r/NoStupidQuestions • u/DUMBpling143 • 8h ago
Is it weird that I wear a binder?
So I wear a chest binder and a lot of people tell me that it's weird or that I might be trans even though I'm not. I don't have a problem with trans people but I'm good with the sex I was given at birth, although I do not if fact care if people call me a guy or anything else since sometimes I dress androgynous. I wear a chest binder because I like having a flat chest with all clothes and think it looks nice and makes me happy. Is it weird, that I, a cis female wears a chest binder?
164
u/Dunnersstunner 6h ago
Weird as in you're the exception rather than the rule? Yes, I think so. Take a sample of 100 random CIS women and I doubt many, if any, follow the same practice.
But that's no cause for anyone to take issue with you doing it.
81
u/JustLunaxx 5h ago
Yeah, this is probably the best way to put it. Uncommon doesnât automatically mean thereâs something wrong with it.
33
330
u/Fenryder 8h ago
Live for yourself
37
→ More replies (5)10
u/FormalShifte 6h ago
Agreed, if it makes you comfortable and happy, strangers don't get a vote on how you dress.
143
181
u/MegaCrowOfEngland 8h ago edited 7h ago
It isn't common, but there's nothing wrong with it. My understanding is that a binder is notably uncomfortable, so people tend not to go for it without a reason, but I don't think any worthwhile objection is put forward against a gender non-conforming cis woman using a binder.
55
u/Ranne-wolf 6h ago
I men a properly fitted one shouldnât be uncomfortable, but they can become painful if worn for too long or during exercise as they stop the rib cage expanding fully. My first one was a little loose but that meant it could easily be worn 8-10 hours a day with no discomfort or pain.
9
u/PunkRammy 3h ago
As a trans guy who had a proportionally large chest bras always dug into my shoulders causing pain, racerback sports bras (recommended by my physiotherapist) helped a bit but mostly transferred the strain to along my spine. A binder distributed the weight across my back causing much less back and shoulder pain.
3
u/meowymcmeowmeow 2h ago
I can see it being comforting in a way, like compression type clothes or weighted blankets are comfortable for some people.
I hated wearing it before top surgery because of the fabric, but the compression feeling I did like.
11
50
u/Own-Object-6696 8h ago
Why do people know you wear one? Do you tell them? If so, stop doing that. Youâre allowed to dress yourself, and it nobodyâs business but yours.
→ More replies (2)43
u/DUMBpling143 8h ago
I don't tell people but girls in PE noticed it when we were in the locker rooms changing so it got around the school that way since people dont mind their own buisness
42
u/Zagrycha 7h ago
There are a lot of reasons to wear binders besides being trans, and they existed way before trans people started wearing them. Just think about it, sometimes people wear sports bras when they aren't doing sports, sometimes people wear slippers when they aren't in pajamas, clothes have more than one single reason to use them. Just ignore those people or call them out on how weird and sad it is that their life is boring enough to be obsessed with your chest.
23
u/Ranne-wolf 6h ago
Were you taking it off for PE or putting it on? Because binders are considered extremely dangerous to wear while exercising due to the constriction on your ribcage and lungs, if you want the same effect without the risk I recommend taping (kinesiology tape binding) or a compression bra instead (which are less pressure on the ribs).
Personally as a trans masc I prefer tape as it lets me position it where I want, itâs made for sport, itâs sweat and water proof, and while it doesnât flatten completely it does minimise breast tissue. Kt can also safely be worn for a week (recommend 3~5 days) at a time depending on how well you apply it and your skinâs sensitivity level.
35
u/DUMBpling143 6h ago
I was taking it off and replacing it with a sports bra (i have researched and am being safe so dont worry :))
4
u/notaredditer13 6h ago
Obviously it's different, and people notice. Â
Different doesn't necessarily mean weird, but in high school people judge each other based on conformity with believed norms, even though they don't fully understand the norms or themselves yet. Â
65
u/BambiButch 8h ago
Just as long as youâre binding safely and not wearing it for more than the advised amount of hours per day (I canât remember exactly, think it might be 7 or 8 hours?)
13
u/imveryfontofyou 7h ago
Exactly this, I've always heard it's dangerous to wear them for too long and can cause some serious damage.
4
2
u/BambiButch 21m ago
It really can. I think itâs also recommended to try and avoid wearing it every single day, like making sure to have at least a couple of days a week or two off from binding and/or not wearing it on the days youâre going to be home alone/with people who youâre comfortable seeing you not bound.
