Boobs, Bras & Bulletproof Myths: The Strange History of the Bra

From ancient Minoan boob-lifters to bullet bras, biohazard lingerie, and a surprisingly famous handkerchief hack — this episode dives chest-first into the strange, political, and occasionally ridiculous history of the bra.

Host Monika O’Hanlon unhooks the truth behind corsets and control, wartime steel rationing, Wonderbra marketing stunts, feminist myths, and bras designed to do far more than just lift and separate — including ones that double as gas masks.

This is a cultural history of lingerie, feminism, fashion, and obsession: who bras were really made for, what they’ve symbolised over time, and why we’re still arguing about them today.

It’s a story of cleavage, control, rebellion — and yes, just the right amount of jiggle.

Thanks to Mel for requesting this episode. If you’ve got a strange, curious, or controversial topic you want investigated next, get in touch via the contact details below.

This episode was brought to you by Tüt, toilet lid stickers to zhuzh up your toot. Because every throne needs a crown.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/tutdeco/

🎉 Big news! The StickyBeak is about to go to two episodes a week!

• Wednesdays: Your regular deep dive into the weird, wonderful, and wonderfully strange stories from around the world.
• Mondays: A brand-new episode all about YOUR stories — the wild, funny, and outrageous confessions you send in.

Got a story to share? Be a StickyBeak and submit it here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK_D0b6Cp7WAKDq4thfd4EZNrXJPba1C2r9VZkxptxbYmJtA/viewform! 🦜

Got an Idea for the Podcast?

I’d love to hear from you! If there’s a topic you’d like me to explore or someone you think would make a great guest, flick me a message.

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