| 5–6" | DDD / F |
| 6–7" | G |
| 7–8" | H |
| 8–9" | HH |
Cup conversion reference (DD+ labels vary)
Helpful reference, not a guarantee. Measurements + fit checks should win.
| USA | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|
| DD/E | DD | E |
| DDD/F | E | F |
| G | F | G |
| H | FF | H |
| I | G | I |
| J | GG | J |
| K | H | — |
| L | HH | — |
Sister Sizes (Fix “Almost Fits” Fast)
Sister sizing keeps cup volume similar while changing band size. Use it when cups fit but band feels wrong (or vice versa).
The rule
Go up a band → go down a cup. Go down a band → go up a cup.
| If you wear | Band too tight? | Band too loose? |
|---|---|---|
| 34D | Try 36C | Try 32DD |
| 36C | Try 38B | Try 34D |
| 34DD | Try 36D | Try 32DDD |
| 38DD | Try 40D | Try 36DDD |
Fit Checklist (Bras + Sexy Lingerie)
Use these quick checks before you commit. For lingerie, focus on comfort + coverage at your “largest” area.
Bra fit (green flags)
- Band: level + snug on loosest hook.
- Cups: smooth edges, no cutting in, no gaps.
- Straps: supportive, not digging.
- Movement test: raise arms + bend; minimal shifting.
Lingerie fit (quick checks)
- No digging: edges shouldn’t pinch or roll.
- Hips feel right: bottoms should sit smoothly.
- Adjustable parts help: straps + garters should fine-tune fit.
- Between sizes? choose comfort-first (especially for plus).
Sexy Lingerie Size Chart (Regular: XS–XL)
Use this for “regular” lingerie sizing: sets, teddies-style fits, and stretch pieces. If you’re unsure, choose your size based on your largest measurement (often hips).
Regular lingerie chart (inches)
This is a practical baseline for lingerie. Fabric + cut can shift fit. If you prefer comfort/coverage, size to hips.
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hips (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 31–33 | 23–25 | 33–35 |
| S | 33–35 | 25–27 | 35–37 |
| M | 35–37 | 27–29 | 37–39 |
| L | 37–39 | 29–32 | 39–41 |
| XL | 39–42 | 32–35 | 41–44 |
Plus Size Lingerie Size Chart (1X–4X)
Use this for plus size sexy lingerie. Prioritize hips + comfort. If you’re between sizes, sizing up usually looks smoother and feels better.
Plus lingerie chart (inches)
Baseline reference for plus lingerie. Fabric + stretch vary by piece. Choose based on your largest measurement.
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hips (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1X | 43–46 | 36–39 | 46–49 |
| 2X | 46–49 | 39–42 | 49–52 |
| 3X | 49–52 | 42–46 | 52–55 |
| 4X | 52–55 | 46–50 | 55–58 |
Shop Bras by Goal (Quick Picks)
Pick your goal first. Confirm fit second.
Everyday
Support & shaping
Neckline + lift
Lingerie Size FAQ
Common questions, answered clearly.
What if I’m between two bra band sizes?
Choose the band that stays level and secure on the loosest hook without riding up. If you prefer firmer support, pick the smaller band. If you want a softer feel, pick the larger band—then adjust cup using sister sizing to keep similar volume.
Next: Shop by Size
What if I’m between two cup sizes?
If you have spillage or cutting in, go up a cup or choose a more containing style. If you have gaping or wrinkling, go down a cup or switch styles—plunge and unlined bras often reduce gaping without needing a dramatic size change.
Try: Plunge • Unlined • Full-Figure
How do I pick a size for sexy lingerie sets (XS–XL)?
Use the “Sexy Lingerie (XS–XL)” chart and choose based on your largest measurement (often hips). If you’re between sizes, size up for comfort and smoother edges. Adjustable straps help fine-tune bust fit.
Shop: Seductive Lingerie
How do I pick a size for plus size lingerie (1X–4X)?
Use the plus chart and prioritize hips + comfort. If you’re between sizes, sizing up usually feels better and looks smoother. Avoid sizing down unless the product clearly recommends it.
Start: Shop by Size
Why do my bra straps dig into my shoulders?
Most of the time it’s the band. If the band is too loose, straps carry more weight and dig. Try a smaller band and sister-size the cup, or choose support-forward styles designed for containment.
Support-first: Full-Figure Bras • DD+ Bras
What’s the safest “first bra” to buy if I’m unsure?
A T-shirt bra is a strong baseline because fit issues are easy to see. If you’re DD+ and want immediate comfort, start with full-figure silhouettes designed for containment.
Quick shop: T-Shirt Bras • Full-Figure Bras
What if I want cleavage or a specific look?
Style matters as much as size. Choose push-up for lift and cleavage, plunge for low necklines, and open-cup for a more daring silhouette while relying on support structure elsewhere in the bra.
Disclaimer: Sizing can vary by fabric, construction, and cut. Use charts as a starting point, then confirm fit using the checklist.
Ready to Shop with Confidence?
Measure, pick the right chart, and use Shop by Size when you want the fastest path.