Do you know who invented shapewear? If not, you're in for a surprise! Shapewear has been around for centuries, and there is some pretty interesting history behind it.
There is no definitive answer to this question. Shapewear has been around for centuries, and there have been many different people who have contributed to its invention. Some of the most notable contributors include:
- Ancient Greeks
- Middle Ages women
- French fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier
- American socialite Mary Phelps Jacobs
- Sarah Blakely, founder of Spanx.
Whomever you believe to be the inventor of shapewear, one thing is for sure: it is a garment that has been created with a collective effort for centuries, and it will keep evolving to respond to the needs of the century.
Invention and Evolution of Shapewear
Shapewear has come a long way since its invention centuries ago. Corsets were often made out of stiffened fabric or even metal, and they were held together by laces or other fasteners. The corsets were basically tight-fitting bodice that was designed to shape the waistline. While corsets were certainly not comfortable, they were considered to be a necessary part of a woman's wardrobe.
Corsets fell out of fashion in the 16th century, but they made a comeback in the 17th century. This time, they were called "stays" and they were slightly different from the corsets of the past. They were still designed to shape the waistline, but they were less constricting and more comfortable to wear. Stays became extremely popular in Britain and America during this time period.
Shapewear has evolved to become more comfortable and more flattering to the figure. Let's take a look at some of the key moments in the history of shapewear:
- Ancient Greeks: The first known reference to shapewear comes from the ancient Greeks, who used a garment called the "chiton" a form of tunic that becomes tighter at the shoulder, worn by men and women of ancient Greece and Rome. It was made of two pieces of fabric that were sewn together.
- Middle Ages women: In the Middle Ages, women wore something called a "corset." This was a type of body-shaping garment that was designed to make the waist look smaller.
- In the Victorian era, corsets became even more popular. They were often very tight, and they could be quite uncomfortable to wear.
- In the 18th century, French fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier created the "corseted dress", which featured a built-in corset that helped to create an hourglass shape.
- It wasn't until 1828 that shapewear was patented. There is some debate over who actually invented shapewear, but the most commonly accepted answer is Elizabeth Smith Miller and Amelia Bloomer. These two women patented "The American Dress Reform Corset" in 1828, which was the first-ever type of shapewear.
This type of shapewear was designed to be worn under a woman's clothing and it was made out of linen or other soft materials.
- In the early 1900s, a new type of shapewear called the "girdle" became popular. This was a more comfortable alternative to the corset.
- In 1908, American socialite Mary Phelps Jacobs patented the first modern brassiere. This invention helped to liberate women from the constrictive corsets of the past.
- In the 1950s, "bullet bras" became all the rage. These were bras that had pointy cups, and they were designed to give women a very "pointed" look.
- In the 1950s, girdles and other forms of shapewear became increasingly popular. This was due in part to the popularity of Marilyn Monroe, who was known for her hourglass figure.
- In the 1980s, Spanx was founded by Sarah Blakely. This stretchy material became popular as shapewear because it was very comfortable to wear, and it helped to smooth out any bumps or lumps. Spanx revolutionized shapewear with its comfortable and slimming products.
- Today, shapewear is more popular than ever before. It is available in a variety of styles and can be found in most stores that sell lingerie or swimwear.
Shapewear Isn’t Just for Beauty
Today, there are many different types and styles of shapewear available on the market. From full-body suits to shaping panties, there is something for everyone. And with the improvements in technology, shapewear is now comfier than ever before.
The good news is that you don’t need to constrict your chest as the Ancient Roman and Greek women did, which may cause difficulty in breathing.
Shapewear Can Help Increase Your Chances of Conception
Shapewear can help increase your chances of conception by supporting your abdominal muscles and enhancing your posture. This is especially true for post-pregnancy shapewear, which can support you in getting back to your pre-baby body faster.
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid wearing shapewear that is too tight. It could cause distress or even lead to premature labor. Always consult with your doctor before wearing shapewear during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How To Release Pain with Shapewear
Another surprising health benefit of shapewear is that it can help to improve your blood circulation. If you are experiencing poor circulation, consider how wearing shapewear can help enhance blood flow to the areas of your body that need it the most.
As a result, this will reduce swelling and pain in the body, and improve overall circulation throughout the body. Don't forget, that inflammation may occur if the blood is not carrying the nutrients and oxygen properly to the muscles. This can cause physical pain and stress to your well-being.
If you are suffering from chronic pain, I highly recommend giving Neoprene Waist and Thigh Trainer a try. You might be stunned at how much it can help!
Final Thoughts on Shapewear History
Shapewear has come a long way since its inception all those years ago. What started as a simple tunic has evolved into a full-fledged industry, with all sorts of different types of shapewear available on the market today.
Shapewear continued to evolve throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. In the early 1900s, "step-ins" were introduced, which were basically a type of panties that had built-in support for the breasts and buttocks. Then, in the 1920s, "girdles" became popular. These were similar to corsets, but they were less constricting and more comfortable to wear. Girdles remained popular until the 1960s when they were replaced by pantyhose and other types of hosiery.
In 1908, American socialite Mary Phelps Jacobs patented the first contemporary brassiere. This design enabled women to be free from the constrictive corsets of the past.
Who knows what the future holds for this amazing invention? One thing is for sure: it is here to stay!
So there you have it! These are just a few interesting facts about the history of shapewear. Who would have thought that such a simple garment could have such an interesting backstory?
Today, you can find everything from body-shaping undergarments to slimming swimsuits. And thanks to modern technology, shapewear is now more comfortable and effective than ever before. So next time you're looking to give your figure a little boost, be sure to check out Zip and Fasten Neoprene Waist Trainer!
So there you have it! These are just a few of the interesting facts about the shapewear invention. Next time you slip into your favorite pair of Spanx, take a moment to think about all of the incredible women who have gone before you who have helped to make this amazing invention possible.
Do you own any shapewear? What is your favorite type of shapewear to wear? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our website for all your shapewear needs! We've got everything from corsets to step-ins to girdles and more! Visit us today and get started on creating your perfect shape!
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