How get your teenager to go bra shopping (when they really don’t want to)

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Grab the best teen bras for school with your daughter in tow

Shopping for ‘back to school’ essentials probably isn’t anyone’s idea of fun while we’re still in holiday mode. But a to-do list full of new term must-haves isn’t going to tick itself: time to roll up your sleeves and hit the shops to get ‘September ready’.

Alongside new shoes, uniform, bag and stationery, don’t forget to add new bras to your list. Teen bras for everyday wear, and teen bras for sports (it’s the PE kit essential many parents forget to include) will give your girl the wirefree support she needs and, most importantly, the body confidence she wants as she moves into the new school year.

But that’s probably not enough to convince her to leave the house or postpone a hangout with friends to go shopping. Online shopping is a great solution, but some things really need to be tried on in person. Here are a few ways you can get your reluctant teenager to join you…

Make a day of it

‘Gamify’ your shopping tasks

Got a competitive daughter? If you’re planning to get all of your shopping list done in one big department store, you could turn it into a game. Split the list of items between you (either picking things on the same floor, or different floors if you want to up the difficulty level); confirm contact via phone while you’re apart; decide on a meeting point; then the shopping dash begins! Whoever finds all of their items first, wins (prizes awarded at your discretion).

Play ‘guess the bra size’

At some point, you’ll need to get her into the lingerie department or into a bra boutique, to buy her new teen bras. Your daughter may be completely fine with this, or she may be a little embarrassed. Lighten the mood by playing ‘guess the bra size’: hold up a random bra and ask her to guess the cup and band size; then she picks a bra and asks you. Closest wins, but it’s also a sneaky way to familiarise her with all the different bra styles and sizes out there, and she may just hold onto a couple she likes.

Bribes

If all else fails, revert to bribery! What teenager can resist the promise of small treats or favours? These bribes needn’t be bought and can be as simple as making her favourite dinner or letting her have control of the TV remote for an evening. Offer something for, say, every three uniform items or bras you get her to try on. Before you know it, your shopping list is done!

Tips for shopping for teen bras

Shopping for a first bra or teen bras can be hassle-free with these top tips:

Be uniform-appropriate

Most school-regulation shirts are white or pale blue, meaning bold colours and elaborate designs are out. Pick fuss-free styles in print-free fabric and in pale colours such as cream, ivory, blush pink or marl grey – these shades are practically invisible under school shirts. T-shirt bras which are lightly padded also provide a smooth look under uniform.

Let her lead on style

As a parent, you can steer her to school-appropriate bras, but at the end of the day it has to be in a style she’s happy to wear. Allow her to take the lead here, whether she’s into athleisure, classic or crop top styles.

Consider wear rate

School uniform needs to withstand a LOT of daily wear, and a bra is no exception. With a new bra worn every day you need to stock up on the favourites, so take advantage of our summer sale offer: save £5 when you buy any two Posie bras or any two Impact Free Adjustable Fit sports bras.

Don’t forget teen sports bras

Many girls shy away from school sports when their attitude towards their body starts to change. Wearing a sports bra that keeps everything securely in place helps lessen some of that self-consciousness. Impact Free, Lola and Posie are all PE-friendly options.

How to measure for a teen bra

While it’s always best to get fitted by a professional (check our list of stockists for a fitter in your area), particularly if it’s your first time, measuring at home is a close second best – just make sure you follow our expert advice for DIY fitting. With these tips your teen can find her perfect fit in the comfort of her own bedroom, no adults required!

Underband

A whopping 80% of bra support comes from your underband so make sure it fits perfectly. The underband should sit in a straight line across your back (look in the mirror to check). We recommend you fasten on the middle hook and eye so you can adjust to make it bigger or smaller if you feel uncomfortable. If you can stick two fingers under the band, you’re good to go!

Cups

Are your breasts sitting comfortably in the cup with no bulging or gaping? The cups should sit nicely around your breasts with the fabric smooth against your skin (no wrinkles or bagginess, please).

Straps

Straps slipping down can be annoying, and straps digging in are uncomfortable. Test them by making sure you can comfortably slip two fingers underneath – loosen or tighten them until they feel perfect.

Now stand back, jiggle about a bit, find how it feels – adjust if needed. Looking and feeling good? Well done, you’ve just found your perfect fit!