All About Bras

Bras

The first separate, supporting cover for the bosom appeared in France in 1889 when a Madame Cadulle cut out the midriff of her corset to allow more movement from the waist.

However, American Mary Phelps devised the first modern bra in 1916 with two hankerchiefs and some help from her maid. The following year she sold the patent to a Mr Warner whom she had met at a garden party. By 1918, corset-makers were running up bras designed to flatten the breasts rather than enhance them. It wasn’t until 1938 that bras first had divisions between the breasts and adjustable straps.

Finally acknowledging that breasts did not come in standard sizes, bra-makers introduced A,B, C and D cups. Padding was first sneaked into bra cups in the 1940s and in the 1950s, strapless bras appeared. Women were now able to wear an off-the-shoulder dress and use a bra for the first time.

Some interesting facts for Trivial Pursuit fans. Breast sizes across Europe have been continuing to grow. The average size has gone from a 34B to a 36C over the past 10 years. Twenty years ago a DD cup was unusual - now G cups are not uncommon. Changing diet and the Pill are thought to be the main reasons for this trend and bra-wearers are getting younger.

Today the biggest selling colour is white, while ivory and cream come a close second.

Higher numbers of separations, divorces and remarriages have also boosted the demand for attractive lingerie.