If you’ve searched “crossdresser vs trans” or “transvestite meaning”, this post explains the terms in plain English.

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Crossdresser, Trans, Transvestite, Non-binary: What These Words Usually Mean

If you’ve ever paused mid-message to me thinking “I don’t even know which word to use”… you’re not alone. Language around gender has changed a lot, and people also use the same word in different ways. So this is a plain-English map of the terms I see most, and what people usually mean by them.

Use whatever words you use with me — or none at all.

Crossdresser

Most often, crossdresser means someone who wears clothing associated with a different gender than the one they were assigned at birth. For lots of people it describes presentation (how you dress / how you look / how you feel in yourself), and it doesn’t automatically say anything about identity.

People use it for all sorts of lives — occasional dressing, regular dressing, private, social — and the reasons can be as simple as “this makes me feel good” or as complicated as “this is the only place I feel like myself.”

Trans

Trans generally means someone whose gender identity doesn’t match the gender they were assigned at birth. Some people use “trans” as a broad umbrella word. Others prefer more specific language like trans woman, transfeminine, non-binary, or gender diverse.

When I started in 2007, I heard “trans” used more narrowly a lot of the time — often implying living full-time (or aiming to), sometimes with medical transition as part of that plan. These days it’s often used more widely, covering a much broader range of experiences — from people who present femininely sometimes, right through to trans women living full-time, with or without gender-affirming medical care (including surgery). That shift is one reason conversations can get confusing: the word has expanded.

Transvestite

Transvestite is used less now than it used to be, but it definitely hasn’t vanished. Historically it was often used in a similar way to “crossdresser.” These days some people are comfortable with it and some people really aren’t — it can feel old-fashioned, medical-ish, or just a bit loaded depending on someone’s experiences.

You’ll still see it, especially from people who learned that word first. And who knows — language goes through phases. It might yet come back around like a fine wine having a dramatic little renaissance.

Non-binary / Gender fluid

Non-binary and gender fluid are often used by people who don’t feel fully “man” or fully “woman,” or whose experience of gender shifts over time. Some people like these terms because they leave space and don’t force a neat box. Others don’t connect with them and prefer different language entirely.

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For some people, a lot of confusion disappears once you separate these:

Gender expression is how you present: clothes, hair, makeup, voice, mannerisms.
Gender identity is who you are inside.

They often line up — but they don’t have to. And that’s why two people can use the same word and mean slightly different things by it.

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If you’re not sure what fits

You don’t need to solve your identity like it’s a crossword clue.

Some people use one word forever. Some people try a few words on over time. Some people keep it private and only talk about it in small, safe circles. Some people just describe what they like and how they feel, and leave labels out of it completely.

If you’re messaging me and you don’t know what to call yourself, you can simply tell me what you’re aiming for — comfort, confidence, a more feminine shape, a better fit in clothes, something that feels more like you. That’s enough. I’ll understand what you mean.

 xx

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Bra Sizing Without the Tears

Why your “right bra size” can still feel wrong (and what to try instead)

If bras have ever made you feel like you’re the problem — you’re not. Bra sizing is a starting point, not a promise. Two bras with the same bra size on the label can fit completely differently, and it’s usually down to bra shape and bra style, not anything about you.

I’ve got separate bra sizing guides for cis and trans customers if you want the step-by-step measuring side. But this post is about the part nobody explains properly:

why your bra fit can feel “wrong” even when the size should be right — and what that usually means.

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Why bras aren’t universal (even when the size matches)

A bra size gives you a rough idea of band size and cup size (and cup volume), but it doesn’t tell you:

• where your fullness sits (top, bottom, centre, wider-set)

• whether you’re more shallow or more projected (how far forward volume sits)

• how tall the cups are, how wide the wires are, or how stretchy the band is

• how the bra is constructed (moulded, seamed, padded, unlined)

So when something feels off, it often means the bra style isn’t matched to your shape or your comfort goals — not that you’ve “failed” at bra sizing.

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Bra shapes that change everything (and why)

Think of these as different “cuts,” like jeans. Same size on the label, wildly different results.

T-shirt bra (moulded cup bra)
Smooth under clothes, but the cup is pre-shaped and doesn’t adapt much. If you don’t match the mould, you can get gaping or spillage even in the “right” cup size.

Balconette bra
More open at the top, lifts from underneath. Often great for a rounded look, but can cut in if you’re fuller on top.

Plunge bra
Lower centre gore (the bit between the cups) and a deeper neckline. Often brilliant for cleavage and also helpful if a high centre feels uncomfortable.

Full cup bra
More coverage and a “contained” feel. Can be very secure, but sometimes gapes if the cups are tall and you’re not full at the top.

