The Rocket Bra Chronicles

My recollection of bras in the 1950's and '60s was anything but heartfelt. Rocket Bras. That's what I've called them ever since the invention of foam and latex! I certainly didn't have to put up with the irritation of plain cotton bras with spirals of stitching in the cups to make your boobs look like a couple of dunce caps turned on their sides through a sweater! We have Victoria's Secret now, for God's sake! Spandex, stretch lace, stretch straps, comfort straps, spanx, and COLORS!! Right??? Right???!!

I remember as a small girl hearing my mother rave happily on about an occasional favorite item. Melmac, Kool cigarettes, shirtwaist dresses, and Maidenform Bras. She gave several impassioned diatribes on how' no other bra would fit her ample blessings and small rib cage' all at the same time, while offering 'the support she needed'. Yeah, I know.. she sounded just like one of those tv commercials for the thing!

Well... I have to tell you: Today I am reformed! In my vintage shopping excursions I was the cautious purchaser of a MaidenForm Long Line bra, circa ? 1966 ?. I picked it up as a fluke. You know.. I figured I'd just sell it on Ebay to some 'nut' that wanted to use it to.. well.. nevermind.

Since it was about my size I gave it a try on, and after the initial squirming and arranging, and all those hooks and eyes, I have to say it was quite comfortable. No - more than comfortable - it was... Secure! I suddenly felt my posture improve. I felt like I actually COULD wear one of those form fitting 1950's sheath dresses and not stoop over. It was positively Enlightening!! I felt... ?? DRESSED!

Maybe it's because I'm 'squishier' now. As middle age has set in I seem to be living in a body I'm not terribly familiar with. Or maybe, just maybe, we've all become so fooled with the latest inventions in clothing, that we don't realize what we're missing from our (supposedly) restrictive past. The Rocket Bra? It's an experience I'd like to put forth that all you ladies should try some day!