Bravissimo Bra Sizes and Fitting

At a glance

The fitting approach

A Bravissimo fitting does not start with a tape measure. The fitter looks at the bra you are wearing, chooses a size to try, and judges it on your body: the band, the cups, the centre panel, the wires. They then bring different sizes and styles until one fits. Bravissimo's own guidance to customers is to try a smaller band and a larger cup than they are used to.

This matches what research at the University of Portsmouth recommended, which was to assess fit using professional criteria in preference to relying on measurements.

Why your size often changes

People commonly arrive in something like a 36DD and leave in a 32G. That is a smaller band with the cup letters that go with it, plus whatever extra cup was needed. A 36DD and a 32F hold the same volume, so the true increase in that example is one cup size.

The change can be a surprise. The explanation is in what sister sizes are. We compare the two approaches directly in Bravissimo vs M&S sizing.

Do Bravissimo bras run true to size?

Bravissimo sells several brands, and each fits a little differently. Its own-label bras are generally regarded as consistent with standard UK full-bust sizing. As with any brand, individual styles vary in cup depth and band firmness, so try the size either side when you change style, and read the reviews on the product page, which often mention fit.

Who it suits

• Anyone from a D cup upward, and especially from about an F, where high-street choice thins.
• Small bands with fuller cups.
• People who want cup-sized swimwear, sports bras and nightwear as well as bras.

Limits worth knowing

• No A to C cups.
• Prices are at specialist level, above the high street.
• Shops are in larger towns and cities. Online ordering covers the rest, with returns for trying sizes at home.
• A fitter can only offer what the shop stocks. Other brands and independent boutiques carry cuts and shapes Bravissimo does not.

Getting the most from a visit

1. Book a fitting and allow half an hour.
2. Say what bothers you about your current bras.
3. Ask to try an unlined seamed bra and a moulded one, to see which shape suits you.
4. Check each bra yourself with the fitting checklist.
5. Note the brand, style and size of anything that fits.

Frequently asked questions

What sizes does Bravissimo sell?

Bravissimo specialises in D cups and above, and lists sizes up to an L cup. Band and cup availability differ by style, so check the product page.

Does Bravissimo use a tape measure?

Bravissimo is known for fitting by eye. Fitters look at how a bra sits on you and adjust size and style from there, instead of calculating a size from measurements.

Why is my Bravissimo size different from my high-street size?

Usually because you were previously in a band that was too big with a cup that was too small. Bravissimo stocks small bands and large cups, so its fitters can put you in the size that fits. The cup letter rises as the band comes down.

Is a Bravissimo fitting free?

Yes, fittings in Bravissimo shops are free with no obligation to buy. Booking ahead is advisable at busy times.