Bras may be a big part of your daily routine—a staple in many a wardrobe—but have you ever wondered who invented the bra or when it was invented? From ancient garments designed to support the bust to the sleek, comfortable bras we know today, the evolution of bras is nothing short of remarkable. Buckle up as we take this fascinating journey through time and explore the evolution of the bra and how it has shaped women's lives throughout history.
The question of "When was the bra invented?" doesn't have a straightforward answer. Instead, it is a story of innovation and changing style over centuries. Throughout history, women have worn various clothes to cover, support, or enhance their breasts. For instance, in Ancient Greece, women wore apodesmos or mastodeton, a band or fabric wrapped around the chest to provide support.
Fast-forward to the Renaissance period, and you'll find the corset dominating women's fashion. For centuries, corsets were the primary means of shaping and supporting the torso. They came in various designs, with some supporting the bust and others extending to shape the waist and give an hourglass figure. However, these were often uncomfortable and restrictive.
It wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the concept of the modern bra began to take shape. Many inventors were granted patents for bra-like devices in the 19th century, although most designs did not catch on. The word "brassiere" was first used in Vogue magazine in 1907 to describe a device that supported the breasts. It was later added to the Oxford Dictionary in 1911.
When it comes to who invented the bra, there are two contenders for the title.
Herminie Cadolle, or France, invented the first modern bra in 1889 as a two-piece undergarment. This invention, called the "le bien-être" or "well-being," was a split corset, with the top part supporting the breasts with shoulder straps and the bottom shaping the waist. By 1905, the upper half was being sold separately and was known as a soutien-gorge,the name by which bras are still known in French.
Then there's Mary Phelps Jacob, later known as Caresse Crosby, a socialite in the early 1900s. Frustrated by her restrictive corset and seeking a more comfortable and practical solution, she decided to get creative. She fashioned a makeshift bra using two silk handkerchiefs and some ribbon. This invention was not only more comfortable but also offered better support. Realizing the potential of her creation, she patented her design under the name "Backless Brassiere" in 1914.
From its humble beginnings, the bra underwent countless transformations, and each decade brought new trends that reflected the evolving needs and cultures. Let's take a whistle-stop tour and see the history of the bra through the decades.
Early 1900s: The corset went out of fashion. Women were becoming more active, and corsets were not practical for work. Modern bra designs were catching on.
1920s: The "Flapper Era" brought a looser silhouette with an androgynous look, and bras followed suit. During this time, bras were designed to flatten the chest to achieve the desired boyish style.
1930s: In this decade, bras began to take on a more structured form. The concept of cup sizes was introduced, revolutionizing the way bras were designed and fitted. This innovation allowed for better fit and more personalized support. Also, "brassiere" was gradually shortened to "bra." Adjustable bands were also introduced.
1940s: During World War II, practicality became paramount. Bras were made from utilitarian materials like nylon and offered more support for working women. The bullet bra was introduced near the end of this decade.
1950s: The bullet bra became more popular, giving women a pointed silhouette, popularized by stars like Marilyn Monroe. The 50s also celebrated the hourglass figure with bras designed to enhance and accentuate curves. Underwire bras and padded bras became popular, offering more lift and shape.
1960s-70s: The feminist movement of the 60s and 70s brought significant changes to bra design and perception. Many women rejected traditional bras in favor of more natural and comfortable options. This period saw the rise of the bralette and soft-cup bras.
1980s and 1990s: These decades saw the rise of the push-up bra. These bras offered enhanced cleavage and became a symbol of sensuality and confidence.
2000s to Present: Recently, the focus has shifted towards comfort, inclusivity, and body positivity. Brands like ThirdLove have been at the forefront of this movement, offering various sizes and styles to cater to every body type.
The modern bra, as we know it, is a marvel of engineering and design. It has come a long way from Mary Phelps Jacob's creation of the handkerchief and ribbon. Today's bras incorporate advanced materials, ergonomic designs, and a deep understanding of anatomy to provide unparalleled support and comfort.
While bras have been around for over a century, the modern bra, as we know it today, really came into its own in the latter half of the 20th century. Innovations in materials and manufacturing techniques have all contributed to creating more comfortable, supportive bras suited to various body types.
At ThirdLove, we believe every woman deserves a bra that fits perfectly and feels amazing. That's why we offer a wide range of styles, sizes, and colors to flatter every body type. Whether you are looking for a classic T-shirt bra, a supportive sports bra, or a lacy bralette, we have something for everyone. Explore our collection of bras to find your match.
Not sure where to start? Step into our Fitting Room and let us guide you to your perfect fit. You can get personalized recommendations for a bra style and size with just a few clicks.
Understanding bra history gives us a greater appreciation for this essential garment and our advancements over the years. At ThirdLove, we're proud to be a part of this ongoing journey, providing bras that empower and support women every day.
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