When it comes to bras, the sizing can be confusing. Many women wonder what the difference is between an A cup and an AA cup bra, and which size is smaller. In this article, we’ll break down bra sizing and detail the key differences between A and AA cups.
How Bra Sizing Works
Bra sizing is based on two measurements – the band size and the cup size. The band size refers to the circumference of the torso under the breasts, while the cup size refers to the volume of the breasts. Cup sizes are represented by letters, starting with A for the smallest volume.
Here are some key things to know about bra sizing:
- Band size is measured in inches and is even numbered (30, 32, 34, etc.)
- Cup size starts at A for the smallest cups and increases through the alphabet
- Cup size is proportional to band size – a 32A will have a smaller cup volume than a 36A
- As cup size increases, so does the volume – B cup is larger than A, C is larger than B, etc.
So in summary, the cup size letter represents volume, while the band number represents the circumference of the ribcage under the breasts. Both measurements are needed to determine overall bra size.
What is an A Cup?
An A cup bra is designed for those with the smallest breast volumes. Some key details about A cup bras:
- An A cup means there is a 1 inch difference between the band size and bust measurement
- For example, a 32A would mean a 32 inch band size and a 33 inch bust measurement
- The cups will be shallow and provide very light coverage and support
- A cup bras are best for those with petite or slender builds
Here are some examples of what an A cup bra would look like on different band sizes:
| Band Size | Bust Measurement |
|---|---|
| 30 | 31 inches |
| 32 | 33 inches |
| 34 | 35 inches |
What is an AA Cup?
An AA cup bra represents the smallest possible cup size available. Here are the key characteristics:
- AA indicates there is less than a 1 inch difference between band size and bust
- For example, a 32AA would mean a 32 inch band and a 33 inch or smaller bust
- AA bras provide very shallow, light coverage
- Best for those with minimal breast tissue and petite frames
Some examples of AA cup sizing:
| Band Size | Bust Measurement |
|---|---|
| 30 | 30.5 inches or less |
| 32 | 32.5 inches or less |
| 34 | 34.5 inches or less |
Comparing A and AA Cups
Now that we’ve explained how A and AA cups are sized, how do they actually compare?
Here’s a quick overview:
- Coverage: AA cups provide less coverage than A cups, but both are very small and shallow cup sizes
- Volume: AA cups indicate less breast volume and projection than A cups
- Sizing: AA cups have less than a 1 inch difference between band and bust sizes. A cups have a 1 inch difference.
- Best for: AA for those with minimal breast tissue or petite frames. A for slender builds.
The main takeaway is that AA cups are smaller and shallower than A cups. The AA size is meant for the most petite breast volumes, while those with slightly more tissue would fit better into an A cup.
Cup Volume Comparisons
While it’s impossible to visualize exact volumes, here’s a rough estimate of how much smaller an AA cup is compared to an A cup:
- 32AA: approx. 150-200ml volume per breast
- 32A: approx. 200-250ml volume per breast
So an AA cup may hold up to 50ml or so less volume than an A cup, assuming the same band size. This demonstrates how going down a cup size truly does reduce volume and coverage.
Projection Differences
Projection refers to how far the breasts extend out from the chest wall. AA cups will provide minimal projection:
- AA cup: Very shallow, just enough to cover the breasts
- A cup: Slightly more projection, but still a shallow shape
So an A cup bra will extend slightly further from the chest compared to an AA bra.
Who Should Wear an AA Cup?
Here are some scenarios where an AA cup bra may be the best fit:
- You have a very slim, petite frame
- Your bust measurement is less than 1 inch bigger than your band size
- Your breasts have minimal tissue and projection
- You find that A cup bras gape or wrinkle
- You want very light coverage and support
AA cups are designed for those with very small, slender builds. Someone with these characteristics would likely find an A cup too large.
Who Should Wear an A Cup?
Here are some cases where an A cup may be the better choice:
- You have a slim build, but not extremely petite
- Your bust measures about 1 inch larger than your band size
- You have a bit more breast tissue than an AA cup would accommodate
- You feel AA cups don’t provide enough coverage
- You want light support and shaping
An A cup bra is made for those with petite breasts and slim figures. It will provide more coverage and support than an AA, while still being a small cup size.
Tips for Choosing Between A and AA
When trying to decide between an A or AA cup, here are some tips:
- Be professionally fitted to determine your exact size
- Try both sizes on with proper scooping and swooping
- Assess cup gaps, wrinkles, and position of underwire
- Consider your breast characteristics and body frame
- Evaluate comfort level and amount of coverage
- Remember cup size is proportionate to band size
It’s best to try AA and A bras in a range of band sizes to compare the fit. Pay attention to signs of being too small or too large in each. Consider how your breasts feel supported and contained in each size.
The Difference in Appearance
While cup sizes can look different on every unique body, here are some general differences in appearance between A and AA cups:
- AA cups: Breasts almost flush with chest wall; very minimal protrusion; nipples may show through fabric
- A cups: Slight projection from chest wall; nipples typically don’t show through tops
AA cups will provide a super flat, barely-there look, while A cups add a bit more shape and coverage to the breasts. Neither will add much volume to your frame.
Similarities Between A and AA Bras
While AA and A cups differ in some ways, they do share some key similarities including:
- Very shallow, lightweight cup design
- Minimal lining and padding
- Delicate, thin straps
- No underwire or very flexible thin wire
- Mainly produced in small band sizes
- Provide overall light support suitable for petite frames
So both AA and A bras cater to those needing only the most delicate fabrics, finishes, and support levels. The construction focuses on lightness rather than structure and shaping.
Do Bra Sizes Vary By Brand?
One thing to keep in mind is that sizing can vary slightly between brands. Some brands may run small or large in the band or cup. Variations can include:
- Cup shape and depth
- Underwire shape and width
- Strap placement
- Elastic tightness in band
It’s normal to vary by about one cup size between brands. So it’s possible you could be an AA in one brand and an A in another. Try various brands to find the best fit for your body.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a 30A and a 30AA?
Comparing the same 30 band size, a 30A would have about a 1 inch larger bust measurement than a 30AA. So the 30A has slightly more volume and breast projection than the 30AA.
Will AA cups show nipple poke through?
It’s very possible for nipples to show through an AA cup bra or top, since the coverage is extremely minimal. Wearing nipple covers can help reduce the issue.
Is AA smaller than A?
Yes, AA cups indicate a smaller breast volume than A cups. The AA size represents the smallest available bra cup size.
Is AA too small if I currently wear A?
Possibly. It depends on your specific sizing and comfort needs. Try both AA and A sizes in your typical band size to directly compare. AA may be too small if A already provides a snug fit.
Can you go from A to AA without surgery?
You may be able to switch sizes without surgery through weight loss focused on the breasts. However, results vary dramatically person to person. Your natural breast composition determines how much size reduction is possible.
The Bottom Line
AA cup bras provide the least amount of coverage and support out of any size. They are designed for those with very petite breast tissue and slim builds. An A cup bra has slightly more volume, but is still a small, shallow cup for those with light needs.
When trying to decide between A and AA sizes, focus on getting a professional fit and assessing fit issues like gapping, overflow, and wire position in each. Consider your body frame, breast volume, and overall comfort needs. With the right fit, you’ll find the perfect cup size to provide flattering, lightweight support.