Vintage lingerie styles from a wide range of eras are making a comeback in the mid-2020s. The latest versions of all of these styles are made of modern materials, including synthetic textiles and organic cotton underwear, to allow for a more comfortable fit than their original inspirations. Find out more about the history of four vintage styles that are currently trending, including bodysuits, high-waisted briefs, push-up bras and bralettes.
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Bodysuits
The original bodysuits were leotards, which gymnasts and dancers started wearing in the late 19th century. The current style of bodysuits began being worn as lingerie during the 1950s and rose to popularity on superhero shows and in magazines in the 1960s. Much like wire free bras, bodysuits provide general shaping benefits without uncomfortable rigid support.
Today, bodysuits are made of modern materials, such as nylon, polyester and spandex. In addition to being full-coverage lingerie, these garments can also be comfortable bodycon pieces for incorporating into outfits. Whether you want to relax in a close-fitting garment or show off your shape, this classic style of lingerie has made a major comeback.
High-Waisted Briefs
High-waisted briefs also originated in the late 19th and early 20th century. These garments went out of favour for a few decades before rising to popularity as lingerie in the mid-20th century due to advances in materials science, namely the development of elastic.
The low-rise jean trend in the late 20th century caused “granny panties” to fall out of favour. A shift towards higher waistlines in recent years and the comfort made possible by seamless brief designs have led this style to re-emerge as a desirable silhouette for lingerie.
Push-Up Bras
The first padded bra was invented in 1947, but push-up bras did not take over the lingerie market until the 1960s. For several decades, this type of bra was considered the ultimate style of lingerie, with brands even offering degrees of lift for added cup sizes and more visible cleavage. Recent trends toward subtle lift make plunge bras a popular choice for most breast shapes. Plunge bras can create significant lift when worn under low-cut garments or as lingerie. This type of bra is available in a wide variety of colours and materials to blend in under clothing or stand out on its own.
Bralettes
Bralettes originated in the bohemian style of the 1960s and 1970s. This unstructured style of lingerie made of soft materials can be more comfortable than underwire bras. Bralettes have a longer profile than wireless bras and typically provide less support. These pieces have risen to popularity in recent years, and are sometimes worn as an alternative to camisoles or tank tops as well as lingerie.
These four lingerie styles draw inspiration from as far back as the 19th century and as recently as the turn of the 21st century. No matter which style of lingerie you prefer to wear, you can find comfortable contemporary versions of all of these vintage pieces. Look for bodysuits that provide a perfect fit, seamless high-waisted briefs, plunge bras for extra lift and comfy bralettes.
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