Jo Thornton - My Blog - Breast Enhancing Advice, Product Updates and Chat

 

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  1. Bride wearing a strapless wedding dress with discreet bra inserts for added shape and support on her big day.

    Wedding Dress Ready: The Secret Helpers Under Your Gown

    Finding the dress is a huge moment — whether it’s for your wedding day, a civil ceremony, or another celebration of love. But once you’ve found the perfect dress, it’s completely normal to want a little extra support or shape underneath. That’s where my range of breast enhancers and bra inserts comes in.

    Over the years, I’ve helped countless brides (and bridesmaids!) feel more confident and comfortable in their dresses — especially when dealing with low necklines, tricky strapless styles, or just needing a better balance or silhouette. My enhancers are designed to lift, boost, or shape depending on what you need — without compromising comfort or elegance.

    Why My Bra Inserts Are Ideal for Bridalwear

    • Invisible under dresses: No visible edges or harsh shapes, just a smooth, natural curve. Most styles sit inside your bra, but some can be taped directly to the skin or your dress using my Boobylicious Tape.

    • Customisable options: With 12 different styles to choose from, there’s something for every cup size, dress style, and body shape. Whether you’re after a subtle lift or full-on wow factor, you’ll find a match.

    • Great for non-standard sizing: If your bust is asymmetrical or your body doesn’t fit mainstream sizing, I’ve got you covered — literally. These are for real people with real bodies.

    Wedding Dresses Don’t Always Work with Bras

    One of the most common issues I hear from brides is that their dress doesn’t work with a standard bra — whether that’s because it’s strapless, has an open back, or the fabric is too fine. This can leave you with less support than you’d like, and often a bit of a gap between your bust and the dress.

    Because wedding dresses are usually structured to skim rather than cling, it’s often necessary to go up a size in enhancer or insert to fill the space and get the lift or cleavage you want. This is totally normal — especially if the dress doesn’t compress the bust or has built-in padding that needs balancing.

    In some cases, the seamstress may have done all the alterations possible, but there’s still a visible gap at the bust. Or the dress simply won’t allow for any more adjustment. That’s when going even bigger with the enhancer can help bridge that gap and give the illusion of a perfect fit. If that’s you — don’t worry. Just get in touch and I’ll help you find the right solution.

    Not Sure What You Need? I Can Help.

    Weddings are stressful enough without worrying about what’s going on under your dress. So, if you're not sure which style is best, I’m always happy to help. Just pop me a message with a few details about your dress and what you’re hoping to achieve, and I’ll point you to the best options.

    You can also order with peace of mind — discreet packaging, fast delivery, and a return policy that gives you time to try your enhancers or bra inserts out before the big day.

    Top Picks for Brides

    All of these can be paired with Boobylicious Tape for extra security, especially useful in strapless or sheer dresses.


    Whatever your style, shape or gender identity — you deserve to feel your most confident self on your wedding day. And I’m here to help make that happen, with a little silicone magic and a lot of care.

    “Confidence isn’t about being perfect — it’s about feeling ready for the moments that matter.”

    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46 

  2. A Change to Style 7 Breast Enhancer Packaging

    I always want to make sure that the packaging for my breast enhancers is both practical and protective, but sometimes unexpected challenges come up. Unfortunately, I’ve had to make the difficult decision to remove the rigid magnetic box option for my Style 7 breast enhancers—at least for now.

    The issue is that my UK-based box manufacturer has recently reduced the range of sizes they offer. I completely understand why—these are challenging times for many businesses, and stocking a wide variety of sizes can be difficult. However, this has left me in a tricky situation. The next available size up is far too large, and the previous size was just about workable, but not ideal for everyone.

    The Packaging Solution Going Forward

    For now, the Style 7 breast enhancers will come as standard in the simple tissue paper.  If you'd like an upgrade, I will still offer the organza bag, which keeps them safe while also being a more flexible storage option. If you do need a rigid box for discretion when receiving your order, I will be adding a plain card box for postage, it's not pretty, but you could also use it for long-term storage.

    I’ll continue looking for a better attractive box packaging solution in the future, but I didn’t want to offer something that wasn’t quite right. I know this will be disappointing for some customers, and I’m really sorry for that. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, I’d love to hear them—your feedback always helps me find the best solutions!

