Brava is here for Back to School 2026
Uniforms. Sport. Growth spurts. Confidence. Back to school can be exciting… but also intense. For many teen girls, puberty arrives right on cue with the new term: breast tenderness, uneven growth (totally normal), and that sudden feeling of being noticed.
A well-fitted bra won’t “change” your body — it simply supports it, reduces discomfort, and helps girls stand taller (literally and emotionally).
What’s normal (and what mums should know)
Breasts can change quickly during puberty due to hormones, growth spurts and the menstrual cycle. It’s also common for:
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one breast to develop faster than the other
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breasts to feel tender or sore
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shapes and sizes to differ widely within families (genetics can come from anywhere in the family tree)
And yes — posture can take a hit. Some girls hunch to “hide” their bust, which can lead to neck/shoulder pain and headaches over time. The right bra + good posture helps everything feel more comfortable and less “front and centre”.
The 4 bra types that make school life easier
1) A proper sports bra (for PE, netball, running, anything bouncy)
If a teen is doing sport, a real sports bra is non-negotiable — not just for comfort, but for confidence. Too small = constricting and distracting. Too big = awkward and self-conscious.
Brava stocks sports bras in a wide size range of D cup to K cup designed for all levels of impact.
Try: Panache Endurance Non-padded, Wired Sports Bra (6 - 18, D - J*)
2) A smooth t-shirt bra (for uniforms + modesty)
Many teens prefer light moulding under school shirts because it feels less exposing and looks seamless. Myth-buster: Light moulding wont make boobs look bigger. They offer good coverage, a rounded, natural shape, comfort and confidence — and a good fitter won’t put a teen in anything inappropriate or overly-enhancing.
Try: Freya Idol Moulded Balcony T-Shirt Bra (6 - 16, D - H*)
Try: Corin Sophia Moulded Bra, Moulded Bra ( 8- 20, DD - GG*)
3) Everyday underwire support (when development has progressed)
For girls who need more structure, an underwire bra with supportive side panels can give a lifted, forward shape and reduce strain on shoulders and back — especially for fuller busts.
Try: Panache Ana Plunge Bra (6 - 16, D - J*)
4) Wirefree / Crop styles (the “barely-there” option)
If you want the “set and forget” feeling under uniforms or for early development, sensory comfort, when they don’t want a noticeable bra. Wirefree crop styles can feel smooth and easy while still offering gentle support.
Try: Fantasie Smoothese Non-Wired Bralette & match with Fantasie Smoothese Invisible Stretch Full Brief
Try: Underwear for Humanity Recycled Bra Crop D+
“She’s mortified about a fitting…”
You’re not alone. Bra fittings can be right up there on the teen embarrassment scale.
At Brava, our fitters are pros at keeping things calm, respectful and not awkward. We focus on:
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clear, kind communication (with mum included — or not, depending on her preference)
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privacy and comfort throughout
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a quick, practical approach: what she needs for uniform + sport, and what feels good
And the best bit? Seeing a shy 13-year-old walk out standing taller because she finally feels supported and “normal”. That never gets old.
Back to School 2026: a simple checklist
If you’re buying for the term, aim for:
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1–2 everyday bras for uniform days
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1 proper sports bra (more if sport is frequent)
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seamless or smooth styles if shirts are thin
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comfort-first fit (no digging, gaping, riding up, or constant adjusting)
On a final note
It’s time for young women to embrace and celebrate their shape — without shame, without hiding. The right bra can be a small change that makes school days feel easier, more comfortable, and more confident.
Maxine Windram, Co-Founder of Brava Lingerie recently joined Jo White on the Pause Beyond the Court podcast to unpack why bra fit matters — especially for sport — and how a supportive early experience can boost both physical comfort and confidence.
Listen here: Listen here
