To Bare Or Not To Bare

By Marina Rybak

THE LEGACY OF RUDI GERNREICH

Rudi Gernreich’s label may be heading for a comeback and his designs are at the heart of the exhibit at the Savannah College of Art and Design through October 7th. “The Total Look” pays a tribute to the artistic partnership during the 60’s and 70’s era between the designer, his muse Peggy Moffitt, and the photographer William Claxton.

The mesmerizing image from 1971 took me “back to the future” when Rudi Gernrerich rocked the world by introducing the topless monokini.  His innovations within the lingerie industry are legendary and the truth is he was always a headliner. I have a lot to be thankful for to “a man ahead of his time”, who created my lingerie staples.

In 1964 Rudi Gernreich designed the “no bra” bra for Exquisite Form. The bra, made from sheer stretch fabric and with minimalist construction became the bestseller and the  “no” collection was born. “Rudi sets you free!” – shouted the advertisement, reflecting the changing times and new attitudes of women.

Gernreich’s design contribution extended to collaborations with Warners and Lilly of France. In 1974 he premiered the thong for both women and men, affirming his view of “the undeniable comfort and pleasure human beings take in nakedness.”

The resurgence of Rudi Gernreich’s Parallel Universe is a sign that the pendulum is swinging in both directions. The new geometry is emerging where multiple choices coexist peacefully and in harmony.

The Shapewear is a jewel in the crown in the lingerie department, while women are voicing their views about the issues of control in politics. The full figure and full bust collections are better than ever and are blossoming, attuned to women’s needs. The bralettes and the softer styles have staged the return, expressing the desires of many women for natural form and authenticity.

The Rudi Gernreich Book

And for a Venus de Milo out there, there is no need to toss your bra and let it smolder in a “freedom trash can” in protest.   Every year you can celebrate the right to bare breasts on August 23^rd in Central Park.  Since 1992 it is legal to go topless in New York. The decision is yours to make.