Caresse Crosby, born on April 20, 1891, in New Rochelle, New York, was a socialite and entrepreneur known for her invention of the modern brassiere. She came from a family of American colonists, with a lineage that could be traced back to the country's early settlers.
Crosby's most significant contribution to fashion came when she patented the first widely used brassiere. The idea for this garment came to her when she realized that the whalebone corsets, popular during that time, were visible under her evening dresses, making them look unfashionable.
She decided to create a more comfortable and discreet alternative to the bulky whalebone corsets. Crosby named her invention the Backless Brassiere, referring to the old French term for the upper arm. She saw the potential in her creation and sold the patent to The Warner Brothers Corset Company for $1,500.
With the success of her invention, Crosby not only revolutionized women's fashion but also paved the way for future innovations in intimate wear. Her contribution to the fashion industry was significant, as she helped popularize the brassiere as a staple garment for women.
Although Crosby was a pioneer in the world of fashion, she was not alone in her efforts to popularize the brassiere. Ida Rosenthal, the founder of Maidenform, also played a crucial role in shaping the modern concept of this undergarment by introducing standard sizes.
Aside from her work in the fashion industry, Crosby was known for her socialite status and patronage of the arts. She was a well-known figure in high society circles and was admired for her entrepreneurial spirit and creativity.
Throughout her life, Crosby continued to make significant contributions to the world of fashion and culture. Her legacy lives on through her innovative approach to design and her impact on women's fashion.
Crosby's entrepreneurial spirit and creativity set her apart from her contemporaries. She was not afraid to challenge the status quo and create something new and innovative. Her success in the fashion industry was a testament to her vision and determination.
In addition to her work in fashion, Crosby was also a dedicated patron of the arts. She supported emerging artists and writers, helping to foster a creative community that valued innovation and originality.
Overall, Caresse Crosby's impact on the fashion industry and her contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy. She will always be remembered as a trailblazer who reshaped the world of women's fashion and left a mark on the cultural landscape of her time.