knowhersize

Reviewed

38D vs 40D

40D is bigger than 38D. The cup letter is the same, but cup volume grows with the band, so 40D's cups hold more as well as having the longer band.

Side by side

38D40D
RelationshipSame cup letter, different band
UK38D40D
AU16D18D
EU85D90D
FR100D105D
Underbust38–39 in40–41 in
Bust≈ 42 in≈ 44 in
Cup volume40D holds more

On the size chart

38D is marked in ink and 40D is outlined. The yellow diagonal through 38D shows every size with the same cup volume.

38D = UK 38D · AU 16D · EU 85D · FR 100D. Sister sizes: 36DD, 40C. 38D in full →
A
B
C
D
DD
DDD
G
H
28
30
32
34
36
38
40
42
44

Questions

Is 38D or 40D bigger?

40D is bigger than 38D. The cup letter is the same, but cup volume grows with the band, so 40D's cups hold more as well as having the longer band.

Can I wear 40D if I'm a 38D?

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

What are 38D and 40D in UK sizes?

38D is UK 38D and 40D is UK 40D. In Europe they are 85D and 90D.