This design research project explores how to design a binder or other chest concealing device that supports safe, empowering binding and minimizes negative physical health outcomes.

Chest binding—the process of compressing breasts for a flatter appearance—is an important contributor to wellbeing and good mental health for many transgender and non-binary people. Yet, 97% of binder users report negative physical symptoms related to binding; these range from itching and back pain to rib fractures for 2.8% of users (Peitzmeier et al., 2016).

The project is supported by a Syracuse University VPA Creative and Research Grant

Reference: Peitzmeier, S., Gardner., I., Weinand, J., Corbet, A., & Acevedo, K. (2017). Health impact of chest binding among transgender adults: A community-engaged, cross-sectional study. Culture, Health & Sexuality, 19(1), 64–75.

Home page image from the Gender Spectrum Collection