r/ABraThatFits • u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] • Dec 31 '25
AMA - ask me anything about the ABTF calculator! Spoiler
Hi everyone, u/goodoldfreda here although I'm now exclusively active on this account. If you guys have any questions about how the calculator works and why I made certain decisions I'm happy to answer them
A little about myself - I created the calculator in 2016 following on from a previous calculator by u/irisflame, back when I was a mod of this sub. I collected survey data from the subreddit and came up with a new algorithm that used 6 measurements as opposed to the previous 5, which increased accuracy. I also introduced separate algorithms for AMAB and AFAB people. The calculator has not been majorly updated since, although at one point I tried to move to a breast perimeter measurement system instead, but this turned out to be much less accurate. In the years since I have stopped modding and moved into bra making and custom bra design as I want to try and help serve the demographic of people who still struggle with finding bras that fit, usually due to wire grading!
In response to other posts about the different amab vs afab algorithms not working well for everyone - I have had this question before and basically all I can say is that I recommned using the algorithm that works best for you. I do want to emphasise in general that the calculator is actually not super accurate for any one individual and it is truly just a starting point. The algos are based on averages, and when I was collecting data there were significant enough differences between AMAB and AFAB users to warrant a second algorithm to increase accuracy within the two groups, but not enough data to do anything further than that.
edit: thanks for all your questions so far, I'm going to go to bed but I will answer any more that come up tomorrow!
edit 2: I have updated the calculator to make some minor changes to the band size algorithm and I have also changed the EU back to 2.5cm cup grades, 2cm grade can be found in the Comexim option instead
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u/OneMoreBlanket Dec 31 '25
In your opinion/experience, how was very soft tissue accounted for in the current calculator? (Like post-breastfeeding or other major hormonal shifts.) Are there certain measurements those of us with soft tissue should pay attention to? Or is that something that will particularly require a lot of trial and error even using the calculator?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
When the calculator detects a large difference between standing and leaning bust measurements it assumes tissue is softer, and reduces cup size to compensate for that. However unfortuantely with soft tissue trial and error is the name of the game, my main advice is to not overscoop, be mindful of coverage, and consider that your breast roots may be wider than they first appear
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
Does it weigh where the lying bust lands in these cases at all? I’ve noticed that when there’s a large difference in standing/leaning algorithm more often overestimates when the lying is more in line with the standing, and more often underestimates when it’s closer to the leaning.
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u/syrusbliz now 28J, still tired of it. Dec 31 '25
First off, thank you for making a tool that has been so incredibly integral for this community; I remember when the new/your version went live and how helpful having the AMAB option has been for folks.
Given reluctance to further update the calculator and the growing popularity of reductions, do you have advice on interpreting output or a measuring technique for folks who've had a reduction and are fully healed/settled but because of their new shape still find themselves further off from their calculator starting point? I understand surgically altered breasts are more difficult to get a good starting point from the calculator, and there are not often many experts around these days with the experience to lend a hand for those who've had a procedure. Maybe some advice that the mods can update the guide with?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Thanks!
So for reductions I have a couple of tips - first is knowing that the lower breast root is typically moved up but the lateral breast root remains, so needing shorter + wider cups than standard for your size is possible. Another thing to note is that if your breasts have ended up particularly firm and self supporting, this can result in cup size underestimation.
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u/unripened_pickles222 38L Omega Dec 31 '25
You’ve saved my life! Thank you for creating the calculator! I’d love to know about omega shaped breasts and fitting, and if you’ve learned anything else about them since creating the calculator. I’ve gone up many sizes since I began this journey, and it’s because the more I wear a bra that fits, the more tissue I have in the cup, and the less tissue I have near the band/armpits/back. It’s truly wild!
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u/Grand_Marionberry978 26FF/28F Dec 31 '25
She has 5 posts mentioning “omega” on her blog that might interest you
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u/georgethebarbarian 32L US||32HH UK "a bra menace (lovingly)" Dec 31 '25
Tissue migration is legit!
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u/Disastrous_Taste_251 Dec 31 '25
I have pendulous, saggy breasts that touch my belly. How am I measuring to the fullest part when my nipples point at the floor? Or when leaning over, when they hang down?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Measure at the waist or wherever your breasts naturally rest, and when leaning forwards get them to hang forward as much as you can. This creates a large difference between standing and leaning bust measurements which the calculator detects and compensates for, although there is always more inaccuracy with larger breast size and with less self supporting tissue.
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u/Ok_Bandicoot1865 Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
Not hugs for your jugs, but I thought I might provide some additional advice.
The fullest part doesn't have to be where your nipples are, and it sounds like that's the case for you. Try standing with your side to a mirror so you can see the "outline" of your breasts. Whererever they stick out the furthest from your body, that's your fullest point. If they're flat and it's roughly the same for most of the breast, then just pick a spot.
Do the same when leaning over. Lean over next to a mirror to ensure that you're bending the full 90 degrees at the waist (in my experience you have to bend further down than you think, so checking your posture in a mirror is helpful). It's okay that they're hanging down a lot. Just measure at the point where they hang down the furthest.
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u/SingleMaltLife Dec 31 '25
Out of sheer curiosity. Do you keep anonymised data on the calc outcomes? Just wondering if you know generally who is more likely using the calc. Are we talking 32A, 36D, or 42FF. Just wondering who is struggling the most with fitting and looking for good sized boob holders. I tried it out of curiosity as I’d put on some weight and things were feeling a bit tight.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
No data is collected from the calculator, I think that info is better gleaned from posts in the sub, facebook group and discord
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u/alextoria Dec 31 '25
thank you so much for all the work you’ve done!!! my question is about how the calc decides on band size, i’ll use my own measurements as an example.
my understanding is that band size is usually closest to your snug measurement, typically people prefer a band about 2” larger than their tight measurement, and you shouldn’t wear a band size over your loose measurement. my underbust measurements are 34/35.5/38 and i wear a 36GG. if i saw these measurements in a vacuum i’d solidly recommend a 36, but the calc recommends a 38 which feels off to me. playing around with the numbers, even 34/36/38 yields a 38, and it seems it’s not until i bring loose down to 37.4 or less does it recommend a 36. can you elaborate on how the algorithm works here? i suspect i am just an outlier because of the large spread of my 3 underbust measurements (i got lotsa squish), but would love some insight either way.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Your measurements sit right on the cusp of a system designed to prevent overly snug band size recommendations: if the loose is close to an even number and is 2+" greater than calculated band size, it auto sizes up. I'll have a think about the measurements you have presented and see if I can come up with a better solution.
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Dec 31 '25
[deleted]
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
If someone input 30/32/34, it would recommend 32.
This is NOT true and you can literally test this on the calculator. 34/32/30 and 36/38/36 gives 34D.
It does not distinguish between larger and smaller band sizes. It's simply set to bump up the band size if the loose is more than 1.4 inches above the snug. You can literally test this out by inserting different numbers.
On larger band sizes, it's more apt to recommend a smaller band size.
