Take look at the history of lingerie, it’s almost guaranteed to make any woman happy to have been born in this day and age. Ideas about beauty and the female form have changed drastically through the years, and the lingerie industry has reflected that. Far from the silk and satin creations of today, undergarments of the past have been dangerous, and painful.

A small known fact, women did not wear underwear until the 18^th century and still these garments were privy to the well off. Women’s underwear was generally crotchless, and not until the 1920’s did seat in panties become popular.      

The pre-Christian women of Crete were known for there erotic full frontal views. The lingerie they wore consisted of a tight corset of bone that pushed the breasts up and out. This fully exposed the breast. This very early form of bra was all about the show and had nothing to do with support. Breasts were on display.

The medieval era or Dark ages was about sexual repression and the lingerie of the time certainly reflected that. Medieval corsets flattened breasts, they were very uncomfortable as well as unflattering. Made from iron these contraptions trimmed the waist and concealed the chest, giving women boyish figures. Women would decorate their flat chests with little bells.

A new focus on womanly curves comes with the Renaissance, and women went to unnatural extremes to achieve the perfect hourglass figure. Corsets were highly restrictive and tightened to the point of being dangerous. In fact, lingerie was often so tight that often ribs were broken or pushed out of place. It was not uncommon for a woman to pass out from the excessive constriction.

Cleavage was highly prized in the 18th century. Lingerie was designed to heighten the effect. Still made of constrictive whalebone, corsets made movement towards the decorative lingerie we know today. Push-up corsets were adorned with ribbon, lace, and intricate embroidery. Finally by the end of the century, doctors started to speak out about the health hazards of corsets and the less-restrictive designs were introduced.

By the 19th century, consumer demands and doctor outrage brought about a lingerie revolution. Corsets became smaller, less restrictive, and less cumbersome. These reconstructed designs allowed freer movement and easier breathing. They also provided more support for the breasts and were appropriatedly named "brassiere," which is French for "support." An important time in the history of lingerie, the 1800s also brought the first padded bra.

The 19th century also introduced stockings, which were the forerunners of modern-day thigh-highs. Stockings were held up by suspenders and garters attached to the corsets.

During World War I, more and more women found themselves in the workplace. With the new status as breadwinner came a need for practical undergarments. Brassieres had to be light enough to be worn in hot and stifling work conditions. Fabrics became lighter and more breathable. Styles were once again functional and focused on support over appearance.

The 1920s brought about a change in attitudes about sexuality and beauty. The Flapper Girls made the party circuit sporting a spunky kind of beauty. Along with the short bobs and flapper dresses, Flapper Girls popularized boyish physiques. The female silhouette was smooth and curve-free, and lingerie of the day helped achieve that look. The light-weight chemise, bloomers, and bodice were introduced. For the first time in the history of lingerie, panties and bras were available in an assortment of colors. The Roaring Twenties also saw the end of corsets.

After the boyish shapes of the 20s, the 1930s took us full-circle -- and full-figured. Although slim hips were still en vogue, flat breasts were no longer fashionable. Lingerie of the day once again focused on feminine proportions, and the breast-enhancing bra was born. The girdle also became a popular piece. Although full breasts were considered beautiful, fat was not. The 30s brought a true lingerie revolution -- Lastex. This elastic fiber was invented by Dunlop Rubber and allowed lingerie makers to offer undergarments in various sizes.

With women's liberation came the unfortunate decision to burn the bra, a move many women surely regretted with the sagging that followed! Still, women's lib caused a dramatic decrease in bra sales and lingerie manufacturers were forced to focus on other things. Lycra tights and briefs became popular.