
Stuff You Should Know How Bras Work
May 21, 2020
Bras have a love-hate relationship, often seen as both necessary and restrictive. They liberated women from corsets but raise questions about their necessity today. A humorous look at the quirky connections between bras and vintage cars is entertaining. The evolution of bra design reflects cultural shifts, especially with the rise of the sports bra. Challenges in sizing and finding the right fit are examined, highlighting today's complexities in bra shopping. Nostalgic insights into the 80s and the rivalry among bra inventors add a fun twist to the discussion.
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First Modern Bra
- Mary Phelps Jacobs, frustrated with corsets, created the first modern bra in 1914.
- She sold the patent to Warner Brothers Corset Company for a mere $1,500.
Wartime Bras
- World War I's steel shortage led to women abandoning corsets for brassieres.
- The freed-up steel amounted to 28,000 tons, enough for two battleships.
1920s Bras
- The 'Boyish Form' bra minimized breasts, reflecting the 1920s flapper style.
- 'Maidenform' later promoted accentuating breasts, challenging the previous trend.




