Here is a fact that should surprise no one who has ever bought a bra in Pakistan: most women are wearing the wrong size. Research consistently shows that somewhere between 70 and 80 percent of women are wearing a bra that doesn't actually fit — too tight in the band, too large in the cup, or simply a size they've worn for years without ever properly verifying. In Pakistan, where most lingerie is bought online or in markets without fitting rooms, this problem is even more acute.
This guide exists to fix that. In the next few minutes, you will learn exactly how to measure your bra size at home using nothing more than a soft measuring tape. We will cover the three-step measurement process, explain the Pakistan-specific size chart, walk through the most common sizing mistakes, and explain the concept of sister sizing so you always have a backup option. By the end, you will know your size — and you won't have to guess again.
What You Need Before You Start
You need one thing: a soft cloth measuring tape. The kind used by tailors. If you don't have one, a piece of string and a ruler will work — wrap the string around yourself and mark the measurement, then measure the string against the ruler.
Before you measure, wear a thin unpadded bra or nothing at all. Measuring over thick padding introduces errors. Stand upright and breathe normally. Do not hold your breath or pull the tape tighter than necessary — the goal is an accurate measurement, not a flattering one.
Step 1: Measure Your Band Size
Wrap the measuring tape around your torso, directly under your bust. The tape should be snug but not tight — you should be able to slide two fingers underneath it. Keep it level all the way around: the front and back should be at the same height.
Read the measurement in inches. This is your underbust measurement. Now apply the rounding rule:
- If the measurement is even (e.g. 32, 34, 36), that number IS your band size.
- If the measurement is odd (e.g. 31, 33, 35), round UP to the next even number.
So 31 inches becomes 32. 33 becomes 34. 35 becomes 36. Your band size is a number like 32, 34, 36, 38, or 40.
Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size
Now wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust — typically across the nipple line. Do not compress or flatten. Keep the tape parallel to the ground. Lean slightly forward if you find this easier; the measurement should reflect your natural bust at its fullest point.
Read this measurement in inches as well. If it falls between numbers, round to the nearest whole inch.
Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size
Subtract your band measurement (Step 1) from your bust measurement (Step 2). The difference between the two numbers determines your cup size:
- 0 inch difference = Cup size AA
- 1 inch difference = Cup size A
- 2 inch difference = Cup size B
- 3 inch difference = Cup size C
- 4 inch difference = Cup size D
- 5 inch difference = Cup size DD/E
- 6 inch difference = Cup size F
Most Pakistani women fall between A and D. The most common size in Pakistan is 34B, followed by 36B. If your bust measurement is 36 inches and your underbust is 34 inches, the difference is 2 — which means your size is 34B.
Pakistan Bra Size Chart
FEMBRA offers sizes from 32B through 40B. The table below shows underbust measurement ranges and the corresponding band size:
- Band size 32: Underbust measurement 28–30 inches
- Band size 34: Underbust measurement 30–32 inches
- Band size 36: Underbust measurement 32–34 inches
- Band size 38: Underbust measurement 34–36 inches
- Band size 40: Underbust measurement 36–38 inches
For cup sizes: A = 1 inch difference, B = 2 inches, C = 3 inches, D = 4 inches.
The Most Common Sizing Mistakes
Measuring over thick clothing is the most frequent error — even a light kameez adds half an inch that throws off the result. Always measure against skin or over the thinnest possible layer.
Pulling the tape too tight is the second most common mistake. A band that's measured too tightly will result in a band size that's too small — you'll end up with a bra that cuts in. Keep the tape comfortably snug.
Ignoring sister sizes is another common oversight. Many women have tried one size, found it slightly wrong, and never looked for an alternative. Sister sizes exist precisely for this.
Sister Sizing — Your Backup Option
Sister sizes are bras with the same cup volume but different band and cup letter combinations. If your calculated size is 34B but the band feels too tight, your sister size is 36A — same cup volume, looser band. If the band is too loose at 34B, try 32C — same cup volume, snugger band.
The pattern: go up one band size and down one cup letter for a looser band. Go down one band size and up one cup letter for a snugger band. The cup volume stays equivalent.
How FEMBRA Sizes Are Made
All FEMBRA bras are sized from 32B through 40B. Our bras are non-padded, which means the cup measurements reflect true fabric sizing — there is no foam padding adding volume or altering the fit. If you measure 34B, order 34B. FEMBRA's sizing is consistent across all styles and fabric types.
If you are between sizes or unsure, our customer service team is available via WhatsApp to advise before you order. Every order ships with Cash on Delivery, so you can verify fit before paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my bra size without a measuring tape?
Use a piece of string: wrap it around your underbust, mark the length with a pen, then measure the string against a ruler or the edge of a book. Repeat for the bust measurement.
Why does my bra size feel different in different brands?
Sizing varies slightly between manufacturers. Always check each brand's size guide. FEMBRA's sizing is based on standard international measurements and runs true to size.
What is the most common bra size in Pakistan?
Based on sales data, 34B and 36B are the most commonly ordered sizes among Pakistani women. However, this varies significantly by region and body type.
Is it normal for my bra size to change?
Yes — size changes with weight fluctuation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, age, and hormonal changes. Remeasure every 6–12 months, or whenever your current bras start feeling wrong.
What if I'm a 34C but FEMBRA only goes to 40B?
FEMBRA's current range covers 32B–40B. If your cup size is C or above, this may not be the right fit. We are expanding our size range — check fembras.com for updates.
Can I order the wrong size and exchange it?
Yes — FEMBRA accepts size exchanges within 7 days of delivery. Contact us via WhatsApp. Measure carefully before ordering to minimise this.
▶ READY TO SHOP?
→ Use FEMBRA's Bra Size Calculator: fembras.com/pages/bra-size-calculator
→ Shop Bras by Size: fembras.com/collections/bras
→ All orders available with Cash on Delivery nationwide across Pakistan