History Extra podcast Underwear history: everything you wanted to know
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Dec 15, 2024 In this fascinating discussion, Dr. Serena Dyer, an Associate Professor of Fashion History at De Montfort University, shares her expertise on the evolution of underwear. Discover when people first donned these essential garments and the difference between drawers and bloomers. Dr. Dyer tackles myths about medieval bras and Victorian corsets, revealing their surprising comfort. Plus, learn about the quirky codpieces worn by men and how various cultures have shaped our understanding of underwear through history.
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Underwear Definition
- Defining underwear is complex, as garments shift between innerwear and outerwear.
- Loincloths, once outerwear, now resemble underwear, blurring the lines.
Celtic Braies
- Celtic and Germanic tribes wore linen trousers called braies.
- These braies transitioned between being underwear and outerwear.
Underwear Origins
- Underwear emerged from practical needs like protection and hygiene, not solely modesty.
- Linen undergarments, like smocks, wicked away sweat, aiding hygiene.