knowhersize

Reviewed

36D vs 38D

38D is bigger than 36D. The cup letter is the same, but cup volume grows with the band, so 38D's cups hold more as well as having the longer band.

Side by side

36D38D
RelationshipSame cup letter, different band
UK36D38D
AU14D16D
EU80D85D
FR95D100D
Underbust36–37 in38–39 in
Bust≈ 40 in≈ 42 in
Cup volume38D holds more

On the size chart

36D is marked in ink and 38D is outlined. The yellow diagonal through 36D shows every size with the same cup volume.

36D = UK 36D · AU 14D · EU 80D · FR 95D. Sister sizes: 34DD, 38C. 36D in full →
A
B
C
D
DD
DDD
G
H
28
30
32
34
36
38
40
42
44

Questions

Is 36D or 38D bigger?

38D is bigger than 36D. The cup letter is the same, but cup volume grows with the band, so 38D's cups hold more as well as having the longer band.

Can I wear 38D if I'm a 36D?

Only if the fit check says so. Changing the band also changes the cup volume, so try both where returns are easy.

What are 36D and 38D in UK sizes?

36D is UK 36D and 38D is UK 38D. In Europe they are 80D and 85D.