Are 12 Year Olds Too Young to Wear Bras?

Your daughter might have brought up the topic of bras recently. Or told you that her friends are starting to wear them. Maybe she’s been asking you if she can start wearing one too. It’s natural to wonder if your daughter needs one at her young age, so let’s chat about why bras are helpful for younger girls, and how to boost their confidence growing up!

So, are 12 year olds too young to wear bras? And can girls be too young for a bra? It's totally normal to have questions about these things, especially as you notice her body changing and growing. Let's explore this topic together!

why do tweens and teens wear bras? 

First off, let's understand why girls wear bras. Bras provide support and comfort for her breasts as she grows. They can help prevent discomfort during sports and other activities, and boost confidence by providing shape under clothing and ensuring her nipples aren’t showing through. Most girls choose to wear them out of comfort, and sometimes bras are even worn for fashion!
when should you start wearing a bra?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Everyone's body develops at its own pace, and it’s all down to personal preference. Some girls might start wearing bras around the age of 12 or much younger, while others may not need one until they're older.
signs she might need a bra:

• Breast development: If she’s mentioned that her breasts are starting to develop and she feels uncomfortable without support, it might be time to consider wearing a bra. Many girls experience itching, mild pain, and swelling during this time, which is totally normal! If you’re a mom, I’m sure you’ve experienced the same things :) 
• Discomfort during activities: If she’s actively participating in sports or physical activity finds that her breasts feel uncomfortable or move around a lot, a sports bra can provide the support she’s looking for and even increase performance!

choosing the right bra

When she’s ready to start wearing a bra, it's important to choose one that fits well and feels comfortable. Here are some tips:

• Comfort is Key: Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics that feel good against her skin. Nothing should dig into her shoulders and back, and the best bras should feel like a second skin!

• Style Options: Bras come in different styles, from sports bras for active days, bralettes for lounging in, or bras for everyday wear. Choose one that suits her needs and preferences. If you’re not sure where to start shopping, go with the basics! Skip anything with underwires and lace to avoid discomfort. 
• Choose Apricotton bras: We designed our bras for growing girls like your daughter, and it’s never been easier to find one that’s perfect! Rather than flimsy training bras or cup bras that she may not be ready for, Apricotton bras are the perfect option that will never let her down. All of our bras are moisture-wicking and have a supportive band so they can be worn at school or while playing sports. They also come with removable padding and are designed to stretch and grow, so they last through multiple stages of growth during puberty.

@apricottongirls You are never “to young” to start wearing a bra 🩷 #girladivce #girlhood #femininehygiene #bigsisteradvice ♬ original sound - SpotifySounds

talking about bras

It's normal for girls to feel a bit awkward or embarrassed when talking about bras, but it's all part of their journey into adolescence. As your child is growing up, she may have questions or feel uncertain about this new stage. You've been through this yourself and can offer her guidance and support. A conversation about why she needs a bra could be a good starting point, and your advice on choosing her first one would mean a lot to her.

Ultimately, whether or not she’s ready to wear a bra at 12 years old (or any age!) depends on her body and comfort level. It's important for her to feel comfortable and confident in whatever she wears. There's no right or wrong age to start wearing a bra; the most important thing is that she feels supported in her decision. If she's concerned about what her peers may think, remind her that puberty is a natural process and everyone experiences it at their own pace. Your encouragement and reassurance will help her navigate this phase with confidence.

If you’re thinking of buying her an Apricotton bra but not sure where to start, check out our collection of bras here. I recommend starting with our Perfect Bra, as it offers the most coverage, but still has a flattering neckline and thin straps so the bra can hide under most shirts. And if you think she’s growing a lot, our Cloud Bra is a great option too since it has an adjustable back band to fit her underbust through weight fluctuations. Best of luck with her bra journey, and we’re always here to support you both 💛

About the Author:

Lindsay is a Health Science and Business student at Western University who loves cooking and enjoying the outdoors. She hopes that more girls can feel confident growing up, and totally wishes she had Apricotton bras as a teen!