Fashion: The uplifting impact of science on your bra

In today’s digital age, we can’t get enough of technology. Love it or loathe it, gadgets, gizmos and wonder materials are everywhere and, while this can be frustrating and confusing at times, it is all intended to make our lives infinitely easier.

Technology may be more readily associated with complicated electronics, phones, apps and smart devices that most of us only pretend to understand, but you might be surprised to find that the magic wand of tech wizardry has been waved over the complex world of women’s underwear in an effort to bring comfort like never before.

Underwear may look deceptively simple, but there’s an overwhelming range of styles, cuts and designs out there to suit every taste and body shape and, rather frustratingly, the sizing in every shop tends to be a little bit different.

While it would be fantastic if a one-brand-fits-all formula existed to take away the headache of finding a garment that doesn’t pinch or gape, it’s an art that has yet to be perfected. But innovative underwear technology is changing the game in terms of comfort, so you can feel sexy and fabulous without any niggling irritation caused by ill-fitting garments.

Leading the way in lingerie, swimwear and activewear innovations is High Street stalwart Marks & Spencer. Fresh from the launch of its Flexifit knicker last season, the retail giant has introduced the partnering Flexifit bra. Designed to move with you, the technology features a four-way stretch fabric for a seamless fit offering the utmost in everyday comfort.

Unlike the vast majority of lingerie, the range is seam and wire free to allow complete freedom of movement without digging into the skin, and the soft inner cup and back lining are designed to offer flexibility while still providing great support, making it perfect for everyday and evening wear.

If your tastes are a little more feminine, the pretty M&S Youthful Lift collection is ideal for those more glamorous occasions.

The newly added strapless bra positions a compressed supportive cradle to give a gentle uplift and the rows of exposed elastane provide the ultimate stay-in-place confidence.

Complete the set with the high-waist knicker, featuring hidden bonded sections overlaid with an attractive lace finish to create a flattering fit, perfect for wearing underneath a form-fitting dress.

The innovative range also extends to activewear. Developed to be both flattering yet practical, the breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics of the Light as Air sports collection will make exercising less of a sweaty discomfort.

Luxury lingerie retailer 
Rigby & Peller is also paving 
the way in underwear technology, introducing the Simone Perele Spacer bra, which is designed to fit a variety of body types.

The innovative 3D fibre, made from a knitted foam that creates air pockets to make the bra light and breathable, fits many different sizes as it perfectly moulds to the bust, while the super-light, soft material is so comfortable it’s like wearing a second skin.

Online lingerie retailer Figleaves also offers a superb sports bra range which is ideal for high-impact workouts.

Supportive and lightweight, its elasticated Shock Absorber collection is made from breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable and cool, and the racer back design lets you run, jump and leap about without any pesky straps falling down all the time. Available in bright, colourful prints, these bras simply scream to be shown off.

We’ve come a long, long way from the days of boned corsetry and tight lacing. Make the most of it.