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Brassiere: Modern Approach to an Age-Old Problem

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Part of the Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies book series (SIST,volume 223)

Abstract

Introduction: The need to have a form fitting garment that provides support to the breast tissues has been around for a very long time. Brassieres are also known by its shorter-term bra; earliest documented date backs to seventh-century India. Need: Although the brassiere has been around and in use for such a long duration it has gone through a large evolution from being just a length of cloth to the sophisticated, complicated garment, the design still has quite a few shortcomings. Brassieres that are currently available all have the same issue of manufacturing defects and inaccurate measuring techniques. This leads to most women wearing ill-fitted bras their entire life. Method: Interviews were conducted to understand the difficulty level of wearing the bras, choosing the right size, type and problems faced with regular usage. The data collected was analysed qualitatively–quantitatively with grounded theory approach. It was found that most women faced physical discomfort due to the issues with imprecise fit of the apparel when adorned. Moreover, the availability of numerous types in the market further confused the user. As the garment is being used on a daily basis it’s significant that it be redesigned for the woman of today. Purpose: This study explores the need for an accurate fitting bra which is comfortable and supports breast movement. Conclusion: Throughout history, women have been made to feel insecure about their bodies, not accept it for what it actually is and further inculcating self-doubt. Hence, there is pressing need to develop a product which is supportive and empowers the user.

Keywords

  • Breast tissues
  • Comfortable brassieres
  • Moulding bra
  • Product development
  • Accurate fitting

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Correspondence to Dyuti Ravisankar .

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Amin, T., Puntambekar, T., Ravisankar, D. (2021). Brassiere: Modern Approach to an Age-Old Problem. In: Chakrabarti, A., Poovaiah, R., Bokil, P., Kant, V. (eds) Design for Tomorrow—Volume 3. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies, vol 223. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-0084-5_8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-0084-5_8

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