It's been 90 years since Marks and Spencer created its first bra

The bra has come a long way.

The history of bras is connected with the social history of the status of women, including the evolution of fashion and changing views of the female body. 

Women have used a variety of garments and devices to cover, restrain, reveal, or modify the appearance of breasts.

And this month British retailer, Marks and Spencer celebrates the 90th anniversary of its very first bra going on sale.

We considered that this would be a great time to talk about breasts and bras.

The breast is as soft and pliable as any tissue in the entire human body. Poorly fitting bras displace the breast tissue and most women do not know how to properly take care of their breasts. 

There is a school of thought that says going braless has many health benefits but if you must wear one, wear a good one.

Ill-fitting bras that give little or no support and redirect the breast tissue, impeding circulation and lymphatic drainage which interferes directly with cellular health. For the woman who values her beauty and health, she should regularly perform breast self-examination for the presence of lumps, swelling, heat and soreness. She should also make sure she wears a correctly fitted, properly supporting bra.

In it's unprotected position, the breast is subjected to bumping and bruising by the arms. It is also subjected to stretch and movement due to the pull of gravity with every step, if not properly supported. It is subject to hormonal influences associated with pregnancy, lactation, and the menstrual cycle. Adding to this scenario, an ill-fitting bra as a constant irritant can cause problems.

Let's look at features of a supportive bra:

All the breast tissue must be encompassed by the supportive triangle and the cup.

Support must be from beneath the breast, rather than supported by the shoulder straps.

There must be no pressure to redirect the breast and restrict circulation.

The support should be firm enough to take out most of the motion of the breast during walking and other motion.

The bra should be constructed of soft fabric, custom-fitted to each woman's size and configuration. There should be no wires or stays to gouge or bruise delicate tissue.

The breast position should be supported so the point of the breast is halfway between shoulder and elbow.

The best supportive bras have an inner support triangle that positions and supports the breast.

The bust must be supported from underneath the breast...not suspended from the shoulders. When your bust is supported by your shoulders it causes pain and is harmful to your posture. It is never too late to correct your posture. Simply choosing the right bra!