The Queen's POV
Bra, its history, making, design, and much more…
Bra, its history, making, design, and much more… A bra is undoubtedly the most versatile and most hated garment in womankind. It has been there for centuries and will be there for a long time. You might have wondered, "When did Bra come into our lives?" Well, it is not a new concept in the modern world. Let us know all the answers to our love-hate relationship with the most happening cloth piece. History of a bra 14th Century The history goes back to the early fourth century AD. A mosaic of women athletes wearing a bra alike was housed. Archaeologists found four linen-based proto-brassiere traced back to the late 14th century. Renaissance Later, corsets became a famous name during the renaissance till the 20th century in the fashion industry. Women loved corsets because of holding the strength to give the desired shape (inverted cone). Also, at some point, they were worn by men. After corsets, many dresses and gowns lived their lives to enhance our girls’ looks. An hourglass figure was celebrated during the 19th century. Brassiere in 1914 Mary Phelps Jacobs patented a garment she invented while going for a dance in 1914. Many did not know this piece of clothing ought to be an iconic invention. It was 3rd November 1914 when brassiere got patented. However, it was not the first time a woman was introduced to the concept of supporting her breasts. In ancient times, women wore bands of clothes to cover their girlfriends. Cups, adjustable bras, and sizing scale In the 1930s, brassieres popularly became bras, and cup sizes were introduced to us by S.H. camp and company. The A, B, C, and D sizing scale is still widely used to select our perfect bras. Bras also got hook closures, adjustable straps, and padded cups during the period. Bandeaus and their downfall Breast supporters and shapers had their loved ones, but bandeaus became a household name in the United States. The late 19th century and early 20th century witnessed a change in the perception of breasts. Women started to deemphasize busts and their size. It was not far away when breasts again became the highlight of their appearance. The credit goes to the new look of Christina Dior, which celebrated an hourglass silhouette. Push-up and padded bras In 1947 & 1948, padded and push-up bras came to life designed by Mr. Frederick Mellinger, respectively. The fashion industry was swamped by the appearance of breasts holding into pushed-up bras. In the 1950s, bullet bras were out in the world, and they got their fame through celebrity figures like Marlyn Monroe, Patti Page, and Lana Turner. Seamless - modern or age-old concept? In 1965, “no bra bra” came into existence through designer Rudi Gernreich. Isn’t it hard to follow that seamless is not a modern concept? The bra was made of nylon to provide a bare and natural feel. During the 20th century, bras witnessed a lot of innovations, and manufacturers are still innovating. Support to the fitness regime After a few years, in 1977, when fitness took center stage, women were seen wearing sports bras for the needed support. In 2007, the first memory foam padded bra was introduced, manufactured using a high technology that sticks to your shape and reacts to temperature as you move. Manufacturing, a common story… Individual elements are cut - the cup, bottom, straps, center, side, and back panels. Now all these are sewed together through machinery. Finally, hooks and eyes are ironed or heat processed into the back panel. The label of the bra is stitched at last. Fun Fact: Did you know that a bra has 30 to 35 different parts; it has not changed since then. But the defining approach has evolved. Manufacturers & brands are moving towards conscious clothing by integrating more natural fibers. The design process is still consistent The design and manufacturing of bras are complex processes that require a lot of planning, research, and testing. Before a designer even starts creating a new bra, they decide on physical appearance and structure. Designers decide on the entire collection or features, cuts, sizes, costs, quality, and many other factors. In today’s age, once we design, prototypes and patterns are designed and picked out. The bra is cut out usually out of cardboard with computerized technology. Later they assemble all parts to see if any modifications are needed before manufacturing. Finally, manufacturers test each part of the garment for a proper fit. What has changed? We invented Bras for support; however, there are umpteen opinions over whether we should wear bras, whether it is okay if we don't wear them at night, whether we can skip them entirely, etc. Manufacturers are savvy for seamless & natural products. Consumers are now picking comfort, environment-friendly, and health-conscious products. A revolutionary idea for a seamless no-hook bra for the Gen Z era You can scroll through Amazons the world to find the perfect pair of a bra. Yet they dig, slip, or do not pass the vibe check. Manufacturers and brands have started making conscious efforts for women. However, natural fabrics do not provide surreal comfort, or not makes you feel sexy and confident, or not hug you at the right places. Intimate Queen has revolutionized design for the first time in India. The seamless no-hook ceramide beauty bra has taken comfort to the next level. We have infused ceramides that are essential to hold our skin cells together to keep our skin barrier intact and healthy. A healthy skin barrier helps seal in moisture and seal out harmful elements. Ceramide replenishment can efficiently minimize moisture loss, leaving the skin smooth and sensitive. We have come a long way from the 14th century to now. We at Intimate Queen certainly feel that, especially with the advanced technology and natural fabrics. We would like to hear your thoughts on your favorite bra and what all things you need from one.
