When measuring women's busts, which practice is correct?

When measuring women's busts, which practice is correct?

• A. Always take the under-bust measurement
• B. Loop tape measure directly under women's arms and across the back
• C. Must be measured by female staff members
• D. Always take the over-bust measurement

Answer: (B)

Measuring around the under-bust—looping the tape directly under the arms and across the back—is the correct approach because it captures the band size, which is the foundation of bra and garment fit. When the tape sits flat and parallel to the floor, snug but not tight, it gives a repeatable, stable measurement that isn’t distorted by breast fullness or clothing. In practice you’d use this under-bust measurement alongside a bust measurement taken around the fullest part to determine the full size, but the step described is the proper way to establish the band size. Have the person stand relaxed with arms at the sides, and ensure no twisting or pulling of the tape for accuracy. Other methods—such as measuring only around the fullest part or across the front, relying on the measurement by a particular staff member, or measuring over clothing—can lead to inconsistent or inaccurate sizing.

Measuring around the under-bust—looping the tape directly under the arms and across the back—is the correct approach because it captures the band size, which is the foundation of bra and garment fit. When the tape sits flat and parallel to the floor, snug but not tight, it gives a repeatable, stable measurement that isn’t distorted by breast fullness or clothing.

In practice you’d use this under-bust measurement alongside a bust measurement taken around the fullest part to determine the full size, but the step described is the proper way to establish the band size. Have the person stand relaxed with arms at the sides, and ensure no twisting or pulling of the tape for accuracy.

Other methods—such as measuring only around the fullest part or across the front, relying on the measurement by a particular staff member, or measuring over clothing—can lead to inconsistent or inaccurate sizing.