Bras are one of the most foundational pieces in a woman’s wardrobe. However, when was the last time you really stopped and thought about why your bras work the way they do? It turns out that creating a beautiful bustline look is actually an engineering wonder on par with holding up a suspension bridge.

A well engineered bra can have more than 12 different engineering elements in the works. Everything from the seaming to the strap size is designed to help properly distribute weight to keep everything where it ought to go, comfortably. Bring in extra challenges, like size enhancements or push up capability, and the engineering level of difficult shoots up even more.

One of the more interesting engineering elements has to do with the straps and the bands. A properly designed and well fitted bra is supposed to bear the bulk of its weight load on the band, leaving the straps are mere placeholders. Thus, if your straps are digging into your shoulders, it is a sign of an engineering flaw or a poor fit to your bra.

The elasticity around the edge seams and decorative lace on your bra also serves an engineering function. Bras are supposed to support you firmly without being visible under your clothing. The elasticity around the edges allows the bra to cling to your shape to avoid clothing lines and help ensure a strong support fit even if you are slightly unevenly proportioned. Preserving this stretch and hold power is a prime reason bras are supposed to be washed by hand and never tossed in the dryer.

Bras may be a foundational wardrobe item that you take for granted, but you shouldn’t overlook the engineering behind their performance power. Keeping your bustline in place and looking great takes thoughtful design that goes well beyond just adding lacey bows!

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