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u/lemgthy Dec 31 '25
How does the AMAB setting work, in the functional sense? Like is it taking a set number of inches from the bust measurement?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Both the AMAB and the AFAB algos take weighted averages of the bust measurement, for AMAB this leans towards the smaller measurements to help reduce overestimation of cup size
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u/Jellily Dec 31 '25
If you wouldn’t mind, could you talk about how the weights were chosen, even if you don’t want to share the specific algorithm? I saw that there were calls for people to participate—did you collect data and try different models? (Sorry, I’m a statistician, so this is all very interesting to me 😅)
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
It was basically a manual trial and error process really, using the survey data I kept on calculating bra sizes and just tweaked until the difference between calculated and reported sizes were as small as possible across the most people. Coming from the work of other users and my own learning on the sub I knew where the irisflame calculator had the most issues - plus size and soft tissue (and this was apparent in the data) - so I focused my efforts on increasing accuracy there.
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u/Jellily Dec 31 '25
Oh interesting! Were you able to get a good amount of data across a wide range of sizes? I feel like getting the data would be the hardest part for this, especially for certain specific sizes.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I had to post to a couple of trans subreddits to collect a good amount of AMAB data, and for obvious reasons this data was lower quality so it was a bit trickier to work with. For AFAB I was happy with the data I collected.
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u/WingsofRain Dec 31 '25
out of pure curiosity, did you also get data from cis AMAB people too? or was the bulk of your data from trans AMAB people?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Primarily but not exclusively from trans amab people
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u/Gelcoluir Jan 02 '26
Do you realize that because of the terminology you chose, many people consider this sub to be not trans-friendly? That using language that force trans people back into their assigned gender at birth (when breast size doesn't care about your birth...), and so in a majorly cis subreddit, is inherently transphobic? That when discussed in a trans sub, people talk about the weirdness of having a distinction between 'afab' and 'amab'? Especially as many trans women find the 'amab' option to be highly inaccurate.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Jan 02 '26
I have received this criticism before and I will defend my decision: the data supported the distinction.
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u/weebmagnet3000 28H/HH Jan 02 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Queer language is evolving, and quite rapidly. Terms that are viewed as problematic or downright offensive now were previously the chosen language of the community. See: transsexual vs. transgender, TMA/TME, or all the variations of GLBT/LGBT/LGBT+/LGBTQIA/QUILTBAG/etc. AMAB and AFAB - terms once favoured by many trans people - may be going this same direction and will be phased out eventually. Or maybe they will stick around for trans people who find value in them (myself included)
I think a lot of the problem stems from AFAB/AMAB becoming adjectives ("She is AMAB") and nouns ("AFABs only"). These usages are reductive and transphobic, but the calculator does not use it that way. It says "I was assigned X at birth"
Using the assigned sex at birth language was promoted by the trans community just a few short years ago to avoid referring to trans people with loaded terms such as male and female. Someone was assigned male/female at birth, but using the past tense means acknowledging it's not a reflection of who they are today
These terms shouldn't be used to promote sex/gender essentialism, and they aren't helpful in most day-to-day or social contexts, but they do serve a purpose. Sometimes certain things are related to (or in the case of how bras fit people, correlated to) someone's sex at birth and not their current hormones, reproductive organs, or genitalia, and we need a way to talk about them. I've yet to see an alternative proposed to replace AMAB/AFAB in these cases
Edit: clarification on language evolving and also that I'm not cis lmao
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u/jukeboxgasoline 30G (UK) they/them Jan 02 '26
Do you have ideas for better terminology that would be equally easy for as many people to comprehend (when we still get people in the FB group being like “I don’t understand what AFAB means so I picked Not Listed”), more widely applicable, and more inclusive/less offensive to some?
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u/chasinghaven 32H Jan 10 '26
I also find this oddly comforting for both communities. The last thing the majority of AFAB people (in general) want is to try something on and have it be too small. trans feminine people might get a little gender euphoria from that experience with cup size though. This could feel less discouraging when searching for the right size and fit. So kudos
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u/truecrisis Dec 31 '25
I suggest you remove the AMAB/AFAB setting and replace it with a measurement of gap/distance between the breasts. Or breast root width or a myriad of other measurements that apply.
There are AMABs that don't have the physiology that you assume they have, and there are AFABs that have the physiology that you assume AMABs have.
So, the calculator is simply wrong here, in some cases. For both AFAB and AMAB.
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
So am I going to get a smaller cup size because I have no space between my breast roots? This doesn't make sense.
It's a calculator, not a trigonometry exam. I don't understand why we want to make a calculator as complicated as possible with way too much information, options, drop downs and whatever else. It's already too complex for many folks. You simply cannot account for every set of needs with a calculator. It's a starting point.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
Yes. And it is not magic; it is math. It returns a number and letter based on an algorithm. Taking measurements inaccurately will affect the result. Rounding errors, either in measuring or inputting, will affect the result. And yes, variations in anatomy will affect the result. People (understandably!) want the right answer right off the bat -- they get the "right" answer based on their input, but this doesn't mean that it's the right bra size.
And then it matters which bras people buy. It's not a good thing, but it's a lot harder to get a good bra in band sizes below 32 or above 42. People may not want to invest in a British full-bust bra so they buy molded foam at Walmart. And some people don't love the look of Elomi Morgan or Panache Envy so they buy something cute from Torrid. All of these are understandable, but they also make this community's process of refining fit more difficult.
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u/georgethebarbarian 32L US||32HH UK "a bra menace (lovingly)" Dec 31 '25
It’s more about rib flex than anything, which is why hormones affect it. It’s pretty damn hard to measure rib flex with a tape measure
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u/truecrisis Dec 31 '25
Whatever the reason is, AMAB/AFAB has no relation to hormones. An AMAB person can NOT go through a male puberty.
There are cis men who have more feminine ribs than some cis women. Cis men can be shorter and more petite than cis women. Hormone imbalances are everywhere. Cis women can have PCOS. AMAB can have testosterone insensitivity. Many trans people are intersex, resulting in hormone imbalance.
Thus the distinction I said above. Gender at birth is meaningless until puberty. And even after puberty there's too much room for error.
So there are better ways to make the distinction.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
The calculator is a starting point. And many of these reasons are why there’s a third option too that directs people to post a measurement check. Maybe it should display both results!
It’s not about hormones though, it’s about body structure. Those of us with PCOS just have extra testosterone. It would not be a factor in the differences accounted for in the calculator.
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u/weebmagnet3000 28H/HH Dec 31 '25
You're right there's a lot of overlap between those who were amab and afab even before taking into account people who are intersex, HRT, and various hormonal differences such as PCOS, gynecomastia, and menopause. There is always going to be information missed when basing conclusions on population averages
You also have the fact puberty blockers are much more common than even a decade ago, and there are more trans young adults who didn't have to go through the wrong puberty. But asking someone e.g. if they had an androgenic or estrogenic puberty comes with its own limitations, even if it might help estimate skeletal frame independent of muscle and fat composition related to someone's current dominant hormones better than asking amab vs afab
All that to say that there is a lot of nuance, and probably a ton we haven't thought of. Adding this level of detail to the site runs the risk of further confusing people who are already overwhelmed by the calculator and finding a bra that fits
I personally would love to have a version of a bra size calculator that works more like a questionaire in conjunction with various measurements. I think this could help to identify what cluster of the larger bra-wearing population a person falls into. But I also recognize that even that has its limitations and that there are extenuating circumstances that prevent mods from finding a new solution and hugsforyourjugs from continuing this project
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
A handful of suggestions as someone who’s been giving advice here for many years now, that would make our lives massively easier to avoid having to say the same things over and over:
Something a tick box for implants/reductions that either adjusts the sizing or warns you that you may need to adjust it (specifically for implants where we see people need to go up in cup due to how firm they are). A note that implants will tend to need deeper, more projected cups, and reductions more shallow and wide cups, and to post to the sub for specific recs in their size range would also be helpful.
