E cup bras: the first size where conversions differ

The transition to a bra cup E happens at a 21-centimetre difference between the bust and back. This is also the first depth where sizing systems diverge: a French E equates to a DD in the UK and the US, and this difference carries over to all subsequent letters.

Reading an imported bra size cup E

Up to cup D, the letters match between France, the UK, and the US. Starting from the bra cup E, they shift: E becomes DD, F becomes E, G becomes F. Therefore, a British brand that states DD corresponds to a French E, not a D. This shift explains a significant number of purchasing errors on foreign catalogs. The band size also changes systems: a French 90 corresponds to a British 34.

What to look for in cup E

Three elements become essential. Three-piece cups that project instead of just holding. Wide, adjustable straps placed far enough apart not to dig into the shoulder. And a wide back band with three rows of hooks that distributes the weight. The full-coverage and minimiser styles are the two shapes that reliably meet these criteria.