The first person to wear a bra is difficult to pinpoint, as bras have evolved over centuries. However, Mary Phelps Jacob is often credited with inventing the modern bra in 1914.
She was a New York socialite who, frustrated with the cumbersome corsetry of the time, created a lightweight, comfortable alternative using two handkerchiefs and some ribbon. This design later became known as the "brassiere" and was patented in 1914.
While Jacob’s invention was a significant step, bras had existed in various forms for centuries. For instance, in the 19th century, women wore "corsets" and "bustles" to shape and support their breasts. These garments were often uncomfortable and restrictive.
Even before that, women in ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, used various methods to enhance or support their breasts, using bandages, cloth, or other materials.
The evolution of the bra continued throughout the 20th century, with improvements in materials, designs, and styles, ultimately leading to the diverse range of bras available today.
