The no-bra movement, with its roots in feminist history, embodies a yearning for freedom from restrictive undergarments. This movement, which saw its origins in the shift away from constricting corsets, underscores a desire to break free from traditional underwear norms, as exemplified by initiatives like Lina Esco’s advocacy for bodily autonomy and the observance of ‘No Bra Day’ on October 13th to raise awareness about breast cancer. The global pandemic further propelled this discourse, as stay-at-home mandates prompted women to reassess the necessity of conventional bras. This shift in perspective favored less constrictive undergarments, igniting ongoing discussions about comfort and liberation from societal expectations. For Carla Regin, the founder of the pioneering undergarment brand BAREBONE, the pursuit of comfort and freedom stemmed from a lifelong struggle with conventional bras. “I started wearing bras when I was 12,” she recalls, “and it always felt like something was squeezing me tightly, tugging at my back and between my breasts. I despised it.” Yet, she recognized that adapting to her changing body required enduring this daily discomfort, a sentiment shared by countless women worldwide. This personal struggle served as the impetus for the creation of BAREBONE, an undergarment brand specializing in innovative silicone bras and pasties. The brand’s inception in 2019 coincided with the advent of the global COVID-19 lockdowns, a period during which many women embraced a braless existence, recognizing its health benefits such as improved circulation and reduced neck pain. Carla’s products offered a timely solution, harmonizing comfort with modesty and style. Her silicone undergarments not only addressed the limitations of existing silicone bras and pasties, but also provided an inclusive range of options tailored to diverse body shapes and skin tones. BAREBONE’s product line expanded beyond its initial silicone pasties, dubbed Moonshape, to include Boob Tape, Boobie Trap, pasties in a range of shades including Filipino and HueMatch, and Snatched Up, challenging the prevailing notion of one-size-fits-all undergarments. This comprehensive collection caters to a diverse clientele, garnering attention from notable local celebrities such as Anne Curtis, Max Collins, Bela Padilla, and fashion designer Boom Sason. The brand’s success extended beyond local borders, with international shipping becoming a part of its operations. “Being a woman in business has its own set of advantages. Women have an innate understanding of other women’s needs,” Carla asserts. Navigating the industry as a woman-led enterprise presented unique challenges, yet it also provided invaluable insights into the needs of female consumers. In Carla’s world, maintaining a harmonious balance between her business and family responsibilities is paramount. “It takes meticulous planning,” she explains, “and a deep commitment to your passion and long-term vision.” Despite BAREBONE’s remarkable growth, challenges arose, as is inevitable in any business venture. Carla faced the theft of her patented Moonshape design by overseas competitors in March, emphasizing the importance of protecting intellectual property. She confronted this adversity with unwavering resolve, offering sage advice to fellow entrepreneurs: “Choose an industry that you can wholeheartedly dedicate yourself to and persevere through the obstacles.” Looking ahead, Carla envisions a future brimming with possibilities for women in business. She advocates for policies that support work-life balance and a cultural shift that recognizes the invaluable contributions of women. “I aspire to see a world where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and uplift one another,” she says, emphasizing that her vision extends beyond mere profitability. She aims to inspire women to embrace their bodies with confidence and make informed choices about their undergarments. For more information about BAREBONE’s innovative products and commitment to empowering women, visit their official website at [BAREBONE website link] and follow them on Instagram at [BAREBONE Instagram handle].
Comfort and Confidence: The Rise of BAREBONE and the No-Bra Movement
