Bullet Bras
The Iconic Bullet Bra: From 1950s Glamour to Modern High Fashion
Step into a world where structure meets seduction. The bullet bra—once the foundation of 1950s lingerie—is no longer just a relic of the past. At What Katie Did, we've been at the forefront of its modern revival, producing our iconic bullet bras in the same factory since 2004. Long before fashion runways caught on, we were reintroducing this unforgettable silhouette to a new generation of vintage lovers, stylists, and fashion insiders.
This pointed lingerie style has captivated designers, photographers, and performers for decades. But What Katie Did was the first to bring it back into commercial production in the 21st century—offering not costume, but functional, wearable glamour.
Our bullet bras have graced fashion editorials, Hollywood sets, and music stages across the globe. From Rihanna in GQ and Victoria Beckham in Harper’s Bazaar, to Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid sporting them for high-fashion campaigns and events, the bullet bra has become a power piece once again. It’s even made its way onto the silver screen, worn by actresses portraying Marilyn Monroe in My Week with Marilyn and Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown. These moments aren’t just styling choices—they’re a testament to this iconic bras' cultural staying power.
Bullet Bras: Designed for Impact
Originally rising to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, bullet bras were engineered to create an exaggerated bustline and accentuate the hourglass figure. With the popularity of figure-hugging sweaters, the pointed silhouette became synonymous with stars like Lana Turner and Jayne Mansfield, earning the moniker “sweater girl.” It was provocative, unapologetically feminine, and completely transformative.
Unlike modern push-up bras, bullet shaped cone bras rely on spiral stitching and structured cups—not padding—to shape the bust. The result is a lifted, defined look that flatters vintage clothing in a way no modern bra can. Dresses from the 1940s through the 1960s were designed to fit over this shape, meaning a bullet bra is essential for an authentic vintage silhouette.
At What Katie Did, our cone bras are made with the same construction techniques as their mid-century predecessors, but with updated materials and comfort in mind. Our bras combine historical accuracy with soft linings, adjustable straps, and flexible back fastenings for all-day wear. Whether you're pairing it with a circle dress or styling it under a sheer blouse à la Paris Fashion Week, our bullet bras deliver elegance with edge.
A Fashion Revival on the Global Stage
In recent years, the conical bra has made a triumphant return to the fashion spotlight. At the 2024 Met Gala, Kylie Jenner wore a structured gown featuring a dramatic conical bust. Charli XCX and Cardi B followed with bold, fashion-forward bullet bra styling, embracing the vintage shape with modern flair.
Top designers like Miu Miu, Valentino, and Givenchy have reimagined the bullet bra for the runway, styling it over dresses, under oversized knits, and as outerwear. No longer confined to lingerie drawers, the conical bra has become a statement of empowerment, turning traditional ideas of femininity on their head.
As fashion continues to celebrate visible lingerie, the bullet bra stands out as both nostalgic and subversive. It’s vintage, but never old-fashioned. It’s daring, yet deeply rooted in tradition.
From Every Day to Fashion Week
While luxury fashion runs wild with interpretation, we remain focused on wearability. Every What Katie Did bra is available in inclusive sizing and designed for everyday bodies—not just editorial shoots. Whether you’re a retro purist or a fashion risk-taker, there’s a torpedo bra here for you.
From film to fashion week, What Katie Did continues to lead the bullet bra revival with craftsmanship, credibility, and curve-enhancing style. Explore our collection and discover why this 1950s icon is more powerful than ever.