When Athena Kasvikis stepped onto the “Shark Tank” stage, she wasn’t just pitching a product; she was sharing a solution born from years of personal struggle. Behave Bras, her innovative lingerie line, is designed to provide unparalleled comfort for women with larger busts, and her journey from frustration to success is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s dive into the story behind Behave Bras, from its humble beginnings to its booming success post-“Shark Tank.”
The Problem Behind the Innovation
For many women with larger busts, finding a bra that is both supportive and comfortable feels like an endless battle. Athena Kasvikis, founder of Behave Bras, knew this struggle all too well. As a G-cup herself, she endured years of uncomfortable, ill-fitting bras that left her with shoulder divots, back pain, and constant frustration. Determined to solve this problem, Athena set out to create a bra that would not only fit well but also feel good all day long.
This wasn’t just about fashion; it was about empowerment. Behave Bras were designed to give women the confidence and comfort they deserve, featuring a unique patented technology that keeps everything in place without the pain and hassle of traditional underwires.
The “Shark Tank” Pitch
Athena’s journey took a pivotal turn when she appeared on Season 13, Episode 15 of “Shark Tank,” which aired on March 11, 2022. Standing in front of the Sharks, Athena shared her deeply personal story, connecting with the audience and investors alike. She sought $150,000 in exchange for 15% equity in Behave Bras, a valuation that reflected her confidence in the product’s potential.
Athena’s pitch wasn’t just about numbers; it was about solving a problem that millions of women face. She introduced the Sharks to the brand’s patented “Stayz” technology—stretchy fabric pieces designed to keep the bust secure without uncomfortable wires. This unique feature addresses common issues like quad-boob, shoulder pain, and the general discomfort associated with traditional bras.
The pitch was both heartfelt and engaging. Athena’s passion shone through as she explained how Behave Bras could revolutionize the lingerie industry. Her compelling story and innovative product caught the Sharks’ attention, leading to a lively discussion about the business’s potential.
The Deal with Kevin O’Leary
After a spirited back-and-forth among the Sharks, it was Kevin O’Leary who decided to make an offer. He proposed $150,000 for 20% equity, emphasizing the strategic value he could bring to the company. Athena countered with 17%, but Kevin held firm at 20%, insisting that the partnership’s potential justified the higher equity stake.
Ultimately, Athena accepted Kevin’s offer, securing both the investment and the mentorship needed to take Behave Bras to the next level. It was a moment of triumph for Athena and her brand, and it marked the beginning of a new chapter for Behave Bras.
A Snapshot of Behave Bras
Here’s a detailed look at Behave Bras and its journey on “Shark Tank”:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Product Name | Behave Bras |
Founders | Athena Kasvikis |
Season & Episode | Season 13, Episode 15 |
Ask (Investment & Equity) | $150,000 for 15% equity |
Final Deal | $150,000 for 20% equity |
Shark(s) Involved | Kevin O’Leary |
Memorable Episode Moments | Athena’s heartfelt story and introduction of the patented “Stayz” technology. |
Current Net Worth | Estimated at $2.5 million as of 2023 |
Current Business Status | Active |
Revenue Since Shark Tank | $1 million in 2022 |
Social Media Presence | Instagram: 3,600+ followers; Facebook: 2,000+ followers |
Key Achievements | Featured on QVC; expanded product line to include matching panties and new styles |
The Post-“Shark Tank” Boom
After securing the deal with Kevin O’Leary, Behave Bras experienced a significant boost in visibility and sales. The “Shark Tank” effect was immediate, with a surge in website traffic and customer inquiries. By the end of 2022, Behave Bras had generated over $1 million in revenue, marking a substantial increase from its pre-“Shark Tank” days.
One of the brand’s most notable achievements was its feature on QVC, where it reached a broader audience and gained valuable exposure. This partnership helped establish Behave Bras as a trusted name in the lingerie market. In addition to expanding its sales channels, the company introduced new products, including matching panties and a wider variety of bra styles and colors. These additions catered to the diverse needs and preferences of their growing customer base.
Challenges and Triumphs
While Behave Bras has enjoyed remarkable success, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Scaling production to meet increased demand, navigating supply chain issues, and maintaining quality standards were all hurdles that Athena and her team faced. However, their dedication to the brand’s mission and commitment to innovation allowed them to overcome these obstacles and continue growing.
Social media also played a crucial role in Behave Bras’ post-“Shark Tank” success. The brand’s Instagram and Facebook accounts became platforms for engaging with customers, sharing testimonials, and promoting new products. By building a strong online community, Behave Bras fostered loyalty and trust among its audience.
Where Are They Now?
As of January 2025, Behave Bras remains an active and thriving business. The company’s estimated net worth has reached $2.5 million, reflecting its continued growth and success. While exact revenue figures for 2023 and 2024 are not publicly available, the brand’s expanded product offerings and media features suggest ongoing momentum.
Behave Bras has also maintained a strong online presence, with over 3,600 followers on Instagram and 2,000 on Facebook. These platforms serve as valuable tools for customer engagement and marketing, helping the brand stay connected with its audience.
Lessons for Entrepreneurs
The story of Behave Bras offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. First, it highlights the importance of identifying and addressing a specific problem. Athena’s personal struggle with uncomfortable bras became the driving force behind her innovation, resonating with countless women who faced the same challenges.
Second, it underscores the value of persistence and resilience. From designing the product to pitching on “Shark Tank” and navigating the challenges of scaling a business, Athena’s determination has been a key factor in her success.
Finally, the Behave Bras journey demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships. Kevin O’Leary’s investment and guidance provided the resources and support needed to take the brand to new heights, proving that the right partnership can make all the difference.
A Bright Future Ahead
Behave Bras has already made a significant impact on the lingerie industry, and its future looks just as promising. With continued innovation, strategic growth, and a loyal customer base, the brand is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory. Athena Kasvikis’ story is a testament to the power of turning personal challenges into opportunities, and it serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs everywhere.
Here’s to Behave Bras and its mission to redefine comfort for women—because every woman deserves to feel supported, confident, and empowered.