Bust supporter
c. 1905
Natural linen and red and white cotton trim
Museum purchase
Object number98.29.5
Bust supporters and proto-brassieres re-emerged as the fashionable silhouette changed during the late nineteenth century. They were able to lift and enhance the breasts in ways that were not possible with traditional corsetry. While bust supporters took a variety of forms, this example would have helped to create the fashionable “monobosom” silhouette of the early twentieth century.
DescriptionFully boned bust supporter or brassiere in natural linen herringbone twill with red and white ribbon trim; tapered self straps extending from back to adjustable hook fastening at front shoulder; two sections buttoned at CF and laced at CB (lacings missing)Exhibitions