Think you're a lingerie expert? Think again! Here are some interesting facts about underwear throughout the ages that you've probably never heard before...
1. The Meaning of 'Lingerie'
Lingerie is just a much sexier word than underwear, but it's just French for the same thing, right? Well, not exactly - lingerie is actually derived from 'to do the laundry'! It doesn't sound quite so glamorous now, does it?
2. The Invention of Bra Cup Sizes
Historians recently discovered ancient bras dating back to around 600 years ago, proving that these are far from a recent invention!
On the other hand, bras might have existed but bra sizes certainly didn't. Bra sizes were only invented in 1928, less than a century ago. It's pretty common knowledge that around 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size however, which makes me wonder if the sizing method invented is really very effective...
3. Stockings for Men
Designer Emilio Cavalli recently received a lot of press attention when he created a range of hosiery for men (can't imagine any man I know buying that!) but stockings, now an essential part of any sexy lingerie get-up for a woman, were originally invented for men!
Back in 1589, someone came up with design which was the height of fashion for style-conscious men at the time, but they weren't worn by women until much later in history.
4. More is Better
When it comes to buying a corset, it's easy to associate lots of boning with higher quality and a better figure - not true!
It's actually the placement of those bones that counts - you can have all the bones in the world, but if they're not positioned correctly the corset can be both uncomfortable and unflattering.
5. Nightwear or Daywear?
Pyjama bottoms are the perfect combination of nightwear and loungewear, great for sleeping in but also for lazing around the house in on a quiet Sunday morning!
However, did you know that pyjamas were originally invented as day-wear trousers and weren't used for sleeping in? A 'pyjama' was a loose, harem-style pair of trousers with a drawstring at the waist, invented in Asia for men and women alike.
It wasn't until someone here in the West decided they were just so comfortable he or she could even sleep in, that they caught on and became the traditional nightwear garment of the Western world!
