Mary Phelps Jacob, also known as Caresse Crosby, is most frequently credited with inventing the modern bra. In 1914, at the age of 19, she patented a design she'd initially created from two handkerchiefs and some ribbon to avoid the discomfort and visibility of corsets under her sheer gown. While not the very first garment intended to support breasts—earlier inventions and designs existed, dating back as far as the 1860s (Luman L. Chapman) and even earlier cultural practices in ancient Greece and Rome—Jacob's design is considered a pivotal moment in the evolution of the bra as we know it today. Her invention provided a more comfortable and less restrictive alternative to the constricting corsets previously worn by women.
Early Innovations and Precursors to the Modern Bra
Several other inventors and designers contributed to the development of undergarments that predate Jacob's invention. These include:
- Herminie Cadolle (1889): A French designer who is credited with creating a precursor to the bra by splitting a corset into two parts: a top that supported the breasts and a bottom that provided waist support. This innovation, while still corset-like, represented a significant step towards separating breast support from full body corsetry.
- Marie Tucek (1893): She received a US patent for a design featuring separate pockets for each breast, a feature that foreshadowed many modern bra designs.
These earlier inventions highlight that the bra's evolution was a gradual process, with various inventors and designers contributing to its improvement and refinement over time. Jacob's contribution is significant because her design became widely popular and influenced subsequent bra designs.
Beyond the Brassiere: Specialized Designs
The history of the bra doesn't end with Mary Phelps Jacob. Later innovations built upon her work, leading to diverse bra designs, including:
- The Sports Bra: Invented by Lisa Lindahl, Hinda Miller, and Polly Smith, this groundbreaking design addressed the specific needs of women participating in sports.
The continuous improvement and adaptation of the bra showcase its enduring relevance and adaptability to the changing needs and preferences of women.