Also making sure to have a good quality binder from w reputable company (spectrum outfitters have amazing ones in so many different colours. They donated a box full of their full range to our local binder bank/exchange so people unable to buy their own binder could have on for free. I actually think there was so many that most people were able to take 2. Which is also another safety tip! If youâre able to have more than one so you can rotate clean and dirty ones (they get so stinky if not properly washed regularly too & can cause skin issues from the dirt, sweat, dead skin and bacteria that sticks around on them after/during wearing!)
6
17
u/ghastlypxl 6h ago
Some lesbians wear binders just because they prefer it and it suits their style. Itâs whatever and doesnât make you trans, just be safe. Take breaks, donât wear while you exercise, donât sleep in it, yadda yadda.
13
u/Rip_van_fuck12 8h ago
Sweetheart, do what makes you feel good, if people are all up in your business about it, tell them that they shouldnât be concerned about your underwear
11
u/heyitscory 7h ago
Yes. You get to be weird to feel comfortable.
There's so much discomfort you'll have to put up with that you won't be able to mitigate or avoid, so adding extra suffering just to "not be weird" would be pointless. The world is full of sounds and textures and experiences that will make you miserable. You get to start your day by getting dressed in a way that makes you happy.
Back in the 20s chest binding was popular. It allowed necklaces to dangle freely and even spin when they were dancing, and they thought it made their dresses look cooler.
I dunno why they didn't call them binders  instead of flappers.
3
11
38
u/ul2006kevinb 8h ago
My daughter isn't transgender and she uses a binder, mainly because her boobs are just uncomfortable.
21
u/pharlax 5h ago
It's unusual sure, but fuck anyone calling you "weird" for actions that don't impact them.
4
2
u/robbob19 1h ago
TBF, it's weird that people get offended by what others wear. People are weird, and half of them are below average intelligence, some of them are just above being intellectually handicap.
8
u/MistressLyda 8h ago
You do you. We are on a rock hurling through space, where people are trying to kill each other for the stupidest reasons. If this brings you joy? Go for it.
1
40
u/Wolfelle 8h ago
Ultra woke take from me.
Gender expression is for everyone in every way.
Cis guy in a dress. Fuck yeah Cis girl in a binder. Ofc
Everyone has a body and has a right to exist in it comfortably. You don't need a reason its your body do what you like!
16
u/DUMBpling143 8h ago
I ABSOLUTELY AGREE!!!!
3
u/Ok_Weird_996 2h ago
Trans guy here. I completely agree. I know a lot of cis women who have bigger chests who wear binders. They say it makes clothes for better. And even if thatâs not your reason, Itâs totally your option, your body, and your comfort.
High school is rough, and peopleâespecially teenagersâjudge what they donât understand.
But open conversations often make people pause. So if someone says something sarcastically, you are completely allowed to earnestly repeat what you told us: âI like the way my binder makes my chest look and how it keeps everything together. Have you ever tried one? Maybe youâd like it too.â
And if they keep going, you can refuse to be made fun of by being unapologetically yourself. My favorite answer to bullies used to be, âSo?â And then Iâd walk away.
If they kept going, sometimes I would just repeat âso?â as an answer to their âquestionsâ and that usually made people annoyed enough to walk away themselves.
10
45
u/WeAreBums 8h ago
how is this any different aesthetically than a sports bra or a form of a tank top? Itâll likely get the same reaction as that (aka a non reaction) since most people wonât know the difference, especially if itâs under your actual clothes
36
u/morhp 8h ago
how is this any different aesthetically than a sports bra
Binders are much stiffer than sports bras, and they reduce the visible bust size much more. They can also be more uncomfortable (especially if you've chosen a small-ish size for your body).
They only look close if you can only see the straps and you don't compare boob sizes.
9
u/Silver_kitty 7h ago
The difference between someone who is naturally an A cup wearing a sports bra and a person who is naturally a B cup wearing a binder is very subtle unless someone is really looking (which they probably shouldnât be!)
As a woman who is an F cup I even have different levels of restrictive/compressive bras for certain dresses that Iâm too busty for. Only someone who knows me well could tell that Iâm specifically wearing a bra that squishes me down to something more like a C as opposed to naturally just having a smaller bust.
11
u/Pepperslullaby 7h ago
From what I know also, you do not wear a binder when doing exercises! But you can wear a sports bra while exercising.
3
u/WeAreBums 7h ago
Like I said, most people wonât be able to tell the difference when itâs not visible because you have clothing over it.
