Titillating Cone Bras: A Forbidden Fashion Trend I'm Hooked On, Leading Me to Make a Purchase
Revival of the Iconic Cone Bra: Miu Miu Leads the Trend
In the heart of fashion month, Miu Miu resurrected a 1980s staple, igniting discussions about the potential return of the cone bra trend. A symbol of both femininity and power, the cone bra was first introduced by designer Jean Paul Gaultier for his 1984 Barbès collection, and later reimagined by Madonna during her Blond Ambition tour in 1990.
The cone bra, originally embodying a subversive take on female sexuality, has now been reinvented by Miu Miu for the modern era. On their Fall 2025 runway, cone bras alluded to but not explicitly displayed were layered beneath long-sleeved shirts, raising questions about whether Miu Miu could breathe new life into the trend.
Currently, the fashion landscape is shifting away from minimalism, with a growing desire for the absurd, slightly uncomfortable, and funny. This shift, combined with the ongoing fight for visibility and representation, makes the cone bra a perfect accessory for expressing defiance and embracing individuality.
While we may not see an influx of cone bras in retail stores until Miu Miu officially unveils theirs for the upcoming fall season, one small shop, What Kate Did, already offers a recreated vintage version. Despite initial apprehension, wearing such a piece proved to be less daunting than expected, and even requires less reveals of skin compared to going braless.
Though the cone bra's history dates back to the 1940s and 1950s, it was Madonna who truly popularized the style during her tour. Now, Miu Miu seems poised to do the same once again. As fashionistas eagerly await the cone-bra trend to unfold, one thing is certain—it will offer a bold and unapologetic declaration of style and empowerment.
Interestingly, the cone bra trend also has roots in the 1940s and 1950s when stars like Lana Turner and Jayne Mansfield made waves with their exaggerated bustlines. Dubbed "sweater girls," these actresses popularized figure-hugging sweaters and the cone-shaped bras that defined their silhouettes. In recent years, designers have reinterpreted the cone bra's silhouette for a modern context, blending it into power-dressing ensembles. Celebrities have also embraced the trend, making it a must-have item for both high-end and streetwear styles.
The revival of the cone bra trend, initiated by Miu Miu, is set to reshape the fashion-and-beauty landscape, blurring the lines between iconic fashion pieces and contemporary style statements. As the trend unfolds, it promises to serve as a powerful lifestyle symbol, embodying both femininity and defiance in the realm of entertainment.