Fit & Size
FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT
Fit is personal. Whether you are choosing a bra, a dress or swimwear, the right size should feel comfortable, flattering and natural on your body—not simply match a number on a tag.
BOOK A BRA FITTINGBRA FIT GUIDE
A well-fitting bra should feel secure without feeling restrictive. Start with these four checkpoints.
THE BAND
The band should sit level around your body and feel comfortably snug. If it rides up your back, it may be too loose.
THE CUPS
Breast tissue should sit fully inside the cups without spilling at the top or sides, and without empty space or wrinkling.
THE CENTER
On most underwire bras, the center panel should sit comfortably against the chest rather than lifting away.
THE STRAPS
Straps should stay in place without digging. Most support should come from the band—not from overtightening the straps.
COMMON FIT SIGNS
Band rides up: try a firmer or smaller band.
Spillage at the cup: consider a larger cup or another cup shape.
Gapping or wrinkling: the cup may be too large, or the shape may not suit you.
Straps keep falling: check the band and strap adjustment first; another bra shape may help.
One side fits differently: very common. Fit to the fuller side and adjust the smaller side when possible.
HOW TO MEASURE YOURSELF
Use a soft measuring tape and keep it level around your body. Measure close to the body without pulling the tape tight.
BUST
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
WAIST
Measure around your natural waist—typically the narrowest point of your torso—without holding your breath.
HIPS
Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
Tip: If a product page includes a designer-specific size guide, use that chart first. Luxury sizing can vary significantly from one brand to another.
FIT THE GARMENT, NOT JUST THE SIZE
Two dresses labeled the same size can fit very differently. Fabric, construction and the intended silhouette matter as much as the number on the label.
STRUCTURED & WOVEN PIECES
Tailored dresses, woven tops and pieces with little stretch have less flexibility. If you are between sizes, pay closest attention to the most fitted area—usually bust, waist or hip.
BIAS-CUT & SILK
Bias-cut silk is meant to skim the body. Pulling, strong horizontal tension lines or fabric that will not drape smoothly can indicate that you need more room.
STRETCH & JERSEY
Stretch fabrics are more forgiving, but the intended look still matters. A body-skimming dress should follow your shape without becoming sheer or strained.
FITTED BUSTLINES
For corseted, boned, strapless or closely fitted bodices, prioritize the bust and ribcage fit. A waist that fits perfectly will not compensate for a bodice that pulls or gaps.
SWIMWEAR FIT
Swimwear should feel secure when dry because it can relax slightly once wet. Support, coverage and torso length all affect the right fit.
SUPPORT FIRST
Bikini tops should contain the bust without cutting in or gapping. Underwire and bra-sized swim should follow many of the same fit rules as lingerie.
SMOOTH, NOT TIGHT
Leg openings and waistbands should stay in place without digging sharply into the skin or creating excessive tension.
TORSO LENGTH MATTERS
If straps pull heavily, the neckline sits too low or the leg opening feels unusually high, the suit may be too short through the torso—not simply too small.
DESIGNER SIZING VARIES
Many of the European and luxury designers at Petticoat Lane use different sizing systems and fit standards. A US size, French size, Italian size and a designer's XS–XL scale are not automatically interchangeable.
Use the measurements and size information shown on the individual product page whenever available. If you are deciding between sizes or brands, our team is happy to help.
WHEN IN DOUBT, COME SEE US
A size chart can point you in the right direction, but it cannot account for body shape, breast shape, fabric or the way a particular designer cuts a garment. For bras, an in-person fitting is the most accurate way to find the right size and style.
BOOK EXPERT BRA FITTING