Bra History
History of the Bra can be traced as far back as 2500 BC when Cretan women began to use bra-like garments to lift their breasts out of clothing. Bra History Photos from past times are excellent evidence of existence of bra in that era.
Later, the history of bra is traced in 14th century when the breast supporting undergarments were called “Cotte” and with the passage of time things began to change. From 16th century onwards, these garments took the shape of Corsets that were made of whalebone.
The history of brassiere began in1907 when the term “Brassiere” was first reported in the high profile women’s Magazine Vogue. Brassiere is a French Word meaning “Upper Arm”.
In 1912, the word appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary.
In 1913, Mary Phelps Jacob, a New York lady, introduced the bra resembling modern day bra. She bought a sheer evening dress to wear to a dance. She disliked the tight and tough corset, which she had to wear as undergarment, as it was the only option available at that time. It was the time when she took two silky handkerchiefs and a pink ribbon to design the first ever-made bra that resembles the modern bra.
Mary introduced her new bra design under the name of Caresse Crosby. She was a talented designer but not a businesswoman and soon she got tired of the business and sold her patent to Warner Brothers Corset Company for $1500. Today, Warner Brothers is leading manufacturer of bras.
In 1920’s, the manufacturers began making bras designed to rather flatten chest than to enhance the breasts.
During 1930’s, history of the brassiere made further progress when the word bra became popular instead of brassiere. Women looked for more comfortable underwear and Warner Brothers produced the first popular all-elastic bra, which showed off a woman's stature.
Bra History stepped to a new level when in 1935 entrepreneurs of Warner Brothers Company introduced cup sizes A, B, C & D in bras that were soon adopted by all bra manufacturers.
History of Bras kept on rolling and in 1940 bust improvers and padding was added to bra cups, which were softer and comfortable to wear.
In 1946, first bikini fashion show was held in Paris.
During 1950’s, Strapless bras were introduced in the market that allowed women freedom to wear off the shoulder dresses.
In 1973, the first sports bra was introduced. These were mostly suitable for women with active lifestyles giving breasts extra support.
Later in 1990s, the bra industry got new innovations in market giving women the liberty they had been looking for. The accessories of bras such as silicone pads made their introduction in industry.
The Bra History in 21st century refers to the quest for developments and improvements regarding bras and breasts and have led us to Breast enhancement techniques including breast implants and other surgical procedures.
