Quick Answer

To measure yourself for lingerie at home, you need a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a non-padded bra. Measure your band size snugly under your bust, then your bust size at the fullest part. Subtract the band from the bust to find your cup size. Write both numbers down and check them against the brand's size chart before you buy.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Grab a soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing), a well-fitting non-padded bra, and a mirror. Stand in front of the mirror so you can see the tape stays level. Wear the bra to keep your bust in a natural position—don't wear a push-up or padded style, as it can skew your measurements.

Step-by-Step Lingerie Measuring Guide

  1. Step 1: Measure Your Band Size: Wrap the tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust. The tape should be level and tight enough that it doesn't slide down, but not digging in. Breathe out and note the measurement in inches. If it's an odd number, round up to the nearest even number—that's your band size. Common mistake: Measuring too loosely. A too-large band won't provide support and causes straps to slip.
  2. Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size: Keep your non-padded bra on. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually at nipple level. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and don't pull it tight—allow it to sit against your skin without compressing breast tissue. Write down this number. Checkpoint: If the tape dips or rises at the back, you're not measuring level. Use a mirror to check.
  3. Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size: Subtract your band size from your bust measurement. Each inch of difference equals one cup size: 1" = A, 2" = B, 3" = C, 4" = D, and so on. For example, a 36" band and 38" bust gives a B cup (size 36B). Common mistake: Forgetting that cup size is relative to band size—a 34C holds less volume than a 36C. Always use the calculated difference.
  4. Step 4: Check the Brand's Size Chart: Every brand cuts differently. Compare your band and cup measurements to Moxy's size chart before ordering. If you're between sizes, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit, especially with non-stretch fabrics. Checkpoint: A well-fitting bra should feel snug on the loosest hook when new. If it's tight on the loosest hook, go up a band size.

Lingerie That Fits Well: Examples from Moxy

  • Classic White Lingerie Set: The Classic White Lingerie Set features a sheer bra with a whimsically skirted garter belt and a versatile panty, all in a delicate white dot pattern on soft, airy fabric. Knowing your exact bra size ensures the underwire sits flat against your ribcage and the straps don't dig in—especially important for a sheer bra like this one, where fit is visible.
  • Blue Floral Bra and Panty Set: The Blue Floral Bra and Panty Set has an underwired bra offering gentle shape and support, with a handmade bow detail on sheer white mesh. Accurate measurements help you choose the right band tightness so the underwire supports without poking, keeping the delicate floral mesh comfortable all day.
  • Sheer Leopard Print Lingerie Set: The Sheer Leopard Print Lingerie Set uses lightweight mesh with an underwire bra and matching thong, designed for a barely-there feel. A correct band and cup size prevents the sheer mesh from stretching out of shape or gaping, so the playful leopard print sits smoothly against your skin.