D cup vs DD Cup: What’s The Difference Between a D Cup and a DD Cup?

Bra sizing can be confusing. You may know that your bra size is made up of a band size and a cup size. Band sizes can range anywhere from 26 inches to 46 inches and larger. Cup sizes can vary anywhere from an AA cup to a J cup and beyond.

But do you know that each cup size fits different? It’s true. For example, a 36C bra will fit smaller in the cup than a 36D bra. This is why most women typically go up in the cup size when they notice their bra is feeling a little small.

It might seem like a D cup is huge, but when you compare it to a J cup, it’s actually on the smaller side of the cup size spectrum. Plus, a cup size doesn’t mean anything without a band size in front of it.

Here’s why: If we look at bra sister sizing, which finds the two bras with the closest cup volume to your current bra size, we’ll find that a 36DD, 34DDD/E, and 38D all fit relatively the same in the cup. The biggest difference with these bra sizes is the fit of the band and the placement of the underwire. Typically, the cups are cut wider (though some are cut deeper) as the bra size gets larger. So you’ll notice a difference in the fit of the cups – though they should fit your breasts just fine – and a difference in the fit of the band.

Remember: Not all cup sizes are created equal. So what’s the difference between a D cup and a DD cup and when should you size up or size down? Read on for everything you need to know.

D Cup

A D cup will fit smaller than a DD cup. If you normally wear a C cup and you’re noticing that your breast tissue is overflowing out of your bra cups, you may need a bigger cup size.

DD Cup

A DD cup will fit bigger than a D cup. If your breast tissue is overflowing out of a D cup or you’re noticing a gap in your DDD/E bra cups, you might want to try a DD cup.

Remember: A US DD and a UK DD cup should fit the relatively the same. US and UK sizes starts to look different when we’re talking about a US DDD or UK E cup and larger.

When to size down to a D cup

Do you normally wear a DD bra? Have you recently lost weight? If your bra band fits perfect but your bra cups feel big, you might need to size down to a D cup. A well-fitting bra should contain your breast tissue completely without any gaps in the cup. Since 85-90% of your bra’s support comes from the band, it should also stay in place even if you move your straps off your shoulders. Changing the size of the cup instantly changes the fit of a bra.

When to size up to a DD cup

We recommend sizing up to a DD cup if you notice any breast tissue spillage or experience any discomfort in your C or D bras. It can be shocking to find out that you’ve been wearing the wrong bra size. When you’re bra shopping, always focus on the fit instead of the size on the tag. Your size is more of a guide than a set rule. You might find your new favorite bra in a size you never would have tried. How amazing is that?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!