Date: c. 1920s
Origin: United States
Fabric: Silk chiffon, bobbinet tulle, machine lace
Brand: Saks Fifth Avenue
An bandeau bra crafted from a pale blue silk chiffon and ecru machine lace panelling, lined with a cotton bobbinet tulle. The neckline and underbust are both finished with a narrow lace trim and the shoulder straps are formed from silk ribbon. The garment fastens with a row of hooks and eyes at the centre back. A flourish of silk ribbon rosette trim embellishes the centre front of the bra. There is zero stretch to this bra, giving it little fit flexibility. There is a dart on each side of the bust for some shaping, but this bandeau style was most likely cut to smooth and flatten the bust line.
Although this bra has had its label removed, it was likely sold by Saks Fifth Avenue, with the range also containing coordinating tap pants and handkerchiefs, with an alternative pink colourway.
From the collection of Karolina Laskowska
