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Buying advice

How to choose a bra: a buying checklist

Start with your size, choose the style for the outfit, then check the band, hooks, wires and stitching before you buy. Here is the full checklist, in the order that matters.

Hands checking the stitching on the wing and band of a blush lace bra in a shop

By Jenisha Jonchhe Researched and tested where possible Updated

Affiliate links: this guide links to Amazon UK. As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes the advice or the size we suggest.

What to search for on Amazon UK

Add your UK size to the search on Amazon (for example “34G”). Not sure of it? Use our bra size calculator first.

  1. 1

    Soft tape measure

    A flexible fabric tape is all you need to measure your underbust and bust at home before you shop.

    Search Amazon UK for soft tape measure body sewing (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
  2. 2

    Everyday seamed full-cup bra

    Seamed cups, a firm band and at least two hooks: the build that suits the widest range of shapes for daily wear.

    Search Amazon UK for seamed full cup bra everyday (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
  3. 3

    Everyday moulded T-shirt bra

    The smooth partner to a seamed bra, for fitted tops and knitwear.

    Search Amazon UK for moulded t shirt bra everyday (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. Links open Amazon UK; prices and stock are set by Amazon and its sellers. Search results change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. Product photos, where shown, come from Amazon. How we handle affiliate links

To choose a bra, start with your UK size, pick the style for what you will wear over it, then check the band, wires, cups, straps and stitching before you buy. Fit decides comfort and support; construction decides how long it lasts.

1. Know your size

Measure your underbust and bust with a soft tape, or use our bra size calculator for a starting size in under a minute. Our how to measure bra size guide shows where to place the tape. Treat the result as a starting point: brands and styles vary, so expect to try your sister sizes as well.

2. Choose the style for the outfit

Our page on types of bras compares every style side by side.

3. Check the construction

  • Band: wide enough for your bust size, with two hooks or more. Fuller busts do best with three or four.
  • Wires: fully encased in a soft channel, with padded or reinforced ends.
  • Cups: seamed cups shape and lift; moulded cups are smooth under clothes. Choose the one that suits your shape and outfit.
  • Straps: adjustable along most of their length, with metal sliders that will not slip.
  • Stitching: small, even and tight, with no loose threads where the wing meets the cup.
  • Elastic: stretch the band gently. Good elastic springs straight back.

4. Try it on properly

Fasten it on the loosest hooks, lean forward and scoop all of your breast tissue into the cups, then stand up and adjust the straps. Check the band is level, the centre front lies flat, the wires sit behind your breast tissue, and the cups are smooth with no gaping or spilling. Our bra fitting guide explains each check, with a fit checker for common problems.

5. Buying online

  • Use the brand’s own size guide, and check whether reviewers say it runs small or large.
  • Read the returns policy before you order, and keep tags on until you have tried the bra at home.
  • If you are unsure between two sizes, order both. A sister size keeps a similar cup volume on a different band.
  • Converting a US or EU label? Use our bra size converter.

6. Look after it

A well-made bra lasts much longer with gentle care. See our guides on how to wash bras and how to store and pack bras.

Questions people ask

What should I look for when buying a bra?
The right size first, then a band that feels firm and level on the loosest hook, wires that sit behind your breast tissue, cups with no gaping or spilling, and straps that do not dig in. Check stitching and elastic for quality.
How can you tell if a bra is good quality?
Look for even, tight stitching, wires fully encased with reinforced ends, a band with firm elastic that springs back when stretched, metal strap sliders and hooks, and plush backing on the hooks and band.
Is it OK to buy bras online?
Yes, if you know your size and check the returns policy. Use the brand’s own size guide, read whether it fits large or small, and consider ordering your size and your sister size to try both.
How many bras do I need?
Many people find three to five everyday bras enough, so each can rest between wears, plus specialist styles you actually need, such as a sports bra or a strapless bra.

Written by

Jenisha Jonchhe

Jenisha Jonchhe is a New York-based fashion writer and designer with academic training in fashion design. She writes research-led bra sizing and fit guides for UK shoppers.

Researched from brand and retailer size guides, and tested hands-on where possible. Search results on Amazon change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. How we research and test