Date: c. 1950s
Origin: Italy
Fabric: Nylon mesh and lace
Brand: La Perla
A low back solution bra by La Perla in a machine made nylon lace on the exterior, and a sheer nylon mesh lining and foam padded lining at the base of the bra cups. The cups are created from two, horizontally seamed panels, and are spiral stitched for additional support and a pointed bustline. The neckline is finished with a fine lace trim. Elastic strapping forms the should straps and bra wings, to anchor the bra at the waist to compensate for the lack of back support. The bra fastens with a single metal hook at the back waist. The garment’s labels show that the bra is a size ‘1’, and that it is from the brand’s ‘Gay’ range.
La Perla was founded in 1954 in Bologna, Italy, by master corsetmaker Ada Masotti. The brand’s name (‘the pearl’) came from the decision to present lingerie as fine jewellery, with the associations of luxury and femininity. The first brand collections were even presented in velvet-lined boxes. The brand treated lingerie as a fashion accessory rather than simply a clothing necessity, using fine fabrics such as French leavers laces, and silks.
Generously donated to The Underpinnings Museum by Opium Den