Unlined bra / seamed cup bra
More flexible and often more forgiving because the fabric shapes to you instead of expecting you to match a fixed shape. A great “reset” option if bra fitting has started to feel like guesswork.

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“Why does this bra feel wrong?” The most common reasons

1) Gaping at the top of the cups

Often a bra shape mismatch: the cups are too tall, too stiff (hello, moulded T-shirt bra), or the straps sit too wide and pull the cup oddly.
Try: a plunge bra, balconette bra, or an unlined bra before assuming you need a smaller cup.

2) Spilling over the top or sides

This can be cup volume, but it can also be a cup that’s too closed on top or too narrow for your shape.
Try: a more open cup style, or one cup size up in the same style (brands vary a lot here).

3) Band rides up at the back

Usually the band size is too loose (or the band fabric is very stretchy), so everything shifts and the straps end up doing the heavy lifting.
Try: a firmer band, or a style with more supportive band construction.

4) Underwire feels stabby or sits on tissue

That’s often underwire shape, not “you picked the wrong size.” Wires vary hugely in width and height, especially at the centre.
Try: a different bra style (often a plunge bra helps if the centre feels pokey), or a different brand whose wires suit you better.

5) Straps dig in

Often the band isn’t providing enough support, so straps try to do the band’s job.
Try: prioritising a secure band fit first, then adjusting straps.

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A quick note for trans customers

A lot of standard bra fitting advice is written as if everyone’s body is built the same way. In reality, ribcage shape, spacing, and where volume sits can change which bra styles feel best — and that’s why one person’s perfect T-shirt bra is another person’s gaping nightmare.

Comfort and confidence are the goal. The label is just a clue.

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The kinder way to bra shop

Instead of “What’s wrong with me?” try:

“What is this bra designed to do — and does that match my shape and my comfort goals?”

If you want the step-by-step measuring side, my bra sizing guides (cis and trans) are there. But if you’re stuck in the loop of “my bra size should fit and it doesn’t”… it’s usually the bra style that needs changing — not you.

As always, if you have any questions or need any help, just send me an email 

 

What’s the Difference Between Bra Inserts and Breast Forms?

If you’ve ever searched for bra inserts, breast enhancers, breast forms, or even the old nickname chicken fillets, you’ve probably noticed the internet muddles them all together. They might sit next to each other on search pages, but they’re actually designed for very different things.

Here’s a simple, friendly guide to what each one does and how you might choose between them.

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Bra Inserts (Breast Enhancers)

These are the pieces that work with your natural breast to change shape, balance, or projection. They come in a huge range of sizes and styles — far wider than the classic chicken fillets most people remember. Some are small and subtle; others are much fuller, offering lift, projection, or a more defined curve. In my own range, I’ve expanded way beyond the old “one shape fits all” approach so there’s something for many different bodies and goals.

People use bra inserts when they want to:

• balance natural asymmetry (including Poland syndrome or differences after a lumpectomy)

• fill gaping or soft areas in a bra

• support softer breast tissue after breastfeeding or age-related changes

• add lift, projection, or cleavage

• get a discreet boost for daily wear

• shape their silhouette during a trans journey
  (from very subtle dressing without anyone knowing, through to enhancing early growth or helping create natural cleavage)

Because breast tissue density varies so much, the same insert can look completely different on two people. Softer breasts tend to “absorb” silicone more, so some people need a bit more oomph to get the look they want, while others get lift easily from a lighter piece. That’s why having many shapes and weights matters — it makes it easier to find something that genuinely works for your body rather than forcing your body to fit a single shape.

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Breast Forms

Breast forms, on the other hand, are designed to replace or create the entire breast shape. They usually have a full outer curve, a contoured back, and a realistic nipple, and they don’t depend on your natural breast tissue at all.

People use breast forms when they want to:

• create a full breast shape on a flat or reduced chest

• achieve a realistic silhouette after surgery

• express a feminine look during cross-dressing or transition

• wear a complete curve that doesn’t rely on breast tissue for shape

They’re ideal when someone needs an entire breast, not just more shape to the one they already have.

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Which one do you choose?

Here’s the easiest way to look at it:

Choose bra inserts / enhancers if you want to:

• shape, balance, lift, or project your natural breast

• create or enhance cleavage

• fill a bra cup

• stay subtle and discreet

• support softer breast tissue

• match existing breast tissue (e.g., after lumpectomy or natural asymmetry)

• work with breast growth or expression on a trans journey

Choose breast forms if you want to:

• create a full breast from scratch

• wear a realistic shape with a built-in nipple

• present a feminine silhouette without relying on your natural breast

• dress confidently after surgery or on a flat chest

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Why they’re often confused

The term chicken fillets used to cover nearly everything — those little curved pads we all remember from years ago. But enhancers have moved on so much since then, with a huge range of shapes, textures, and effects. When some enhancers get large and structured, they can look a bit like mini breast forms, which is where the lines start to blur.

