If you’re in search of the perfect fitting bra then look no further, Lidewij van Twillert has the solution: a custom-made bra using 3D body scanning technologies.
Van Twillert came up with the idea for her master’s graduation project. “I wanted to implement my vision in my project. I really liked fashion, but sometimes it can be superficial. I wanted more depth and meaning with the integration of technology. I came in touch with 3D body scanning, and thought: for what piece of clothing is it most important that it fits perfectly? A bra!” she explained. “I had difficulties myself searching for the right bra, and I didn’t like shopping for them. I found that one of the problems with bras is that the underwire is metal and 2D, so even if it fits, your body is 3D, so how can that be comfortable! It’s forced around your body, and not your shape.” After graduating with her Integrated Product Design MSc in June 2015, Van Twillert started her own company, Mesh Lingerie.
The service she aims to provide is creating personal lingerie based on 3D body scans, with the supporting element of the bra being 3D printed, something between an underwire and a cup, which can then be simply inserted into a pocket in the bra. Van Twillert has been helped by Simon Luitse, architecture master’s student at TU Delft, with programming and bringing the idea to fruition. At the moment the product is not yet for sale. Van Twillert will spend the next six months working at TU Delft researching her concept further, working on a pilot scheme, and searching for funding in order to get production rolling. After launching her website two weeks ago, she has already had 300 applications for the pilot scheme. “I didn’t expect that at all, it shows the demand and need for it,” she said.
Ultimately, Van Twillert would like to start her own boutique in Rotterdam with an atelier at the back for carrying out the scans. Like most bespoke items, it will cost you. “Some women spend a lot of money on bras, and they may fit, but never perfectly. They may have ten bras in their closet and only wear three. I expect it will cost €200 to €300, but for this I will give a perfect fit guarantee,” she said.
You can visit Mesh Lingerie at Dutch Design Week in Eindhoven until October 25, as part of the ‘Mind the Step’ exhibition.
Comments are closed.