🇦🇺 Australian Version - This calculator uses Australian standards, terminology, and units where applicable.
Bra Size Calculator Australia
Understanding Australian Bra Sizing Standards
Your Australian Bra Size
Australian Sizing
US/Canada Size
UK Size
EU Size
Bust-Band Difference
0 cm
Australian bra sizing follows a unique numerical system for band sizes (6-34) while adopting UK-style cup sizing (AA, A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, FF, G, etc.). This system is specifically designed for the Australian market and is used by major Australian retailers including Myer, David Jones, Bras N Things, Bonds, and Berlei.
Australian Size Conversion Guide
Australian band sizes are based on dress sizes: a size 10 dress typically corresponds to a 10 band, size 12 to a 12 band, and so forth. This makes it easier for Australian women to estimate their bra size based on their clothing size, though professional fitting is always recommended for accuracy.
Common Australian Bra Sizes
- • Size 10B/C: Small frame, average cup
- • Size 12C/D: Medium frame, full cup (most common)
- • Size 14D/DD: Medium-large frame, full cup
- • Size 16DD/E: Larger frame, full cup
Australian Cup Size Notes
- • DD = E: Many AU brands use E instead of DD
- • UK System: Australian cups follow UK progression
- • FF Cups: Used for larger sizes (not DDD)
- • Sister Sizing: Works same as international standards
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide for Australian Women
Step 1: Measure Your Underbust (Band Size)
Wrap a measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust. Keep the tape level and parallel to the ground. Round to the nearest whole centimeter. This measurement helps determine your Australian band size (typically correlating with your dress size).
Step 2: Measure Your Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level across your back. Don't pull too tight - the tape should sit comfortably. This measurement, combined with your band size, determines your cup size according to Australian standards.
Step 3: Calculate the Difference
Subtract your underbust measurement from your bust measurement. Each 2.5cm (1 inch) of difference typically represents one cup size in the Australian system. For example, a 5cm difference equals approximately a B cup, 7.5cm equals C cup, and so on.
⚠️ Important Measurement Tips for Australian Sizing
- • Wear no bra or a non-padded bra when measuring for most accurate results
- • Measure in the morning before fluid retention affects breast size
- • Stand straight with arms relaxed at your sides - don't hold the tape yourself if possible
- • Take 2-3 measurements and use the average for better accuracy
- • Check both sides as many women have slight asymmetry
Australia has a thriving lingerie market with both local and international brands. Understanding how different brands fit can help you find the perfect bra for your body type and preferences. Australian brands often cater specifically to the local climate, lifestyle, and body shape preferences.
Popular Australian Bra Brands
Berlei
Founded in Sydney, Berlei is Australia's iconic sports bra brand. Known for exceptional support and true-to-size Australian sizing. Popular for active lifestyles and larger cup sizes.
Bonds
Australian everyday comfort brand offering affordable, practical bras. Known for comfortable crop-style bras and sports bras perfect for Australia's warm climate.
Bras N Things
Leading Australian lingerie retailer offering wide size ranges (6-26, A-H cups). Known for fashion-forward designs, excellent fit, and free professional fitting services in stores.
Bendon/Fayreform
New Zealand-Australian brands available across both countries. Excellent for full-bust support with stylish designs and consistent Australian sizing.
Fit Considerations for Australian Climate
Breathable Fabrics
Australia's hot climate means breathability is crucial. Look for cotton blends, moisture-wicking materials, and mesh panels. Avoid heavy padding in summer months.
Active Lifestyle Support
With Australia's outdoor culture, many women need bras that transition from beach to gym to everyday wear. Sports bras and wire-free options are particularly popular.
Size Availability
Major Australian retailers typically stock sizes 6-22 with cups A-E. For sizes outside this range, specialist boutiques in major cities or online retailers offer extended sizing.
Professional Fittings
Most major department stores (Myer, David Jones) and lingerie shops offer free professional fitting services. Fitters are trained in Australian sizing standards and can recommend brands suited to your shape.
Sister sizing is a valuable technique for finding alternative bra sizes with similar cup volumes. In Australian sizing, this works the same way as international standards: when you go up one band size, you go down one cup size (and vice versa) to maintain the same cup volume.
How Sister Sizing Works in Australia
10D
Smaller band, larger cup
12C
Your calculated size
14B
Larger band, smaller cup
All three sizes have the same cup volume but different band fits
When to Use Sister Sizing in Australia
Band Too Tight?
If your 12C band feels too tight, try a 14B. You'll get a looser band with the same cup volume. Useful for brands that run small or if you prefer a more comfortable fit.
Band Too Loose?
If your 12C band rides up your back, try a 10D. You'll get better support from a firmer band while maintaining cup volume. Remember, 80% of support comes from the band.
Brand Variations
Different brands fit differently. Bonds might run larger while Berlei could run smaller. Sister sizing helps you adjust when shopping across Australian brands.
Weight Fluctuations
Australian women often size up in summer heat or down during cooler months. Sister sizing provides options without completely changing your bra wardrobe.
Research shows that approximately 80% of Australian women wear the wrong bra size, with the most common mistake being wearing too large a band and too small a cup. This is particularly prevalent in Australia due to limited availability of larger cup sizes in mainstream stores and misconceptions about sizing.
Signs Your Australian Bra Doesn't Fit
Signs of a Perfect Bra Fit
Fitting Tip from Australian Specialists
When trying a new bra in Australian stores, always fasten it on the loosest hook. As the bra stretches with wear and washing, you'll tighten it using the middle and tightest hooks, extending the bra's lifespan. If you need the tightest hook immediately, the band is already too loose - size down. Australian bras typically last 6-12 months with proper care.
While this calculator provides an excellent starting point, professional bra fittings are widely available across Australia and can provide personalized advice considering your unique breast shape, tissue distribution, and lifestyle needs. Most fitting services are free and take about 15-20 minutes.
Major Department Stores
- • Myer: Free fittings at lingerie counters in most stores nationwide
- • David Jones: Professional fitters available, premium brand selection
- • Available in all state capitals and major regional centers
- • Best for mainstream sizes 8-18, cups A-E
Specialist Lingerie Stores
- • Bras N Things: 100+ stores, free fittings, sizes 6-26 (A-H cups)
- • Bendon: New Zealand brand with Australian stores, expert fitters
- • Bare Necessities: Sydney/Melbourne boutiques for fuller busts
- • Ideal for extended sizing and specialized needs
Online Fitting Services
- • Virtual fittings: Many brands offer video consultation fittings
- • Home try-on: Services like BraBox deliver multiple sizes to try
- • AI measurement apps: Some apps use phone camera for sizing
- • Great for regional/remote areas or time-poor Australians
Specialty Boutiques
- • Full-bust specialists: For DD+ cups (E+ in Australian sizing)
- • Post-surgery fittings: Specialized for mastectomy/breast surgery
- • Maternity/nursing: Expert fitting for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- • Often found in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth CBD areas
What to Expect at an Australian Bra Fitting
Privacy: Fittings occur in private fitting rooms. You can request a specific gender for your fitter at most locations.
Process: Fitter will measure over your current bra (or light clothing), then bring you several sizes and styles to try. They may adjust straps and check fit from outside the room.
No obligation: Free fittings don't require a purchase, though it's courteous to buy if you find something perfect.
Brand recommendations: Expert fitters know which brands work best for different body types and can recommend Australian brands that suit your shape and budget.