Part 1
A look at women’s issues in America often feels like a tense, politically charged study best suited to ivory towers and comfortable shoes. The usual topics stick close to the classics — the traditional roles of wife and mother, political issues surrounding the right to vote, or assessments of educational and professional equality. There is, however, a less traditional, and vastly more colorful look at the position of women in American society – and that is through a study of what women were wearing under their clothes.
1931 marked the snap heard round the world – the introduction of Lastex. The revolutionary fiber had an elastic core that was wound with fabric thread, creating two-way stretch for the first time. In combination with new, cup-based sizing, women’s bodies — and Depression-era realities — required support to earn a living. The importance of women’s ability to be productive in the workplace became even more pronounced during World War II, the era of Rosie the Riveter. Women’s clothing during WWII was all about function, and underwear followed suit. Boobs needed to be contained without being constrained, and the bras of the day did just that.
Bullet Bra |
With the 1960s came a backlash against traditional gender roles, which will be covered in Part 2 of this column, along with the myth of the bra burners, and how the role of women and their bras has evolved through today. Stay tuned!
Part 2 is here (that’s real progress)...
DO make a 'point' of remembering as well as
ReplyDeleteSHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR:
World Bullet Bra Day, June 11.
video below
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oyj7WW5c1w
I got one for me as well as my wife!
If you are wondering how the bra keeps itself 'pointy', it is because of a conical bra pad 'falsie' insert, so do order a pair along with the bra!
Velma