Why we (Mostly) Hate the Term "Training Bra"

(And What We'd Rather Call Them!)

Let’s talk about training bras.

Here’s the thing: your body isn’t a puppy that needs obedience school.

Boobs aren’t here to be trained.

They’re not misbehaving.

They’re just… showing up. Growing. Doing their thing.

Sometimes before we're ready.

Sometimes after we've waited forever.

So, why do we call them training bras?

Ok... Let's start with the history. And spice it up a bit for your entertainment!

It was the early 1900's. Tweens were living their best life in their simple little camisoles, doing their thing in dresses etc. But the fashion industry soon decided there was space in the market for little girls to cover their rude bits with something a little more... constrictive. By the 1920's and 1930's, companies began marketing lightweight, softer cup brassieres specifically for the younger crowd. Then the 1950's rolled in with a post-war boom. And suddenly growing bodies needed training.

Enter the 'training bra'!

Thanks goes to western world, marketing the 'training bra' as a hallmark for adolescent identity. A time to prep the young mind for the social conforms and cultural expectations of the feminine form. Yay!

75 odd years later...

How do we feel about the 'training bra' now?

Honestly?

You do you! If you love the name. We love it for you.

But here at MeBeBodee, we don't feel you need to earn a real bra. There's no training required for the changing body. You don't level up or pass a test. You just have to live it.

And we want to help young people live it in the most comfortable way. If that means no crop or bralette or bra, then ditch it.

Let them wear what undergarment THEY want.

For comfort.

For support.

For coverage.

But mostly because it feels good.

And it shouldn’t come with weird pressure or awkward names.

What Should We Call Them Instead?

Glad you asked! Here are some alternatives that feel way more 2025 than 1955:

• First bra – because it’s your first, not your practice round.

• Starter bra – chill, no-pressure intro.

• Foundation bra – lowkey fancy.

• Tween bra or teen bra – explanatory and to the point.

• Bra - simple. Full stop.

  
  

So, What Should You Look For in a First Bra?

Whether you’re searching for first bras for 10 year olds, teen lingerie, kids bralettes, or just something comfy for a growing body, here’s what actually matters:

• No itchy seams young people wriggle enough. Don't give them a reason to move more!

• Soft, stretchy fabric that second-skin feel that adapts with all the growth spurts

• No wires. Ever they don't play nicely with the developing tissues

• A cute but chill design we love colour but we're a little OTT so go for what you love

TL;DR

We've dropped the term training bra like a bad group chat. Girls bodies aren’t in training. They’re just growing and growing doesn’t need constrictive rules and regulations and ridiculous labels.

So use the words that feel comfortable for you both and choose the comfort that helps them navigate this epic, awkward, funny journey.

Want help choosing the right fit for your tween or teen?

Check out our range (or better yet, let them browse and choose what feels good for them). 🩷🩷🩷