Learn moreHow to choose the right size for your underwear.
How to choose the right size for your underwear. Follow three simple rules while shopping for your underwear and improve your daily comfort with perfectly fitting underclothes. Ideal underwear feels like a second skin and fits your body like a glove. But picking the right size can be tricky! What if you choose a size that is slightly too big, and your panties quickly transform into ‘grandma’s parachute’. Or perhaps the opposite occurs and the underwear turns out to be too small, cutting into your skin and making – a horror – visible marks under your jeans, and on your skin. That can cause skin-irritation, rash, allergic reaction, and lead to many serious health problems. Unfortunately, ill-fitting underwear is all too common, especially if a woman’s body type doesn’t align with traditional sizes, but is somewhere in between. Many women are faced with the dilemma of settling for underwear that is too small or too big. In this article you will learn how to find your unique size and avoid spending money on another ill-fitting piece of wardrobe. So let’s dig in. Signs of ill-fitting underwear The ultimate problem for many body types is the issue of being between traditional sizes. Remember that any underwear that leaves a mark on your skin (even if it’s so soft you don’t feel it!) means that the size is too small. On the other hand, any underwear that is rolling up under your clothes and doesn’t complement your skin perfectly, is considered too big. Health risk of wearing too tight underclothes The result of wearing undersized underwear can be dramatic. Underclothes that are too tight, especially panties made from plastic and synthetic fabrics, restrict your movement. Most importantly, they also raise body temperature, and limit air circulation, producing an environment that favors the growth of bacteria and yeasts. That can lead to many skin and health problems, with allergic reactions, rashes and skin irritations topping the list. Different country, different sizing The real struggle with choosing your underwear begins with the different measures being used in different regions of the world. For example, in Europe, the equivalent of S, M, L is 36, 38, 40. While matching US & Canadian sizing is 6, 8, 10 and sizes 8, 10 and 12 in the UK. The differing approaches to sizing creates a lot of confusion, and nobody wants to carry a conversion chart with them while shopping. And even with a chart there is no guarantee that you will find the right size for you. Online shopping struggle On top of that, the increasing popularity of online shopping doesn’t make this whole fitting process easier. Often, people who are not sure of their size, struggle with the online order. As a result, they choose sizes too big, or too small, that later on have to be sent back, or simply thrown away. This rising and disturbing trend, is a real threat to your budget, and the health of our Planet. Apart from the waste of resources, higher numbers of deliveries, and at the same time, returns, increase the production of carbon dioxide contributing to a progressive ecological disaster. To avoid the problems listed above, choosing the right underwear size is crucial – for your health, comfort and self-esteem, for your family budget, and for our Planet. So how to choose the right size for your underwear when you are in between sizes? The answer is simpler than you might have expected. When your body type doesn’t match traditional sizing, or you are not sure of your size, instead of relying solely on the number on the label, focus on the quality of the product. Follow these simple rules while searching for perfect underwear for your unique body type: Rule 1: Choose stretchable materials Stretchy fabrics, developed with the use of modern technology, such as 3D cutting-edges, is an answer to your ill-fitting underwear struggle. Flexible fabric can stretch between sizes, fitting perfectly to your unique body shape. No matter if you wear traditional S, M or L, or anything in between, those underwear garments come in one size and adjust to your shape. No more red indentations on your skin, and no more skin irritations. This is the future of fashion. At Intimate Queen, we design our underwear collection using this advanced technology, and give you freedom of movement with adjustable, stretchable underwear. Rule 2: Favor natural materials Only natural, and plant-based fibre can guarantee anti-allergic and anti-bacterial properties for your underwear. Breathable clothes, made from organically developed fabrics such as bio-washed cotton, help you maintain the natural pH of your skin and avoid skin irritations and further health problems. And that’s the case for all body types and sizes. That is why, to keep you safe, at Intimate Queen we create our underwear collection using only plant-based fibre, and naturally developed fabrics. Our soft inserts are rich in vitamin properties, and are lab tested and certified, meeting high international standards. Rule 3: Go for high quality not quantity Timeless design and high quality is a value that will always win over the cheap fast-fashion substitutes. This is the value that will serve you for years to come. By choosing quality over quantity, you make a smart move towards improving your health, your comfort and self-esteem, your budget, and – our Planet. Choose wisely for a better future for yourself, and the next generations, with eco-responsible brands, like Intimate Queen
