Finding the right first training bra for your tween is an important milestone! As your daughter’s body changes, having proper support and comfort becomes essential. Let’s walk through how to measure for the perfect training bra size to make this experience positive for both of you.
Understanding Training Bra Sizes
Training bras are specifically designed for girls whose bodies are beginning to develop. They provide gentle support and help tween and teen feel comfortable during this transition. Bra sizes consist of two parts: a number (band size) and a letter (cup size).
For tweens just starting to wear bras, sizes typically begin with AA or A cups, which are perfect for early development stages. The band size refers to the measurement around the ribcage, while the cup size indicates how much breast tissue the bra needs to support.
How to Measure for the Perfect Fit
Step 1: Measure the Band (Underbust) Size
Ask your daughter to stand up straight and relax her shoulders. Grab a soft measuring tape and wrap it around hriber ribcage, directly under where the breasts begin. The tape should be snug but not tight – you should be able to slip a finger between the tape and her body. This measurement determines the band size, which is the number part of the bra size.
If your tween is sensitive to how things feel against her skin, you might want to size up for extra comfort.
Step 2: Measure the Bust (Overbust) Size
Next, measure around the fullest part of the chest across the nipple line. Don’t pull the tape too tight against the breast tissue. This gives you the bust measurement, which helps determine the cup size.
Step 3: Calculate the Cup Size
To find the cup size, subtract the band size from the bust measurement. The difference tells you the cup size:
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1 inch difference = A cup
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2 inch difference = B cup
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3 inch difference = C cup
For example, if the band size is 30 inches and the bust measurement is 31 inches, that’s a 1-inch difference, making it a 30A size in a general way. But at Suyiyi, we simplify the style/size options and categorizes breast development into three stages based on the bust size difference:
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Overbust-Underbust Difference of Every Stage
| Stage | Difference Between Bust & Band | Cup Size |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | 0-2 inches | AA – A – B |
| Stage 2 | 2-4 inches | C – D |
| Stage 3 | 4+ inches | DD/E – DDD/F |
Step 4: Determine the Bra Stage
Refer to the table above to determine your daughter’s developmental stage based on her bust difference. This will help you narrow down your bra options.
- Stage 1: Tween Bras and First Sports Bras (Ages 8-11)Â
- Stage 2: Padded Seamless Training Bras for Teens (Ages 12-15)Â
- Stage 3: High School Bras for Young Women (Ages 16-18)
Step 5: Choose the Bra Size
Once you know your daughter’s developmental stage, you can use her overbust measurement to choose the appropriate bra size. Refer to the Suyiyi size charts below:
Size Chart for Stage 1&2 Bras
| Size | Bust (in) | Height (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 27.5 | 4’6″ |
| M | 29.5 | 4’9″ |
| L | 32.5 | 5’3″ |
| XL | 34.5 | 5’5″ |
| 2XL | 37.5 | 5’7″ |
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Size Chart for Stage 3 Bras
| Size | Bust (in) | Height (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| M | 34 | 28.5 |
| L | 37 | 32.5 |
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Tips for Finding the Right Fit
When in doubt, size up. If your tween is between sizes, always choose the larger size for better comfort, especially if she’s sensitive to how clothing feels.
Check for proper fit. A well-fitting training bra should feel comfy around the body – snug but not too tight. If the straps dig into the skin or the band flips up at the bottom, the bra is too small. If there are gaps in the fabric or the straps constantly slip, it’s too big.
Choosing the Right Bra Styles
Comfort should be your top priority when selecting a training bra. Look for bras that offer good coverage and support.
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Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton that are gentle on sensitive skin
- Elastic bands that provide support without being restrictive
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No underwires for beginners – these can feel uncomfortable for first-time wearers
Sports bras are excellent options for active tweens, providing support during physical activities. Bralettes offer a comfortable, less structured alternative that many girls prefer when first starting out.
Tips for Bra Shopping
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Involve Your Daughter: Let her choose styles and colors she likes. This makes the experience more enjoyable and helps her feel confident in her choices.
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Tweens and teens experience growth spurts and puberty changes at different rates, so it’s essential to measure regularly (every six months) to ensure the best fit.
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Range of Sizes: Be prepared for larger cup sizes as your daughter grows. Suyiyi offers a wide range of sizes to accommodate these changes.
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Choose a brand that offers consistent quality and comfort, like Suyiyi.
FAQs About Training Bras
How many training bras should we buy?
Start with 2-3 bras to see which styles your daughter prefers before investing in more.
How often should I measure for a new size to ensure that her training bras fit properly?
During puberty, girls’ bodies change quickly. Measure every 6 months or whenever the current bras seem uncomfortable.
Can my daughter sleep in her training bra?
Yes, many training bras are comfortable enough to sleep in, especially those made of soft, stretchy fabrics without underwires.
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Finding the right training bra size might take some trial and error, but with proper measurements and attention to comfort, you’ll help your daughter navigate this important milestone with confidence and ease.