Chicago industrial designer Joyce Lai has developed a new 3D-printed hanger specifically designed to extend the lifespan of bras. The product, named Bras Up, is manufactured using recycled resin and stainless steel, featuring specialized clips and a supportive surface shaped to maintain the garment’s structure during storage and drying.
The design addresses a common issue in bra maintenance, where improper drying methods can lead to cup deformation. The hanger’s structure, based on 3D models of human breasts, allows bras to be hung upside-down while providing support that mimics the natural form of the body. A bottom loop enables multiple hangers to be connected for efficient storage.
Research conducted by Lai revealed that while 59 percent of women know the correct way to hang bras, only 46 percent actually follow proper care practices. The designer’s findings also indicated that cup deformation is the primary reason women discard their bras, with many being thrown away within nine months of purchase.
The product comes in two airflow patterns – circular or lined – and is available in three colors: Pantone Sugar Swizzle, Flame, and Classic Blue. Unlike traditional hangers designed for general clothing, Bras Up incorporates specific features to support delicate underwear and prevents misshaping by ensuring bras can only be hung in the correct position.
According to Lai’s research, women in the United States spend approximately $16 billion on bras annually. “With the rise of fast fashion, we’ve become accustomed to treating clothing as disposable, forgetting the craftsmanship, materials, and resources that go into making these garments,” said Lai. The Bras Up hanger will be showcased at the Good Design Show in Athens, Greece, from April 4 to May 4.
Source: dezeen.com