The TikTok Famous Binder Alternative From Girlfriend Collective Actually Works

TikTok has become an online destination for all the need-to-know fashion tips, tricks, and hacks you weren’t expecting. Depending on your For You page, you may already know about the now-famous Girlfriend Collective sports bra being touted as a binder alternative. My own TikTok algorithm has been serving me up lots of trans and non-binary folks that seemingly can’t get enough of this surprising hack. Recommended by and for those with bigger breasts, for whom traditional binders may be uncomfortable, the Dylan Tank Bra seemed perfect for me. I’m a 38H, and, while it would be impossible for me to ever be completely flat, I was curious and excited to try a binder alternative that could be super compressive and actually pleasant to wear. I also decided to try another less-compressive sports bra from GC, the Mia High Neck, to see how it stacked up.

For those not familiar, Girlfriend Collective is an online destination for athleisure and loungewear that’s equally beloved for its sustainability (all made from recycled water bottles) and size-inclusivity. (The brand currently carries sizes XXS-6XL.) While it’s been an R29 editor go-to for years, the binder angle was completely new to me. According to their sizing chart, I’m supposed to be an XXL, but I’ve tried GC sports bras with that size and they were too loose. And since I wanted these as a binder, sizing down to XL made sense. That was ultimately the best decision for me and my breasts, although I do get a fair share of side boob.

It can be incredibly disheartening when your body doesn’t match the vision you have of yourself. For trans and non-binary people, how others view us — and how we view ourselves — means everything. The main non-surgical solution for many AFAB (Assigned Female At Birth) people is to use binders to flatten their chest. But binders are often infamously uncomfortable, especially for larger-breasted folks. That’s why sports bras are an amazing alternative, and why so many people were excited by the Dylan sports bra. Does it work? How did I feel? Keep on reading to find out.

Dylan Tank Bra $42

Size Purchased: XL

My Rating: 5 out 5 stars

The viral sensation on trans and non-binary Tik Tok, the Dylan Tank Bra is what started it all. And for good reason: when I first tried it on (I ripped open the package as soon as I got it), I cried. I loved how I looked in the mirror. This is probably as flat as I can be without it being painful and hindering my breathing. I was in awe. I’ve never experienced anything like it before.

I wouldn’t use this for two full days in a row, though. I’ve never used a binder so I can’t compare it to that, but it definitely constricted me a little (although not enough for it to be unbearable or painful, just uncomfortable). I’ve had way worse and more uncomfortable experiences with sports bras that weren’t meant to flatten me, and those I couldn’t handle for more than an hour. I wore the Dylan tank bra, on the other hand, for a full workday at home and for a trip to Target, and I was more than fine.

Mia High Neck Bra $42

My Size: XL

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The Mia High Neck Bra is another binder alternative from GC. This doesn’t have as much flattening power as the Dylan Bra, but it’s perfect for when you want a lighter option. I use it mainly for when I have a full and busy day, am walking around somewhere, or when I’m wearing loose-fitting t-shirts and tops. It’s definitely more comfortable and less constricting compared to the Dylan, although you do get the occasional mono-boob and adjustments are required (only once or twice a day).

All in all, these are an amazing and comfortable alternative to binding. For the first time, my vision of myself aligned perfectly with what I saw in the mirror. I could not recommend these enough. If you’ve been curious about binding, try these. You won’t regret it.

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6 Fashion Pieces R29Unbothered Is Loving This Fall

Fall styling can be tricky for two reasons: your #ootd depends on the confusing transitional weather and/or you’re missing some essential items in your wardrobe. It’s easy to just settle for your favorite sweatpants and comfy tee. But, if you’re challenging yourself to put more effort into your style this season, here are some tips to keep in mind. Start with the basics, like a go-to top and bottoms. Then add on your layers and accessorize from there. Lastly, pick out a staple piece that can be worn with anything in your wardrobe.

This fall season is the perfect time to elevate your style, especially for those who may be heading back into the office for work.  If you need some inspiration, the R29 Unbothered team is sharing our fall must-have items and the ways we love to style them. From the perfect pair of jeans to the perfect style of boots, we got you covered from head to toe.

Venesa Coger, Style & Culture Specialist

Skinny Jeans

"My fall wardrobe is only complete with the perfect medium wash skinny jeans simply because they can be tucked smoothly into any of my knee-high boots. And when I do want to wear other shoes like loafers or sneakers, I can still manage to look sleek. I don’t mind investing in higher brand denim because I want them to last longer. It’s taken me years to find the right fit and style when it comes to jeans because I need them to always be comfortable, provide a good amount of stretch, and look flattering on my shape. Don’t listen to those TikToks dragging skinny jeans, they are here to stay."

Maiya Carmichael, Social Coordinator

Sweater Dress

"Whether it’s a cardigan secured with a belt or a calf-length number with a high slit, a sweater dress is a must-have for the fall season. The sweater dress combines the ease and fluidity of your favorite summertime dress with the chicness of a sweater. And don’t get me started on it being one of the best layering pieces! Paired with Chelsea boots, an oversized blazer, or a scarf, a sweater dress is guaranteed to have you looking good and feeling better."

Sandy Pierre, Branded Execution Specialist

Hooded Sweatshirt

"My fall must-have is a hoodie! No particular brand but Essentials Fear of God, has been my favorite brand lately. You can match a good hoodie with a pair of jeans, biker shorts, tights, or even skirts. I also love to class it up with blazers. Hoodies are super comfy and they keep you warm. Plus, they’re perfect for a casual day out."