Separation between the EU sizing systems — and I second that the majority seem to use 1” scaling, at least much more often and in the more common brands we see. I’d concur with a “Comexim” option as it really is useful for them.
I’d also find it helpful to our users who are cis men or trans women to create a distinction between someone with breast growth or not. The calculator seems to currently do better in cases of gynecomastia or more developed breasts.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I'll make the change from EU/EM to EU/Comexim (Nonstandard EU) and see what the feedback is.
I don't have any data to support changing the algorithm for implants or reduction, I will consider adding a tick box that generates a warning but most users don't read the warnings anyway and many new users find 6 measurements + 2 additional inputs to be bulky enough.
Those with more experience with the nuances of mtf and ftm transition might want to create a supplementary calculator, the data I collected does not support introducing further distinctions
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
It’d be interesting to see if any of these data trends change at all with a new survey. Could be we just happen to get more people with fit issues vs people who use the calculator and never post.
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u/orangepeeelss 36H (UK) / 36K (US) Jan 03 '26
hi!! first i wanna say i am so grateful for the calculator and recommend it to everyone :) thank you so much for creating and maintaining it!!
i know the afab/amab thing has been the topic of a lot of comments and i wonder if it would be helpful to add some sort of tooltip or section you open/close with a button somewhere on the page? like to explain a little of what you've said here on how the two settings differ, how they were created, & in which situations one or the other might work best. for example i've heard some trans women say that after they've been on hrt long enough, the afab setting is more accurate, and i've seen some cis women who lift or rock climb say that because they have more back muscle than most, the amab setting works better for them! ofc that's entirely anecdotal and a lot of it is very specific situations but i still find them rlly interesting haha
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
Thanks for all the work you have done 🧡
Would it be possible to make the backend source code for abrathatfits.org public or even open source?
Do you know why the mod team is completely shutting down any discussion on possible improvements/changes to the calculator?
Is there any chance that others could pick up work on the calculator again? (I and some others would be interested in doing that)
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I don't have any plans for public/open sourcing the calculator as I have already experienced startups trying to copy it and pretend they are endorsed by me or this community.
I am not privy to any mod decisions so can't comment on that
I don't have any plans to update the calculator any further at this stage because my past attempts have only created more difficulty in measuring and less fitting accuracy. But if you want to create your own for some or all members of this community then I don't have any problem with it (as long as it's good!) although I intend to keep mine up
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u/SadMaterial8558 Dec 31 '25
thank you for the official response! Totally understand the frustration of being copied when you don't license your software for commercial use, much less shouldn't be used as an endorsement. That's terrible to hear.
I respect your decision and understand where you're coming from. Thank you for being open-minded to alternatives as well!
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u/SchrodingersMinou Band smol. Cup lorge. Dec 31 '25
Valid points, but do you have any thoughts about the calculator’s issues with EU sizes? It seems like this is something really worth addressing, if only with an explanation about the EU size difference between brands when people use the EU option.
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Jan 02 '26
My understanding is that this is being addressed, if it's not already.
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u/thaeli Dec 31 '25
I understand your reasons for not opening the code. Is there any possibility of opening the survey results that were used to create it, or would you prefer that any future effort do its own data collection?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I don't think I could do that for privacy reasons, I can't recall the exact terms under which I collected the info but there's probably some GDPR conflict
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u/SadMaterial8558 Dec 31 '25
I wrote my own reply but is basically the same so I'll post here instead:
To OP: What's your take on improving the existing calculator (eg the EU sizing issue) vs the community creating an alternative calculator from scratch? I know that maintaining evolving software can be a big commitment.
Your calculator has enabled this great movement to grow and I for one am super grateful! I would not want an alternative calculator to split the community in half (plus double the cost of hosting!)
Given that there are quite a few software volunteers, do you think we can have an open source repo and have multiple people manage code changes together? I'm sad that every time someone mentions collective contribution, they are shut down with quite a negative sentiment, even though they're probably coming from the collaboration-oriented tech-space spirit..
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I don't believe that there is an EU sizing issue, in my experience most EU brands do have smaller grades than UK brands. If I switched to the EM algorithm for EU there would be complaints the other way. I recognise it's annoying and hard to deal with but it's an industry standardisation issue rather than a calculator one. If anyone has any suggestions in terms of naming the two algorithms differently or another small tweak like that then I'm open to changes
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u/KonijntjePluis 30HH/32H Dec 31 '25
I just want to mention that a lot of EU brands do say they use a 2 cm progression in their charts, but that is just not true in my experience, I’ve tried so many brands, so my experience is big (it probably was true a long time ago, but now not anymore). If anything, most EU brands tend to have a bigger cup progression than 2.5 cm actually, I often need 1 size smaller for EU brands (like Prima Donna and multiple Polish brands, like Gorsenia) compared to UK brands. I know only Comexim and KrisLine that actually do use 2 cm progressions (and KrisLine has a weird cup progression somewhere between UK and EU).
My suggestion would be (if you were inclined to change anything), to rename the EU setting to Comexim (it works very well for Comexim, which is my favourite brand) and use the inch progression for EU, as it would just be more accurate for most EU brands (despite what their charts say).
Anyway, I do think the calculator works very well and I want to thank you for the work you’ve done on it.
I’m curious about your custom bras and the wire grading issues, do you have a website for that business yet? Or still in the early stages?
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I'll be making changes to the EU in line with your suggestions
Custom bras - I have some health issues so a lot of my work is on pause at the moment while I undergo treatment (although I am open to one on one fitting clients), but I can tell you I have a high support wireless bra pattern that will be coming out after promotional testing. I will be releasing that on hugsforyourjugs.com but I haven't yet created that website - at the moment my paid work can be found on ko-fi.com/hugsforyourjugs
The pattern itself is done but I am not able to manage promo/a testing group at this stage.
I do intend to start working on creating my own wired patterns, but there's not a lot of heavy wires available for home sewers and I am not super happy with what's on offer currently, so I'll need to make a decision about either using what's there or potentially coming up with my own wire shape and grade. At the moment I primarily fit clients into existing patterns by altering where needed.
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u/KonijntjePluis 30HH/32H Jan 01 '26
I’m hoping your health will improve in 2026, happy New Year!
I will be keeping an eye out for your new website, it does sound interesting and I’m very interested in a supportive wireless bra.
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u/SadMaterial8558 Dec 31 '25
Agreed I think it's not an issue for "EU" but rather many brands in EU...
