A well-fitting bra can help you connect with your femininity on a physical and emotional level, if you are looking to crossdress as a woman.Don't let the endless variety of styles overwhelm you when looking for a bra.To find a band size that fits around your ribcage, take some basic measurements.If you want to achieve your ideal bust size, try out breast forms or padding.You can experiment with different bras as you embrace your new curves, and have fun finding your favorite cut and style.
Step 1: Measure your chest size below your nipples.
Measure against your bare skin or a thin t-shirt without a bra.It should be positioned under your bust area where your bra band will sit.Make a note of the measurement on the tape by keeping it positioned all the way around your body.You can use a mirror to see if the tape is positioned parallel to the floor as it extends under your arms and across your shoulder blades.Holding your breath can expand your chest.To return your ribcage to a natural, non-expanded size, exhale and let the air out of your lungs.
Step 2: Add 4 or 5 to your chest circumference to calculate your band size.
Take your chest measurement and divide it by the whole number.Add 4 if you ended up with an even number.Add 5 if you have an odd number.The bra band size is the sum.To reach a band size of 34 you would have to round up to 30 and add 4.Add 5 to reach a band size of 38 if your measurement was 33.The first part of a bra size is the band size, followed by a letter indicating the cup size.A 36C bra and a 36DD bra have the same band, but different cup sizes.
Step 3: Measure directly across your nipples to find your cup size.
Keep the tape measure in line with your nipples by extending it around your chest.This measurement will be larger for people with breasts.Round this measurement to the nearest whole number if yours is smaller, the same, or larger than the first.To determine your cup size, subtract this from your chest measurement.You would wear an AA cup if there was a difference of 0.A cup means A, B, C, D,DD, F, and 7 means a cup.If your band size is 34 and your bust is 34, you would wear an AA cup.You could buy a bra in the size 34AA.A B cup might fit you best if your band size is 38 and your bust is 40.If you don't want to use padding, try a 40B bra.
Step 4: If you want to use padding, choose your cup size.
Pick a cup size that is proportional to your body size.If you have a broad chest and shoulders, you should consider a D cup.A B or C cup is flattering if you have a small frame.Try different options until you find the right size.The letters indicate larger cup sizes.If you want a larger cup size, you could go up to a 34B or 34C bra.You can try out different cup sizes.Make sure you have the right bra for each one.
Step 5: Get fitted by a bra retailer.
A professional bra fitter or bra sales associate can help you find the right bra for you.When you are in the fitting room, ask them to give you a variety of different sizes and styles.The process of finding your perfect size will be easier with this.Contact the shop in advance if you are nervous about requesting a fitting.If you can make an appointment, you should find out if their staff knows how to assist males with bra fitting.
Step 6: You can choose a padded bra with underwire support.
The molded foam padding is found in many padded and push-up bra styles.If you want a larger chest, choose this style.Pick a bra with underwire support to help hold the forms in place if you are adding breast forms.The underwire is in a U-shaped curve below the cups.To find out if a bra has underwire, pinch this part of the bra.The correct band size is important.If you don't, the underwire may start digging into your chest.
Step 7: For a softer silhouette, try a non-padded, wireless bra.
If you plan to wear small breast forms or no padding at all, consider a soft, wireless bra.You can find wireless bras in sports-bra designs, jersey loungewear styles, lacey bralette options, and everything in between.Start with a non-padded bra to see how you like it.Some bras are stretchy and can be pulled on over your head.You can try whichever style you like.
Step 8: To hold large breast forms in place, choose a pocket bra.
If the retailer sells corresponding bras, you should check them out.There are pockets or pouch in each cup to hold inserts.If you use large or heavy breast forms, a pocket bra will keep them in place.Pick a pocket bra that is compatible with the breast forms you plan to wear.If you want to fit the inserts inside, buy one in a larger cup size.
Step 9: To smooth out your torso, wear a longline bra.
A longline bra is a good choice if you want a bra that doubles as shapewear.The band on a longline bra hits near the waist to help cinch in your figure and to eliminate bulges.To account for the more constricted silhouette, go up at least 1 size from your usual band size.Many longline bras have hooks and eyes at the back, which can be hard to see at first.Start with the top hook and work your way down.
Step 10: Try multiple bra strap configurations with a convertible bra.
If you want to change your bra straps to fit a specific top or dress, choose a convertible bra.If the straps can't be disconnected at the front and back, inspect the bra.You can connect the straps at any point if you look along the inside for additional loops.When you are ready to put on the bra, loosen the straps and hook them into the right configuration first, then tighten them until they are comfortable.The straps on a convertible bra can be arranged in a one-shoulder shape, slung around your neck, and more.Most styles can be worn.Purchase a set of clear plastic straps.
Step 11: Do you prefer the front or back bras?
There are a few rows of hooks and eyes in standard bras.For the most comfortable fit, choose this style if you want to expand or tighten the band.If you have a wide ribcage, you should wear a front-closure bra.There are 2 pieces of plastic between the cups.If you are worried about the feeling of a tight band around your ribcage, look for a band with extra stretch.The skin around your back will bulge out if you wear a band that is too tight.It will not be comfortable.
Step 12: Pick a bra that is your favorite color, fabric and cut.
Bras come in nearly an infinite number of styles, silhouettes, colors, fabrics, and designs, which means you are sure to find a bra that fits with your personality and fashion sense.If you want a seamless look, choose a smooth fabric in a neutral color.If you want to show off your bra, choose lace, sequin, and other little details.The lace, trims, pleats, seam lines, and other textured details will show through on tighter-fitting tops.A padded t-shirt bra with molded cups is a good option.Try different coverage options depending on the style and fit.There are options from full-coverage styles to balconette cuts.
Step 13: Buy your bra online or in a store.
Bras are available at almost any store that sells clothing.Specialty retailers and lingerie shops may be able to help you find a plus-size bra.You can order a bra online if you are nervous about buying one in person.If the bra doesn't fit correctly, make sure they offer a good return policy.It can be fun to shop for lingerie.You can make a day out of it if you bring a friend with you.
Step 14: A small amount of padding can be stuffed into your bra with socks or tissues.
If you have a push-up bra with a lot of padding, you don't need to add much to fill the cup.Put some tissues in the gaps and use tape to hold them in place.For a little extra padding, fold up a pair of socks.If you will be wearing an outfit that conceals your bra, these options work best.
Step 15: Silicone or foam inserts can be used to enhance your chest.
If you want to lightly lift your chest, you can put a Silicone push-up insert into your bra cup.Lift your bust up and put it on top.If you want to add some depth to your chest, place a foam pad on the inside of your bra cup.These can be soft or stiff with push-up components.Silicone inserts are sometimes called chicken fillets or chicken cutlets.
Step 16: A larger bust can be achieved with a pair of silicone breast forms.
Breast forms come in a variety of shapes and sizes, some are designed to look like natural breasts with nipples, while others simply create the desired breast shape.If you want them to stick to your skin, choose a set with a backing.The breast forms can be tucked into the cups of a standard bra or put into a pocket bra for more support.Symmetrical breast forms can be used with any type of bra.Consider wearing a set that is asymmetrical.If you want a more natural breast shape, you can choose a left and right breast form.Silicone breast forms have a full-looking, exposed bust.Two breast forms are connected by a chest piece that extends up to your neck.Pick one that matches your skin tone.