How Lingerie Has Evolved From the 1920s to Today
It might not surprise you to learn that lingerie in 2017 looks a little different than it did in the 1920s—OK, really different. Undergarments have evolved over the past century to highlight women’s bodies in different ways: with various materials, shapes, and patterns. And the decade-by-decade transformation is truly fascinating.
Back in the 1920s, it was all about a shapeless look, with thin fabrics like satin, silk, and later lace draped over the body. By the 1930s, a curvier silhouette became popular, so underwire and “falsies” were introduced to bring attention to the bust. Slips emerged as the lingerie of choice in the 1940s; while high-waisted bottoms were all the rage in the 1950s, as the hourglass figure became more desirable. The 1960s saw the rise of the matching set, many of which were embellished with trends of the time, such as ruffles and geometric patterns. By the 1970s, these got a lot more involved, with all-over fringe and tassel trims. Once we get into the 1980s, we see the influence of Madonna, with fishnets, leather, and other bold materials being woven into lingerie. By the 1990s, people were mixing and matching their separates, pairing leopard prints with silky yellow bras. (Very Spice Girls, if you ask us.) We saw more ready-to-wear trends bleed into the realm of lingerie in the 2000s, when Hervé Leger-style undergarments were prevalent. And now? Folks aren’t afraid to show off the details on their bras and undies.
To see how lingerie evolved throughout the 20th century up until present day, see Glamour‘s full visual history, above. You’ll be surprised at just how on-trend some of the older styles feel today.
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