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WACOAL'S HERITAGE
Wacoal was founded by Koichi Tsukamoto in 1946 who believed not only in extraordinary craft, but in serving as a creator of culture. He invested in striking product design and in the arts and experiences for women.
PAST & PRESENT
1946
"Nobody was making bras in Japan at the time, so I devised one by cutting a paper pattern and giving it as a gift to my wife." - Wacoal founder, Koichi Tsukamoto (1946)
No. 101
1950
Inspired by the West and by the American market, in 1950 Koichi Tsukamoto made the first Wacoal bra "no.101" and started to mass produce.
LAUNCH OF THE TUMMY GIRDLE
1965
Wacoal created a sophisticated sewing technique that sews diamond shaped material pulled together tightly. This function is patented in 13 countries around the world.
THE TIME CAPSULE
1970
Wacoal’s founder, Koichi Tsukamoto, buried a time capsule in 1970 that was uncovered 30 years later. It contained a message outlining his promise; for Wacoal to not only continue to develop lingerie using leading technology, but for the brand to have a positive impact on society and women.
THE KYOTO COSTUME INSTITUTE
1978
The Kyoto Costume Institute was set up by our founder to collect authentic samples of clothing from different eras. The collection currently ranges from the 17th century to the present day. Koichi Tsukamoto believed Wacoal must “humbly learn Western culture” to develop. The Kyoto Costume Institute, photo by Masayuki Hayashi Photo.
OPENING OF THE SPIRAL BUILDING
1985
Wacoal opened The Spiral Building in 1985 in Tokyo to create a facility where people could easily connect with culture, and to create a place where artists could showcase their achievements.
"A MEMOIRE DE FORME"
1999
Eglantine launched in 1999 and is one of Wacoal’s bestselling bras. The collection combines elegance, fit and comfort. "Wacoal has reinvented Eglantine in 23 colours but the pattern remains the same as the first one launched, it is a true classic." - Wacoal lingerie director, Sachiyo Wakashiro
EUROVET DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
2018
In 2018 Wacoal was awarded the achievement of Designer of the Year. Eurovet selected and announced the winner at Salon International de la Lingerie; one of the leading global shows in the intimate apparel and swimwear industry based in Paris.
PATRON OF BEAUTY
2019
Staying true to its heritage, Wacoal launched its Patron of Beauty campaign, partnered with Wise Women, as a way to share its connection to art and to champion female artists and their representation in the art world.
“… We are constantly pushing the boundaries of Wacoal’s product development and always looking at how we can apply new technology into our design – using the most innovative fabrics and techniques…”
Sachiyo Wakashiro , Wacoal Lingerie Director, 2018