The size of an Etam bra is based on two body measurements: the underbust measurement (or bust measurement, taken under the breasts) and the bust measurement (taken at the fullest part of the breasts). The difference between these two values determines the cup letter, while the underbust measurement sets the number (80, 85, 90, etc.). Mastering this principle avoids most sizing errors.
Difference between underbust and bust measurements: the true starting point
Many women confuse these two measurements or only take one. The underbust measurement is taken horizontally, just under the breasts, with the measuring tape flat against the skin. It gives the size number (75, 80, 85, 90…).
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The bust measurement is taken at the fullest part of the bust, without compression. The difference in centimeters between these two measurements corresponds to a cup letter.
To successfully calculate your Etam bra size, these measurements should be taken while wearing a non-padded bra or directly on the skin, with a straight torso and arms at the sides. A flexible tailor’s measuring tape is sufficient. A tape that is too tight underestimates the underbust measurement, while a tape that is too loose overestimates the cup size.
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Calculating the Etam cup size: the correspondence table explained
Etam uses the EU/FR sizing system. The cup size is derived from the subtraction: bust measurement minus underbust measurement. Each range of centimeters corresponds to a letter.
- About 13 cm difference corresponds to an A cup (small bust)
- About 15 cm corresponds to a B cup
- About 17 cm corresponds to a C cup
- About 19 cm corresponds to a D cup, and so on in 2 cm increments
The underbust measurement is rounded to the nearest multiple of 5. An underbust measurement of 73 cm will give a size of 75. Measured at 78 cm, the size will be 80.
The combined result gives the complete size: 85B, 90C, 75D, etc. The cup letter always depends on the chosen underbust measurement: changing one alters the other. An 85C and a 90B share the same cup volume, a concept that store associates refer to as sister sizes.
Etam bra styles and size adjustment according to the model
Theoretical calculation is not always sufficient. At Etam, as with most lingerie brands, the shape of the bra influences the size to order.
Molded and push-up cups
Molded cup models (like t-shirt bras) or push-up bras have a rigid shell that does not adapt to the shape of the breasts. A cup that is too large leaves a visible gap under a fitted garment. A cup that is too small compresses and creates bulging. For these models, going down a cup size from the theoretical calculation is common.
Bralettes and wire-free triangles
Bralettes, which are very present in Etam collections, often size in S, M, L rather than in standard sizes. The support is less, and the material is stretchy. For these models, relying on the measured underbust remains the most reliable reference, choosing the size that corresponds to the underbust band.
In recent years, Etam product sheets have increasingly mentioned a recommended adjustment according to the model. Checking this indication before ordering helps limit returns.
Common bra size errors and signs of poor fit
Several physical signs indicate an inappropriate size. Recognizing them allows for corrections without recalculating everything.
- Straps slip or dig into the shoulders: the underbust measurement is likely too large (the band is not supporting the weight, the straps compensate)
- The back band rides up: the underbust measurement is too loose. The band should remain horizontal and parallel to the ground
- The cup gapes or overflows: the letter is inappropriate. A cup that wrinkles lacks volume, while a breast that overflows at the top or side indicates a cup that is too small
- The center gore does not lie flat against the sternum: the cup is too small or the bra shape does not suit the body type
A common reflex is to compensate for a cup that is too small by taking a larger underbust measurement. The result is a bra that provides no support. The underbust measurement provides most of the support, not the straps.
Etam sister sizes: an underutilized margin of maneuver
Sister sizes refer to combinations of underbust/cup sizes that share the same cup volume. Switching from an 85C to a 90B or an 80D does not change the volume of fabric that envelops the breast but alters the length of the band.
This principle is particularly useful when a size is out of stock or when the chosen model fits slightly tighter or looser than usual. In Etam stores, associates regularly guide customers towards a sister size rather than a model exchange.
Thus, the calculation of Etam bra size should be considered a starting point, not a fixed verdict. The right reflex remains to accurately measure both underbust and bust, apply the cup correspondence, and then adjust based on the chosen model and comfort signals once the bra is on.