ZeBra takes high-tech approach to bra-making
TROY, N.Y.» New custom bra store ZeBra Bras is opening soon in the Collar City.
Located at 48 4th St. in downtown Troy, ZeBra Bras is taking a high-tech approach to bra-making.
Instead of measuring tape, ZeBra Bras uses an iPad along with technology most commonly used for medical 3D imaging. Then, a machine 3D prints memory foam cups and underwire to be sewn into a custom-made bra.
Customers can personalize everything about their bra, including the shape, the color and print of the fabric, and whether it has an underwire.
The idea is that this process makes for more accurate measurements, and ultimately a better fitting bra.
“I think people deserve bras that fit,” said co-founder Hannah Johnson of Troy on why she’s starting the business.
ZeBra Bras, the only business of its kind in the area, is owned and operated Johnson and coowner Ben Smith. With their newly founded company the business partners are on a mission to fix bra sizing problems by changing how bras are sold.
“I’d like to make custom bras a more common and affordable thing,” Johnson said. “Everyone I’ve met has had a bra hor-
ror story, and I don’t think that should be a normal thing.”
ZeBra Bras will be available in all sizes.
“Any body, any size,” Johnson said.
Bras will typically be ready within a week of a customer’s fitting, and can be delivered directly to their home.
Every ZeBra Bra will come with a fit guarantee that covers any adjustments necessary
within 30 days.
Standard ZeBra Bras will cost $75 each, comparable to some offthe-rack bras.
Custom designs and orders will be available for purchase too.
“If you have an idea we’ll try to make it work,” Johnson said.
In the future, the company plans to offer products that aren’t typically available as well.
“We’re really passionate about helping people whose needs aren’t being met by other stores, or who aren’t comfortable in a traditional bra store,” Johnson said.
She noted that asymmetric bras will be available when the store opens, with other products being introduced soon after, including sports bras, breast forms, binders, and bras that are easier to put on for people with disabilities.
ZeBra Bras is a first entrepreneurial endeavor for Johnson, an East Greenbush native who has a degree in nuclear engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. When she saw Smith’s previous work with 3-D imaging on insects, she thought it could be put to practical and commercial use.
Her goal is to someday expand to have more locations and potentially franchise the business.
All imaging, design, and manufacturing will be done at ZeBra Bras Troy location. However, the company has plans to develop an app that customers anywhere in the world will be able to use.
In coming months, ZeBra Bras plans to start doing pop-up events at other locations in the region.
Once open ZeBra Bras
will have hours Thursday through Sunday, but will also be open by appointments, which can be booked online.
The company’s progress toward opening the store and details about its upcoming grand opening event can be followed at zebra-bras.com or on Facebook at www. facebook. com/zebra.bras.inc.
ZeBra Bras can also be contacted via email at zebra.bras.inc@gmail.com or by phone at 518-720-7087.