Learn moreWhich is the right underwear for your teen girl? An essential guide
Which is the right underwear for your teen girl? An essential guide The meaning of being cool has changed drastically over 10 to 20 years. Teens in 2022 India are more aware of everything than ever before. Being aware of and responsible is the new cool, be it being vocal about climate change, shopping for organic alternatives, or leading a healthy life. As a teen, you never bought clothes for yourself or never thought of fabrics, design, fibres, etc., but you do now. Buying undergarments is one of the most tough decisions you make once/twice a year. Now that your daughter is also involved in the decision, you need to take care of all the nitty-gritties. 4 factors to look for when buying the perfect pair of undies Natural fabrics, plant-based fibres, comfortable threads, flexible design, odourless, and anti-bacterial. All these are a must-have for your daughter's intimate hygiene. Of course, you will say, are regular underwear not at this par? We must tell you they are fine. But your teen body experiences constant change at this stage. Nothing would be enough. Her body changes, body odour changes, hormone level fluctuates, body weight changes constantly, the menstruation cycle starts, and god knows what not. At such a time, your junior may be very vulnerable (and the insta-perfect body images on social media certainly don’t help.) It is time to be open with them about all the walks of their puberty lives, even 'Do I smell bad down there?' questions. Some girls are aware of wipes and other products to make them feel cleaner, more hygienic, and more confident. But some don’t, which is also alright. Lay your eyes on Vitamin infused underwear which has: 1.Natural Fabrics These are the healthiest fabrics of all to manufacture intimate garments from. They provide breathability and prevent moisture. Examples of these natural fabrics are cotton, hemp, silk, etc. Main key is that the gusset line must be made out of cotton and its natural alternatives. Most daily underwear use these fabrics to make the product airy, breathable, and healthy. However, there also exist a few cases where people buy synthetic-fibre-made undies due to their smoothness and style quotient. You must restrict your kids' wardrobe to natural fabrics but assemble playful pairs. This will keep them fresh and more comfortable. 2.Plant-based Gusset Line As mentioned above, gusset lines are a crucial area in your underwear. A gusset is a triangular-shaped fabric that sits in the crotch area. Teens' vaginas and vulva region increase in size along with the occurrence of pubic hair and discharge during puberty. They will also start experiencing their first period during this time. These changes are inevitable. Hence, it is important to have a healthy nether region to avoid bacterial infections. Some underwear brands have opted to infuse plant-based fibres with traditional cotton to benefit from minerals and vitamins. Intimate Queen's plant-based range of undies includes lemon trees, vitamin C, yew trees, and corn plant fibres in the gusset area. It keeps the moisture away, feels light, prevents bacterial growth, and hence proves to balance pH value. 3.Ultra-soft Your girl deserves to feel super comfy in her undergarments, be it a bra or an underwear. The threads used in stitching must be soft to avoid rashes or friction. Select the pair of underwear that provides her comfort in these areas. Fabrics like cotton, taxol, antimicrobial cotton, and others are meant to be smooth without causing any irritation. These fabrics are flexible and seamless to make them super-comfy. 4.Anti-bacterial Soft weaves and natural threads make the gusset area moisture resistant/wicking. It is a functional design to prevent the vagina from bacteria. It enhances protection from infection, irritation, and friction. Consider body-weight fluctuations while making a decision Body weight is directly proportional to confidence, particularly in this filters-loving era. It is reasonable to feel uncomfortable with all the body changes. However this should not affect your self-confidence. Buying new clothes due to every fluctuation just makes matters worse. Body weight fluctuations also come with buying clothes frequently. There are many innovations and solutions for this problem, and the most feasible one is one-size-fits-many. Once you buy one-sized clothes, you don't need to worry about body weight. They will be perfect even if you lose or gain 5-10 kgs. The one-size undies offered by Intimate Queen were devised to tackle such problems. Please follow the size chart before shopping. Do you feel natural and plant-based alternatives to regular undies can be expensive? Well, here is the good news. First, buying natural underwear or garments costs way less than buying frequently and ends up with less used clothes in the wardrobe. Second, many brands come with accessible solutions. It is the first time in India such a solution is available at an affordable price range. The right underwear will not cost you much and make your girl all comfy Shop online or offline, our brand or others, but consider naturals over synthetics, one-size over rigid sizes, and cost-effective solutions over expensive brands. And, knock knock! Don't forget to discuss it with your girl before purchasing.
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