It’s officially back-to-school season, which can be exciting or nerve-wracking. For plus size teens going through puberty, this is a time when confidence and self-esteem can take a hit. We are here to help with an informative Back-to-School Bra Guide for plus size teens, to help you both navigate through this time!

Going back to school can make these feelings even more intense, so it’s super essential our teen girls feel comfortable and supported in every way.

Most parents prioritize school uniforms, stationery, and backpacks but often overlook the importance of a comfortable and supportive bra, particularly for our plus size or cuvier teens.

When I started school, a bra was not at the top of my school shopping list.

However, it’s an essential item for girls going through puberty who may be more developed than others their age.

My dedication to supporting students with the essential resource of underwear was sparked when a teacher contacted us about a 6th-grade student who required a bra in a larger size — specifically, a 44G. 

The girl’s parents couldn’t afford a new bra, and the options for inclusive sizing in their rural area were limited.

This young girl had issues with self-esteem and even talked about self-harm because she didn’t have the right bra to wear to school. Bullying and harassment from peers can lead to students skipping school.

Skipping school can lead to chronic absenteeism and perpetuate the cycle of poverty, increasing the likelihood of unemployment and homelessness down the line since kids who miss school are 7x more likely to drop out.

From this experience, I wanted to help support pre-teens and teens to feel good about themselves from the inside out.

But first, how do you know if you need a new bra?

Six Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Bra

Before we get to the Bra Guide for Plus Size Teens, here are some key tips for every one who rocks a bra. If you notice any of the following signs, it might be time to replace your bra:

#1. The Band is Stretched Out

Remember that the band of your bra provides the majority of support. If the bra is stretched out, it will not provide the support needed for your cups. This will cause the bra to ride up, meaning your breasts are not supported and can also cause the underwires to dig.

#2. You Are on the Last Set of Hooks

When your bra is stretched out and no longer tight on the tightest hooks, it’s time for a replacement.

#3. Slipping and Sliding Straps

Constantly adjusting slipping straps? This might indicate that the bra is too old or no longer fits correctly.

#4. Cups Too Big or Too Small

During their development, teenagers may experience weight fluctuations and hormonal changes, leading to the need for proper bra support. Puckering or ill-fitting bra cups can result in an unflattering appearance under clothing.

#5. The Colors Have Faded

If you can’t remember the color of your bra or if the fabric has stains or tears, it’s a clear sign that it needs to be replaced.

#6. It’s Uncomfortable

If your bra is constantly uncomfortable, consider replacing it. No need to suffer from poking underwires any longer.

So, whether it’s time to upgrade your teen’s bra or you’re shopping for their first one, these five tips for teen bra shopping will help you make the back-to-school season as smooth as possible.

Back-to-School Bra Guide for Plus Size Teens: Five Shopping Tips and More!

Bra shopping for teens can be a challenge. We all know how fussy girls can be, and often, they’ll opt for the prettiest bra on the shelf without considering comfort and function. 

Through years of experience supporting parents and teens in finding well-fitting bras, I have compiled my top five tips for finding the right bra this back-to-school season through this fun and informative Bra Guide for Plus Size Teens!

#1 Measure Up!

Since bodies change over time, knowing your teen’s current bra size by getting measured is important to finding the right fit. While getting professionally fitted is the best starting point, many teen girls might prefer to measure at home.

In my guide to getting the right fit, I offer advice on both professional bra fittings and tips for measuring at home so you can choose the approach that suits you best.

Check out my Guide to Getting Fitted here.

#2 Prioritize Comfort and Fit

If girls are more physically developed than their peers, they may experience backaches and posture issues, which can make concentrating difficult and potentially impact their grades.

Since our teens spend between 6-8 hours in school and potentially longer with extra extracurricular activities and sports – comfort, and fit should be a priority when shopping for a bra.

One of the main reasons teens often don’t wear the right bra (if they wear one at all) is that they’re more focused on what’s cute and trending on social media. 

It’s important to guide them toward styles that offer both comfort and style, helping them understand the variety of options available that can make them feel good and look great.

The key is finding the right size so the bra is comfortable to wear all day at school.

 Consider these features when shopping for teen bras: 

✅ Non-itchy fabrics: When picking out bras, go for ones made of comfy, breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or modal. These are also good for sensitive skin.

✅ Moisture-wicking properties: It keeps skin dry and comfortable, which is especially important for our teen girls who participate in sports or gym classes.

✅ Racerback or cross-back styles Offer better support, especially for narrow shoulders. Teens won’t have to worry about straps slipping down. This style works well under racerback tank tops or shirts, making it a practical option.

