Bra Size Calculator South Africa
Most women are wearing the wrong bra size, not because they have not tried, but because bra fitting is genuinely difficult to get right on your own. A bra size calculator is a great starting point, helping you estimate your size using your band and bust measurements, but there is no true substitute for a professional bra fitting.
Use the bra size calculator below to estimate your size, then let our specialists at Liza Clifford help you find your perfect fit.
Skip to the calculator ↓
Calculate Your Size
Enter both measurements in centimetres, then tap calculate.
If your result doesn’t feel quite right or you’re between sizes, we recommend booking a professional fitting for more personalised guidance.
BOOK A FITTINGYour measurements may not align with standard sizing, and that’s perfectly fine. You can try again, or book a fitting with us — our team is here to help you find the perfect bra for your unique shape.
BOOK A FITTINGMeasure Your Underbust (Band Size)
This measurement helps work out your band size, so take your time with it. You’ll need a soft measuring tape marked in centimetres.
- Stand in front of a mirror so you can check that the tape stays level.
- Place the measuring tape around your ribcage, directly below the lowest point of your breasts.
- The tape should sit where the breast is no longer touching the top of your torso.
- Keep the tape straight around your back and parallel to the floor.
- Make sure the tape sits as high as possible under the breast, not lower down near your waist.
- If needed, tighten your bra straps or ask someone to lift the straps slightly while you measure.
- Pull the tape firm enough to sit flat, but not so tight that it digs in.
- Keep the final number in front of you so you can read it clearly.
- Write down the measurement in centimetres.
Tip: If the tape slips too low, your band size may come out too big. This step can be tricky, especially if your bust is large, so it is fine to ask for help.
Measure Your Overbust (Cup Size)
Now measure around the fullest part of your bust. This number helps work out your cup size.
- Keep standing in front of the mirror.
- Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your breasts.
- Make sure the tape sits across the widest point of your bust.
- Keep the tape straight across your back.
- Do not pull it too tight, as this can squash the breast tissue.
- Do not leave it too loose either, as this can affect the measurement.
- The tape should rest flat and comfortably against your body.
- Check that the tape is level before reading the number.
- Write down the measurement in centimetres.
This number will always be larger than your band measurement. The gap between the two is what determines your cup size. A larger difference means a larger cup. A 20 cm difference, for example, is roughly a F cup in the South African/UK system. Pop both numbers into the calculator and it'll do the rest.
What You'll Need to Use the Bra Size Calculator
Our bra size calculator uses South African sizing and is simple to use. Have these ready before you start.
- A soft measuring tape marked in centimetres.
- A non-padded bra for more accurate measurements.
- A mirror to help keep the measuring tape level.
- Optional: Someone to help check your measurements for the best possible fit.
Let Our Experts Find Your Perfect Fit
A measuring tape gets you close. A bra fitting gets you there.
Our specialists don't just measure. They look at your breast shape, how your tissue distributes when you wear different styles, how your posture affects where the band sits. Things you can't capture in centimetres. If you're shopping for a maternity bra and your size is changing week to week, or if you've recently had surgery and need support that works with your body right now, or if you've just never found a bra that felt genuinely comfortable, those are exactly the situations a fitting is designed for.
Come in. We’ll sort it out.
BOOK A FITTINGFAQs
Can I rely solely on the calculator for my perfect bra size?
The calculator helps you measure your bra size at home but it isn’t 100% accurate for everyone. Because every bust and body shape is different, we advise using the calculator as a start. Then, try bras on or book a fitting to be sure of your perfect fit.
Is this calculator accurate for plus-size or petite sizes?
Our calculator works well for most sizes, including plus and petite. Most petite shapes are smaller than a 32 and our calculator goes down to a 28. Because these sizes have unique fitting challenges, we advise booking a fitting. Our specialists know how to help you find bras that fit snugly and comfortably.
Do I need to wear a bra when measuring?
It’s best to measure with a non-padded bra. Breast tissue is difficult to self-measure if you don’t know what to look for. A bra, no matter the support, will contain breast tissue in one area making it easier to measure.
What is the average bra size in South Africa?
There is no reliable “average” bra size that works for everyone in South Africa. Bodies vary too much, and many women are wearing the wrong size without realising it. Your own band and bust measurements will tell you far more than an average. Measure yourself, check the calculator result, and then pay attention to how the bra fits when you wear it.
What are sister sizes in bras?
Sister sizes are sizes with a similar cup volume but a different band size. They are useful when the cup feels close, but the band does not feel right. For example, if the band feels too tight, you may go up a band size and down a cup size; if it feels too loose, go down a band size and up a cup size. Sister sizing can help, but it isn’t a fix for every problem — if the cup cuts in, gaps badly, or the band keeps moving, you may need a different size or style.
Can different brands have different sizing?
Bra brands are fairly consistent with sizing. Where it can get confusing is when they offer their styles in different country sizes — UK, US and EU (there are more, but these are the main ones). Most designers offer different features that may require a sister size, but there are no huge differences between brands. Reputable bra services know the different fits and advise accordingly. Our consultants are experts at product differences and will fit bras for special needs like maternity, exercise, or other occasions — helping you find bras that support, lift, and suit your unique shape.
What is the difference between a professional fitting and self-measuring?
Measuring yourself is a great first step but can be tricky to get right. A professional fitting uses a tape as a starting point and then, based on your breast shape and fullness and our experience with the bras we offer, makes the best decision for your body. Self-measurements are often trivialised, but it does take skill to know where to measure and at what tension.