Christa Eduafo, Social Content Strategist

Oversized Blazer

"My fall staple without a shadow of a doubt is an oversized blazer. I absolutely live for an oversized blazer moment, complete with shoulder pads. It elevates casual jeans and t-shirt outfits in a way no other layer can, and I simply enjoy it."

Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Senior Editor

Varsity Jacket

"My favorite thing about fall is the layers. Layers on layers on layers, baby! So, naturally, my fall must-have is the most important layer of all: the jacket. And since I am obsessed with teen TV shows, and teen content in general, I’m also very into varsity jackets that makes me feel like Vince Howard in Friday Night Lights (played by my future ex-husband, Michael B Jordan) or Jackson Marchetti (Kedar Williams-Stirling) in Sex Education. In fact, this season’s varsity jacket of choice is part of H&M’s collaboration with the UK Netflix series and it’s perfect. Its fit is relaxed, comfortable, and oversized. It’s warm enough for the cooling temps but not too warm. And its official Dolphins logo will make you feel like you’re walking straight to Moordale Secondary."

Ineye Komonibo, Culture Critic

Combat Boots

"Fall is the perfect time to pull your favorite boots out from the back of the closet, and for me, my go-to kicks for the cold(er) seasons are my dependable Dr. Marten 1460 Pascal Bex Boots. I’ve had these combat boots for years — that $160 sticker price is for a good reason — and they match every outfit no matter the vibe I'm going for. Even though they’ve gotten a little scuffed as a result of being out on these Brooklyn streets, my Docs are always the perfect edgy accent for my fall and winter wardrobe. They are effortlessly cool and comfortable. 10/10 would recommend."

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Meet The Illustrator Who Does “Spooky Fashion” Year-Round

Instagram’s best-dressed have one thing in common: they each have a signature style item that they wear more often and better than anyone else. For one person, it could be a string bikini, worn on and off the beach. For another, it’s a standout hat or expertly layered jewelry. Whatever the piece may be, it’s their thing. With our column My Thing, we’re talking with those same experts about that one specific item they have made into their signature — and style unlike anyone else.
 
Every year, come October, we embrace our wardrobe’s darker side. Leading up to Halloween, bikinis turn into turtlenecks, breezy colors are swapped for moodier hues, and our internal desire to channel Morticia Addams is intensified. But while this is a seasonal phenomenon for many, others, like the 30-year-old Berlin-based illustrator-designer Sonia Lazo, live the witchy fashion life year-round. 
 
“I’ve always been into spooky fashion,” says Lazo, who grew up in El Salvador before, recently, moving to Germany. “It’s been a lifelong affinity for me.” While Lazo indeed gravitates toward graphic skull prints, all-black outfits, and lace-up corsets, what makes their style stand out in the space is their ability to channel the goth aesthetic while infusing colors and Victorian- and Rococo-inspired silhouettes. Think: lots of pink (Lazo's favorite hue) and pastels; voluminous, child-like dresses; thigh-high socks, bow headpieces; and choker necklaces. 
 
As an illustrator, Lazo likes working with elements from mythology, astrology, horror, and fantasy, resulting in colorful, kitschy art that then trickles into their fashion. Lazo’s style is also influenced by their interest in witchcraft and the ways in which women can channel their feminine power. “It’s beautiful to see women reclaiming a word that it’s been used against them for so long,” they say. (In 2019, they published a book on the subject, titled Witch, Please!: Magical Musings on Life, Love, and Owning Your Power.)
 
While Lazo’s Halloween-esque style lives year-round, they confess that every October they get especially excited about dressing up. Over the past month, they have shown their almost 150K followers on Instagram outfits ranging from frilly dresses, matching sets, T-shirts, and tights with skull and dead flower prints to vinyl corsets and lace tights: “I definitely feel it a bit more this time of the year.”
 
Ahead, see how the creative styles their looks from January to December.

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The category is "tropical goth."

Add a skull-charm choker to toughen up an otherwise-whimsical look.

When you have a full day at the office.

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Itsy bitsy spider!

Activewear meets witchy fashion.

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Mango’s Cozy, Chic Staples Are All 30% Off Right Now

It doesn’t matter if you’re low on comfy sweaters, in search of some work-friendly dresses, or ready to splurge on a versatile winter coat — whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Mango. And there’s no better time to shop than right now: The brand is offering 30% off everything, both online and in stores. You only have so many days to take advantage of this deal, though. The site-wide sale ends November 1. But because that’s not nearly enough time to sift through all of Mango’s timeless basics and trendy jackets, jeans, and more, we rounded up some of the cutest, coziest items you won’t want to miss. From the softest cardigans to dresses that will take you from day to night, here are our top picks to shop right now.

30% Off Coats & Jackets

Some of Mango’s best offerings are the site’s sharp, sophisticated, and sometimes playful jackets and coats. If you’re looking for a sign it’s time to elevate your favorite fall outfits with new outerwear, this is it.

30% Off Sweaters & Cardigans

Maybe it’s just me, but you can never have too many comfy layers. Celebrate sweater weather with Mango’s colorful collection of cardigans, pullovers, and knitwear.

30% Off Tops

When it comes to shirts, tops, and turtlenecks, Mango has tons of great basics and funky, floral patterns alike. Your new staples are waiting for you.

30% Off Dresses

From mini to midi to maxi styles, Mango’s dresses are perfect for holiday dinners, workplace happy hours, days spent out and about, and every activity in between.

30% Off Jeans & Pants

In the market for some new smart, casual trousers, a go-to pair of jeans, or even leather pants? Mango has all the pants you need (and maybe some you didn’t know you needed, too).

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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