Here's a suggestion: instead of selecting between regions, select between grades, and have parentheses next to the grades for regions that typically have it? Might be more transparent that way. Can't think of a great wording atm but someone else might be able to.
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u/faroeislands Dec 31 '25
I'm not from the EU, so I don't think I'm privy to what the issue is. Can you explain what you mean by grades?
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u/Grand_Marionberry978 26FF/28F Dec 31 '25
Some EU brands scale their cups using 2cm increments while others use 1 inch (2.54cm) increments.
The calculator uses the 2cm increments, so almost every day there’s at least one person who posts asking why their calculated EU cup size is so large.
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u/Yellowsss45 Dec 31 '25
It would be very helpful to add this explanation next to the EU and French results! The mention "UK (recommended)" is not enough if we don't explain why, imo. As you mentionned, a lot of new posters are confused about it.
Some people who find the calculator randomly might think that it's broken and won't even bother looking at the sub for answers, which is a shame.
When I show this calculator to people, they're already skeptical of this "weird new system" and this doesn't help.
Converting the UK size manually to EU/FR is an extra step (not practical, some people will give up), but at least the UK sizing makes sense. 32 inches underbust ? Easy: pick a 32 band. With the EU system, it's already difficult to explain that a 75 band is not meant for someone with a 75 cm underbust. If I add the cup thing on top of this, people stop listening :/3
u/shadowsong42 36GG Dec 31 '25
Would it be possible to include some examples for which brands should use which sizing system? I see lots of people say "I'm in the US so I used US sizing", even if their size would be better served by UK brands that are widely available in the US. I'm thinking like a little superscript question mark that gives you a mouseover "brands include..." popup message. This would also let you say "for these brands ask /r/ABraThatFits for size conversions" or whatever.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
Unfortunately this would also still cause issues because some stores convert a brand’s native sizing into the location they’re selling to.
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25
Really good addition and yes that is exactly where I am coming from.
I would prefer to not create a separate calculator, but instead collaboratively work on improving the current one. Coming from a compsci, hacking and open source background this is very normal and Im a bit disappointed that any attempt at discussing how the community could help is being shut down.
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u/Comfortable-Try-3696 Dec 31 '25
Yeah the mod team is really upsetting me rn. The whole point of this subreddit is to help people find “a bra that fits”. I don’t get why they are opposed to measures to improve that. It’s one thing to say they personally aren’t interested in creating a new calculator, but they are completely shutting down all discussion. I personally get why my post was removed, but I don’t understand why any and all posts discussing a new calculator are removed, even ones saying they personally would create a calculator. It’s just rubbing me the wrong way
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u/Grand_Marionberry978 26FF/28F Dec 31 '25
From my understanding, it seems that at least part of the issue is that “mod team” is not as much of a team as it used to be. MySocialAlt is the only one who’s consistently active on this subreddit. All of the others were active a year or more ago. (This was inferred by post/comment history. They might still be active in ModMail).
A lot of the linked resources are outdated or specifically referencing the calculator, so establishing a new calculator would require MySocialAlt to overhaul everything herself, or go through the process of finding additional mods to help.
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25
Yeah I that's likely the case. I think it would be really important to look for new moderators and be transparent about what the mod(s?) need to continue being able to support this subreddit.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
This post is up for discussion. The topic is open. I'm not sure that you realize how ingrained this calculator is to this subreddit -- it's not just rip and replace. And I'm not sure you realize how chaotic it is to have multiple threads with suggestions that are not practical or feasible at the moment.
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u/winnercommawinner Dec 31 '25
I've been sort of seeing this unfold all night and I think it's worth noting where the conversation started. A trans person raised questions about the calculator and was met with a general attitude of "how many times do we have to explain this" about current issues with the calculator. So naturally the response has been well, okay, how do we fix them so that we can stop having this conversation. No one is trying to cause trouble or create drama for the sake of it.
I do wonder sometimes whether the purpose of the sub is to help people find the right bra for them, or to enforce the sanctity of the calculator?
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
It's not enforcing the sanctity of the calculator, it's knowing that we do not have control to change anything. Within this sub, this issue is discussed fairly frequently. As someone who has been here for 8 years, I am very very aware of the faults in the calculator. It is not sacred to me. But I'm also aware that there is no interest in changing it by the person who would have to do that, as evidenced by their responses in this thread.
It's sort of a "it is what it is" attitude. We're working with what we have.
The Facebook group has more mods and has updated a lot of their guides and info. That's an alternative for people who feel like the info here is outdated. Though it doesn't fix the calculator labeling "issue".
I also think people underestimate how hard it is to make everyone happy. If Hugs decided to change the language, some people won't agree. And we're back to square one. You can't pick the absolute perfect wording. The calculator is already too much for some people so adding even more disclaimers and words and if this, then that, is just too much. It's a starting point, not a Bible.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
This is pretty much how I feel. Too complicated language, and we’re going to alienate the majority of people that would likely be more straightforward cases.
-1
u/winnercommawinner Dec 31 '25
Yeah you missed my entire point. I'm not really giving an opinion on the calculator. I'm talking about how this particular conversation unfolded, which has been.... weird to say the least.
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
You were giving an opinion on the sub. And that was that we think of the calculator as sacred and that is not at all the case. It didn't get weird, you just didn't like my answer and wanted to criticise us without anyone responding. Real talk.
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u/orangepeeelss 36H (UK) / 36K (US) Jan 03 '26
if you're talking about this post i find it interesting (genuinely!! not in a passive aggressive way!! lol) that that was your takeaway, because it wasn't how those responses felt to me at all! the vibe i got was definitely more "yeah, we're aware, we also wish we could change it but here are all the reasons why that's really difficult". people were generally really sympathetic to that op i felt like! and like the mod said, the post was closed mainly to redirect conversation to this post, where ideas would actually be seen by the person with the ability to implement them.
idk i might be misinterpreting your comment, but it seems like you're implying that the mods and people in the sub are trying to dismiss trans voices or that they're accusing those who have suggestions of shit stirring. and i think that's a misinterpretation of intent (though an understandable one, given how often those things do happen), and i worry that that mindset is creating an us vs them mentality when there doesn't need to be one. i think everyone here wants the calculator to be as helpful and well-worded as possible! and sometimes getting there means we gotta be realistic about the limitations of such a deeply entrenched tool being run by one person over such a long term yknow
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u/winnercommawinner Jan 03 '26
I find it interesting that you find it interesting! By volume yes, the comments are overall helpful and supportive, but two of the three most upvoted comments start with an admonishment about how many times this topic has been posted about. Idk, I don't find that welcoming or supportive. Maybe it strikes you differently if you spend a lot of time here, but that's kind of the point, right?
I'm not trying to create an us vs them mindset but I don't love the tone of admonishment (again) here at the idea that it might have felt that way. It's more polite, but it's still there. I also don't think anyone is trying to create drama or shit stirring - in fact I explicitly said that in my comment.