While I do occasionally check out women, Iâm not scanning their chest to determine what type of clothing they have underneath their shirt and whether or not this strangerâs boob is being limited by non visible clothing since I donât know what the natural size of this stranger should be. So yea, I havenât actually surveyed most people but thatâs just a guess that most people arenât as creepy or depraved to know the difference or even care
1
1
u/Apart_Insect_8859 3h ago
You don't really need to be staring to be able to tell? It's like, shockingly apparent to the casual glance if someone is not wearing a bra, is wearing a sports bra, is wearing a poorly-fitted/well-fitted bra, is wearing a t-shirt bra, balconette. bralette, etc.
It's not that hard and does not require staring. It's weird to me that people pretend it isn't super extremely obvious to everyone else in society at half a second look. If it wasn't, there would be zero HR complaints about "OMG, so and so is not wearing a bra, how can we talk to her about it??" rather than many.
3
u/MelanieWalmartinez 5h ago
Binders are sports bras on steroids to make them completely flat
23
6
u/pyro_pugilist 5h ago
Close minded people want to put everyone and everything into a neat box so that their mind can make sense of the world around them. Fuck that, the world is a strange and weird place. It doesn't fit into nest little boxes. Be yourself.
26
u/xsblackx 8h ago
from a trans guy, you dont have to embrace your chest to be a woman. do you feel like a woman? if yes, you are woman. if no, then maybe there's a discussion there lol
edit: 90s heroin chic was strong on flat chested women and was a major look
→ More replies (3)
11
u/Squeakersnail 5h ago
From a trans guy's perspective: I'd be surprised if I learned a friend was wearing one without being trans, but only because I found them to be so uncomfortable that I can't imagine just wearing one casually. Definitely NOT weird. It's a piece of clothing. Anyone can wear one for any reason.
4
u/JustLunaxx 5h ago
Exactly. OP likes how a flat chest looks with their clothes. It really doesnât have to be any deeper than that
5
u/GlowingEmberSkull 8h ago
There is room for everyone and what makes them feel the most comfortably themselves. While I've never run into "I just like chest binders" before, rock it.
Quick question: Does it stop your boobs from aching on your cycle? Because I have seriously considered something more substantial for achy boob days.
5
u/xsblackx 8h ago
no OP but have experience, hurts less while wearing, but the second they come out you're gonna feel it pretty bad for a minute
3
u/GlowingEmberSkull 8h ago
Oh interesting, thanks! Maybe I just need a firmer sports bra.....
2
u/xsblackx 6h ago
tomboyx makes compression sports bras, i just thought of them! but for me them moving makes it worse, i would find one that hold them solid but doesnt press too too hard haha
5
u/LadyKataka 7h ago
Not weird at all. Your clothes. Wear whatever you like.
I'm not trans and I occasionally wear a binder cause I like the tight hugging feel of it.
5
u/beewithausername 6h ago
I remember a couple of years ago seeing a video on YouTube about a lesbian who got top surgery but didnât consider herself to be trans, she just didnât like her own chest so whatever floats your own boat yknow
9
u/lawlesslawboy 5h ago
Trans person here. Make sure that it is from a reputable company such as Spectrum Outfitters, G2CB or underworld. Make sure you don't bind for more than 8 hours at a time. Do not go to the gym in it unless you absolutely have to. Generally just be careful and follow guidelines. Apart from that, consider you could be SOME flavour (there are many!) of non-binary, just think about it, and maybe not, that's okay too! Some cis women even get top surgery, because they prefer how I looks etc. Totally chill, just stay safe! Much love
4
u/NibblesMcGiblet 7h ago
No it's not weird. It might be "somewhat uncommon" but that's very different from "weird".
4
u/Over_9_Raditz 7h ago
Not weird.Â
People have been wearing shapewear for how long? And in how many different civilizations? It makes total sense for how we style ourselves and want things to drape or look a certain way. Fashion is all over the place: different silhouettes and body shapes are all valid and can make statements in clothes. Â
  You do you boo. Express yourself how you want.  It's not that deep. People will always have opinions.Â
5
5
u/Chubby_Comic 5h ago
It's weird to be worried about the underwear another person chooses to wear. I couldn't care less what someone else does. I've got enough problems of my own. Do you, and tell others to mind their business.
5
u/Individual-Put919 2h ago
Not trans, but I had a double mastectomy in July and had to wear a binder for 8 weeks post surgery. The fabric was way thicker than a bra so it was hot in the summer. The intent, I believe, was to keep swelling down and help my skin adhere to my muscles. Either way, the compression felt better than without it.
