The Volarre Guide to Bra Sizes

Bra sizing is a language—part mystery, part science, and wholly transformative when decoded. The difference between “it’ll do” and “made for you” can be as little as half an inch, yet the results are profound: improved posture, effortless style, a day that feels lighter. Welcome to the Volarre guide: part Parisian atelier, part modern myth-busting, wholly dedicated to helping you feel sublime in your own skin.

Brunette in white bra and jeans, Volarre editorial

Quick Take: Most women are wearing the wrong bra size. That changes today. Let’s measure, decode, and shop for a fit that’s as personal as your signature lipstick shade.

1. Understanding Bra Size: It’s a Formula

Each bra size combines band size (the number, in inches) and cup size (the letter), but the fit is not linear. A 34D is not the same as a 36C. Sister sizing, cup volume, and brand variance all play a role. The magic is in the method.

Step	How To	What It Means
Band	Measure snugly around your ribcage, just under the bust.	This number (rounded up) is your band size.
Bust	Measure around the fullest part of your bust, level across the back.	This is your bust measurement.
Cup	Subtract band from bust. Each inch difference = one cup size (A, B, C…)	Ex: Bust 36" – Band 34" = 2" → B cup.

2. Decoding Cup Letters

“A” is subtle lift; “D” is a sculptural marvel. The further the letter, the greater the volume—yet band size changes everything. A 32D is a petite drama; a 38D is a full symphony. Cup letters travel, adapt, and evolve across brands and bodies.

3. Sister Sizing: Your Secret Weapon

Try this: If the cup fits but the band is too tight, go up a band and down a cup (e.g., 34C → 36B). If it’s loose, do the reverse. This is “sister sizing”—the best-kept secret of every lingerie stylist.

🔎 Find Your Sister Size

4. Common Fit Issues & Couture Fixes

Straps falling? Try tightening, or size down the band.
Cups gapping? Try a smaller cup, or a different shape (balconette for shallow busts).
Band riding up? Band too big—size down.
Spilling out? Go up a cup. Own the drama.

Blonde in bucket hat, white bra, jeans, golden retriever.

5. Volarre’s High-Fashion Bra Edit

We scoured ateliers and archives, fitting rooms and fashion weeks, to bring you the essential bras: classics, statement-makers, and those everyday icons that disappear under silk.

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra

$68.00

The smooth operator: invisible under tees, engineered for lift, and comes in half-cup sizes for a nearly bespoke fit. The “Jane Birkin of everyday bras.” Jessica Alba and Oprah Winfrey have both praised ThirdLove bras for their comfort and fit.

BUY NOW

Chantelle C Magnifique Seamless Bra

$78.00

French sculpting, cloud-light support. A go-to for fuller busts and lovers of that Parisian je ne sais quoi—luxury in motion, with none of the fuss. This cult favorite is reportedly worn by Chrissy Teigen and fashion editors at Vogue.

BUY NOW

Skims Fits Everybody Scoop Neck Bra

$48.00

Modern minimalism: a whisper-light second skin, with an inclusive size range and that signature Skims palette. Unseen, but unforgettable. Kim Kardashian (the founder) and countless celebrities wear Skims.

BUY NOW

Natori Feathers Underwire Bra

$72.00

The cult classic. Lace-trimmed, curve-hugging, and always a little mysterious. The lingerie drawer’s equivalent of the perfect little black dress. Stylist Kate Young has featured Chantelle in high-profile red carpet fittings.

BUY NOW

Cosabella Never Say Never Sweetie Bralette

$65.00

Italian lace and wire-free comfort. Made for lazy Sundays, artful layering, and anyone who wants lingerie as soft as a poem. Gwyneth Paltrow and Lea Michele have called this their go-to bralette for effortless style.

BUY NOW

A perfect fit is a quiet revolution—suddenly, everything you wear feels a little more elevated. At Volarre, we believe the right bra isn’t just a number and a letter, but a foundation for your entire wardrobe—and a daily love note to yourself.

References & Disclaimer

ThirdLove, Oprah's Favorite Things: oprah.com
Jessica Alba interview: allure.com
Natori Feathers coverage: vogue.com, nymag.com
Chantelle, Kate Young: refinery29.com
Skims, celebrity campaigns: elle.com
Cosabella, Gwyneth Paltrow: goop.com

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Product links may be affiliate links. Celebrity endorsements are based on public reports and editorial mentions. Always consult a professional fitter for personalized recommendations.