How did technological advances affect bra-making? What were the wider reaching social consequences? Discover fascinating facts through this new online exhibition featuring over 30 rare and historically significant objects spanning from the 1900s to the 1970s. Exploring shifts in fashionable bust shape, comfort and attitudes to women’s bodies throughout the 20th century, the exquisite exhibits include a couture 1930s Kestos bra, an original Dior 1950s longline bra, 1900s garments and luxury pieces by French heritage design house Cadolle.
Launching online in late May at The Underpinnings Museum, the exhibition features nearly 300 images curated by Lorraine Smith, colloquially known as “The Bra Master” due to her academic research on underwear. Devised by both Lorraine and designer Karolina Laskowska, extensive contextual information accompanies each picture by renowned boudoir photographer Tigz Rice.