When it comes to bra shopping, finding the perfect fit can be challenging, especially if you rely solely on the bra fitting services offered by some high-street stores. As an independent stylist and bra-fitting expert, I’ve had the opportunity to work with numerous clients who’ve shared their experiences with various retailers, including Marks & Spencer (M&S). With its longstanding presence in both the UK and US, M&S is a go-to for many women looking to update their lingerie collection. However, understanding the store’s bra sizing method is crucial to ensuring you walk away with the right fit.
The M&S Measuring Method: Outdated or Helpful?
M&S bra fittings have garnered mixed feedback over the years. The store often follows an older measuring method, which includes adding extra inches to your actual underbust measurement to determine your band size. This practice dates back to when bras were made from less stretchy materials, and a looser fit was the norm. Nowadays, with modern, elastic fabrics, such an approach can result in bras that don’t offer adequate support.
For example, let’s say a customer measures 36 inches around their underbust. Instead of recommending a size 36 band, M&S might suggest a 40 or even 42 band size. This discrepancy can lead to bras that are too loose around the back, causing insufficient support and discomfort.
Why the Right Band Size is Essential
From a professional standpoint, the bra’s band provides up to 80% of the support. A loose band won’t anchor properly around your ribcage, leaving you with straps that dig into your shoulders or cups that don’t provide full coverage. It’s important to focus on finding a snug, firm band size that complements your body shape, rather than sizing up unnecessarily.
If you’re shopping at M&S, be aware that the store may suggest a larger band size due to their measuring method. Always trust how the bra feels — if you can pull the band far away from your back, it’s too big. Ideally, the band should fit snugly, with only enough room to slide two fingers underneath.
Cup Sizes: Getting the Right Fit
Beyond the band, the cup size is equally important. If your band size decreases, your cup size needs to increase to maintain the same volume. For instance, if you try a 38D and the band feels too loose, switching to a 36DD (one cup size larger) will likely be a better fit. This is because the cup volume remains consistent when adjusting both the band and cup size proportionally.
Many M&S customers report confusion when transitioning between sizes. In my professional experience, it’s common for clients to go through several trial-and-error stages before they find the correct combination of band and cup size. The key is to remember that the cup should completely encase your breast tissue without any bulging or gaping.
Expert Tip: Measure Yourself at Home
Before heading to M&S or any other store, it’s helpful to measure yourself at home. This will give you a clear idea of your band and cup size, so you can confidently try on bras that are more likely to fit.
Here’s how to measure yourself:
- Band Size: Wrap a soft measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, right under your bust. Ensure the tape is level and not too tight. The number you get is your band size. For example, if you measure 34 inches, your band size is likely 34.
- Bust Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level across your back. Subtract your band size from this measurement. Each inch represents a cup size (e.g., 1 inch difference = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, and so on).
For example, if your underbust is 34 inches and your bust measures 38 inches, the difference is 4 inches, making you a 34D.
Common Concerns with M&S Fittings
Several customers have shared experiences where M&S fittings resulted in overly loose bras. One client, for instance, was initially fitted in a 44B despite wearing a 38D previously. After several tries, she ended up with a much better-fitting 36E. This inconsistency is not uncommon, as M&S tends to follow outdated fitting protocols, which can lead to a less-than-ideal fit.
If you find yourself in this situation, don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion or try on a few different sizes until you find one that fits securely and comfortably.
Why Some Customers Prefer Alternatives
While M&S is a convenient and popular option for lingerie shopping, their bra-fitting technique has left some customers feeling frustrated. Many prefer alternative methods, such as the Boob or Bust calculator, which provides a more accurate estimate of your size based on modern measuring practices. Specialty stores like Bravissimo are also renowned for their detailed, individualized fittings, where they take into account different styles, brands, and body shapes.
That being said, if you’re used to M&S and enjoy their styles, you can still get a good fit with some persistence and knowledge of your body. Understanding how bras should feel and fit is the first step toward ensuring comfort and support.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Fit, Not Just the Measurement
As an expert, I always encourage women to trust how the bra feels on their body, not just the number on the label. While M&S may recommend a size based on their internal guidelines, the real test is in how the bra fits. If it feels right, offers support, and is comfortable, you’ve found your size, regardless of whether it aligns with M&S’s measuring method.
Before your next trip to M&S, take the time to measure yourself at home or use online calculators for a clearer picture of your size. It’s worth the extra effort to avoid the common pitfall of loose bands and poorly fitting cups.
With the right preparation and understanding of bra sizing, you can confidently shop at M&S and leave with a bra that fits your body perfectly.
