'A Bra is Born': A brief history of the Bra

London - Sheer or padded; push-up or moulded; lace or solid; strapless or not; plunge or full-cover? When it comes to different bra styles available on the market the choices seem endless. But did you know that in spite of the wide range of bras available today, which span from bralettes to bras without underwire, the modern bra was not even invented until the late 19th century?

The history of the brasserie

In fact, the modern bra only celebrated its 100 year anniversary in 2014! Interested in learning more about the history of the bra? Then read the infographic from Hunkemoller on the evolution of the bra.

Unfortunately despite the wide array of brands and styles available, intel from the likes of lingerie retailers Rigby & Peller and Chantelle indicate that a third of women in the UK wear the wrong bra size. Most lingerie companies recommend women have a proper bra fitting every year, or every six months, to ensure they retain an accurate measurement of their bra size, as breast sizes can fluctuate monthly depending on hormones, weight loss or gain and changed in the body due to exercise or surgery.

The average breast size of women in the UK has jumped from a B-Cup to a DD-Cup over the past hundred years, according to data from the University of Portsmouth's Research Group in Breast Health, as women have grown larger in size with time. However the majority of women in the UK would rather wear the same old bra in the same size they always purchase than risk going out and purchasing a new, uncomfortable expensive bra. Which is why lingerie retailers, like Triumph, Hunkemoller, Chantelle and Wacoal all offer expert fitting seasons in their stores to help female consumers fit their perfect fit and style.

Photo and Infographic credit: Hunkemoller