After a DD cup, the next size up typically depends on the sizing system, but generally moves to E, DDD, F, or FF, with common progressions being DD -> E (US/AU) or F (UK) or DD -> DDD (US), then F, FF, G, etc., as cup letters and doubles continue to increase.
The cup sizes get larger as the letters go up in the alphabet. Size D is bigger than A, and H is bigger than D. Sizes are as follows: AAA, AA, A, B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, and N.
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.
What is the difference between a DD and DDD cup? A DD cup is just a bit smaller than a DDD cup, which provides more space and is ideal for those who need extra room. So, if you're finding yourself spilling out of a DD, a DDD might just be the right choice for you!
This means a 34DD could also welcome trying a 36D (up a band size, down a cup size) or 32DDD/F (down a band size, up a cup size). Not all sizes are equal. Many believe, the larger the cup size, the larger the bra size. For example a 34D is larger than a 36C.
For those wearing a 34DD, if the band is too tight, moving to a 36D will give you a bit more breathing space without affecting the cup size. If the band is too loose, try a 32E (32DDD) for a firmer fit with the same cup volume.
Bra Extenders Are Good But with Reservations
It would be good to keep a few bra extenders on hand for emergency situations where they may be needed. However, do not use them as permanent solutions because the bra fit might need reconsideration and you cannot simply fix it with just a band adjustment.
The "3 bra rule" is a guideline recommending you own at least three bras for a simple rotation: one to wear, one to wash, and one to rest (in the drawer), allowing elastic to recover between wears to extend the bra's lifespan and maintain fit. This system prevents wearing the same bra daily, which stretches out the elastic and reduces support, helping bras last longer.
A 38D is one band size larger than a 36DD, meaning it has a slightly wider band and hence provides a looser fit around the ribcage. Cup volume is another key factor. Although both sizes may seem similar cup volume, the DD cup on a 36 band holds more breast volume than the D cup on a 38 band.
A 'DD' as a Big Size is a Common Misconception
The volume of breasts in a DD cup varies significantly across different band sizes. A 30DD and a 40DD, for instance, cater to vastly different breast volumes.
For each band size you go up, go down one cup size, and vice versa. Examples: If you're wearing a size 80D and the band fits well but the cups are too big, choose a size 80C. If you're wearing a size 80D and the band fits well but the cups are too small, choose a size 80E.
DD and E cup bras, which are the same cup size in US size, are designed for those who need extra support without sacrificing style. These bras typically come with reinforced bands and cups to ensure a secure fit.
The cup sizes A, B, C and D are the core ones. As you move up through alphabetical order DD would be one size larger than D. This pattern continues until you reach double-letter (like FF) cups which also have a gap of one between them; for instance, E is bigger than DD just like how DD is greater compared to D.
This might sound confusing when you go up through the cup sizes, as double letters usually mean a bigger cup (DD is larger than a D, FF larger than F etc). For some reason, the As are the exception here, with AAA being the smallest, then AA, then A.
How To Know If Your Bra Is The Wrong Size?
A Double D (DD) means your bust size is 5 inches more than your band size. For example, if you're a 34 band size, your bust would be approximately 39 inches. But, size doesn't tell the whole story. A 32DD and a 38DD are both DDs, but there's a completely different look and feel.
To find your bra sister size, all you need to do is go up or down in the band size or cup size, respectively. Take for example that you wear bra size 38D. If you go up a band size, your sister size with the same cup volume is 40C. If you were to go down in the band size, your sister size would be 36DD.
The "two-finger rule" for bra fitting is a quick test to check if your bra band is the right tightness: you should be able to comfortably slide two fingers (stacked or side-by-side) under the band at the back, but not much more, indicating it's snug enough for support without being too tight or riding up; the band should feel supportive and stay level, with straps only providing slight lift, not carrying most of the weight.
It turns out, over half of women polled thought a C cup was the perfect fit. At the same time, close to 26 percent preferred a B cup. Nearly 2 percent said an A cup was their preferred breast proportion. Notably, men also agreed that a C cup was their ideal size.
If you have sensitive skin and larger breasts, going braless will allow your skin to breathe better and can prevent skin irritation. If you stop wearing a bra your skin health in your chest area may improve, especially if you often experience body or back acne.
Place your thumb and middle finger on either side of the bra closure.
For the lift you're looking for without the push-together effect of a push-up bra, you might consider a balconette , half-cup , or demi-cup . These styles often have shorter cups, which can help lift the breasts up and angle them towards the top of the chest.
Symptoms of Bra Strap Syndrome
Bra strap syndrome symptoms often involve stiffness, achiness, and pain in the neck and/or shoulders. If the straps are especially tight, you may experience fatigue or numbness in your arms and hands.