    Thank you for your understanding :)

  3. The “Joy” of Perimenopause and Migraines

    Lately, migraines have been making life particularly challenging for me. I’ve always had them, but perimenopause has taken them to a whole new level. As hormone levels fluctuate, my migraines have become more frequent and intense. Unlike the classic migraine with aura, mine tend to affect my entire body, particularly the back and side of my head, neck and digestive system, which reacts badly every time. If you experience nausea, vomiting, or digestive distress with your migraines, you’ll know how debilitating this can be. 

    I know I’m not alone in this. Migraine is an incredibly common condition, affecting millions of people in the UK. Whether you experience visual aura, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, or severe pain, I have the deepest sympathy for you. Migraines can take over entire days, sometimes longer, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible. I try to not let them take over, and continue on when I can, but I get very frustrated with how they affect the running of my shop when I am having a bad spell. I don't like you guys to suffer too while you wait longer for me to get back to you etc. But while they are often unpredictable and difficult to manage, there is some good news on the horizon. When I'm poorly with one, I tend to feel very low and negative, but I've taken some time to read about positive changes in migraine healthcase, and I hope the news may help some of you too. 

    New Migraine Treatments in the UK

    For many years, migraine treatment options have been somewhat limited, particularly for those who cannot tolerate traditional medications such as triptans. I use a triptan nasal spray, but I am finding it less and less effective. However, exciting new developments are becoming available, offering hope to those who have struggled to find effective relief.

    One of the most promising areas of research is CGRP inhibitors. These medications work by blocking calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein that plays a key role in migraine attacks. Unlike traditional painkillers, CGRP inhibitors are designed specifically for migraine prevention and treatment. Some of the most well-known include:

    • Erenumab (Aimovig)
    • Fremanezumab (Ajovy)
    • Galcanezumab (Emgality)
    • Eptinezumab (Vyepti) (administered via infusion)

    These are now becoming more widely available on the NHS for those who meet certain criteria. If you suffer from frequent and disabling migraines, it may be worth discussing these with your doctor.

    Another exciting area of treatment is neuromodulation devices, which use electrical or magnetic stimulation to help interrupt migraine activity. Some of the devices currently available include:

    • Cefaly – a headband that delivers small electrical pulses to the forehead to prevent and treat migraines.
    • gammaCore – a handheld device that stimulates the vagus nerve to help reduce migraine symptoms.
    • Nerivio – a remote-controlled wearable device that is applied to the arm to reduce migraine pain.

    These devices can be particularly helpful for people who either cannot take medication or prefer a drug-free approach.

    Let’s Share Tips and Support

    Migraines are incredibly complex, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have any tried-and-tested migraine management strategies, I would love to hear them! Whether it’s a particular supplement, a lifestyle change, or something unexpected that has helped, please feel free to share.

    And if you are struggling and need some support, I’m always here. Migraines can feel isolating, but you are certainly not alone. Hopefully, with new treatments emerging and more awareness around migraine care, better days are ahead for all of us who live with this painful/frustrating/challenging condition.

    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46 xxx

  4. In Brief: I am so sorry to say that I have had to close my sales to Europe and Northern Ireland due to new rules.

    In Detail: The EU have brought in some new rules regarding safety, to ensure that products sold in Europe are safe and have appropriate traceability. I agree with that, and that's not an issue for my products. The issue is the fact that I am not based in the EU and I would need to also have a representative based in Europe. So, a registered office, a registered part of my business etc. I don't have that, so I would have to appoint an external one, which is where the problem lies.

    The costs for this are high and beyond the profit I make selling in Europe, making it counterproductive.

    As a result, I have had to suspend my sales to Europe and Northern Ireland, where these rules are now in effect.

    When the VAT rules changed last year, I was able to continue selling to my lovely European customers via ETSY, who are able to handle all the tax matters, but with this new change I have had to close those down.

    I am aware that I have repeat customers in Ireland and various other countries in Europe, so I am so sorry to let you down.

    I will be monitoring this situation, and hoping that I can find a more cost-effective solution in the future. 