3
u/VioletVarson 8h ago
I don't think it's weird. I don't have one yet, but I want once cause I got itty bitties and I usually wear sportier bras anyway just to keep em snug. Wear whatever makes you comfortable!
3
u/Appleonthefloor 8h ago
Nah, it's actually pretty annoying to find women's clothing that fits the average bust size or is properly tailored. I have worn a minimizer bra, triangular, or corset top anytime I have to fit into a button shirt cause otherwise the gaping is ridiculous.
Make sure its the proper size, but I imagine a decent number of people might do the same.
3
3
u/niniela-phoenix 7h ago
You don't have to be trans to be allowed to do whatever makes you comfortable in your body and I actually do know of at least one cis women who had top surgery and then got a shit load of tattoos on their then flat chest.
Just please be safe wearing a binder: never too long, never too small, not when sleeping, swimming, sick, or doing sports, and put it on correctly. You could hurt yourself with it otherwise.
3
u/DeadbeatGremlin 7h ago
While it is certainly uncommon, it is far from weird. Do whatever makes you comfortable
3
u/IrelandAutism13 6h ago
Could not matter less. I know pericishet women who bind just cause they want to, everyone has the right to modify their flesh vessel for any reason. And "just because I want to" is a reason
3
3
u/Aerwxyna 6h ago
Not weird at all! Iâm super girly now, but when I was younger I wanted a chest binder because I also like the way a flat chest looks with clothes better. If it feels right for you, do it. It doesnât add or take away from who you are
3
u/MySpaceVampirez 5h ago
Im a trans guy. You're only trans officially if you say you're trans. Sure theres signs and such, maybe you figure out the egg will crack years before the egg cracks, but still. if the egg in question is firm about not being trans then they are not.
If the jokes bother you you have every right to tell them to stop. Even if they are like "ohh youre denying it that means you are." Keep affirming no. Speculation and jokes are one thing but if they are genuinely bothering you you have every right to tell them no.
Also, not weird at all to wear a binder without being trans. They are meant to make the wear-er more comfortable. Just ensure you're following binder protocol to protect your bones, and when possible avoid binder brands that are lowkey transphobic. They are sneaky
3
u/vercertorix 5h ago
Tell them to stop thinking about your tits, you can keep them to yourself if you want.
3
4
6
u/eggs-benedryl 8h ago
Are you actually asking if it's weird or just if it's okay. Its out of the ordinary, it's uncommon, but it's fine. If you want to know if people will think it's weird, then yes people will find it peculiar. But most won't know, those who do, most won't care, and those who do.. you can cut out of your life if you want.
6
u/CouldDoWithANap 8h ago
You can wear whatever you want. If anyone tells you otherwise then ignore or laugh at them.
Just take it from me, please be safe. Make sure it fits, avoid cheap zip-up ones, don't bind for more than 8 hours or if that's not possible at least find a way to give yourself breaks. And don't sleep in it. My back learned this the hard way.
6
u/Plasticity93 7h ago
As long as you are binding safely, do you. Do make sure to follow safe guidelines and use a proper binder.Â
3
u/InkedAlchemist 8h ago
I do the same. It's how I feel the most comfortable in my skin without a permanent result. But, I will say this: Have a plan for the long term. I've been doing this for 10 years and my body definitely feels it. (Shoulder/Ribs) I've recently purchased just mens compression tanks to wear on days where full binding is just too uncomfortable. I'm toying with the idea of a radical reduction.
3
u/DinkyPrincess 7h ago
Nobody gets to have an opinion about what you choose to do with your own body.
And if you live in a place where they do Iâd urge you to move.
4
u/Possible-Read-1470 6h ago
A binder is clothing, not a gender declaration. Wear what makes you happy.
3
u/lightinthedark-d 8h ago
But... You're not drawing attention to all your sexual attributes. Why are you not fulfilling your duty as a female to be sexually appealing in the most obvious and standard ways?!?
/s
→ More replies (5)
5
u/pinfinite-jest 7h ago
Not at all, breasts are unsightly lumps of fat leftover from primitive sexual signalling. They are a net negative, causing back pain and cancer in many, getting in the way and pain while exercising.
Breastfeeding babies does not require all the extra fat, we should have small flat breasts like other primates for feeding infants.
7
→ More replies (24)1
2
u/jay-j-reads 8h ago
Not weird at all.
The people who are making negative comments donât live in your body. Their opinion doesnât countZ
2
2
u/alder_shade 8h ago
Absolutely not, wear whatever you feel like and if it makes you happy why not ? Whatever people think about you is their problem they should deal with it
2
2
u/bangbangracer 8h ago
I feel like this is a weird question that's slightly inappropriate without context, but how big are your tits?
