If you have small breasts, you're well aware of your options when it comes to bras: buy a small-sized bra and deal with the unfortunate "boob gaps" that can result or suck up your pride and head into the training bra section.
But one Kickstarter wants to change all that, and it's well on its way to becoming a reality. Pepper ("a bra for small boobs") launched its crowdfunding campaign on April 12, and reached 300 per cent of its $10,000 within a week, showing that yes, there are plenty of women out there eager for something new.
The company, created by Jaclyn Fu and Lia Winograd, aims to address common small boob complaints, including a cup that gives lift and cleavage without padding, as well as a solution to the dreaded gap, the space that's often created when either the cup or the band is too big. And the best part? It's only US$40.
While there's plenty to love about having small boobs (like say, not having to wear a bra at all), there's no question women still want the support when they need it.
In a video on Kickstarter, Fu describes an embarrassing situation small-breasted women know all too well — stuffing her bra with tube socks to fill it out, and feeling self-conscious about their size throughout high school.
"There's nothing wrong with your body, there's something wrong with the bra industry," emphasizes Winograd.
Pepper's differences lie in the design — shorter underwires, demi cups and a mesh overlay that hugs the bra to the wearer's body while keeping cups filled.
We're sure we speak for all small-breasted women when we say, it's about damn time these problems were addressed. Bye bye kids' sections!
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Bra Questions -- Answered!
1.What's a big-busted girl to do for a strapless bra so she doesn't jiggle?(01 of21)
When you go strapless, all of the support will come from the back band, which should be a firm fit to the body. Women tend to be afraid of trying larger cup sizes, but it's crucial that your breasts be in the right size with enough cup space in order for the design of the bra to do its job correctly. Don't forget, as the bra size gets larger the band gets wider and so do the straps. I know wearing a strapless bra might feel strange at first but trust me, I'm a F34 and it's total possible to feel supported and comfortable! I'd recommend Triumph's Diamond Jacquard Detachable Strap Bra ($46) and Beauty-Full Basics Balconette Bra ($58). (credit:tracy tucker via Getty Images)
2. How do you know when it's time to throw away a bra?(02 of21)
The average lifespan of a bra is six to eight months. If a bra has lost all elasticity, it won't offer the proper support. Take note of the shape and elasticity of the bra -- if it's feeling loose and you're using the third hook, then the bra is not providing the support you need. And If the padding or cups of your bra wrinkle or if your wires shift or pop out, it's time to say goodbye. (credit:shutterstock)
3. Do you really have to wear a bra?(03 of21)
That's a personal decision. Do you want support? Do you want your breasts to look rounded and shaped under clothing? If yes, then a bra is a good idea. (credit:Aneese via Getty Images)
4. Should you put them in the dryer?(04 of21)
I would recommend laying flat to dry to help preserve the lifespan of the bra. The heat of a dryer can damage the bra's elasticity and shape, and hanging it can cause stretching. Before you lay your bra out, make sure the cups aren't misshapen or folded, and use a towel to blot up excess water (don't wring or twist the bra). (credit:Michael Bodmann via Getty Images)
5. How do you make sticky bras last?(05 of21)
To properly care of sticky bras, put some mild soap and water in your hand and gently rub the inside cup of the bra. Then, put it back in the case and let air-dry. While you’re wearing it, try not to perspire since that will take the stickiness away. Also, do not put on any powders or lotions on before you put on the bra -- it's best when placed on freshly washed and dried skin. (credit:bare necessities)
6. Which straps are best for women with big boobs?(06 of21)
When it comes to straps for bustier women, the bigger the better. Thicker straps will offer the support busty women need. Triumph has an entire "Beauty Full" collection meant for women whose cup sizes range from C-F. I personally love the Beauty Full Basics Underwire Bra ($58) or the Beauty Full Icon Underwire Bra ($66). It's designed to adapt to a women's figure and has adjustable, wide and flat shoulder straps for individualized comfort. (credit:shutterstock)
7. What's the best bra for a T-shirt?(07 of21)
A T-shirt bra of course! I love Triumph's Mon Amour T-Shirt Bra ($60) as it has smooth cups, giving it a seamless, sleek look that is comfortable and gives great support. Lace and bedazzled jewels is not going to cut it here -- you don't want to worry about textured lace or bumps showing through. (credit:Sian Kennedy via Getty Images)
8. Is it ever okay to have that pillowing thing where part of your boob comes out of your bra?(08 of21)
You shouldn't have any parts of your breast pillowing out of your bra. Generally if you feel like something isn't right, you’re probably right. Make sure your cups are large enough and containing all your breast tissue. Sometimes wearing a style that has a deep plunge or push-up can cause your breast to spill out. Try a larger cup size. (credit:shutterstock)
9. What's the secret to finding a strapless bra that works?(09 of21)
Know your measurements. The cups should be front and center, the bra should lift and center your bust midway between your shoulders and elbows and your breasts should stay within the frame of your body. The bra should fit firmly around your frame especially because a strapless bra gets most of its support from the band. If it’s too loose, it will fall down. The band should only be able to fit two fingers underneath. (credit:shutterstock)
