Finding the right fit is the first step to lingerie you will love wearing. This size guide shows how to measure your bra size at home with a soft tape, how UK band and cup sizes work, and how our sizes compare with UK dress sizes, so you can choose your size at Little Nooks with confidence.
Little Nooks sizes at a glance
Our lingerie, bodysuits, swimwear and loungewear are sized by UK dress size:
| Little Nooks size | UK dress size |
|---|---|
| XS | UK 6 |
| S | UK 8 |
| M | UK 10 |
| L | UK 12/14 |
| XL | UK 16 |
Most styles are offered in S, M and L, with XS in selected pieces. The sizes available for each style are shown on its product page, so please check there before you order.
How to measure bra size (UK) at home
What you need
A soft measuring tape, a mirror and a well-fitting, unpadded bra. Measure in front of the mirror so you can check the tape stays level all the way round.
Step 1: measure your underband
Wrap the tape snugly around your ribcage, directly beneath your bust, keeping it level and flat against your skin. Breathe out normally and note the measurement. This gives you your band size.
Step 2: measure your bust
Wrap the tape loosely around the fullest part of your bust, again keeping it level across your back. It should rest on the body without compressing it.
Step 3: work out your cup size
Subtract your underband measurement from your bust measurement. As a general guide, each inch of difference is roughly one cup size, rising through A, B, C, D, DD, E and so on. Treat the result as a starting point: shapes differ, and the best test is always how a bra feels and looks when you wear it.
UK, EU and US bra sizes
UK sizes pair a band number with a cup letter, such as 34C. EU bands are measured in centimetres, and US cup letters follow a different sequence above a D, so if you usually shop in EU or US sizes, check the label of a bra that fits you well before converting.
How to tell if your bra fits
- Band: sits level and firm around your ribcage, without riding up at the back.
- Cups: smooth, with no gaping at the top and no spilling over the edges.
- Straps: stay in place without digging into your shoulders.
- Centre front: on an underwired bra, the centre panel rests flat against your breastbone.
How Little Nooks sizing works
S, M and L by UK dress size
Because our sizes follow UK dress sizes, your usual dress size is the simplest place to start: S for a UK 8, M for a UK 10 and L for a UK 12/14. Browse our women's lingerie, bra and knicker sets and lingerie bodysuits with your size in mind.
Size notes on product pages
Some styles have their own sizing details, such as a bra-size conversion, garment measurements or a note on how the piece fits. You will find these in the Fabric & fit and Sizes sections of each product page, and they always take priority over this general guide.
Non-stretch embroidered mesh: choose your usual size
Pieces made from non-stretch embroidered mesh, such as the Aria embroidered lace lingerie set, have a close, sculpted fit, so we recommend choosing your usual UK size.
Swimwear and loungewear
Our swimwear and loungewear follow the same UK sizing. Any fit notes for a particular style, such as a piece that runs slightly small, are given on its product page.
Measuring without a tape
If you do not have a soft tape to hand, wrap a piece of string around your body in the same places, mark where it meets, then lay it flat against a ruler or a rigid tape measure. A soft tape is more accurate, so use this as a guide only.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my bra size at home?
Measure snugly around your ribcage, just under your bust, for your band size, then loosely around the fullest part of your bust. The difference between the two gives your cup size.
How do I work out my cup size in the UK?
Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement in inches. Each inch of difference is roughly one cup size: A, B, C, D, DD and so on.
Can I measure my bra size without a measuring tape?
Yes. Use a piece of string and a ruler, although a soft tape will give a more accurate result.
How do I know if my bra fits properly?
The band sits level and firm, the cups are smooth with no gaping or spilling, and the straps stay in place without digging in.
What size should I order at Little Nooks?
Choose by your UK dress size: XS (UK 6), S (UK 8), M (UK 10), L (UK 12/14) or XL (UK 16), depending on the sizes offered for that style. Always check the product page for that style's own size notes.
What if I am between sizes?
Check the Fabric & fit section of the product page first. If you are still unsure, contact us and we will be happy to help.
For more advice on finding styles that flatter your shape, read our guide to choosing lingerie for your body type, or browse our full range of lingerie sets.