One of the first bras, created in 1859, looked more like a medieval torture apparatus than a supportive undergarment.
Present-day ones have grown more attractive and comfortable, yet no less complicated.
According to a National Geographic special on the history of the bra, it can take more than 50 people in seven different departments six months to design one new bra.
Women demand bras that are supportive yet attractive, so it's no wonder shopping for them has become such a chore.
But finding the right bra is like decoding a secret message: wires, no wires, soft cups, padded cups, cotton, lycra, lace; and then there's the sizing, a complicated set of letters and numbers developed back in 1928.
We spoke with local certified fit specialists to learn how to find the perfect bra.