Fit and sizing · · 2 min read

Which SHAPE Bras Forgive Your Size, and Which Need It Exact

SHAPE Seamless Air Bra shown smooth under clothing on a model, lightweight wireless fit

The short answer: On seamless styles, if you are between two sizes, go up one: the nylon-spandex stretches to you, so the Air, Signature, Contour, Sure Cover and Longwear all forgive a half-size either way. On a structured push-up, do the opposite and stay at your exact band and cup, because a moulded push-up cup only sits right at its own size. Knowing which rule applies saves you an exchange.

One of the most common sizing mistakes is applying the seamless rule to every bra. Size up on a seamless and it hugs you; size up on a push-up and the cup gaps. The bra decides the rule, not the number.

The two rules

Seamless, stretch styles: size up between sizes. The fabric is engineered to stretch and recover, so a size larger moulds to you rather than hanging loose.

Structured, moulded styles: size exact. A push-up or band-and-cup bra holds a fixed shape. Too large and the cup gaps at the top; too small and it spills. Only your exact size sits flush.

Styles that forgive your size

All seamless and wire-free, all forgiving a half-size: Seamless Air Bra, Signature Seamless Bra, Seamless Contour Bra, Sure Cover Bra, and Longwear Bra for the widest size run. Between two? Go up one, and the band still holds.

Styles that need your exact size

A moulded push-up such as the Comfort Curve Bra is drafted around a fixed cup. Use your measured band and cup, not a size up. If you are between sizes here, a fitting is worth the two minutes rather than a guess.

How to check

Not sure if a style is forgiving? If the cup is soft and seamless, size up between sizes. If the cup is pre-shaped and firm, size exact. When in doubt, message the fit team on WhatsApp with the style and your measurements.

Questions women ask us

I am between M and L on a seamless bra. Which?

Take L. On seamless styles the fabric stretches, so the larger size moulds to you and the band holds.

Does the size-up rule work on panties too?

For seamless panties, yes, size up between sizes. For anything moulded or structured, size to your measurement.

Why does my size differ between two SHAPE styles?

Because the cups are shaped differently. That is normal. Ask us once per style and you will know your size in each.

Related in The Fitting Room


Free, private fittings. Walk into any SHAPE store and ask to be measured, or send us a message and we will do it on video. It takes about ten minutes, it is private, and you never have to buy. WhatsApp +880 1784 163199 · Find a store

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