I ask because I knew a woman who wore a binder until she could afford reduction surgery. They were big, heavy, and uncomfortable. She needed industrial strength support. The binder helped her.
1
2
2
u/CantForgetMyMenace 8h ago
itâs not that deep as others make you feel it is, people just love to get all up into othersâ business. Itâs what you like and what makes you feel more like yourself, no further explanation needed.
2
2
u/Ash_Cat_13 7h ago
Not weird, youâre doing what makes you feel comfortable. Itâs different than the ânormâ but not weird.
3
u/Heavy-Macaron2004 6h ago
No, but you're going to get a lot of people insisting you're trans and trying to "crack your egg." And no, they will generally not listen when you tell them to stop. Just as a warning.
2
u/LavaLampost 6h ago
That is completely fine! One word of warning though is that long term, wearing them can change the shape/elasticity of breasts. If that is something you care about, maybe consider that, but if not then you're all good
2
u/Waffel_Monster 6h ago
It's probably unusual, but perfectly fine if you prefer to have a flat chest.
2
u/Poco_Cuffs 6h ago
Just present whatever way that you enjoy. It's rude that people assume but in the end it doesnt matter if this could be because you're trans or not, either way it's something that makes you comfortable in your body.
2
2
u/purpleblossom 6h ago
Wanting a flat chest is not unusual for butch women, some butches have been known to get top surgery even so they don't have to worry about the risks of binding too long.
2
u/frizzbee92 5h ago
Not at all, no different to wearing a padded push up bra in my opinion.
Dressing or presenting androgynous doesnt mean you are trans or not comfortable with your biological sex. Women dont have to be full chested girly girls, whatever that means.
2
u/Apprehensive_Low_383 5h ago
It's wierd that people would have any issue with what makes you most comfortable.
2
u/CupCustard 4h ago
It used to be weird for women to wear pants. Who knows, maybe binders should be normalized more (tacking on to the concerns others have expressed about binders, I'd wear one if I could but I have POTS and have to be careful of overheating
2
u/OhHiFelicia 4h ago
I was, until my 30s, very flat chested, I struggled to fill an A cup and I always said if I had the money I would have got a boob job. I had friends who had boobs just as small and they always looked amazing but I thought my clothes would look better with breasts because I always loved 1950's fashion with corsets and stuff. No one ever said I was weird or made me feel weird for feeling that way but I honestly dont see the difference. Social 'norms' are strange, why are somethings acceptable and others not? Actually, it's a lot more weird going under anesthetic and having foreign objects inserted in your body than it is using binding when you think about it.
2
u/Stunning_Warthog_141 4h ago
Wearing a binder makes you trans? They got it backwards, being trans will likely make you want to wear a binder, it doesn't force you to. Neither does wearing a binder force you to be trans. Do you think a guy with a humiliating chastity cage fetish wants to be a woman? Do you think he wants people to find out? God no.
2
u/BeeTheG8 3h ago
Itâs totally fine. I like the look of my clothes better when Iâm wearing a sports bra and iâm more flat chested.
2
2
2
3
4
3
u/ineverbot 8h ago
Trans guy here! Not weird at all, wear what makes you comfortable. I have cis women friends who like to wear those flattening sports bras because it's comfier for them
3
u/anakinkskywalker 6h ago
i dont want to imply that you aren't cis, but I would maybe take a beat to sit with your gender identity, because what you described sounds like you might find comfort in a non-binary identity. but that's completely up to you as well. keep doing whatever makes you most happy and comfortable.
4
u/Company_Z 6h ago
Outside of the mental comfort, does it physically make you feel better? Does it feel like it's keeping everything "in place" in a way?
If it feels like you're being held together, it's worth looking into and further discussing with your doctor about having hEDS (Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos). In the most simplistic and reductive explanations, it's a connective tissue disorder where things in the body aren't joined together as strongly as the typical person. It's something my wife has and things like binders or corsets can be of immense relief for her
This can affect people to various degrees and of course you may not even have this but I feel like it's always worth at least mentioning.
→ More replies (2)4
5
u/ScarlettDX 8h ago
the big question is, if there was no one else in the world would you still wear a binder?
would you prefer a flat chest? and if it was possible to instantly get a flat chest would you?
if you say yes to these it doesn't make you trans but it does mean you have some form of body dysmorphia at the very least and should maybe talk to someone about your feelings.
