- Corsets: Corsets were tight-fitting garments that were worn over the body and laced up in the back. They were designed to constrict the waist and lift the breasts.
- Stays: Stays were similar to corsets, but they were made of less rigid materials and were not as tightly laced. They were often worn by younger women or women who were not as well-endowed.
- Brassieres: Brassieres were the first bras that were designed specifically to support the breasts. They were invented in the early 20th century and quickly became popular.
Prior to the 20th century, women of different cultures and time periods wore a wide range of other chest garments, such as:
- Bandeaus: These were simple strips of cloth that were wrapped around the chest and tied in the back.
- Camisoles: Camisoles were loose-fitting undergarments that were made of cotton or linen. They were often worn under corsets or stays.
- Chemises: Chemises were long, loose-fitting undergarments that were made of cotton or linen. They were often worn under dresses.
- Tunic dresses: Tunic dresses were long, loose-fitting dresses that were made of wool or linen. They were often worn by women in ancient Greece and Rome.
- Breast bands: Breast bands were strips of cloth that were wrapped around the breasts and tied in the back. They were often worn by women in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
The invention of bras revolutionized the way that women dressed. Bras provided support and comfort, and they allowed women to wear a wider variety of clothing. Today, bras are an essential part of most women's wardrobes.