    With sadness and hope, 

    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46

  5. A Little Stock Update

    I have just restocked my:

    Style 1 Breast Enhancer
    Style 3 Breast Enhancer
    Style 6 Clear and Brown Skin Breast Enhancer

    Teardrop Style 2 1000g each full Breast Forms/False Breasts/Prostheses

    Triangle 300g each full Breast Forms/False Breasts/Prostheses
    Triangle 400g each full Breast Forms/False Breasts/Prostheses

    Teardrop 1 300g each full Breast Forms/False Breasts/Prostheses

    Coming later this week will also be:

    Pear 300g each full Breast Forms/False Breasts/Protheses

    Coming later this month:

    Style 10 Breast Enhancer

  6. Caroline Cossey: A Trailblazing Trans Icon Who Fought for Visibility

    Many of us are familiar with the names of prominent figures like Laverne Cox or Janet Mock, but there are lesser-known pioneers who paved the way for today's trans rights movement. One such trailblazer that I feel we should all know is Caroline Cossey, a British model and actress who, despite incredible personal challenges, courageously championed visibility for trans women at a time when society offered little understanding or acceptance. 

    Early Life: A Hidden Journey

    Caroline was born in 1954 in Norfolk, England, and assigned male at birth. Growing up, she was aware that she was different, though the language and understanding of transgender identity didn’t exist in the way it does today. She experienced deep discomfort with her assigned gender from a young age, often feeling like she was trapped in the wrong body. Her adolescence was fraught with confusion and isolation, particularly in a conservative environment where being different wasn’t met with acceptance.

    Caroline left school at 15, hoping to find her place in the world. During her teenage years, she began to learn more about her identity, and in her twenties, she started hormone therapy. In 1974, at the age of 20, she underwent gender confirmation surgery and began living her life fully as the woman she knew herself to be. The courage it took for Caroline to transition in a deeply hostile world is remarkable on its own. But her story was just beginning.

    Breaking Boundaries in Modelling and Acting

    Cossey entered the world of modelling shortly after her surgery and quickly found success. Her statuesque beauty and grace won her contracts, and she appeared in numerous magazines, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and even in the pages of Playboy. Her career was on an upward trajectory, and in 1981, she was cast as an extra in the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.

    For many, this would have been a dream come true, but it was also the beginning of a difficult chapter in her life. Shortly after her Bond appearance, a tabloid outed her as trans, using her former name and sensationalising her story. This public exposure brought her career to a standstill and led to intense scrutiny from the media. But rather than retreat, Caroline decided to fight.

    Advocacy and Pushing for Legal Rights

    Rather than allow the media’s exposure to ruin her life, Caroline used her public platform to advocate for trans rights. In 1982, she published her autobiography "Tula: I Am a Woman," which offered one of the first widely available personal accounts of a trans woman’s journey. Her honesty in recounting her struggles—both before and after her transition—offered solace and validation to countless trans people who had previously felt alone in their experiences.

    Caroline became a vocal advocate for trans visibility and legal rights. She fought for her right to be recognised as female on her legal documents, leading to a long and exhausting legal battle against the British government. At the time, the law did not allow transgender individuals to change their legal sex, meaning that Cossey, despite living her life as a woman, was denied marriage rights and other legal protections. Her case even went to the European Court of Human Rights, and although she ultimately lost, her bravery in challenging the status quo laid important groundwork for future legal victories in trans rights.

    A Lasting Legacy

    While Caroline may not be as widely known as some trans activists today, her work was instrumental in pushing for visibility and recognition. She was one of the first trans women to fight publicly for the right to live openly and authentically, using her fame as a platform for advocacy at a time when society had little understanding or compassion for trans people.

    Her career in the spotlight may have been cut short, but her courage resonated with a generation of trans individuals who saw in her a role model. She showed that living authentically was worth fighting for, even in the face of immense opposition. Today, thanks to the efforts of early pioneers like Caroline Cossey, trans rights have come a long way. While there is still work to be done, the visibility and acceptance enjoyed by trans people today would not be possible without the bravery of those who paved the way.

    For many, Caroline is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful impact comes from simply living your truth, no matter what the world throws at you. Thank you Caroline.

    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46xx

    If you would like to read more about Caroline, here are some links for you:

    1. Caroline Cossey's autobiography – Tula: I Am a Woman (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tula-I-Am-Woman-First/dp/1508403806) 
    - This is a must-read for anyone interested in her personal journey and struggles.

