Independent guide. We are not affiliated with John Lewis. Services differ between stores and change over time, so confirm the details when you book.
At a glance
| Cost | Free, no obligation to buy |
| Where | John Lewis stores with a lingerie department |
| Booking | Advisable. Via the website or the store. |
| Appointment types | General fittings, and it has offered first bra, maternity and post-surgery appointments |
| Brands | Own label plus a selection of other brands, varying by store |
Why a department store fitting can be a good choice
- Several brands under one roof. A fitter in a single-brand shop can offer one set of cuts. A department store fitter can move you between brands if a shape does not suit you.
- Specialist appointment types. A dedicated first-bra, maternity or post-surgery appointment means a fitter experienced in that situation and enough time for it.
- A calmer setting than a busy fashion store, with private fitting rooms.
What happens
- You are shown to a private fitting room and asked what you are looking for.
- The fitter establishes a size to start from.
- They bring bras in that size and others near it. You try each one in private and they check the fit.
- You are told your size in the bras that fitted. Ask for the brand and style names too.
The general process, and what you can ask for to feel comfortable, is described in what happens at a bra fitting?
Limits to bear in mind
- Range varies by branch. Larger stores carry more brands and sizes. If you need a small band with a large cup, or a cup above about a G, ask before travelling whether the store stocks it.
- A fitter can only fit you into what is in stock. If your size is not there, you may be offered the nearest.
- Fitters differ, as they do everywhere.
How to get the most from it
- Measure first with the calculator, so you have something to compare with.
- Book the right appointment type and say if it is for pregnancy, a first bra or after surgery.
- Say what bothers you about your current bras.
- Ask to try the band below the one suggested, with a cup letter up.
- Check each bra yourself with the fitting checklist.
Who it suits best
- People who want to compare several brands in one visit
- First bra fittings with a parent
- Pregnancy and nursing fittings
- Post-surgery fittings: see post-mastectomy bra fitting
- Anyone in the middle of the size range who would like an unhurried appointment
For cups well above a G, or bands under 30, a full-bust specialist will have more to offer. The alternatives are compared in the best places for a bra fitting in the UK.
Frequently asked questions
Is the John Lewis bra fitting free?
Yes. John Lewis offers a free bra fitting service in its stores, with no obligation to buy.
Do I need to book a John Lewis bra fitting?
Booking is advisable, especially at weekends. Check the John Lewis website or contact your local store for how to book and current availability.
Does John Lewis fit maternity and post-surgery bras?
John Lewis has offered dedicated appointment types, including first bra, maternity and post-surgery fittings. Confirm with your store when booking that the appointment you need is available there.
Not measured recently? It takes two minutes.
Open the bra size calculator →