How to Choose What to Wear (Preteen Girls)

Last Updated: February 20, 2023

It can sometimes be tough for tween girls to figure out what to wear, where to buy, and when to wear certain clothes. Follow the steps ahead to get a better understanding of how to survive this transition into adolescence.

1

Plan your outfit a day ahead of time.

Just take a moment to think over what you're going to be doing that day - are you going to school, or just staying at home? Whatever you're doing that day should influence your choice. If it's pouring rain, you don't want to be stuck in shorts all day.

2

Look over your wardrobe.

Take some time looking at your wardrobe, to see what you have available to wear. If you don't like some of your clothes or they don't fit, try giving them to your local charity or selling them at a garage sale.

3

Feel comfortable.

Pick out something you like. It's best to wear something you feel comfortable in. Don't wear what all the girls are wearing just because it's fashionable. Put on something that you want to, and when you are shopping, think about whether you will actually wear this.

4

Accept that your body is changing.

At this age, everyone's body is going through changes. Going up a size or two could mean that you're getting taller or that your hips are widening. If something doesn't fit you - don't stress over it; instead, get it in a bigger size or go to a teen store instead.

5

Dress appropriately for your age.

Don't buy 5 inch (12.7 cm) heels or super-short skirts to look more grown up. Have fun with your style and stay true to who you are. If you are into emo/ goth stuff, make sure you don't purchase anything shocking, or with inappropriate logos. No one wants to see a tween wearing a shirt that says "Come Play Dying".

6

Accessorize.

Try adding a few accessories to it. Don't overdo it, though. If you want to wear new accessories, try finding ones that are inexpensive and the kind you like and would fit you. For your hair, try accessories like headbands, barrettes, or flower hair-ties, or wearing it loose/in a plain ponytail.

7

Go shopping.

If you want to go shopping, go to places that suit you and are in a clean environment. It doesn't have to be a popular store - remember that nobody will know if you buy a great and inexpensive shirt from a small and "uncool" store in your area.

8

Be confident.

Clothing is one of the best ways of expressing yourself. Show people how you feel, with writing on a t-shirt or a funny picture or comfy clothes. However, its main purpose is to make you feel more confident and truly recognize the gorgeous woman that you are inside.

Community Q&A

Question

What should I do if my mom forces me to wear certain clothes that I don't like?

Community Answer

Go with her to shop for your clothes. If she suggests that you get an item that you don't like, then politely refuse or try to distract her by picking up an item you do like.
Question

What do I do if someone makes fun of how I dress?

Community Answer

Ignore them. If they keep on doing it, tell someone you can trust (teacher, best friend, parent etc.).
Question

What kind of underclothes should I wear?

Community Answer

It depends on the person. Most of the time, preteen girls are developing, so you might want to have appropriately thick bras (usually training bras, although some develop early) and good-fitting underwear. Wearing tank tops could work, too.

Warnings

Be sure your attire fits the dress code! Check the school dress code before going shopping.

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Show your own personality - not someone else's

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Don't wear anything that is too revealing. There's a time and place for everything, and you don't need to show skin to look attractive or impress people. Try wearing leggings under short skirts, or layering tops for a more appropriate look.

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Don't spend too much money at once. Consider babysitting or doing extra chores to get what you deserve fair and square. Remember that in a few months there will be new trends and plenty of great new clothes, so don't buy too much on one shopping spree.

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