    2. An interview with Caroline Cossey on her experiences– https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2016/sep/09/caroline-cossey-transgender-bond-girl-interview (The Guardian).
    - A comprehensive interview from 2016 where she reflects on her life, career, and the impact of her work.

    3. A biography on Caroline Cossey's life – http://www.transgenderzone.com/carolinecossey.htm (Transgender Zone).
    - This website offers a detailed overview of her life, career, and advocacy.

    4. Wikipedia entry for Caroline Cossey – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caroline_Cossey.
    - A good starting point for general information about her life and career.

  7. Why I'm Raising My Prices – And What That Means for You

    I wanted to take a moment to talk about something that's been on my mind for a while now—price increases. I’ve been running my shop for quite a few years, and during that time, I’ve done everything I can to keep prices fair and steady. In fact, for some of my products, I haven’t raised prices in over six years! That’s despite the fact that the cost of silicone, manufacturing, and just about everything else involved in running my shop has gone up considerably.

    For a long time, I was able to absorb these rising costs because I wanted to keep things affordable for you. I know how tough things have been with inflation affecting all of us. But as much as I hate to do it, I’ve reached a point where it’s just not sustainable for me to continue without making some adjustments to my prices. I’d rather be honest and upfront with you all about it.

    Why Some Prices Are Rising More Than Others
    You might notice that some of the prices will increase more than others. The reason for that is I’ve always tried to price my products according to their actual costs, rather than just applying a blanket price rise across everything. Some products naturally have higher production costs, while others are more affordable to make, and I’ve reflected that in my pricing. But after years of trying to hold steady, those products that have seen no changes for six years may now have larger price jumps, simply because the costs have gone up that much over time.

    It’s About Sustainability
    I’ve always said I’d rather keep my shop running than close it, even if it means adjusting prices to stay afloat. I want to be here for the people who need me and my products, and the best way to do that is to make sure I can keep the business sustainable. It’s a decision that doesn’t come easily, but it’s one I’ve had to make to ensure I can keep bringing you the products and services you love.

    I Understand Things Are Tough
    I completely understand that many of you are feeling the pinch as well, so I’m doing something to help. Over the next month or so, I’ll be going through my stock and putting together a selection of seconds that I can offer at discounted prices. These will be products with minor imperfections but are still perfectly good for use. I hope that by offering these, I can make things a bit easier for those of you who might be struggling right now.

    Thank you so much for your understanding and continued support. I really do appreciate each and every one of you, and I’m committed to making sure my shop remains a place where you feel valued.

    Warmly,
    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46

  8. International Womens Day

    International Women's Day: A Celebration of Progress and Inclusion

    Each year on March 8th, the world comes together to recognise the remarkable achievements and power of women and all those who identify along the gender spectrum. I'm sure you've come across it by now as I've noticed it gaining more momentum in recent years, which is wonderful.

    IWD's roots stretch back over a century to 1909, a time when the fight for women's voting rights and improved working conditions was gaining momentum. The Socialist Party of America commemorated a garment workers' strike in New York. A year later, Clara Zetkin, a trailblazing socialist feminist, proposed an international day for women's rights at a socialist conference. March 8th 1911, saw the first official IWD celebrations across Europe, with over a million people rallying for voting rights, better working conditions, and an end to war.

    The focus on peace became even more prominent during World War I, with women across Europe using IWD to protest the violence. The United Nations officially recognized IWD in 1975, during International Women's Year.

    In recent years, IWD has expanded its focus to include and celebrate transgender and non-binary individuals recognising that the experiences of womanhood are beautifully diverse, and striving to uplift all voices.  This is echoed in this year's theme, which is "Inspire Inclusion," a call for understanding and valuing the importance of including everyone in the journey toward a more equitable world.

    Celebrating in the UK

    I couldn't find a large-scale, nationally organized Women's March today, so I don't think there is one this year, but there will be plenty of local events today and probably over the weekend. The fact that it's Mothering Sunday this weekend will probably encourage a lot more events to run. Expect to find engaging talks, workshops, marches, film screenings, and art exhibitions that shine a light on the contributions of women and non-binary individuals across the country. Many organizations also host insightful online events for wider accessibility. Fingers crossed for good weather for all the outside events! 