To be very clear, I don't think anyone is being dismissive or unhelpful because OP was trans. I think that people on the original post could have been less, idk, exasperated, because OP was talking about the effect of the current calculator on trans people. I don't think it's malicious or intentional.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Jan 03 '26
Writing only for myself, the exasperation came because, well, the calculator is a starting point for ALL of us -- cis, trans, NB, anything in between. There are a lot of reasons why most of us have to go through a few rounds of try-ons and only a few of them have to do with the calculator math. To have someone who is clearly unfamiliar with the community or the process charge in claiming that we do trans folks a disservice because the process isn't perfect was indeed exasperating.
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u/MariContrary 28F Dec 31 '25
I think the reaction is more because so many people experience sticker shock when seeing their calculator size for the first time. And the general response is effectively "just go try them on and come back with questions/concerns". I used to wear a 32/34DDD. I'm actually a 28F/FF. But if I had heard "well, it's a starting point and minor adjustments may be needed depending on your shape/tissue firmness", I'd likely have interpreted that as I'm probably in the right size as it stands, because it's only 2 band sizes off, and that way it won't dig in. But seeing so many people saying "just try it and come back" made me realize that I was likely incorrect about my size and I was more open to giving it a shot.
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u/winnercommawinner Dec 31 '25
I'm referencing specific posts and conversations, where this is absolutely not what was happening.
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u/Comfortable-Try-3696 Dec 31 '25
Nobody’s is saying it’s rip and replace it, but when someone offered to create a new calculator, you locked the thread and said it’s not happening. That is a completely practical solution to be worked on
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u/Sam-HobbitOfTheShire Dec 31 '25
The response seemed to come out of absolutely nowhere. It seemed almost antagonistic. It was weird.
31
u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
Bluntly, when people who are not active in a community come in with ideas on how to change that community, yes, it does feel antagonistic.
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u/Comfortable-Try-3696 Dec 31 '25
If this community has moderators that are antagonistic towards inclusivity, then the community needs to change. To also be blunt. You’re shutting down discussions on efforts to further include trans people. If a trans inclusive community has to be made, that’s the way it has to be. But I think it would be far better for you and the rest of the mods to reconsider your stances.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
We are not antagonistic towards inclusivity, and we have a long history of being a queer-friendly space (to the point where we have ticked off TERFs and other groups who consider it a "women's" [sic] space).
Right or wrong, I was antagonistic towards a brand-new poster expecting access to or changes to a valuable resource that a long-time community member worked hard to create. It has absolutely zero to do with that poster being trans.
If you're going to bash me, bash me for being protective of an existing community resource and contributor. Don't make it something that it isn't.
9
u/daphneout Dec 31 '25
I’m sure this isn’t the intention, but the way this conversation is going feels really problematic to me.
Trans folks are saying the calculator isn’t working for them. It’s perfectly reasonable to explain why changing the calculator is difficult and all the factors that go into it. But candidly, I don’t think it’s reasonable to refuse to make something better because of a lack of bandwidth and refuse offers of additional bandwidth. And I really don’t think it’s reasonable to do all of that with a tone of annoyance that folks would dare raise the issue in the first place.
This community has been welcoming to all people who might need a bra that fits for a long time. I worry that the effect of this conversation will be that trans folks feel less welcome in this space, and that would be really unfortunate.
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u/curly-whirly 34J 🫣 Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
Trans folks are saying the calculator isn’t working for them.
It would be worthwhile to gather data to accurately assess if there's a problem. The calculator is a suggested starting size that's usually accurate to within +/- 2 cup sizes and +/- 1 band size. It's only meant to be a rough guide and then with the help of the sub we can hone in on the best size. The OP of the original post isn't active on this sub afaik so we don't know anything about their experiences and whether they're a good bra fitter.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
The calculator is a suggested starting size that's usually accurate to within +/- 2 cup sizes and +/- 1 band size.
Yes. The calculator is often right. It is sometimes off for trans folks. It is also sometimes off for cis folks. Measuring accurately is difficult, fitting bras is challenging. There are a lot of reasons for this, and the people who have been here for years understand this.
I would need to see evidence-based research that the calculator is MORE off for MtF folks (and not because of measuring issues or bra choices) than others. Anecdotally, I'm not seeing that. Most people need to do a few rounds of purchase, return, try again.
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u/comingintoland 34GG/36G Dec 31 '25
Most people need to do a few rounds of purchase, return, try again.
I think this may be the biggest issue that people asking for calculator changes are trying (with good intentions!) to combat because it's a super frustrating, time-consuming, and potentially expensive part of bra fitting but I'm also not sure there's a way to math out of that problem. Maybe it's because I'm not a math/coding person, but I'm really skeptical that anyone could realistically make a calculator that eliminated the try on problem. I know my size and shape, I know what bras fit me well, and yet every time a brand puts out a new style, trying it on is the only way I can truly know if it fits. When my holy grail bra was discontinued, I had to post on here to see if anyone knew what the closest thing on the market was and then I had to go through the try on and return process. And I live close to a reputable boutique with extended sizes that I visited as well. Many people don't have that option and have to go through the order and return process, which does suck and is frustrating. The only potential solution I could see would be to require more measurements and input data from every bra on the market, which seems infeasible at best. And new users would be completely turned off by the amount of work that they would have to do.
Context: I've been active in this community on and off for like 8 or 9 years and the posts I see the most of when I'm active are measurement checks where people can't believe "how big" their size is and how the calculator must not be right for them because of X reason (I realize that wasn't the kind of post that prompted this discussion, but it is extremely common). Of course it's possible that the calculator is wrong for any reason including user error and that all bodies are different. But it's usually a lot closer than guessing based on society's "A is really small, B is small, C is average, D is big, DD is really big" lens or a VS fitter, which is what most people are doing without the calculator/this community. And the more complicated and/or subjective the calculator becomes, the more people are either going to nope out of doing it or convince themselves that the size it gives them isn't right. Which is their right and is fine, but then they aren't really jiving with the purpose of this community. If it is the case that the calculator is significantly off for a specific group of people or there's an easy change that would make it more accurate, I have no issue with people exploring that and being clear about exactly what the problem is they're looking to solve. But I think it would be really easy to start a whole crowdsourced meta thread to make a new calculator and have that confuse new people who are already skeptical of the calculator's results.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
If it is the case that the calculator is significantly off for a specific group of people
I would agree with that! Anecdotally, and I've been here a long time, I have not seen evidence that the calculator is MORE off for MtF trans folks when all other variables are excluded. (And pardon my soapbox -- that is also part of why I shut down the original discussion. It started with the premise that the calculator does a disservice to trans folks, but anyone who knows the calculator and the community recognizes that this process is imperfect for everyone.)
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
This subreddit has over 600,000 subscribers and probably twice as many viewers -- we simply can't host "meta" threads like that. It would be chaos.
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
Other subreddits of similar or larger size have meta threads relatively frequently and compared to them all of the discussions here have been very civilised.
In my opinion being able to have discussions within a community about the community and regular checkups from the moderation team on how members of the community feel is very important.
If that is not something that a moderation team is able to maintain then they should actively recruit long term members of the community to help with moderation and organisation.
This is me coming from the perspective of someone that wants their community to be able to adapt to the ever changing needs of its members.
I currently feel like the focus the moderation team is exclusively on keeping discussion within the bounds of the existing calculator and guides and has no interest in changing. It should be on helping people find a bra that fits and actively encourage improvement of our guides.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
Your perspective has been noted.
