Do you need a 28?
Measure snugly around your ribcage directly under your bust. If the tape reads between 27 and 29 inches, a 28 is your band. At 29 you are between a 28 and a 30, and both are worth trying.
People who need a 28 are very often wearing a 32 or 34, because that is where most shops start. The signs are a band that rides up, a bra fastened on the tightest hook from new, and straps tightened as far as they go. If that describes you, measure before you buy another.
28-band sizes and what they measure
| Size | Bust | Same cup volume as |
|---|---|---|
| 28D | 32 in (81 cm) | 30C and 32B |
| 28DD | 33 in (84 cm) | 30D and 32C |
| 28E | 34 in (86 cm) | 30DD and 32D |
| 28F | 35 in (89 cm) | 30E and 32DD |
| 28FF | 36 in (91 cm) | 30F and 32E |
| 28G | 37 in (94 cm) | 30FF and 32F |
| 28GG | 38 in (97 cm) | 30G and 32FF |
| 28H | 39 in (99 cm) | 30GG and 32G |
The third column explains a common surprise. A 28F sounds large, and it holds the same volume as a 32DD. On a small band, bigger letters are ordinary.
Who makes 28 bands
These brands list 28 bands in at least part of their range at the time of writing. Each sets its size range style by style, so confirm on the product page.
| Brand or retailer | Notes |
|---|---|
| Freya | Full-bust brand, bands from 28, cups from D upward |
| Panache and Cleo by Panache | Full-bust brand, 28 bands in many core styles, D cup upward |
| Curvy Kate | D to K cups, bands from 28 |
| Bravissimo | Retailer and own label for D cups and above; stocks the brands above |
| Boux Avenue | High-street lingerie chain with 28 bands in its range, from A cup |
| Primark | Has extended its most popular ranges to start at 28AA |
28 bands with small cups
Most 28-band bras are made by full-bust brands, which start at a D or DD cup. A 28A, 28B or 28C is harder to find than a 28F. Look at retailers whose range starts at 28 with an A cup, at teen and petite ranges, and at specialist small-bust brands. Our guide to where to buy unusual sizes covers this corner.
Where to buy
- Specialist full-bust retailers, in store and online. They carry the widest choice and will fit you.
- Independent lingerie shops. Many stock or can order 28 bands. Phone ahead.
- Online lingerie retailers with a size filter. Filtering by 28 band shows at once what exists in your cup.
- The brands' own websites.
If you cannot get a 28
- Sister size to a 30, one cup letter down, and fasten on the tightest hook.
- Choose a brand known for firm bands, where a 30 may fit like a 28 elsewhere.
- Have a band altered. A seamstress can shorten a band by moving the hook-and-eye tape. It is a simple alteration on most bras.
Do not go up to a 32. Two bands out is too far for the bra to work. The reasons are in do sister sizes really fit the same?
Frequently asked questions
Who needs a 28 band?
Anyone whose ribcage measures about 27 to 29 inches (69 to 74 cm) directly under the bust. That includes many slim adults and teenagers, at every cup size.
Which UK brands make 28 bands?
Full-bust brands are the main source. Freya, Panache and its Cleo line, and Curvy Kate all make 28 bands, and Bravissimo and Boux Avenue sell them. Primark has extended some of its ranges down to a 28 band. Ranges differ by style, so check each product.
What can I wear if I cannot find a 28 band?
The sister size on a 30 band, one cup letter down, holds the same volume: 28F becomes 30E. The band will be looser than ideal, so fasten it on the tightest hook and treat it as a stopgap.
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