You’re ready for your first bra…but you’re less than psyched about trying to decide which of the endless styles/fabrics/colors/sizes is right for you.
So for every girl stuck at “where do I even start?”, welcome to our handy-dandy cheat sheet—aka your step-by-step guide to picking a style, determining your size and making your first bra purchase.
🩷 Click here to win two Cupcakes bras! 🩷
Step 1: Have the talk
If the thought of bringing up bras makes you want to crawl under your covers, remember that there’s a *very* good chance that your mom (or grandma or older sis or whatever fab female takes care of you day to day) has been through this exact convo before. Simply bring it up when you’re getting ready in the morning or driving to school.
Something like, “I think I’m ready for my first bra. Could you help me look for one?” is a great place to start. You can also tell her what you’re hoping for (aka a beginner-friendly style) or ask her any Q’s (like “how do I know if it fits well?”).
Remember: She was in this spot once, too—and she’ll probs be more than happy to help you figure it all out.
Step 2: Select a simple style
Welcome to the slightly overwhelming world of bra styles.
From T-shirt to underwire to bralette to sports bra, it’s no wonder picking your first cut is confusing. The good news? You don’t need to know the difference between every single one before you start shopping (srsly, who came up with all these names?).
In fact, for your first bra, it’s best to look for a versatile style that’s basic and comfy—so you can simply get used to the feeling of wearing one at all. Our new fave? Cupcakes. Their beginner-friendly bras provide coverage without bulky pads (no shifting or folding here, tyvm) and are made with the most buttery fabric (stretchy on the outside, soft on the inside—yes please).
Step 3: Find your fit
Cup size? Underbust? This is probably the part you’ve been wondering about the most.
Your bra size is based on a few different measurements, and getting the right fit is important to make sure your bra feels comfortable.
To find your perfect fit, simply wrap a soft measuring tape around your ribcage, right underneath your breasts. Keep the tape straight and parallel to the floor. That’s your band size—and for many beginner-friendly bra brands, that’s the only number you need to know.
Once you have your measurement, use your fave bra brand’s size guide to see which one to buy (psst: if you’re between sizes, size up so you have room to grow).
Step 4: Make it yours
A good bra should feel comfy enough that you can go about your day without constantly thinking about it. If your bra feels itchy, pinchy or like it’s digging into your shoulders, that’s a sign to try a different size or style.
And remember: Your basics don’t have to be boring! Your first bra can come in your fave color (pink or light purple, perhaps?) or feature mini details that make you excited to wear it (each Cupcakes bra includes a hidden printed affirmation and comes with a limited-edition collectible charm).