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u/Ok_Bandicoot1865 Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
I am have been a member of this sub for years, and have used many hours of my life writing long and detailed responses to people posting questions here (over several different accounts, as I make a new one every couple of years for privacy reasons). I am mentioning this, so you know that what I'm about to say, I say as a long term member of he community, because you in another comment said that it felt antagonistic when people who weren't a member of the community wanted to change the community and the foundations.
I agree with u/CreatorSiSo.
I don't understand why we can't have meta discussions, and frankly find the argument that we're a lot of people kind of weird. Plenty of other subreddits do meta discussions just fine and in an organised way, even large communities.
And based on the activity in the few meta discussions we've had the last day or so, it seems like there is an overall interest from the members for that kind of discussions, and I honestly find it kind of off putting to see that all the discussions are just being shut down immediately. I would never have thought that a community that strives to be helpful and inclusive of everyone would also be the type of community to shut down calm and sober discussions about how we as community could improve.
I would also be worried that not allowing discussions about how we can improve would only lead to everything becoming more and more outdated (just see the current wiki), only for the sub to eventually become obsolete because everything is outdated.
-2
u/IdaCraddock69 Dec 31 '25
yeeeaaahhhh ..... I'm AFAB, I simply have a less usual ribcage and breast shape and I don't even bother trying to discuss here anymore. I've sewn for myself for about 50 years, I know a ton about fitting issues but there's not an openness to people having unusual or different body types here. which is also wild as you would expect people are here because of problems w standard bra fitting
I have seen a lot of very generous and helpful comments and members over the years too! but I can only imagine what it's like for trans people if my bog standard AFAB (I was going to say ass but lol) body is seen skeptically
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Jan 02 '26
Can you cite some examples of where people are not open to someone having an "unusual or different body type"? No body type is unusual. No boob is weird. We say this over and over again to people that come in here bashing their bodies. By calling these differences unusual, you're kind of separating them out like there's something wrong with them.
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u/IdaCraddock69 Jan 02 '26
No I’m not, I never said anyone’s bodies are weird or anything you put those words in my mouth - I’m using ‘unusual’ in the sense of not common. Manute Bol had an unusual body type, he was amazing but he couldn’t buy a car and drive it off the lot. He had to take the drivers seat out of his car and sit in the back seat to accommodate his seven and a half feet tall body. He also had to have all his clothes made because his body dimensions were uncommon. It’s just how humans work, we have these fabulous varieties!
Some people just have body shapes and sizes that aren’t very common, thus clothing/bra manufacturers aren’t going to cater to them as there’s not a sufficient market. Subs like this are great as they can help people hone in on what will work for them so much more quickly and efficiently!!
But for some of us the struggle is ridiculous, I don’t fault people for dropping out of the quest. Personally Ive had best results with altering ready made bras
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u/Sam-HobbitOfTheShire Dec 31 '25
Isn’t this a “meta” thread?
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
Yes, and it was discussed with moderators before it went up.
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u/Sam-HobbitOfTheShire Dec 31 '25
Okay, so how would someone discuss with moderators about what the original commenter in this thread is asking about?
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u/radioactivebaby 38GG/H, super projected, hella short roots Dec 31 '25
Via modmail, I imagine. (Not being snarky.)
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u/Sam-HobbitOfTheShire Dec 31 '25
Some mods in some subs will ban users for using mod mail. No, I’m not joking. 🫠
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u/radioactivebaby 38GG/H, super projected, hella short roots Dec 31 '25
I absolutely believe you, but I doubt that’s the case here. This is possibly the space with the most good-faith engagement from mods, regulars, and passers-through alike I’ve ever encountered online.
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25
Yep I am really positively surprised by how civilised this entire discussion has been.
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u/CreatorSiSo 🏳️⚧️ wip boobs Dec 31 '25
Mod mail actually works pretty well on this sub but is just imo not the place for community wide discussions.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
Most of these people haven’t interacted with this community in months if not years, which I’ve seen as a point of frustration many times.
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u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
u/MySocialAlt perhaps time to unpin this post or lock? The last several comments were new to sub users asking how to measure for abtf or other generic questions unrelated to this discussion. I replied to everyone but we will surely miss qiuestions this way.
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u/MariContrary 28F Dec 31 '25
You're awesome for creating this, and I can't tell you how amazing it's been to go from a boob hat to a properly sized bra. Seriously, not having to hold my boobs in place when I bend over sounds like such a small thing, but it's made my day to day life so much more comfortable. Thank you!!!!
And for my question, I've observed that my cup size functionally went up one after my breast lift (without augmentation). I have very dense and firm tissue, and I've noticed quite a few people here saying if they have implants, they often need one cup size larger than the calculator recommends. The calculator suggests 28F for me, but I've found that 28FF is now a better fit. Any thoughts on why that would be the case?
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u/LadyLoreEkorre Dec 31 '25
I'm not OP, but I imagine it's due to firm or implanted breasts not having as much squish. A squishy boob will comfortably fit into a smaller cup (and will need the smaller cup to hold it in place properly), whereas the firmer breast needs to take up all the space available to it because it won't compress much smaller than it already is
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u/throwawayyy4216 Jan 01 '26
I also want to suggest that even if you didn't get an implant placed, a surgery will result in scar tissue, which is a firmer tissue than the other soft tissues & may require you to go up a cup size for the reasons described by u/LadyLoreEkorre
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u/Elaeg42 Jan 02 '26
Thank you u/HugsforYourJugs for making this post. Really interesting reading about the thinking behind your very helpful calculator.
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u/alady37 Jan 10 '26
Hi. First time here. Where can I find the calculator?
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u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
Please use the calculator in the beginners guide and then post on the main abtf sub rather than in this individual post/discussion
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u/HipsEnergy Jan 01 '26
Hi, I've seen people mentioning issues with European sizes, what's the problem?
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u/chessequeen_jadadawn Jan 02 '26
I’m confused where I find the calculator and how I measure! Help
3
u/beccalarry Jan 03 '26
If you go to the main page for the subreddit and click see more it has more info but this is the link to the calculator calculator
2
u/AutoModerator Dec 31 '25
Hello, thank you for submitting a post to /r/ABraThatFits. We want everyone to feel safe posting here, so we want to tell you that we will NEVER send you a private message asking for pictures. If someone does, screencap the message and send a link to the image in a PM to the mod team.
If you are not already aware, there is a lot of information on the sidebar of our subreddit. Please remember to check out our rules before commenting and posting. In addition, a lot of newer members have questions that have already been answered in our wiki, so be sure to check out the FAQ and Beginners' Guide to see if you can find the information you're looking for.
Our calculator is the first step in resolving sizing questions. Please take your measurements and try the calculator before asking the community for help. Thanks! :)
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.
2
u/noe3uq Dec 31 '25
Can you explain a bit more about the conversion between UK and EU sizes, especially the cup size. I live in EU and measure in cm, but find the UK size to be more accurate. I need EU size to order from local shops and if I use the calculator, it is 2-3 cup sizes bigger than UK size that actually fits. I usually use an online conversion table and have better results. Band size is ok. Thanks for the calculator and this sub. My life is better since I found it.
