A look at the history of lingerie will make any woman happy to have been born in this time and place. Ideas about beauty and the female form have changed drastically through the years, and lingerie has illustrated that. Far from the light, lovely creations of today, past undergarments have been painful, dangerous, and downright bizarre.

Boobs Out, Boobs In 

The women of Crete in the pre-Christian days apparently had no time for a slow tease -- they went for a full-blown frontal assault! The lingerie of the day was a tight corset of bone that pushed the breasts up and out -- all the way out. This early form of bra was all about decadence and had nothing to do with support. Breasts were on display, for all the world to see. The medieval era, on the other hand, was a time of sexual repression and denial, and the lingerie reflected that. Rather than flatter the female form, medieval corsets flattened breasts almost to the point of nonexistence! These iron contraptions trimmed the waist and concealed the chest, giving women boyish figures. Women would decorate their flat chests with little bells. 

Lingerie Showcases Women's Curves 

The Renaissance brought a new focus on womanly curves, and women went to unnatural extremes to achieve the perfect hourglass figure. Corsets of the day were highly restrictive and tightened to the point of being dangerous. In fact, lingerie was often so tight that ribs were broken or pushed out of place! Many women actually passed out from the excessive constriction. Cleavage was highly prized in the 18th century, and lingerie was designed to heighten the effect. Although corsets were still made of constrictive whalebone, there was a definite movement towards the decorative lingerie we know today. The push-up corsets were adorned with ribbon, lace, and intricate embroidery. By the end of the century, doctors were speaking out about the health hazards of corsets and the less-restrictive designs were introduced. 

A Revolution: Brassieres! 

By the 19th century, consumer demands and doctor outrage brought about a lingerie revolution. Corsets became smaller, less restrictive, and less cumbersome. These reconstructed designs allowed freer movement and easier breathing. They also provided more support for the breasts and were appropriately named "brassiere," which is French for "support." An important time in the history of lingerie, the 1800s also brought the first padded bra. The 19th century also introduced stockings, which were the forerunners of modern-day thigh-highs. Stockings were held up by suspenders and garters attached to the corsets. During World War I, more and more women found themselves in the workplace. With the new status as breadwinner came a need for practical undergarments. Brassieres had to be light enough to be worn in hot and stifling work conditions. Fabrics became lighter and more breathable. Styles were once again functional and focused on support over appearance. The 1920s brought about a change in attitudes about sexuality and beauty. The Flapper Girls made the party circuit, sporting a spunky kind of beauty. Along with the short bobs and flapper dresses, Flapper Girls popularized boyish physiques. The female silhouette was smooth and curve-free, and lingerie of the day helped achieve that look. The light-weight chemise, bloomers, and bodice were introduced. For the first time in the history of lingerie, panties and bras were available in an assortment of colors. The Roaring Twenties also saw the end of corsets. 

Bras that Enhance, Bras that Burn 

After the boyish shapes of the 20s, the 1930s took us full-circle -- and full-figured. Although slim hips were still en vogue, flat breasts were no longer fashionable. Lingerie of the day once again focused on feminine proportions, and the breast-enhancing bra was born. The girdle also became a popular piece. Although full breasts were considered beautiful, fat was not. The 30s brought a true lingerie revolution -- Latex. This elastic fiber was invented by Dunlop Rubber and allowed lingerie makers to offer undergarments in various sizes. With women's liberation came the unfortunate decision to burn the bra, a move many women surely regretted with the sagging that followed! Still, women's lib caused a dramatic decrease in bra sales and lingerie manufacturers were forced to focus on other things. Lycra pantyhose and briefs became popular. 

History of Lingerie -- Full Circle 

Lingerie has come full-circle. No longer dictated by men's opinion of beauty or sexuality, lingerie can be what we want it to be. If we want to look larger, smaller, sexier, more prim... there is a fashion for it. In fact, modern lingerie allows us to be someone different every day. From thongs to granny panties, conservative gowns to fetish wear, it's all within reach. And yes, if we're so inclined, we can even wear a corset!