DD Cup Size Breasts and Bra Size [Ultimate Guide]
If you’re someone who wears a DD cup size, you might have noticed that there’s a lot of confusion and misconceptions about what that actually means. There’s often this assumption that DD cup sizes are huge, but in reality, it’s not as big as people think—it’s actually pretty manageable if you find the right bra!
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about DD cup breasts, from the correct way to measure your bra size to understanding how the same cup size can look so different depending on your band size and body shape. I’ll also share some insight into how to find the perfect bra and offer a little advice on the famous celebrities who wear a DD cup size.
What Do DD Cup Breasts Look Like?
As soon as bra cup sizes enter the double letters, most people assume that the bust that fits into these bras will be massive. While it is true for some sizes, the often misunderstood DD cup size is actually not that big.
It is above average but still lies somewhere in the middle of the bra size spectrum. There are a whole range of sizes bigger than the DD cup including DDD cup , E cup , F cup , G cup , H cup , and all the way to size O.
Thus, contrary to popular belief, DD cup size is relatively manageable if you wear the right kind of bra.
Moreover, it is important to understand that the volume or apparent size of a DD cup depends on the band size. A DD cup on a small band size will have less volume than the same cup on bigger band size. Many women go back and forth between a D cup and DD cup, depending on the brand of the bra.
Furthermore, other factors such as your posture, bra type, and the perkiness of your boobs change the shape of your bust. Therefore, when it comes to bra sizes, two women with the exact band and cup size may appear to have completely different boobs.
Unfortunately, the misconception about bra sizes is very prevalent around the globe. In fact, it is only recently that lingerie brands have started catering to women with bigger bust sizes. For the longest time, bra sizes ranged from A cup to D cup sizes.
Even though some brands still do not make bras in very big sizes , you can easily find your DD cup size in the majority of retail stores. But before you purchase a new bra, it is recommended to get yourself professionally measured as bra sizes can change due to fluctuations in weight and hormones.
You can also measure your bra size yourself by following these simple steps:
- Begin by standing straight in front of a full-length mirror with a soft, pliable measuring tape
- First, find your band size by wrapping the tape around your torso, right under your boobs. This is the place where your band usually sits. Note the measurements in inches
- Then, find your bust size by placing the tape across your nipples and wrapping it around your chest. Make sure it lies squarely on your back. Note the measurement in inches.
- Finally, find your cup size by subtracting the band size from the bust size. If the difference is 5 inches, you have a DD cup size
According to a survey , the average bra size in the U.S. is 34DD, making it quite common. It is important to note that the average bra size varies from country to country depending on the genetic disposition of the female population.
DD Cup Size Details
| DD Cup Size | Bust Size | Band Size |
|---|---|---|
| 30DD | 34-35 inches | 26-28 inches |
| 32DD | 36-37 inches | 28-30 inches |
| 34DD | 38-39 inches | 30-32 inches |
| 36DD | 40-41 inches | 32-34 inches |
| 38DD | 42-43 inches | 34-36 inches |
| 40DD | 44-45 inches | 36-38 inches |
DD Cup Size Examples
To provide you with some context about how the same cup size can look on different bodies, I have compiled a few images. All these women have the DD cup size but varying band sizes.
32DD
Since DD cup size is relatively big, the bra is designed to provide ample support, slight lift, and a defined shape. When a woman has 32DD size, her boobs appear quite prominent due to the combination of big cup size and a slim waist.
Remember sister sizes for bras. If you’re close to fitting a 32DD, but it isn’t quite right, try a sister size. If the band is a bit loose, try a 30DDD. Or, if the band is a bit tight, give a 34D a try.
34DD
If the circumference of your ribcage ranges between 32 and 34 inches, a 34DD bra size would be your best fit. This is also the sister size of 32DDD, although with a longer band. Your breasts would protrude more from the torso, so you need a contouring bra with side support.
36DD
The 36DD cups also need underwires for maximum stability and cups that comfortably cover the breasts and hold them in a perked up position. Most of these bra styles also gather the breast tissues so the bust does not look widespread and in proportion to the waist.
38DD
A woman with a 38DD bra size will have a bust that looks perfectly proportional to her frame. This is because both 38 band size and DD cup size are towards the bigger end of the bra size spectrum. She also needs a shaping and supporting bra, which feels incredibly comfortable.
40DD
The boobs of a woman who fits into a 40DD bra will have the greatest volume compared to all the other sizes mentioned above. However, they will not look very obvious due to the correct bra size and her wide waist.
Related Questions
How Many Inches Is a DD Cup?
The DD cup is five inches in size. Your breasts will extend five inches from your abdominal wall when held in place. Of course, women who experience sagging may not have the same protrusion.
How Much Does a DD Cup Weigh?
A DD cup size entails that each breast weighs around 2.15 pounds on average. Thus, it is important to wear a high-quality, supportive bra that takes the weight off your shoulders.
What Are the Sister Sizes of DD Cup Size?
You will find a sister size of DD cup in the D cup range if you go a size up or the DDD cup range if you go a size down. The sister sizes help you find a better fit if your bra is tight or loose. Check out the table below for more clarity.
| Current Bra Size | Sister Size Up | Sister Size Down |
|---|---|---|
| 32DD | 34D | 30DDD |
| 34DD | 36D | 32DDD |
| 36DD | 38D | 34DDD |
| 38DD | 40D | 36DDD |
| 40DD | 42D | 38DDD |
Final Thoughts
Since there is very little information about the cup size DD, it is often deemed uncommon. However, the purpose of the guide is to help you understand that the DD cup size is actually not that uncommon. In fact, the size 36DD is considered the average bra size in the U.S.
The remarkable thing about cup sizes is that they look unique on women with different types of silhouettes and body mass. Thus, while a woman with a smaller band size will appear to have a massive bust with a DD cup size, the same size would appear quite average on a wide-set woman.