But the real difference is simple:

• Bra inserts enhance the breast you have.

• Breast forms create the breast shape you want.

Two different tools, both valid, both useful — just designed for different bodies, needs, and stories.

 

Hopefully that helps, but I'm always here if you have any questions.

 

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how much goes on quietly behind the scenes here — the things you don’t always see when you browse my shop or read a product description.

Running a one-woman business means there’s no “team” to hand things to. It’s just me — balancing creativity, spreadsheets, health, and a small herd of cats who think they’re on the payroll. Most days there’s at least one mug of tea going cold beside me, a cat asleep on my desk, and another walking firmly across the keyboard. Some days I’m photographing new stock; other days I’m knee-deep in packaging tape, wrapping your orders with love before the post goes out. Getting your parcels safely on their way is always my first priority, followed closely by answering your messages with long, thoughtful replies that I hope feel as personal as they’re meant to be.

I’ve noticed a few glossier new faces appearing in the wider world of breast enhancers lately, with bigger budgets and fancy branding. But what I’ve realised is that what I value most isn’t gloss — it’s connection. It’s writing the product pages myself, chatting with you directly, and knowing that when you open a parcel from me, you can feel that it came from real hands — one person who cares deeply. There’s a kind of magic in that.

It’s been a bittersweet few months here too. My lovely cat Honey, who many of you will remember from my photos and videos, passed away earlier this year at the grand age of nineteen. She came into my life in 2006, when this was still a quiet idea forming at my kitchen table, and she stayed by my side through every stage — from sketching prototypes to growing into a full business in 2011. Honey would rest her head on samples, sit in boxes meant for dispatch, and supervise from a sunny windowsill with that calm, knowing look that only a cat can give. She truly helped me build this little world.

Honey loved every single moment she was given — she purred through it all, even the hard days. And I think that’s a lovely reminder for me, and maybe for you too: to enjoy the moments we’re in, to keep creating, to keep loving what we do, even when things are tough.

That’s the spirit that fills this business — heart, care, and a genuine wish to help you feel your best. Every product, every message, every parcel sent is a little piece of that.

Thank you for being here with me, through all the small and lovely chaos.
Love,
Jo x

I'm having a holiday! Sort of.

As I'm sure you have seen on my super bright and annoying pop-up, I am on a semi-holiday this week. 

Normally I fully shut my shop, but I am not going away this year, and have decided to keep it semi-open so I can continue to help. I will be visiting my parents, but I can take a lot of stock with me, and for those who don't know, my Mum helps me pack many of my styles, so we have lots of products there already!

To expand on my notice:

• I will be unable to post any Full Breast Form Pairs or singles. These are just too big and heavy for me to take :(

But, all Full Breast Form Pairs/Singles bought between Monday 4th and Friday 8th will be upgraded to Tracked 24 delivery to arrive Tuesday 12th. Just select free shipping and I will upgrade you :)

• I will be able to post the Breast Enhancers, and all Adhesive Tapes.  I will have limited stocks of the styles that my Mum does not pack, but I will add a notice if I run out of those. 

 

• I will be posting on Monday 4th, Wednesday 6th and Saturday 9th. The usual delivery timeframes will apply.

 

• I will be emailing, so do fire your questions at me! It will just take me longer to reply, which I hope you understand. 

♡ Jo ♡

P.S
Thank you for your patience whilst I scale back for the week. I am sad that I am not going away, but not remotely sad that I don't have to do all the packing! I always take Honey and my other cats (Honey has featured a lot through the years so many of you know her!) and with her health needs (kidney/thyroid etc!) and general cat packing, it is such a big task! My parents are already "kitted" up for us, so that makes it much easier. Thanks Mum and Dad :)

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

• Style 6 – Bust Boosters: Ergonomic, versatile, and a great all-rounder for shaping under structured dresses.

• Style 5 – Cleavage Creators: Perfect for side shaping in dresses with plunging necklines.

• Style 7 – Killer Cleavage Creator: For a bigger impact if your dress needs more shape.

• Style 9a or 9b – Every Girl’s Best Friend / Mega Boost: My most popular bridal options — oval-shaped, high-boost, and optional nipple for a fuller silhouette.

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

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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.”

 

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 :)

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.

 xxx

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, 

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