How to Understand International Lingerie Size Conversion

So, you're shopping online for lingerie, and you see a dreamy bra from a European brand. You go to pick your size, and suddenly it's like trying to decode ancient hieroglyphs. One says 34B, another says 75B, and someone else throws in a "size 10"—what gives? Welcome to the wild world of international lingerie size conversion, where one number doesn't fit all.

The truth is, sizing isn’t universal. What’s a 36C in the U.S. might be a 80D in Europe or even a 16 in the U.K. Confusing? Absolutely. But once you crack the code, you’ll never buy the wrong size again.

Why Do Lingerie Sizes Vary by Country?

It all comes down to measurement systems and regional preferences. The U.S. and U.K. use inches, while most of Europe uses centimeters. On top of that, brands tailor cuts to local body types and fashion trends. So a French 90B might fit differently than an Italian 90B—even within the same continent!

The Core Formula: Band + Cup

Lingerie sizes have two parts: the band (the number) and the cup (the letter). The band measures around your ribcage, just under the bust. The cup size depends on the difference between your bust and underbust measurements.

Here’s a quick reference table to help you convert like a pro:

Cup sizes stay mostly consistent across regions once the band is converted—but not always. Some European brands run smaller in the cup, so if you’re a D in the U.S., you might need a DD (E) in France.

Pro Tips for Accurate Sizing

• Measure yourself: Use a soft tape measure. Wrap it snugly under your bust for the band, then over the fullest part for the bust.
• Check brand charts: Always refer to the specific brand’s size guide—especially for luxury or niche labels.
• Read reviews: Real customers often mention if a style runs large or small.

And remember: A well-fitting bra shouldn’t dig in or gap. The band should be firm but comfortable, and the cups should fully contain without spilling.

The Bottom Line

Understanding lingerie size conversion isn’t about memorizing every chart—it’s about knowing the logic behind the numbers. Whether you're buying from Paris, New York, or Tokyo, a little knowledge goes a long way in finding that perfect fit.

So next time you’re tempted by that gorgeous lace set from overseas, don’t panic. Just measure, convert, and click “add to cart” with confidence.