UK Bra Size Chart (Band & Cup)
A UK bra size chart shows how your band size (the number) and cup size (the letter) work together to form your bra size—like 32C, 34D, 36DD, 38F, and so on.
This page gives you the actual chart, explains how to use it, and shows what to do if the result doesn’t feel quite right.
If you’d rather calculate automatically, use the UK Bra Size Calculator
The short version
- The band comes from your underbust measurement (around your ribcage).
- The cup comes from the difference between your bust and your band.
- The chart combines both to give your UK size.
- The chart gives a starting point—brand and style differences still matter.
If you’re new to the system, read: How UK Bra Sizes Work (Band + Cup)
How to use the chart
- Measure your underbust snugly (this gives your band).
- Measure your bust at the fullest part.
- Subtract band from bust to get the difference.
- Find your band on the left and your difference across the top.
- The cell shows your UK bra size.
For step-by-step measuring with photos and tips: How to Measure Your Bra Size (UK)
UK Bra Size Chart (Simplified)
Difference = Bust − Band (in inches)
|
Band \ Difference |
1″ |
2″ |
3″ |
4″ |
5″ |
6″ |
7″ |
8″ |
9″ |
10″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
28 |
28A |
28B |
28C |
28D |
28DD |
28E |
28F |
28FF |
28G |
28GG |
|
30 |
30A |
30B |
30C |
30D |
30DD |
30E |
30F |
30FF |
30G |
30GG |
|
32 |
32A |
32B |
32C |
32D |
32DD |
32E |
32F |
32FF |
32G |
32GG |
|
34 |
34A |
34B |
34C |
34D |
34DD |
34E |
34F |
34FF |
34G |
34GG |
|
36 |
36A |
36B |
36C |
36D |
36DD |
36E |
36F |
36FF |
36G |
36GG |
|
38 |
38A |
38B |
38C |
38D |
38DD |
38E |
38F |
38FF |
38G |
38GG |
|
40 |
40A |
40B |
40C |
40D |
40DD |
40E |
40F |
40FF |
40G |
40GG |
Notes:
- This reflects UK cup progression (A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, FF, G, GG, …).
- If you measure in centimetres, convert to inches or use the UK Bra Size Calculator which handles conversions for you.
Example: Reading the chart
- If your underbust is 34 inches and your bust is 38 inches, the difference is 4 inches.
- On the 34 row and 4″ column, you’ll find 34D.
That’s your UK starting size.

What the band and cup really mean
- The band (number) provides most of the support and should sit level and firm but comfortable.
- The cup (letter) represents volume, based on the difference between bust and band.
Important: Cup size is relative to band size.
A 34D does not have the same cup volume as a 38D. When the band changes, the cup volume changes too.
Learn more: Sister Sizes Explained (UK)
Why the chart is a starting point (not a guarantee)
A chart:
- Uses standard size steps
- Assumes average brand fit
- Can’t predict:
- Brand differences
- Style differences (plunge vs full-cup, sports vs everyday)
- Fabric stretch
- Personal comfort preferences
That’s why it’s normal to:
- Try your starting size
- Also try sister sizes
- Check fit in the mirror and in movement
Read more:
How Accurate Are Bra Size Calculators?
Limitations of Bra Size Calculators
If your chart size feels wrong
Common fixes:
- Re-check your measurements (small errors matter)
- Try a sister size (same cup volume, different band)
- Try a different style (cuts fit differently)
Start here:
- Why Your Bra Size Feels Wrong
- Bra Fit Problems & How to Fix Them
- Common Bra Measuring Mistakes (UK)
UK vs other countries
UK cup progression differs from some regions (like US or EU), so the label can change when you
shop internationally even if the fit is similar.
See the full guide: UK vs US vs EU Bra Sizes
Quick checklist before you shop
- Measure carefully (tape level, snug underbust, comfortable bust)
- Use the chart or the calculator for your starting size
- Try sister sizes if the band feels too tight or too loose
- Check fit: band level, cups smooth, comfortable support
- Adjust by style as needed
Prefer an automatic result?
Use the UK Bra Size Calculator
It applies the same UK sizing logic, shows sister sizes, and includes international conversions.
Quick summary
- The UK chart combines band + cup
- Band comes from underbust; cup comes from the difference
- Cup size is relative to band size
- The chart gives a starting point, not a promise
- Sister sizes and trying bras on help you fine-tune the fit
