History of the Bra

In 2500 BC, Greek woman on the isle of Crete started wearing a garment resembling a bra pushing their bare breasts up and out of their clothing. Then Roman woman squeezed their breasts into a breast band to minimize their busts and Egyptian women painted their breasts.

In 1913 Mary Phelps Jacob came up with the idea of a bra-like garment to wear under a gown that was sheer. Taking two hankies, ribbon, and cord she devised a bra. And women started ordering these from her. In 1914 she patented her idea and it was titled "'Backless Brassiere'. Jacob later sold her company to Warners Brothers Corset Company for $1,500.

Before Jacob had her brilliant idea women had been wearing binding corsets or the union suit which was woolen and warm but not supporting or flattering.

In 1893 Marie Tucek patented the "Breast Supporter". It had separate pockets for each breast, shoulder straps, and hooks and eyes.

In 1907 Vogue used the word brassiere from the French word upper arm.

In 1912 Otto Titzling is said to have developed a bra for singer Swanhilda Olafsen who lived in the same New York boarding house. But he didn't patent his design.

In the 1920's Ida and William Rosenthal forming the Maidenform Company. (see bio)

Howard Hughes used his aeronautical skills to design a bra for Jane Russell, making her an overnight sensation.

The 1930's saw the shortening of the word brassiere to bra.

The 1940's developed with added padding to the cups.

With the 1950's came the design of the bullet bra.

1950s Exquisite Form Bullet Bra courtesy Pennidreadful 

In the late 60's, many women decided to burn their bras. It was considered an act of liberation and empowerment in a male dominated society.

1965 Mary Quant Bra from her first line courtesy fuzzylizzie

 

  

 Gossard Wonderbra courtesy Jonathan Walford/Kickshaw Productions