How to measure your bust

Bust (or chest) is the key measurement for choosing the size of a top, a shirt, a jacket or a coat. It takes one minute, ideally with someone’s help.

How to measure

1. Stand straight, arms by your sides, in underwear or a thin top (and an unpadded bra if you wear one).
2. Pass the tape measure behind your back and bring it to the front, at the fullest part of the bust.
3. Keep the tape level all around: check in a mirror that it does not ride up at the back.
4. Breathe normally without puffing out your chest, and read the measurement where the tape meets, snug but not tight.

Common mistakes

• A tape riding up at the back: the result is then several centimetres too small.
• Measuring over a thick sweater or a padded bra.
• Holding your breath or puffing out your chest.
• Pulling the tape so tight it marks the skin.

What this measurement is for

Tops, shirts, sweaters, jackets, coats, dresses and swimwear. For a bra, it is combined with the underbust measurement to find the cup size.