h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

To measure your bra size you will need an assistant to hold the tape measure in place.
1st remove your bra then place the tape measure under your breasts get your assistant to make sure the tape is level around your body then breathe out and pull the tape tight and take that measurement eg. 34".
Then place the tape across your nipples and again get your assistant to make sure the tape is straight then lean forward about 45 degrees with you assistant holding the tape across your back and the tape just resting on your breasts take that measurement eg. 40".
take one from the other. eg. 6" this will make you a DD cup size.
if any of the measurements are odd add 1" to the odd measurement ie.35" becomes 36" or 41" becomes 42" the size of cups are:-
A 1" AA 2" B" 3" C 4" D 5" DD 6" E 7" and so on.
add 4" to your underbust measurement if it is even or 5" if it is odd.
this will give you your bra size. 34" underbust and 6" difference is a 38DD.
if your measurements are have parts of an inch round down to the to nearest whole number if under half an inch or round up if it is half inch or greater.
The above apllies to most manufacturers, but M&S seem to make their bra's with smaller underbust and larger cups. with most bra's I am a 38DD, with M&S I am a 40C.
When trying on a bra if it is to tight around your body or the underwire digs in, go up a bra size but come down a cup size.
When buying a bra take your time and try them on. When you find one that fits buy several as they often stop making them. Also don't be afraid to try the cheaper bra's they often fit better than the more expensive ones.
Remember a well fitting bra is a joy to behold or so my other half says.
rgds
rebs