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Technological innovation

The rise of the modern brassiere parallels the evolution of the textiles and fashion industry: The economic value that Lycra has contributed to the textile industry has long been recognised as significant. Dramatic social changes and technological developments during last century combined to transform a basic piece of apparel from modest underwear into fashionable underwear and outerwear. Lycra has created a bra that has increased comfort, support and in some cases greater moisture control as well as ‘shock absorber’ technology.

After the Second World War textile technological developments were seen in all 1950s underwear items. The old elastic bra backs and straps were replaced by the newer elastomeric family - Lycra. Overstretched rotted rubber bits that made bras and girdles lose their grip were gone forever. Lycra was developed in 1959 by a team of scientists at Dupont, originally as a replacement for rubber in corsetry. Before Lycra was invented, consumers endured saggy, baggy, stretched and bunched clothes.

Brassiere designs experienced considerable change with the introduction of Lycra because of the property of stretch and recovery. Foundation manufacturers were quick to incorporate fibres such as rayon, acetate, nylon and Lycra to replace rubber, cotton and whalebone. These new fibres improved comfort, fit and durability. They also introduced smoother lines, were cheaper, more ornate, included lace work and promoted advantages of easier care.

The adoption of the brassiere by millions of women globally is a complex process that is influenced by cultural mores, technological capabilities and aesthetics.