    IWD offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the progress we've made and to envision a future where equality is the norm. While we set aside this special day, let's remember that we can champion the spirit of IWD every single day. I certainly try to, as it's so close to my heart. I'm sure you can all see from my site that championing Women's empowerment, across the entire spectrum, is as the heart of what I do. 

    sign-2014-8-20-15.2.46 xxxx

  9. Breast Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Self-Checks  Breast cancer awareness

    It's been a while since I did a reminder about breast health and checks, so it's time for a refresh. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with early detection being absolutely crucial in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Regular breast self-examinations are a simple yet important step in increasing awareness of your body and potentially catching any concerning changes early on.

    Why Breast Self-Checks Matter

    • Familiarity with your body: Self-checks help you understand what feels normal for your breasts. This makes it easier to spot any potential changes or abnormalities.
    • Early detection: While self-checks don't replace professional mammograms, they can play a role in finding breast changes early when treatment may be most successful.
    • Empowerment: Taking charge of your own breast health can be empowering and reassuring.

    How to Perform a Breast Self-Check

    Here's a step-by-step guide:

    1. Visual Check:

      • Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides.
      • Look for any changes in the size, shape, or color of your breasts.
      • Check for any dimpling, puckering of the skin, unusual redness, or nipple discharge.
      • Repeat with your arms raised above your head.
    2. Lying-Down Check:

      • Lie down on your back and place a pillow under your right shoulder.
      • Use your left hand to examine your right breast. Use the pads of your three middle fingers, moving in small circular motions with varying levels of pressure (light, medium, firm) to feel all the breast tissue.
      • Start at your armpit and slowly sweep across to your cleavage, then move down to the edge of your ribs. Continue this in an up-and-down pattern until you've covered your entire breast.
      • Repeat on your left breast, using your right hand.
    3. Shower Check:

      • The warmth and wetness of the shower can make it easier to feel your breast tissue.
      • Using a soapy hand, use the same technique as the lying down check to examine both breasts.

    What to Look For:

    • New lumps or thickening in your breast or armpit
    • Change in breast size or shape
    • Changes to the skin of the breast – dimpling, rashes, redness
    • Nipple changes - inversion (turning inward), unusual discharge

    Important Reminders

    • Frequency: Many experts recommend performing breast self-checks monthly.
    • Timing: It's ideal to do self-checks a few days after your period ends, when breasts are likely to be less tender.
    • Don't Panic: Most breast changes are not cancer. However, if you notice anything unusual, consult your doctor promptly. Don't self-diagnose, seek professional evaluation.

    Beyond Self-Checks

    While breast self-checks are important, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Remember:

    • Mammograms: Regular mammograms, as recommended by your doctor based on age and risk factors, are the gold standard for breast cancer screening.
    • Listen to your body: Report any new, persistent changes in your breasts, even if not found on a self-check, to your healthcare provider.

    Let's Spread Awareness

    Share this information with the women in your life! Early detection saves lives.

    Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor about breast health concerns and appropriate screening schedules.

  10. In the hushed whispers of a searching soul,
    A voyage unfurls, a tale to extol.
    A spirit adrift, seeking its true form,
    Amidst the tumultuous seas, weathering the storm.

    In the mirrored depths, reflections distort,
    A kaleidoscope of identities sought.
    For within, a truth murmurs softly,
    A gender unseen, yet yearned for loftily.

    Through winding paths and trials profound,
    Resilience thrives, where doubts abound.
    Each stride forward, a triumph of will,
    Embracing the journey, undeterred still.

    From society's gaze to inner contemplation,
    Navigating complexities, a transformation.
    With every heartbeat, a soul finds its tune,
    In the symphony of self, beneath the moon.

    The world may resist, with ignorance rife,
    But within the spirit, a beacon of life.
    Transcending boundaries, breaking through,
    A testament to courage, tried and true.

    Acceptance blooms like a sacred vow,
    In the garden of love, here and now.
    For in embracing oneself, wholly and free,
    Lies the essence of existence, unconditionally.

    So let the currents of change guide the way,
    As the journey unfolds, day by day.
    For in the embrace of authenticity's grace,
    Resides the profundity of a trans soul's embrace.

    By Shaz