Bra, an informal shortening of the term brassiere, was first introduced in the 1920s. Just as its name changed through the decades, so did its rationale. Everyday bra types lifted, enlarged, supported, revealed, and covered women's breasts throughout the decades. By the 1930's, it was recognised that the measurement of the bust and the size of the breasts needed two different scales (A, B. C, D). The first strapless full
support and demi bras appeared in 1934, and a little later, underwired bras were worn to give breasts a more substantial silhouette. In the forties padded bras were introduced followed by the push-up bra and a myriad of styles developed including, the balconette bra which lifts the bosom forwards; the classic sheer bra to provide a smooth outline; t-shirt bra with woven cups; as well as sports bras, seamless bras, strapless and shelf bras.
In 1992, Wonderbra - a padded, underwired push-up bra- was launched and took the world by storm. By the late 1990s, the bra or brassiere, training bra
inclusive, had became one of the most complex pieces of lingerie, made with up to 43 different components.
Brassiere, or simply bra, is sometimes hailed as a major breakthrough in the clothing inventions. There is no denying the fact that brasseries have made every woman’s life easier and more comfortable. Although some prefer the natural look of female breasts, the dominant majority of women are not willing to give up their habit of wearing a brassiere. Everyday bra types, such as full support and demi bras are universally popular. The main styles of bra are: Convertible Bra: Convertible bras have changeable straps, which can modify the bra into a halter, racer-back or strapless style.
Demi-cup Bra: Demi-cup bras are contoured, together with underwire and the cups cut away to reveal the top of the breast. A very flattering style and generally worn with low-cut dresses or tops.
Push-up Bra: Push-up bras have additional padding at the bottom portion of the cup, which lifts the bosom and gives the illusion of a fuller bust. Sports Bra: Sports bras will help to prevent damage to the breast tissue. Supported by the non-elastic Cooper's ligaments, manufacturers often categorise their training bra line by the level of impact exercise can have. Seamless Bra: Seamless bras have moulded cups, giving a smooth and transparent look to sheer or clingy outerwear. Shelf Bra: Shelf bras simply and only provide support and coverage underneath the breasts and essentially expose the nipples. Risqué, they usually come with boning for uplifted cleavage. Strapless Bra: Strapless bras have wide sides and sewn in silicone stitching to keep the bra in place. Because of their complexity bras come in a combination of and wide range of fabrics. While fine cottons were always a staple, silk net satin, brocade, nylon, jersey and lace bras were and are popular together with satin imitations like Lycra silk, satin crepe de chine, tactel and polyester.
Another aspect to be mentioned here is that everyday bra types are targeted at the women who are not willing to put up with the inevitable changes in the condition of their breasts that accompany the age. Full support and demi-bras render a seducing quality to the breasts and make the whole figure look more feminine and alluring, whatever the age. A controversial point is the role of everyday bra types in preservation of the youthful shape of breasts. Full support and demi bras are indispensable for providing the external support for female breasts. In terms of the aesthetic purposes, they are also of great use. Everyday bra types become especially popular with the women of older age. Comfort and security become top priorities. Speaking about training bra, it is used solely for the considerations of comfort while doing sports. Not many ladies are willing to do without a training bra while training. Lately everyday bra types have been complemented by innovative models. They present new modifications of the traditional bra design. They provide ladies with a unique opportunity to look impeccably beautiful in any outfit.