How to read French sizing as a US shopper

French lingerie sizing is close to US sizing — but not the same. These are the conversions and quirks you actually need to know before you order.

Bras — band size

French bands run in 5 cm increments (80, 85, 90, 95…). US bands run in 2-inch increments (32, 34, 36, 38…) from a smaller base.

France	US
80	34
85	36
90	38
95	40
100	42
105	44

Bras — cup size

Cups mostly match up to D, then diverge.

France	US
A	A
B	B
C	C
D	D
E	DD
F	DDD / E
G	F / G
H	G / H

Watch out: a French 90E will fit very differently from what a US shopper might expect from a "90E" on a Wacoal chart. Always check the brand's size guide.

Briefs

French brief sizing uses numeric sizes 0–6:

France	US
0	XXS
1	XS
2	S
3	M
4	L
5	XL
6	XXL

Practical tips for US shoppers

Read the brand's own size chart. Every French brand publishes a detailed PDF — check before you check out.
Measure yourself twice. French brands fit a little narrower at the rib than Wacoal or Natori. If you're a 34 in Wacoal, try a French 85 first.
When in doubt, go up a band and down a cup. French grading is usually true, but you can always size down after fitting.
Returns are slow. Getting the first order right saves a couple weeks of back-and-forth to Europe.

Next: read how to buy French lingerie from abroad or browse the brand directory.