Etam is a French lingerie brand selling bras, briefs, nightwear, loungewear and swimwear. Most Etam orders that go wrong go wrong on fit, not on style, because the brand sizes in the French system and bra fit depends on two numbers rather than one.
This guide covers how Etam sizes work, how to choose between its bra shapes, what to read on a fabric label, and how to use the current Etam codes without wasting them.
Measuring before you order from Etam
Take two measurements with a soft tape over a light, unpadded bra. The first is snug around the ribcage, directly under the bust. The second is loosely around the fullest part of the bust, with the tape level across the back.
Enter both figures into the Etam size guide on the product page rather than relying on the size you wear from another brand. Band and cup sizes vary between labels, and a measurement is more reliable than memory.
If you fall between two Etam band sizes, the usual advice is to pick the firmer band, since bands loosen with wear and washing. Most support in a bra comes from the band, not the straps.
Converting French sizes on Etam
Etam lists bras in European band sizes such as 75, 80 and 85, with a letter for the cup. These do not match UK or US band numbers directly. Use the Etam conversion table and do not assume that the same cup letter means the same volume across systems.
Briefs and nightwear are sized in French clothing sizes, commonly shown as 36, 38, 40 and so on, alongside letter sizes. Etam pyjamas and loungewear are usually cut relaxed, so most shoppers stay in their usual size there.
Cup size is also relative to band size. A 75C and an 80B hold a similar volume, so if the band fits but the cup gapes, go down a cup letter; if the band is tight but the cup fits, go up a band and down a cup.
Choosing an Etam bra shape
Etam sells several constructions, and the right one depends on the outfit and on comfort rather than on size alone. A padded or moulded cup gives a smooth line under fitted tops. A plunge style has a low centre for deeper necklines.
A balconette or half-cup sits wider and lower, and suits a shallower shape. Non-wired bralettes and soft-cup styles trade some shaping for comfort, and they are where Etam sizing is most forgiving, since many are sold in letter sizes.
If you are trying a new Etam shape for the first time, order a single piece before buying a matching set. Fit can differ between shapes even within the same size.
Fabrics and care on Etam lingerie
Read the composition on each Etam listing. Lace and microfibre pieces are usually a nylon or polyamide blend with elastane for stretch. Cotton pieces breathe better for everyday and sleepwear use, and satin-finish nightwear is typically a polyester blend.
Follow the care label. Hand washing or a cool, gentle cycle in a mesh bag keeps lace and underwires in shape far longer than a standard wash. Avoid the tumble dryer, which weakens elastane and shortens the life of an Etam bra.
Rotate bras rather than wearing one daily. Letting the elastic rest between wears is the simplest way to keep an Etam band feeling firm.
Returns and hygiene rules at Etam
Lingerie returns carry hygiene conditions. Etam, like most lingerie retailers, generally requires briefs and swimwear bottoms to be returned unworn with the hygiene liner and tags intact, and may refuse items without them.
Try bras on over your own underwear, keep the tags attached until you are sure, and check the current Etam return window and whether return postage is charged in your country before ordering several sizes.
Ordering two sizes of one bra and returning the other is a common approach, but only if the Etam return terms make it free. Otherwise, measure carefully and order one size.
Where the Etam savings are
The 30% Etam code is the strongest here and is best on a full basket, such as a bra with matching briefs plus nightwear. Percentage codes grow with the order, so they reward a planned purchase.
The 25% code is the fallback if the 30% code is rejected for your region or for sale items. Etam codes often exclude items already reduced, so check the basket total after entering it.
The $9 code is a flat amount. It beats 30% only on a basket below about $30, which in practice means a single pair of briefs or a small accessory.
Etam codes do not usually stack, so enter one at a time and keep whichever gives the lowest total. Sale periods at Etam are often a better moment to use a code than full-price weeks, where the terms allow it.
Common questions
Does Etam sizing run small?
Etam uses European sizing, which can feel small if you are used to another system. Measure and use the Etam conversion table rather than guessing.
Can I return Etam briefs?
Usually only unworn, with the hygiene liner and tags in place. Check the current Etam return terms before ordering.
Which Etam bra is most forgiving on fit?
Non-wired bralettes and soft-cup styles, many of which come in letter sizes rather than band and cup combinations.
Do Etam codes work on sale items?
Often not. Enter the code and check the total before paying.
| Discount | Type | Get the deal |
|---|---|---|
| 15% off | Promo code | View at Etam → |
| $5 off | Promo code | View at Etam → |
| 20% off | Promo code | View at Etam → |
| 30% off | Promo code | View at Etam → |