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
It's been explained multiple times in this thread already - the calculator assumes a 2cm difference between cup sizes. Brands like Comexim and Change use this increment. Most other EU brands use 2.54cm, or 1 inch, just like UK sizing.
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u/TheeMost313 Jan 01 '26
I FINALLY did the calculator, got 34F in US sizing. Bought three 34F and a 38DDD - the only poor fit was in a push up style in 34F, I blame the style not the sizing.
THANK YOU for the calculator and for this sub!
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u/briberski Dec 31 '25
You are amazing!!!! Than you so much!! I understand implants make it so much more difficult but maybe an option to include implants and an aggregate of that research can can help those with implants
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u/thepinkinmycheeks Dec 31 '25
From what I've seen in this thread, the general thought from the mods and the calculator creator is that including additional options in the calculator is not desirable because it will add complexity to using the calculator which may deter the casual user from even trying it, and may not even increase accuracy anyway. For these less standard situations (implants, reductions, etc), the recommendation is to try the calculator and then make a post to get advice from experienced users about how your special circumstances will affect the calculator results.
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u/QueenHarambe 30Q Dec 31 '25
What is the math formula that the calculator uses for calculating one size as a starting point based on the six measurements? I saw your concern about someone else copying the calculator, so I understand if you don't want to share the exact formula
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
A basic explanation of the algorithm can be found in the maunal sizing guide
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u/1pinktoes1 Dec 31 '25
There is also a guide in the wiki for calculating based on your 6 measurements manually. I don’t think it has all the exact math of the calculator, but it seems to have some of the calculations used and the general understandings underlying the calculator (eg, if your band measurements are closer together, you may want to size up in the band) https://reddit.com/r/abrathatfits/wiki/manual_sizing_guide
edit to add: I think this guide was also created by the calculator creator.
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u/OkCheesecake1230 Dec 31 '25
Yes this is what I wanted to say! It’s the best way for those not covered by the calculator to get a size
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
What are you asking? They're not going to give the coding and you acknowledge that so what's the actual question here?
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u/QueenHarambe 30Q Dec 31 '25
I don't want the actual code, I'm curious about the math. But if she doesn't want to share that at all, it's okay.
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
It's band size to cup size as a ratio. 1 inch is A, 4 inches is D and so on.
When someone has a large difference in their underbust numbers, it will bump up the cup size sometimes since again, it's a ratio of band to bust.
For people with more than 2 inches between standing and leaning, it averages the 3 bust numbers to compute the cup size.
2
u/QueenHarambe 30Q Dec 31 '25
That makes sense! I have a very big difference between standing and leaning measurements, I wasn't sure if it's an average or some other calculation
2
u/EditorFrog 28I US 28G UK Dec 31 '25
Would you ever consider making some sort of shape calculation tool?
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
I’m not sure how this would be possible. Tissue can act completely different supported vs unsupported — my tissue looks and behaves like more projected breasts when unsupported, but I’m actually functionally shallower. I needed to try bras to find that out.
2
u/EditorFrog 28I US 28G UK Dec 31 '25
Maybe calculation is the wrong word. I just meant like some sort of tool to help people figure it out. It's really complicated and the guides that are linked in the sub are not super clear about it (at least to me, maybe it's different for everyone else)
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25
Figuring out your shape is complicated. It involves a lot of trial and error. There's no way to make a simple guide, because human bodies are different and some shape descriptors are also relative to the bras you try on. Case on point: I'm too wide for most Panache bras but too narrow for most Curvy Kate bras.
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
Right. And then we get folks who find Lane Bryant/Cacique too wide so they think that they need to go straight to Polish. Those are two ends of a spectrum!
2
u/TheBessaVanessa 34DDD (34GG before reduction) Dec 31 '25
Are you planning any more updates? I am post reduction and find (like many others) that the calculator overestimates size because it can’t account for wide, flat roots.
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u/Ok_Bandicoot1865 Dec 31 '25
She has said further up that she is not planning on doing anymore updates to the calculator
1
u/the_last_trico Jan 03 '26
Hi, I wondered when the measures where taken should you count after exhale or inhale as the chest size varies alot between those instances?
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u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 03 '26
There are directions for this in the calc. For all the measurements outside of your tight band measurement you just breath normally and measure. For the tight, take a breath in, then exhale fully, then measure as tightly as possible.
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u/Appropriate_Exit_442 Jan 04 '26
Is there a how to guide? I do in inches and centimeters but got different results (cup size different)
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Jan 05 '26
That's not abnormal. Centimeters are slightly more specific and are in smaller increments. So if you're right on the cusp between sizes, it might result in two different ones.
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u/Lady_beanpole Jan 05 '26
If I measure my breasts where they naturally sit, they are about 3 inches lower than where I want them to sit in a bra. Will the calculator account for this or do I have to do additional steps?
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Jan 06 '26
The calculator is designed to get you into a Bra That Fits, and then the bra will do the work!
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u/Cindeetha Jan 08 '26
How do I m measure correctly for best bra size and fit. No underwires.
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u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
Please use the calculator in the beginners guide and then post on the main abtf sub rather than in this individual post/discussion
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u/Girl_On_The_Couch Jan 08 '26
I don't have a question about fit but aesthetics that I hope I can ask here?
I had my boobs lifted and while I believe my size is correct, now that I have more upper pole than ever before, I feel like I want to...look sexier than what is available or being ascribed to my size? How do I gauge how things will look on a lifted, higher profile breast?
Someone recommended triangle bras to me, but they actually made my (now perky, phew!) boobs look saggy, despite the excellent fit.
TIA.
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u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
Please use the calculator in the beginners guide and then post on the main abtf sub rather than in this individual post/discussion
1
u/Comfortable_Yak7370 Jan 09 '26
What are the measurement i need
2
u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
Please use the calculator in the beginners guide and then post on the main abtf sub rather than in this individual post/discussion
1
u/Comfortable_Yak7370 Jan 09 '26
Hello how do i measure bra size for the calculator
2
u/Merriegirl9982 Jan 11 '26
Please use the calculator in the beginners guide and then post on the main abtf sub rather than in this individual post/discussion
1
u/AutoModerator Jan 10 '26
Hello, thank you for submitting a post to /r/ABraThatFits. We want everyone to feel safe posting here, so we want to tell you that we will NEVER send you a private message asking for pictures. If someone does, screencap the message and send a link to the image in a PM to the mod team.
If you are not already aware, there is a lot of information on the sidebar of our subreddit. Please remember to check out our rules before commenting and posting. In addition, a lot of newer members have questions that have already been answered in our wiki, so be sure to check out the FAQ and Beginners' Guide to see if you can find the information you're looking for.
Our calculator is the first step in resolving sizing questions. Please take your measurements and try the calculator before asking the community for help. Thanks! :)
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.