10. How tight should your shoulder straps be?(10 of21)
You should be able to fit one finger underneath the strap and still feel that it is snug, but not too tight. (credit:Emelie Ollila via Getty Images)
11. How often should you wash it? And how do I wash it?(11 of21)
Unless you're really sweaty, wait two or three wears before washing. Over-washing can damage the elasticity, which is essential for providing the proper support. Always wash by hand, that is the best way. If you don’t have time, purchase a lingerie bag and put your bras in there when machine, on delicate cycle of course. I wash all my delicates together, but as long as it’s in the lingerie bag it’s fine. Also, remember to clasp the bras before washing them. Never ever put them in the dryer. The heat will totally distort the fabric and shape of the bra. (credit:anankkml via Getty Images)
12. Are expensive bras really better?(12 of21)
It’s important to invest in a good quality bra. They will last longer and won’t wear out as fast. Bras are an investment piece, you wear one everyday! Take the time to try on bras, get properly fitted and invest in pieces that fit you best. (credit:shutterstock)
13. What does a proper measurement/fitting entail? Should the fitter be touching your breasts?(13 of21)
The fitter will ask for you to take your shirt off (bra on). Once you are ready, she will measure your band and cup size. Once the fitter determines your size, she will bring a variety of bras and a few different sizes just to make sure you get the best fit. Once the new bra is on, the fitter will assess how it fits looking at the positioning of the back band and fit of the cups, also adjusting the straps as necessary. The fitter will be touching you to ensure the measurements are correct but they would never directly touch your breasts. (credit:shutterstock)
14. When is it ok NOT to wear one? (For we poorly-endowed ladies)(14 of21)
Going to sleep at night, as wearing a bra to bed could be uncomfortable for some women with an A or B cup. If your breasts are bigger than a D, you could wear a bra to bed. Some women like the added support as they sleep. (credit:shutterstock)
15. What if you're between sizes? Are you doomed?(15 of21)
You aren’t doomed! When you’re shopping and between sizes, you should know your range. For example, some women are between a 32 and a 34 band size, so when you’re bra shopping, bring both sizes into the fitting room. It’s important that you always try it on. Your bra size may change with different styles you try on, so be sure to try on a variety of sizes to ensure the best possible fit for yourself. (credit:shutterstock)
16. There's that bra myth/claim that wired bras are "bad for your health." Is this true?(16 of21)
The bra-caused breast cancer theory is not supported by sufficient evidence. So, the idea of a correlation between wearing a bra and breast cancer is a myth. (credit:Steve Wisbauer via Getty Images)
17. How can you avoid bra lines showing through your shirt?(17 of21)
Make sure your bra fits you properly so you aren’t spilling out of the cup. Also, there are different styles of bras such as Triumph's Body Make-Up Push Up Padded Underwire Bra ($46), which will give you a sleek look and lay flat under a T-shirt. (credit:peepo via Getty Images)
18. What are some basic bras every woman should have?(18 of21)
T-Shirt Bra: Triumph's Body Make-Up Padded Underwire Bra ($40) is an everyday essential. The lightly lined padded underwire bra features smooth, rounded cups, flat staps and a comfortable and weightless fabric.Magic Wire Bra:The Magic Wire TShirt Bra ($50) from Triumph features a flexible silicone wire that give the support of a wired bra, and the comfort of no wire.Multi-Way Bra: Dress as you desire with Triumph's Body Make-Up Magic Wire Bra ($50). You can adjust the bra to make it strapless, criss-cross at the back, or one shoulder. A multi-way is a staple during wedding season!Push-Up Bra: For a little va-va-voom, Triumph's Forbidden Lace Push Up Bra ($50) is perfect to enhance your cleavage under low-cut tops or dresses.Soft Cup Bra: Women should celebrate their natural bust shapes! Try Triumph's Amourette Spotlight Unlined ($60). (credit:shutterstock)
19. How often should someone go to a bra fitter?(19 of21)
Since your body is constantly changing, we recommend getting a professional bra fitting once to twice a year. (credit:Izabela Habur via Getty Images)
20. My straps keep slipping off despite multiple readjustments. What am I doing wrong? Is this something better posture can fix? Is it time for a new bra?(20 of21)
I would say its time for a new bra. After a while, your straps will stretch out and no matter how much you adjust them, they won’t go back to their normal form. To stop this from happening in the future, try and rotate your bras by wearing a few different ones throughout the week and when you wash them, hand wash and let them dry flat so they don’t stretch on the hanger while drying. If you have slanted shoulders try a racer back style like Triumph’s Forbidden Lace Underwired TShirt Bra ($50). It has a clip in the back that allows you to use it as a racer back or just as normal. Because the straps are attached they won't be able to slip off your shoulders. (credit:Studio MPM via Getty Images)
21. What are some bra gimmicks to avoid?(21 of21)
Occasionally, I will come across ladies who decide that pulling the wires out of their bra is just a genius idea. Or, trying to alter a poor fitting bra they found for $5 into some kind of glorious custom bra in order to save some money. It never ends up working out very well. Actually, I often find myself in the fitting room with these ladies laughing over the idea she so bravely carried out. Spending a couple hundred dollars each year on good bras is something women have to accept. Try and have some fun with it! (credit:Mike Flippo via Getty Images)