Bras

Never heard of adding 5" to band sizes tbh

Where do you buy bras Flora? I can't find anywhere locally that sells 28 backs and am reluctant to buy over the internet as returns can be costly.

I do have a 28dd from M&S, but I'm not convinced, I feel like it flattens my boobs and makes them look smaller which definitely isn't what I want!

Does it take a while to get use to how tight a small back feels compared to what you use to wear?

Thankyou Flora, that is helpful. I've just measured myself again and come out at 27.5" standing or 28" leaning at 90 degrees and 33" over. I do have a bit of a odd shaped rib cage though, think I've got mild pectus excavatum

Nearest Bravissimo is over 2 hour drive, so will try and ring them through the week.

I read about it on Mumsnet and gave it a try after buying some new bras which really didn't fit or give much support despite matching my measurements using the old method. I've started buying new bras in the "new" size and feel much more supported and think they have better shape. The band can feel a little tight, but it does actually sit against my whole chest now, which the bigger ones didn't (because the cups were too small so the band was pushed out at the front).

This is the logic that places like Bravissimo use and it makes SO much more sense than adding inches to measurements. Since I ditched the 38E in favour of a 36G, I feel ten times more supported and contained, and I don't get marks from the back digging in anymore despite it technically being a smaller size. Go figure!

Can someone explain this new method please? I've never heard of it!

Sorry, I have the distinct feeling I am being incredibly dim but how do you then work out your cup size?

The same way as you used to 1"=1cup size

So if you measure 32 round your ribs and 37 over your boobs you would actually be a 32DD (not a 37A). Does that make sense?

I was measured about a year ago in Debenhams as a 36E. I bought some new bras last month that fitted nicely in M&S, but at random intervals during the day they will suddenly feel really uncomfortable. I know that the band is supposed to take most of the weight rather than the straps, but the weight is definitely on the straps! I read the other day that a smaller band size will take the weight better, and also saw yesterday that a Bravissimo shop is going to open in one of my local shopping centres, so I am going to get myself sorted out! Really pleased to see this post, smaller bands are clearly working for other ladies too!

I have yet to find a bra small enough for my tits.

I gave up on the whole 'add 4/5 inches' thing when I went to get re-measured in M&S having felt uncomfortable in first 32A and then 34As, and the woman told me I was a 36A. I was a size 6 at the time, and I knew there was no way I should be in a 36 back! I went straight off to House of Fraser who measured me as a 30D or 32C depending on the style, and this is what I now wear. Far more comfortable & looks way better too! My boobs are definitely 'small', so don't be put off by cup sizes like D sounding huge; on a small back size they're not at all! I just wish more shops (*ahem* Primark) stocked 30 backs.

Ooooh yes ! I was wearing. A 32d went to bravissimo and if was a 30 e fast forward to post pregnancy and bfing I was a 30g but now settled at a 30f

This may help.

Sorry, but certainly doesn't for me. At my measurements 28" and 33" it puts me at a 32DD? Whereas Bravissimo advises I wear a 28E.

I ended up emailing Bravissimo and they were incredibly helpful, asking a lot of questions, before deciding what size I should try and the reasons why. Anyone thinking of a bra revelation should definitely contact them. An just awaiting my new bras now to see how they are! Quite excited, but worried about my bank account, should these ones suit as will need a full new set of and have to get rid of all the old ones!