Date: c. 2014
Origin: Made in China, designed in the USA
Fabric: Polyester satin & lace
Brand: Dita Von Teese
An overwire bra in red polyester satin and machine made lace. The design is a contemporary interpretation of a style that was initially popularised in the 1950s. The overwire bra fell out of favour in part due to changing consumer desires for bust shape and comfort, but also due to the expense and skill required to manufacture such a complex style.
This bra uses contemporary textile innovations such as silicone coated elastic, lycra blend powermesh and polyester satin fabric. It originally came with detachable shoulder straps, but the silicone grip and wide hook and eye fastening allow for strapless wear. The design includes numerous details that were commonly found in mid-century foundations, including quilting and faux-faggoting (in the form of a ladder braid trim) in the bottom cups.
Burlesque superstar Dita Von Teese’s lingerie line first launched in 2014, although this was far from her first foray into lingerie, with successful collaborations with brands such as Frederick’s of Hollwood in 2007 and Wonderbra in 2008-2009. The eponymous brand’s collections are inspired by Dita’s own extensive collection of vintage lingerie, with the designs intended as a ‘modern reincarnation of classic 1950s glamour‘, and has numerous high profile stockists worldwide. The designs often feature in Dita’s world renowned burlesque revue shows.
From the Underpinnings Museum collection
