Have you got bosom bulge, wrinkly cups or wires and straps digging into your upper body? Are you sat there now pulling down your bra band as it rides up your back for the umpteenth time today?

With so many women wearing the incorrect bra size now would be a good time to get out that tape measure and check your size. If you have a trusty friend who can help you with this then all the better. By getting some idea of your size in this way it gives you a good starting point in searching for a good fitting, comfortable bra. This doesn't mean there isn't room for negotiation so don't think these measurements are set in stone. Remember they are just a guide from which to start.

So we're looking to find out the band width (34, 36, 36 etc.) and the cup size (A, B, C etc.). It really is easy. You'll need a cloth tape measure, you know, the type that tailors use.  Whilst wearing an everyday, non-padded bra place the tape around your ribcage, just under your bust. Make sure it hasn't twisted but sits firm and snug against your body and straight around your back. Now make a note of the measurement in inches. If that number is even ie 30 add on 4" to give a band size of 34. If the number is odd ie 31 add on 5" making it  a band size of 36.  If you measure a 1/2" number then round it down before adding on the 4 or 5 inches e.g.30 1/2" - round down to 30 then add on 4 = 34 band.

Now you need to measure your cup size. Run the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust. This should be done gently, there's no need to pull the tape tight or create a cleavage.
Note this 'fullest part'  size (always round up on this if you have 1/2" measures. ie. 35 1/2" to 36) and deduct the number you noted as your band size.

The difference in inches equals your cup size.

If the bust measurement:

• is the same as your bra size, your Cup size is A.
• is 1in. more = Cup size B
• is 2in. more = Cup size C
• is 3in. more = Cup size D
• is 4in. more =Cup size DD
• is 5in. more = Cup size E

What you will also need to bear in mind is that shape and the cut of a bra varies between style and manufacturer so it can be a case of trial and error. Make sure you purchase from someone who excepts returns or visit a department store where you can try on a good variety.

If you try on a style you like and find that you are filling , for example, a C cup nicely but that the band is a bit on the loose side try going down a band size but come up a cup size. So if your bust fills a 36D but the band is rising try the style in a 34DD - lower band size but higher cup size.  Anyone who's ever taken children to have their shoes fitted will probably have experienced this principle of overall volume.

Finally, remember if you lose or gain weight or any other event  that changes your body shape it's always worth re-checking your measurements.