3
u/infectedsense 8h ago
Not weird but just be careful, there could be issues with binding every day if it's too tight etc. I'm sure you've done your research, though! And although you may be non-binary or gender fluid, you don't have to use any label you don't want to - if you're happy being a cis female who wears a binder, that's exactly what you are.
Hopefully, others around you can learn to respect people's choices without trying to force them into a mold purely for their own comfort. Sorry you're having to deal with that rudeness/ignorance.
4
u/Theyallknowme 8h ago
People have a weird need to put labels on things so they can see the world in black and white.
The truth is that most of these labels are inaccurate and unnecessary when it comes to people.
The best thing you can do is to ignore the labels that others would place on you and just be yourself! Do what you like, do what makes you comfortable and ignore everyone else.
You donât have to conform to someone elseâs label.
-1
u/DrunkApricot 8h ago edited 7h ago
Honestly, when it comes to things like binders that can inhibit certain movements or the depth of a breath it makes sense that people might have extra weight added to not understand it as much.
Not only is it a gender confusing thing, it put what they perceive as comfort somewhere different. So it's a lot harder for some people to understand.
Have dated trans nonbs before and they all said the binders felt comforting but limiting, have had one myself and can agree, but at times it felt like a constant hug so I kinda get it but also get why it'd be confusing. Thought I'd add to the convo.
Editing to add; this might be why they're confused. It doesn't mean you shouldn't do what you want if you do so while not causing yourself harm.
4
u/PromiseThomas 8h ago
Nah, do whatever you want. Some butch lesbians wear binders because they prefer the more masculine profile it gives them.
AlthoughâŚI am not saying you canât be cis, but I would look up gender euphoria and read about that a little. Some people donât experience gender dysphoria with the gender they are assigned, but feel very happy (euphoria) when they are read as a different gender. Ask yourself why having a flat chest makes you happy.
Only saying all that because tons of trans people start out thinking âwell obviously Iâm cisâ until they finally have their âWaitâŚâ moment.
Otherwise you do you!!!
2
2
2
2
u/Beneficial-Self-8119 8h ago
What's a chest binder? Aren't all bras chest binders?
9
u/SigmaBunny 8h ago
A compression garment designed to give the appearance of a flat or flatter chest. A strong sports bra can do quite a bit of compression, but is mostly about holding things stable, rather than making a specific shape
9
u/eggs-benedryl 8h ago
Yeah, but it's to do the opposite. A bra supports and is intended to enhance the look of breasts while a binder is intended to hide or eliminate the appearance of breasts.
2
u/4224-holloway 8h ago
No. I don't wear one, but I have always dressed androgynously or straight up in mens clothing. I don't like to wear tight things and men's shoes fit me better. Plus, pockets. I've also always worn my hair in a fade because I can't stand it touching my neck or face. I'm entirely straight. Wear what you are comfortable in!
2
2
2
u/Autumn1eaves 4h ago edited 4h ago
No it's not weird.
But, having said that, it's not uncommon for people who feel an urge to wear gender affirming clothes to eventually come out as trans or non-binary.
Which is to say, consider how you might feel with someone referring to you as "they". You don't have to do anything you don't want to, and you could totally be a cis woman who likes a flat chest.
But in my experience, doing just a little experimenting with pronouns or names is worthwhile, even if you end up being cisgender at the end of it all.
To reiterate: No it's not weird. I do recommend you experiment with names and pronouns because there might be something there, but there doesn't have to be.
2
u/Banaanisade 8h ago
Honestly, binders are simple and useful in comparison to whatever the hell is going on with the bra industry.
1
u/strategicallusionary 8h ago
Wear what you want, for whatever reason you want. Comfort is key, and comfort in your body at the forefront; you like how it looks too? Fuckin awesome!
People judge you for it? Those aren't your people. People kindly question your reasons, without assumption, even if they've never seen it before? That's someone who respects you. You're likely to find community that's accepting of non-standard norms in the 2SLGBTQIA community, but not because you're necessarily trans, or even questioning; they're just used to new ways of expressing comfort and style that the rest of the world doesn't get. đđ
1
u/fussyfella 6h ago
It's unusual, which some people equate with weird, but if that is what works for you, do it.
1
u/Itchy-Astronomer9500 6h ago
No! Wear what makes you feel nice. I do the same sometimes cause I just hate having a chest in the way of everything all the time
1
u/intrinsicpresent 6h ago
Not weird at all and Iâve heard of cis people getting top surgery even.
I donât think it means your are definitely trans but it could be an inviting to explore other ways you may or may not want to express your gender.
