Womens Underwear: Perfect For Every Shape

April 18, 2008

Of the many styles of women’s underwear available today, bra and brief sets are among the most classic. However, these classic garments are actually of recent origin. Throughout most of recorded history, women’s underwear styles were far different than those of today. Read on for a brief history of the bra.

Ancient Cultures

In Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, breasts were generally uncovered. Women’s underwear was basically unknown. Both men and women wore simple tunic-style garments. However, it was usual to expose the breasts, particularly in Greece, where female breasts had almost mythic significance. Greek women did, however, cover the breasts with tight, supportive bands known as apodesme when competing in athletic activities.

In Ancient Rome, breasts were less emphasized, and both men and women wore loose tunics that covered the chests. Young women sometimes wore a version of the Greek apodesmos, called the strophium, to minimize their breasts. This could be considered an early example of women’s underwear.

Medieval

Contrary to modern mythology, medieval women did not wear bodices designed to enhance the breasts. In fact, it is believed that the Holy Roman Empire specifically forbade women to support their breasts or draw attention to them. Bodices were straight and designed to minimize rather than enhance curves. Women’s underwear consisted primarily of simple shifts worn underneath a bodice and full skirt.

Renaissance

By the Renaissance era, fashions had changed. It was considered stylish and modern to show plenty of d

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