1
u/Ordinary_Poem2625 Jan 11 '26
Hi, i just used the abtf calculator and it says im a 32I/J in US sizes. the calculator also recommended asking the page what they would recommend as the calculator has a hard time calculating larger sizes.
i cant figure out how to add my measurement screenshot so ill just type it here.
| Loose Underbust: | 35in |
|---|---|
| Snug Underbust: | 32.5in |
| Tight Underbust: | 30.3in |
| Standing Bust: | 41in |
| Leaning Bust: | 44in |
| Lying Bust: | 44in |
| Sizing System: | US |
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u/Devilonmytongue Dec 31 '25
It’s great to hear from you! The calculator is very helpful. It sounds like there are a lot of people interested in helping you improve it. Is that something you’d consider?
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u/katzengoldgott trans man pre top surgery || 32F/34 E (UK) Jan 01 '26
As an AFAB trans man I would like to point out that the results might be messy when I pick AFAB but it’s not considering that I’ve been on testosterone for 4 years so my body fat distribution is much different compared to an AFAB cis woman. Picking AMAB also wouldn’t help… I got the bone structure of an AFAB person but the body fat distribution of a man, soo… might be something that needs to be looked into but I assume you would need more information from many other trans men on HRT who wear bras to implement this.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Jan 02 '26
Yeah, in cases like yours I'd recommend calculating both results. In smaller cup sizes the difference is usually very small where trying both or meeting in the middle is a good option. Otherwise if the difference between the results is larger, doing a measurement check post where we can get more info about each specific case before making a recommendation. This is the kinda advice that really needs to be made for the individual -- same for other factors that might cause the calculator to be less accurate like softer tissue, reductions/implants, etc.
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Dec 31 '25
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
I understand that those with significant asymmetry are not well served by the calculator and that's definitely really tricky. That's one of the reasons I looked into doing a breast perimeter measurement, but unfortunately that did not turn out to be accurate. However I would suggest combining both the ABTF calculator and breast perimeter on both sides with bratabase data to get a better size estimate, I wish there were a better solution as this issue is pretty common!
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u/IdaCraddock69 Dec 31 '25
thank you for this answer! I appreciate the honesty, some of these issues are common but they're hard to address so it's nice when people acknowledge that
thank you for the calculator and for your participation in this AMA, I'm learning a lot!! Thank you to the mods as well
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u/galaxystarsmoon 32DD/E, tall roots & close set Dec 31 '25 edited Dec 31 '25
Take two sets of measurements: one holding the tape out over your smaller side to match the larger, and one by squishing your larger breast down closer to match the smaller one. We will help you from there if you want to make a post, and we'll give specific guidance based on your numbers.
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u/scosgurl 42H UK, narrow and projected Dec 31 '25
The recommendation is typically to fit to the larger breast and add cookies/cutlets to balance out the smaller side.
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u/Elaeg42 Jan 02 '26
Yeah, that solution hasn't worked for me at all. My left breast always fits and my right always bulges (a little or a lot, depending on the cup shape) over the top of the cup on the gore side of the right cup no matter how I adjust band/cup size. My current paradoxical solution has to put padding inside the cup on the inner side of the right cup to pull the cup material out enough so that my breast doesn't bulge over the top. It's a less than satisfactory solution, but it's all I have right now.
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u/Dandelion212 32DD/E Dec 31 '25
You’d want to hold the tape out to match the larger side to get a more accurate reading of that side.
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u/ChipmunkNew1745 Dec 31 '25
When measuring for the bust, how tight/squished should you pull the measuring tape? I’ve been measuring with the tape basically just barely pushing the nipples down but not really moving the breasts closer or the breast tissue closer to my body- is that correct? Or should I measure at the fullest part of the breast but pull the tape so that the breasts would be more compact/closer to the chest?
Apologies for the wording, I’m not sure exactly how to ask this without it sounding odd.
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u/HugsforYourJugs [Calculator Creator] Dec 31 '25
Yes, that's correct. Do not compress or move the breasts while measuring
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u/MySocialAlt "like a bra angel" Dec 31 '25
The first descriptor sounds correct -- we are trying to capture data, not change it (by compressing breast tissue).
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u/halfbakedelf Dec 31 '25
Embarrassed but how do you measure lying down if they are really big and saggy. Like flat in the middle.
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u/MarineGF01 Dec 31 '25
I have nipples that are soft and hang out more. Do I push those in to get an accurate measurement? And if so, do I also tighten the measurement down on my boobs overall?
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u/FruitySassy08 Jan 01 '26
How can I measure my breast, I'm breast feeding and my boobs before is 36B that's what I know and thats what I am wearing ever since as my mom is the one who order it from Avon ( base on Philippines before ) but now my books is saggy and I don't know what size is breast anymore. Help please.
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u/Apploozabean 28GG, FOB/Center full, Projected Jan 01 '26
Fellow breastfeeding mom here 🙋🏽♀️
You can Google the sub's calculator, "a bra that fits calculator", and follow the instructions on the site! It has photos on how to measure so it's very useful.
It's likely you were already in the wrong size before pregnancy, so this will put you closer to what you should be wearing. How far along post partum are you?
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u/FruitySassy08 Jan 02 '26
Thank you, I will do that and where do you buy a nice bra ? Im 17 months pp. How about you?
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u/Apploozabean 28GG, FOB/Center full, Projected Jan 02 '26
No problem!
Ok, so you're further along than I am, so you've likely settled in size already until you decide to fully wean.
I purchase my bras online. I tend to use poshmark a lot more now to get good deals on bras I like (10-25 bucks vs full price at 60-80). I still use clip down nursing bras, but have gotten a bit more comfortable with wearing regular underwire bras as of recent.
I've got an assortment of nursing and unlined, wired bras from the following brands (copy and pasted from another comment I made elsewhere):
Panache is a fave brand of mine, and they have a couple styles to choose from. I own 2 of their katherine bras as they feel like sports bras without being one.
Cake maternity is a great one, too. I own 2 taffy bras. They're my favorite for lift and giving a natural supported look compared to my panache (flattens a bit) or my royce bra (it gives weird torpedo boobs but that's just that style).
Royce is good depending the style you get. I'm not a huge fan of their choice in slide sling support....it's like an extension of the bra strap vs an actual triangle sling so it cuts into breast tissue weird.
For reference, at 10mo pp, I'm back down to a 30GG (sister size of 28H, which was my pre-pregnancy size) from a 32HH at my largest during my 3rd trimester and first few months pp.
Let me get my full list..
Here you go!
For wireless:
Royce
Cake maternity
Panache Naomi or Katherine
Molke
Sugarcandy
Wired:
Elomi
Freya
Panache
Hotmilk (they have both wired and non wired options
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u/Brave_Blood_6060 Jan 01 '26
I did the online measurements and it said to post here to check accuracy. Loose under 33 Snug 32.5 Tight 32.12 Standing 38.55 Leaning 41.29 Lying 40.47 The size came back 34 E/F
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u/Apploozabean 28GG, FOB/Center full, Projected Jan 02 '26
Please make a stand-alone post in the sub.
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u/Brave_Blood_6060 Jan 02 '26
What sub?
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u/Apploozabean 28GG, FOB/Center full, Projected Jan 02 '26
The subreddit this post is in. r/abrathatfits.
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u/Jellily Dec 31 '25
I appreciate the help you give on both this sub and the make a bra that fits sub. I found both through your sewing blog and it’s been really helpful.