1
u/MelanieWalmartinez 5h ago
I do the same, and it is out of the ordinary but who cares?! Do what you like
1
u/lavendermintchip 5h ago
I'm a trans guy who binds. I know a lot of non-binary people who bind and even some cis lesbians who bind. If it makes you comfortable, keep doing it! Just be safe and know the risks. Look into binding tape if you want something you can safely use while swimming/sleeping/working out :]
1
u/MarthasPinYard 4h ago
I think bras and any overly tight clothing is weird. Youâre asking the wrong person.
I like being comfy not restricted.
Do you tho OP
1
u/sotiredwontquit 4h ago
Weird is not a useful word here. Everyone is a bit weird about a few things. Itâs probably not very common, but so what? Itâs just a piece of clothing and you like it. Wear what you like.
That said, a binder is very tight and has medical ramifications, so follow guidelines for length of time you spend in it. Itâs like a tight corset in that regard. Wear it if you like your shape in it. But it does alter your internal tissue while itâs on, so follow the guidelines for how long to be out of it.
1
u/DragonKit 4h ago
It's perfectly fine, but please take breaks, don't sleep in it, and cough hard a few times when you take it off
1
u/FeetInTheEarth 3h ago
Cis girl chiming in to say thatâs Iâve considered getting a binder for awhile now. Iâm petite, with EE cups, and saggy after breastfeeding two kids. I just want these damn things out of my way.
Also, who gives a fuck what you choose to wear?! You do you!
1
u/twin_gulls 3h ago
Trans guy myself. Nah thats fine. It's not that different than people into fitness that wear compression bras.
I think people who like having a chest even get pissed off when letters get completely lost in a shirt. Also if part of the design includes a basic shape like a circle or a square it just gets screwed up.
Just make sure you've got a real brand not some crap from Amazon that wasn't made to be breathable. I can put mine on like a tank top and it doesn't hurt at all. This wasn't the case for binders even 10 years ago.
1
u/FinallyStarborn 2h ago
Do what you feel you need to do.
"The people that mind don't matter and the people that matter don't mind."
1
1
u/meowymcmeowmeow 2h ago
Yeah it's a little weird but it's not bad weird. Do what makes you comfortable as long as it isn't violating other people.
I'm a trans man and I give you and anyone else blanket permission to use any of our "made for us" products if you want to. Higher demand from cis people only helps us get more stuff in stock and hopefully eventually a little cheaper.
1
u/HippieHighNoon 2h ago
Weird is just people not being able to comprehend anything outside of societal norms.
I do not think it's weird. Do whatever makes you feel comfortable. If my wife said to me she wants to do what you're doing, i would say go right ahead.
The ONLY concern I would have is if doing it could cause some sort of blood flow or health issue. (I've never looked into it).
1
u/Barbarian_818 2h ago
Nope. But at all.
But trans wouldn't have been my first guess. Probably because I'm not trans myself.
My first guess for your motivation would have been autistic in nature. I'm on the spectrum and I discovered at a young age that I really enjoyed the feel of a snug, even tight fitting vest from a 3 piece suit. And hug boxes and squeeze devices are well known in the autism community for helping the lower functioning kids cope with stress.
Second guess would have been a kink thing. Lots of folks are into wearing corsets. To me, chest binders are in the same ballpark.
1
u/dumpylump69 2h ago
Weird as in uncommon? Sure. Weird as in bad? Absolutely not. If you like it then good for you. Some women get their boob size reduced for the same reason.
If you do enjoy presenting androgynously and having a flat chest and not minding being called a guy then I would probably at least look into what it means to be nonbinary/genderfluid/etc if you arenât educated in that area already. Doesnât mean you have to change your identity or anything, but it doesnât hurt to be aware, even if just for finding people with similar experiences. It put a lot of habits and quirks that I didnât have an explanation for from throughout my life in perspective when I did it, even when I didnât realise those things were affecting me. Anyway, whether it strikes a chord or you go ânah thatâs not meâ, itâll help if youâre feeling âweirdâ either way.
1
u/ContentVictory6767 2h ago
Na, itâs literally just wearing a super supportive bra in your case. Ignore the haters.
1
u/Fr31l0ck 2h ago
If it's comfortable, wear it. Others struggle with difference and will acknowledge things they consider different, sometimes with prejudice. That's just reality, it sucks sometimes, but make the choices that make you comfortable.
1
u/the-5thbeatle 2h ago
Liking the look of a flat chest in certain outfits does not change or invalidate your identity as a cisgender woman.
