What is the Bra Size After DDD?

Written by Carmen Rodriguez

What Bra Cup Size Comes After DD? A Guide to Understanding Full Bust Sizing

When shopping for bras, especially as you move into full bust or plus size territory, navigating cup sizes can quickly become confusing. Many women experience confusion or need to size up as their bodies change. A question we often hear at Olivia Paisley Intimates is:

“What cup size comes after DD?”

If you’ve outgrown a DD (also known as E in some size systems) and find yourself needing more coverage or support, you’re not alone. In the U.S. sizing system, the next cup size after DD is DDD, while some sizing systems use E cup as an alternative label. Understanding how cup sizes scale is essential to finding your true fit and the comfort you deserve.

When it comes to bras, the importance of fit cannot be overstated. The goal is to achieve a comfortable fit and ideal fit for your body, ensuring proper support and confidence.

Let’s break it down, expert style.

Understanding Cup Sizes: Beyond the Basics

Bra sizing is made up of two key elements:

Band size (the number, e.g., 34, 38, 42)
Cup size (the letter, e.g., D, DD, G)

As you move up in cup volume, the letters increase alphabetically, but sizing is not always uniform across countries or brands. It's important to understand the differences between cup sizes as band sizes change, for example, a 34D and a 36D have different cup volumes due to the way cup size increases with band size. Taking accurate measurements of your bust and band is essential to determine your bra size accurately and ensure the best fit and support.

Band Size Considerations

When searching for your perfect bra, paying close attention to band size is essential. The band size, measured in inches just below your breasts, forms the foundation of your bra’s support. A well fitting band should feel snug around your ribcage, firm enough to provide enough support, but never so tight that it’s uncomfortable or restricts your movement. It’s worth noting that band sizes can vary between brands and even between different styles within the same brand, so your best fit in one bra might not be the same in another. For example, a 36 band size in one brand may feel looser or tighter than a 36 in another. If you’re unsure about your current bra size or if your current bra doesn’t feel quite right, consider booking a professional fitting. This can help you discover your true band size and sister size, ensuring you get the support and comfort you need. Remember, the right band size is the key to a bra that feels as good as it looks.

What Comes After DD?

In U.S. bra sizing, DD is followed by DDD, also sometimes labeled as F cup.

Here’s a simplified progression in U.S. cup sizes:

D
DD (also known as E)
DDD (also known as F)
G
H
I
J
K… and beyond

Sometimes, you may see alternative sizes (also called sister sizes) that are labeled differently but offer the same cup size or same size in terms of fit. This is helpful because the range of sizes after DD provides more options, especially if you've been wearing the wrong bra size and need to find a better fit.

So, to answer the question: 👉 After DD comes DDD (or F cup), followed by G, H, and so on.

Note: UK and European sizing use different labeling. For example, in UK sizes, after DD comes E, F, FF, G, etc.

U.S. vs. UK Sizing, A Quick Comparison

If you’re shopping internationally or online, be sure to check the size chart or consult a fit expert, like the team at Olivia Paisley Intimates, to ensure you’re ordering the correct size. Sister size charts and sizing tables can help you find your current size in different sizing systems.

Sister Size Explained

Sister sizing is a helpful strategy for finding a comfortable and supportive bra when your usual size isn’t quite right or isn’t available. Sister sizes are bra sizes that share the same cup volume but have different band sizes. For instance, if you typically wear a 34D but find the band feels too tight, you can try a 36C, this is your sister size, offering the same cup volume with a slightly larger band. Conversely, if the band feels too loose, a 32DD would provide a snugger fit with the same cup capacity. Sister sizing is especially useful when shopping different brands or styles, as sizing can vary. Using a sister size chart or adjusting your band and cup size in tandem can help you find a bra that fits your body perfectly, even if your usual size isn’t available. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sister sizes to achieve the best fit and comfort.

Why You Might Need a Larger Cup Size

You might need a size beyond DD if:

Your current bra cups overflow or gap
You notice cup spillage, where your breasts spill out of the cups, indicating the cup is too small
The center gore doesn’t lie flat against your chest
You feel compressed or unsupported, especially with underwire bras
You experience spillage at the top, side, or under the arms
You’ve had weight or hormonal changes (like pregnancy or postpartum)

When assessing fit, pay attention to how the band size feels, it should be snug but not too tight. If the band feels loose, you may need to adjust to a smaller band size for better support. The goal is to feel fully supported in your bra, with no discomfort or shifting.

It’s important to remember that cup size alone isn’t the full story. A 38DD and a 34DD are not the same volume. This is where and professional fittings come into play.

Bust Size Measurement

Getting an accurate bust size measurement is the first step toward finding a bra that truly fits. To measure your bust size, use a soft tape measure and wrap it around the fullest part of your breasts, making sure the tape is level and parallel to the floor. For the most accurate results, wear a non padded bra or no bra at all during measurement. Once you have your bust measurement in inches, compare it to your band size to determine your cup size. For example, if your band size is 34 inches and your bust measures 36 inches, you’re likely a D cup. Keep in mind that your body shape and breast shape can influence how different bras fit, so it’s important to try various styles and brands to find what works best for you. Measuring your bust size accurately ensures you’re on the right track to discovering your perfect bra.

Full Bust Fit Tip: Prioritize Support, Not Just Size

As cup sizes increase, so do the demands on design and construction. That’s why Olivia Paisley Intimates offers:

Wide bands for better anchoring
Reinforced cups and side panels
Supportive underwires that contour without digging
Wider straps for improved weight distribution and comfort
Bras designed specifically for fuller busts, not just scaled up versions of standard sizes

We also provide a range of different bra styles, such as bralettes, push up, sports, and underwire bras, so you can choose the styles you prefer for your support and comfort needs.

We know that finding the right fit isn’t just about numbers and letters, it’s about how you feel wearing your bra all day long.

Perfect Bra Characteristics

A perfect bra is all about the right combination of support, comfort, and fit. Look for a well fitting bra with a band that sits firmly around your ribcage, providing enough support without digging in. The cups should fully contain your breasts, preventing any spillage or gaps, and the straps should be adjustable to avoid slipping or putting pressure on your shoulders. The right bra will lift and shape your bust, creating a smooth silhouette under clothes and boosting your confidence. Materials matter too, choose bras made from breathable, comfortable fabrics with secure closures for all day wear. When trying on bras, pay attention to how the band, cups, and straps feel, and don’t hesitate to seek a professional fitting if you’re unsure about your size or style. Wearing the perfect bra in your correct size can make a world of difference in your comfort, posture, and overall look.

Final Thoughts: Your Size May Be Bigger Than You Think And That's Okay

Outgrowing a DD doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with your body, it just means you need a bra that matches your shape and supports your confidence.

If you’ve been asking, “What bra cup comes after DD?”, the answer is: DDD/F, then G, H, and beyond, depending on the system used.

At Olivia Paisley Intimates, we believe every woman deserves a perfect fit. Our bras are designed for women of all shapes and sizes, ensuring comfort, support, and confidence. Our fit experts are here to help you navigate sizing, try new styles, and finally find a bra that feels like it was made for you.