The First Bra Guide For Moms: When Should You Buy Your Daughter A Training Bra?

Where did the time go? That little girl, once twirling in her princess dress, is almost taller than you and shopping at Sephora. The invisible boundary that transforms a girl into womanhood is soon at hand and moms everywhere anxiously prepare for “the talk”. Their little girl is on the threshold of becoming a woman, with all the attributes of those changes.

Open and honest dialogue is crucial but the question begs how much honesty and openness to deliver. While much will depend on the maturity level of your daughter, there are a couple of points to keep in mind.

It’s normal for young peers to talk, so you need to be prepared with answers for enquiring minds. How you broach the subject will help soothe some of their own fears about understanding what is happening within their bodies.

Assuring your daughter that the physical changes are not only normal but a wonderful and special privilege for becoming a woman. By instilling confidence that she should never be ashamed and that this is a time of celebration, your daughter will be able to process this new normal, while becoming more comfortable with the options she has for dealing with these changes.

For many young girls, that first awareness of developing breasts can be both an embarrassment and fascination. Your tone and approach will allow her a more positive view of her changing body.

What is a Training Bra?

Designed to ease this transition for young girls, training bras were developed as lightweight support. The fabrics are stretchy, breathable and are often the first introduction to getting comfortable with using bras. Depending on your daughter’s needs, puberty training bras can range from easy, pull-on racerbacks to simple bralettes. 

When is My Daughter Ready for Her First Training Bra?

Young girls develop at different rates and starting to use a training bra will depend on her comfort level and understanding of what’s happening in her body.

Here are a few signs to take into consideration:

• Small breast buds are starting to form and she feels sensitive in her chest area.
• She feels uncomfortable about her chest visibility through her clothing.
• She is starting to need light coverage under clothing.
• She is seeing that her peers are also starting to wear bras.

There are no specific ages for using a puberty training bra. From 8-12 years, girls can start to notice changes in their bodies. By keeping communication open and supporting her during that time, you both will feel positive about navigating those changes.

Why Does Your Daughter Need a Training Bra?

Some girls develop faster than others. No matter where they are in the process, girls training bras can provide light support and help reduce uncomfortable movement. They offer discreet coverage for growing bodies, especially if concerned about visibility under clothing.

As your daughter enjoys this symbol of her grown-up rite of passage, she is also getting familiar with wearing supportive undergarments and is more likely to be open to future styles.

Types of Training Bras at ThirdLove

When it comes to picking a girls training bra, you do have options.

• For a comfortable, easily fitted style, the 24/7® Classic Wireless Bralette is perfect for under everyday outfits. With removable pads, you have a bra that will adapt with growing bodies, and with multi-way straps, she will be able to adjust the straps as is most comfortable for her.

• Who wouldn’t feel pretty and comfortable in a cute cotton bralette designed with girls in mind. The Organic Cloud Cotton Scoop Bralette gives a clean, modest outline under clothing. Made of organic cotton, this bralette provides just-right support thanks to a double-layered front. She’ll feel breezy and perfectly covered all day long.

• Sometimes a girl just wants to keep her secrets. The Form Seamless Scoop Bralette definitely fits that bill. Lighter than air fabric complete with four-way stretch, this bra is completely seamless and invisible under clothing. You never have to feel uncomfortable in our tweens transparent training bra that fits and feels like it was made for you. 

• The ability to go wireless is a perk for a girls training bra. The easy pull-over design of our Adjustable Strap Wireless Bra offers a smooth fit without feeling pinched or squashed. Adjust the thin straps as needed. The flattering neckline and removable cups makes growing up feel so good.

How to Make the First Bra Shopping Trip a Positive Experience

It’s time to go on that first bra shopping trip. Nerves aside, you can make it an enjoyable time for both of you. Long before you head out on this new adventure, do have a private one-on-one talk with your daughter. This is a new experience for her and you need to be aware of her concerns and questions without her feeling judged. Be honest and objective about the changes that her body is going through and reassure her that this is all natural and normal. The more understood she feels, the more open she’ll be to the nuances of this experience.

Now let’s go shopping.

• Fit is key. The bra should be snug but not tight. 
• Get a couple of different styles for different occasions. A sports bra for active girls and a couple bralettes offer versatility.
• Go for more neutral colors like beige, grey, or light shades as these tend to work best under clothing. 

Encourage your daughter to have fun and be open to her having a say in her style choices. If she loves her picks and enjoys wearing them, bra shopping will remain a positive experience for her.

Choosing Your Daughter's First Bra at ThirdLove

This is a new adventure for your daughter. It’s important that she feels comfortable and confident. At ThirdLove, we carry styles that are designed to do just that. 

For the outgoing, athletic girl, scoop bralettes are versatile picks. If she wants a more everyday look, an adjustable wireless bralette is a great staple.

Reassure your daughter that everyone develops at their own pace and she has your support. Choosing that first bra is a milestone for both of you and should be remembered with fondness.