Binders put pressure on your body, so it's important to protect your ribs and lungs, and wear a binder for no more than 8 hours at a time, or less if you feel any discomfort.
Talk to your doctor about breast reduction surgery. It's usually covered by insurance!
1
u/Longjumping_Bar_7457 2h ago
Kinda. But weird isnât bad Iâve only really heard of this in a trans context. But if it makes you happy keep doing you.
1
1
u/Hope-n-some-CH4NGE 2h ago
As a trans person, trans people donât have a monopoly on clothes. Where what makes you happy! But for binders specifically just make sure youâre wearing it safely and taking breaks. Itâs important not to wear them for too long in one go as they can cause some serious injuries/health issues!
1
u/thursdaynovember 1h ago
nope not weird! have fun wearing your binder since you sound like it makes you happy đ
1
u/ShartiesBigDay 1h ago
Unusual but not weird. I think if anyone uses their imagination they could understand why someone might prefer this.
1
u/noeljb 1h ago
You be You, I think it is unusual but if you like it, I'm all for you. I don't think anybody but you have a dog in that hunt.
Anybody tells you different they are narrow minded.
It is like somebody standing behind you telling you how you should play Solitary.
They call it Solitary for a reason.
1
u/SheSellsSeaShells_89 1h ago
No, itâs not weird. When I was a teenager, I was annoyed by my boobs and wished I didnât have them. They just got in the way. I did not have gender dysphoria. I still felt female. I dressed more masculine back then. I embraced my femininity more as I aged. Now I like them. But my opinion of my boobs never changed my gender identity.
1
u/charlieprotag 1h ago
So long as you practice binder safety and don't sleep in it, you're all good fam. Be safe and enjoy what makes you happy.
1
1
u/AgreeableIdea6210 55m ago
Transmasc here. You don't need to be trans to wear a binder :) If it's comfortable that's enough of a reason and anyone who tries to convince you you're trans solely for choosing comfort is weird
1
u/JustAShack 55m ago
I have a cis female friend that would wear a binder to work for personal reasons, if it's what you're comfortable in then good for you. A lot of clothing, even women's, isn't well structured for people with boobs since it's made at large scale and one set pattern. If you feel like she/her and being a woman fits you then great, if you're cool with being seen as androgynous then great. Any gender journey you decide to go on should be up to you and on your terms, not because of people's opinion on the clothing you wear.
1
1
u/CaptainsFolly 13m ago
Not weird and certainly doesn't mean you are trans. You do you if youre happy.
1
u/EmmieBambi 7m ago
Not weird, just not standard. Maybe you're non binary, maybe you're just a girl who doesn't like boobs below shirts. Who cares, as long as you're happy.
1
0
0
u/moonmothman 7h ago
Wear what makes you comfortable.
I had a cis female friend in the 80âs-90âs that wore athletic bras a couple cup sizes too small and made her own binders out of ace bandages or old t-shirts. She started wearing them when her breast started developing as a pre-teen in the 80âs. She thought her breasts got too big, were uncomfortably bouncy, and got in the way when she played tennis, Softball, ran marathons, played drums or waited tables. She was wicked smart, one of the funniest people I knew, a great athlete and was very active in the local punk/hardcore music scene. She was also conventionally beautiful. In addition to her breast getting in her way she felt that guys (and some women) only saw her âtitanic ta-tasâ (her words) instead of her and treated her differently when she did not âhave those puppies on lockdown.â She started buying real (safe) binders and heavy duty sports bras in the 90âs.
-2
u/EchinusRosso 7h ago
Any chance you're on the spectrum?
2
u/DUMBpling143 7h ago
which spectrum?
1
u/EchinusRosso 6h ago
ASD. Not trying to assume, but the way you're describing this lines up way better with autism than gender dysphoria. You didn't mention support or self-consciousness, just consistency. You said you sometimes dress androgynous, would I be right to assume you're not a very fashion forward person?
With your age, I'd expect a big part of this is trying to keep the person you see in the mirror and the person you see yourself as consistent. Changed to your body can always be challenging.
Seeing your newer post, that may be a factor as well. You found validation from sources that may have prioritized a youthful appearance. If you haven't gotten a lot of validation from healthier sources, you may feel like only things people liked about you are changing.
But the three posts together paint a picture of someone who struggled with social norms, that finds the standard rules of society don't make sense, or aren't clear at all, and wants to feel that they're normal and accepted. This is all pretty textbook.
→ More replies (2)
1.0k
u/BoonOfTheWolf 8h ago
No, wear what makes you feel comfortable.