✅ Wireless bras: These are great for teens who don’t need an underwire since they’re super comfy and flexible. They’re great for sensitive skin, give you lots of freedom while offering support, and don’t restrict growing bodies.

✅ Wider band: The wider the back and sides of a bra, the better the support, regardless of whether it has an underwire. Underwires provide better lift and separation to help shape the breast, but a wider band enhances this effect by spreading support over a larger area.

#3 Consider Versatility

Getting ready for school can be stressful for teen girls who are already conscious of their appearance, so ensuring they have different styles of bras can help them through those stressful mornings.

Plus, it’s essential to help your teen feel confident and supported in various school settings. Here are my recommendations for different styles of bras to choose from during your back-to-school shop:

✅ T-shirt bras: These are great for everyday wear and provide a smooth, seamless look that won’t show through clothes, making them perfect for any classroom setting. It adds support and shape without bulk, helping girls feel confident and comfortable.

✅ Bralettes: They’re comfy and stylish, perfect for casual outfits or dress-down days. Their soft, wire-free design makes them ideal for long school days when comfort is a priority. I recommend looking for ones that provide lining or light padding.

✅ Convertible bras: These are super versatile, with adjustable straps that allow your teen to switch styles to strapless or racerback. This means your teen can wear the same bra with different outfits, whether for a formal school event, a casual day, or a physical education class. A convertible bra ensures they’re always prepared, reducing stress about wardrobe malfunctions or visible straps.

✅ Sports bras: If your teen is into sports or has to attend gym class, make sure you have medium- to high-impact sports bras, especially if they have a curvier figure. Ensuring your teen has a good sports bra can prevent them from skipping sports due to embarrassment or discomfort, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Girlfriend Collective is a good choice for finding versatile fits that don’t compromise style or sustainability.

#4 Check the School Dress Code

Since most schools enforce dress codes, parents and students should follow these rules to avoid getting dress code violations. If you break the rules, you might have to meet with the school, or your teen might face a short-term suspension or even get sent home.

As part of our Everyone Deserves Underwear Program, some schools we support have asked us not to provide sexier styles like push-ups or unlined lacy bras. 

These items are available for parents to purchase for their students; however, many of the schools we work with would rather not distribute them.

It’s a good idea to check the parent and student handbook for specific dress code policies. This will help students dress appropriately for school activities and avoid potentially embarrassing moments.

#5 Consider Durability and Quality

When shopping for bras, consider choosing ones made from durable materials or ones that can be worn and washed multiple times.

Try to find bras labeled as sustainable or made from quality materials. These options can help reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability. 

Your teen’s bras should be as reliable as their best friend—unlike most of their teenage crushes!

Brands like Non-Disclosure Apparel offer sustainable bras in various styles and sizes for teens looking for their first bra.

Durable bras save money and minimize waste. Remember to recycle your old bras to further contribute to sustainability!

How Can You Make the Most Out of Your Bra?

Remember to check your bras every 6-9 months for signs of wear and tear, as mentioned above, when it’s time to replace them. 

You can do some simple things to prolong the life of your bra:

• Reduce the frequency of washing your bras — maybe every three times you wear them. However, if you are an athlete, you will probably need to wash your bras after every wear, especially if you are sweating.
• Make sure you wash your bras in a lingerie bag. If you don’t hand wash them, wash them on a hand wash or gentle cycle with a gentle soap.
• Don’t put your bras in a dryer—let them air dry flat. This helps them keep their shape and prevent underwire breakage. If you have to put them in a dryer, then make sure you hook the bras securely and place them in a lingerie bag so that they don’t get tangled on other items. 

Make Bra Shopping a Positive Experience

Being a teenager can be overwhelming, and it’s no different for parents! It reminds us that our kids are growing up fast. I vividly remember my first experience helping a preteen shop for her first bra—it feels like just yesterday.

We tried different styles, made adjustments, and discussed how to care for her new bras, including washing them in a lingerie bag on a gentle cycle. 

By the end, everyone was smiling. She chose a bra she adored, and I received a heartfelt note from her, expressing that the experience wasn’t scary at all. ❤️👏

Finding the right bra for your preteen or teen can be a memorable and positive experience if you follow the tips in this article.

Got Unwanted Bras?

Calling all supporters of girls’ education! Did you know that plus size bras are the most requested yet least donated items for students in Title 1 schools? 

If you no longer use bras, you can make a real difference this back-to-school season by recycling them with The Bra Recyclers. Your support can help girls in need feel confident and empowered as they head back to school.

This not only helps girls succeed in school but also supports our planet by extending the life of usable textiles instead of throwing them in landfills. Recycle your bras here.