I'm told that when measuring for bra size your supposed to add 4 to 5 inches but then others have said that that's only if your underbust is under 33 inches,anything above you only add 2 or 3 .I keep getting confused because I'm 32 1/2 and I'm either a 38 aa or a 36 a.Which one works for you the best.

Both would probably work, though the larger size would likely be more comfortable in the long run.

The important thing is that the cup size is the right size.   I can go with a 40 or 42 band (I'm a big girl) but the cup size is what I have to focus on when I'm looking for a bra.

There are many ways to calculate your size as there are manufactures.  Even the Wikipedia list a couple of different ways.

A fitting is the best way to get the correct size.

Quote from: Epigania on August 29, 2010, 12:11:49 AMThe important thing is that the cup size is the right size.   I can go with a 40 or 42 band (I'm a big girl) but the cup size is what I have to focus on when I'm looking for a bra.

Ditto, not least because it seems there's a quite noticeable difference between 40B and 40D.

I found that for bras bought here in Britain, it is technically better to stick with 4/5. My 38" chest measures out as 42 band, and while I don't actually wear that (because many shops haven't conceived of a 42B bra), a 40-inch band (which I'd get from the 2/3 rule) does leave a mark at the end of the day. It's comfortable enough, but is not ideal.

If you don't go for a fitting then my suggestion is to buy cheap. Matalan here sells t-shirt bras for £3 - buying what I thought was my size and then reassessing that was a pretty cheap and effective thing to do. But when in doubt about cup size, I might suggest veering to the slightly larger option, particularly if you're expecting to start hormones.

If you get fed-up of the complications of working out large strap sizes to go with small breasts. Go with abandeau

Now you girls stop it ! I have small breasts, and get jealous reading some of the cup sizes here.Its the only part of my body Im not happy with.

Quote from: Angela on August 29, 2010, 01:49:05 PM
Now you girls stop it ! I have small breasts, and get jealous reading some of the cup sizes here.Its the only part of my body Im not happy with.

Nothing wrong with small boobage.  Many girls deal with it daily.  Be proud of what you have.

You sound like my mother, Janet.

Quote from: Angela on August 29, 2010, 02:01:03 PM
You sound like my mother, Janet.

Your mom sounds wise.

I always liked smaller boobies, personally.   Without hormones I can wear a 40B/C, so I'm thinking when I start HRT, it's gonna be hard finding my sizes.   In fact, I'm PRETTY sure, people are going to think I'm an amazon.

I actually envy you girls who are rail thin talking about size 34 bands.     

Quote from: tori319 on August 29, 2010, 12:04:24 AM
I'm told that when measuring for bra size your supposed to add 4 to 5 inches but then others have said that that's only if your underbust is under 33 inches,anything above you only add 2 or 3 .I keep getting confused because I'm 32 1/2 and I'm either a 38 aa or a 36 a.Which one works for you the best.

I alwayas suggest trying them on.. all mfg's are different.