How to Measure Yourself for a Bralette That Actually Fits
By Hopeless Lingerie | Australian | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Guias Práticos
Learn how to measure for a bralette with a soft tape and a few checkpoints. This bralette sizing guide covers bust, underbust, and strap fit for real comfort.
Quick answer
To measure for a bralette, wrap a soft tape around your ribcage just under your bust for the underbust measurement, then around the fullest part of your bust for the bust measurement. Keep the tape level and snug, not tight, and write both numbers down in inches or centimeters. Compare those numbers to the brand's size chart, then use the strap adjusters to fine-tune the fit.
Gather the right tools before you start
You need a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a piece of paper or your phone for notes. A soft tape is essential because it follows the curve of your body; a stiff ruler or a piece of string will give you a false reading. Wear a non-padded bra or no bra at all so the tape sits against your natural shape. Stand in front of a mirror so you can check that the tape stays level all the way around.
Measure your underbust and bust correctly
For the underbust, wrap the tape around your ribcage directly under your bust, keeping it parallel to the floor. Breathe out normally and let the tape sit snug against your skin. For the bust, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple line, and keep it level across your back. Don't pull the tape tight or let it sag. Write both numbers down immediately; guessing later is a common mistake.
Use the numbers to pick a bralette size
Bralette sizing is not the same as bra sizing. Many brands use simple sizes like XS, S, M, L based on a range of underbust and bust measurements. Check the size chart for the specific style you want, because a soft mesh bralette may fit differently from a structured lace one. If you fall between two sizes, choose the larger size for comfort, especially if the band has adjustable straps. For a style like the Mandy Bralette, which has a soft mesh band and adjustable sliders, you can often fine-tune the fit across a small range.
Check the band, cups, and straps after trying on
Once you have your bralette on, check these three areas. The band should sit flat against your ribcage and not ride up when you lift your arms. The cups or bust area should cover your tissue without digging in or leaving gaps. The straps should stay in place without falling off your shoulders, but they shouldn't leave deep marks. If the band is too loose, try adjusting the sliders or sizing down; if the cups overflow, size up.
Step-by-step bralette measuring process
- Step 1: Put on a non-padded bra or go without: Wearing a padded or push-up bra will add inches to your bust measurement and give you the wrong size. A thin, unpadded bra or no bra gives the most accurate reading. Checkpoint: If you must wear a bra, choose one without padding or molding.
- Step 2: Measure your underbust: Wrap the soft tape around your ribcage, directly under your bust. Keep it level and snug. Breathe out normally before you read the number. Common mistake: Letting the tape slip down your back. Use a mirror to check it's parallel to the floor.
- Step 3: Measure your bust at the fullest point: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple. Keep the tape level and don't pull it tight. Write down the number. Checkpoint: The tape should touch your skin without compressing it.
- Step 4: Compare both numbers to the brand's size chart: Use the underbust and bust measurements together. If you're between sizes, choose the larger size for comfort, especially if the bralette has adjustable straps. Common mistake: Assuming your bra size equals your bralette size. They are different systems.
- Step 5: Try on and adjust the straps and band: Put the bralette on and check that the band sits flat, the cups cover without digging, and the straps stay put. Use the sliders to adjust tension. Next step: If the band rides up, size down; if it digs in, size up.
Product facts that affect bralette fit
- Mandy Bralette Ribbon Lace & Pink Bows: The Mandy Bralette is a soft black mesh bralette with delicate Italian lace bust detail, made with recycled powermesh for light support. It has satin plush back elastic straps that crossover at the back, with sliders so you can adjust for the perfect fit. The adjustable sliders and crossover back let you fine-tune the band and strap tension, which helps if your measurements fall between sizes. The light support design means it's best for everyday comfort rather than high-impact activity.
- Etienne Thong Pandemonium Cotton Jersey: The Etienne Thong is a limited edition of a best-selling style, made with 100% cotton jersey designed and printed by artist Oriette Wood. It has adjustable hip straps and signature gentle elastic. If you're measuring for a matching set, the Etienne Thong's adjustable hip straps mean you can tweak the fit around your hips, which is useful if your hip measurement differs from your bust or underbust.
