Jazz singer, three-time cancer survivor and founder of Betterly Bra: Jessy Kyle turns personal battles into purpose as she lives and gives with grace, resilience and an open heart. Meet our newest Real Woman of REALM.
There are some women who possess a beautiful, luminous presence that you can feel the moment they walk into a room. Their warmth is instant, and they carry a radiant smile that completely lights up the space around them. That is exactly the magnetic energy that drew me to Jessy Kyle.
We first met at the Modern Luxury Dynamic Women luncheon. The moment Jessy stood in front of that room of female leaders to share her incredible story, I was completely spellbound. Beyond her undeniable grace, you could feel the profound depth of who she is.
The event celebrated us as “dynamic,” but Jessy is so much more than that word can capture. Behind that beautiful smile is a woman of immense courage, strength and power. She is a fierce, unapologetic fighter.
Most people know Jessy for her soulful voice as an acclaimed jazz singer, songwriter and pianist. She has performed at Madison Square Garden, The Vet, The Spectrum, Xfinity Mobile Center, Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field, The Pentagon and the White House, as well as in Mexico, Spain, Italy and China. But what moved me most is how she has turned her personal battles as a three-time cancer survivor into a mission to uplift others. She didn’t just survive; she innovated. By founding the Betterly Bra Company® and patenting a brand-new bra technology, she has dedicated herself to helping women feel supported, beautiful and confident in their own skin.
When I design for REALM Fine + Fashion Jewelry, I envision women who rule their lives with grace, resilience and an open heart. Jessy doesn’t just wear that crown—she defines it. I am so incredibly proud to introduce her as our newest Real Woman of REALM.
Ann King Lagos
Founder + Designer
REALM Fine + Fashion Jewelry
Q+A with Jessy Kyle
What do you do for work?
I am a singer by trade. I am also the Founder of Betterly Bra Company® and an inspirational speaker.
for play?
Watching any Philly sports. But especially the Eagles. GO BIRDS!
for others? (such as a charitable organization dear to your heart)
I am on the boards of the HEADstrong Foundation, the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute and the Center City Girls Academy.
Your music has taken you from local jazz clubs to the White House. How has finding your literal voice on stage helped you find the courageous voice needed to launch a business and advocate for women’s health?
I think it’s the opposite. My health battles prepared and conditioned me for the stage. After surviving my first health battle at 16, nothing seemed impossible. As I survived each subsequent health challenge, I gained more and more confidence to advocate for my causes and launch the garment line. It’s not hyperbole that I almost died on three different occasions. Compared to that, singing, speaking and selling bras are easy.
After years of encouraging and advocating for others, you took the leap to solve a problem for yourself and other women with your Betterly Bra designs. What advice do you have for women who feel “stuck” by their circumstances but want to build their own empire or creative legacy?
I think I can only steal from the NIKE slogan and say “just do it.” No one is coming to save you. If you’re lucky, you’ll have family and friends who support you, but even then, it’s just you and what you decide to do. We make time for what’s important. I would say to that woman who’s waiting to press the start button, just do it. Because the fear of trying or the fear of failing doesn’t compare to the regret of never starting. You’re the main character in the movie of your life!
What makes Betterly Bra unique?
I struggled my entire life trying to find a properly fitting bra. My issue is I have a narrow back and a large bust and traditional bra companies don’t make my size. So, since I was a teenager, I would buy plus size bras and cut and sew the back or wear a second bra with a tighter band. Years later I was denied breast reduction surgery, so I designed the Betterly Bra. What started as a solution for large breasted women, turned into a solution for all bra wearing women. Betterly is unique because it solves the problems women have with their bras. Our patented technology offers custom-fit shoulder straps, a custom-fit back band, and multiple sizes in the same bra; unseen in any other brand. Women will get their best fit every time!
You say that “Betterly Bras and music are my passions, but helping people is my purpose.” When you speak to others facing life-altering trials, what is the core message you want them to take away about reclaiming their identity and “having the best day ever” on purpose?
My core message is never giving up. But how does one do that? I encourage people to lead with gratitude. Gratitude doesn’t equate happiness, but it’s a shift into positive thinking that will help you get through struggles. Happiness is innate but also intentional. I go back to the pandemic: were you “stuck” at home or “safe” at home? You were still home but the words carry two vastly different mindsets. I prefer “safe.”
We love your style! At REALM, we talk about our jewelry and Empresses having a “Classic, Romantic or Rock Star” vibe (sometimes all three). How would you describe your personal style?
That’s perfect! I think I’m a little bit of all three. Rock Star on stage, definitely. But I’m in my classic phase. I like crisp collars and clean lines. I usually only wear black, but I love a crisp, white shirt. Subdued elegance.
Reign Thoughtfully Cuffs in the four Shades of REALM.
Why do you love REALM?
I first fell in love with REALM because of its founder Ann. We met at an event where I was speaking and there was an instant, kindred spirit kind of connection. She took off her REALM Reign Thoughtfully Cuff and gave it to me right then and there. I was overwhelmed. I wear it every day! Then I learned about the brand and all it stands for. So, it’s an incredible combination of insanely beautiful jewelry and heartfelt emotion.
What are your favorite pieces of REALM jewelry? Favorite REALM Collection and why?
I adore my Reign Thoughtfully Cuff for the above reason. But I identify with the VICTORIOUS collection, which symbolizes Success + Triumph + Glory. It’s as if the description is speaking right to me. I am VICTORIOUS and not afraid to proclaim it!
What does it mean to...
Be Your Own Empress:
Be unapologetically yourself. Speak your mind, stand up and take what’s yours. To not need anyone’s permission to be who you are.
Reign Thoughtfully:
Same as above but also add leading with kindness. Every person is going through something. To reign is to lead and a good leader does so with empathy and compassion.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you sincerely for this opportunity. I truly believe in uplifting women. We succeed together. I love what the brand stands for. I’m simply honored to be included.
CONNECT WITH JESSY
• Email: info@jessykyle.com
• Social: @betterlybra.co | @jessykyle
• Websites: betterlybra.com | jessykyle.com
• Hashtag: #nevergiveup
