The modern bra, as we know it today, was patented in 1914 by Mary Phelps Jacob. She designed the first bra using two handkerchiefs and a pink ribbon, which she called the “backless brassiere.” This design revolutionized women’s undergarments and paved the way for the development of the modern bra.
One common misconception is that the modern bra was invented by a man. However, Mary Phelps Jacob was a woman who saw a need for a more comfortable and practical undergarment for women, so she took matters into her own hands and created the first modern bra.
A less-known fact about the invention of the modern bra is that before Mary Phelps Jacob’s patent, corsets were commonly worn to support and shape women’s breasts. Knowing about this historical transition from corsets to bras can help you understand why bras are an essential part of every woman’s wardrobe today.
The next step in understanding this topic is to explore different types of bras available on the market and find one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether it’s a t-shirt bra for everyday comfort or a push-up bra for special occasions, there are various options to choose from based on your individual style and comfort requirements.
I hope this information helps you better appreciate the innovation behind such an essential garment.
| Inventor | Date | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Mary Phelps Jacob | 1913 | Research her contributions to the modern bra and how it revolutionized women’s undergarments. |
| Caresse Crosby | 1914 | Explore her patent for the modern bra and its impact on women’s fashion. |
| Ida Rosenthal | 1922 | Investigate her role in co-founding the Maidenform company, a major player in modern bra design. |
| William Rosenthal | 1922 | Learn about his partnership with Ida Rosenthal and their influence on bra innovation. |
| Marie Tucek | 1914 | Study her early bra patents and their impact on shaping modern bra design. |
| Ella T. Rice | 1914 | Examine her contributions to bra design and her patents for improved functionality. |
| Ruth Omark | 1927 | Research her innovations in bra design and their influence on modern lingerie technology. |
| Pauline Smith | 1913 | Explore her early bra designs and their impact on the evolution of modern bras. |
| Anna Gertrude Eichhoff | 1913 | Investigate her contributions to bra innovation and their influence on modern lingerie construction. |
| Heinrich Meltzer | 1932 | Learn about his role in developing the first underwire bra and its impact on modern bra support. |