Microwave your bra to stay warm this winter (Reuters) Updated: 2005-11-10 15:35
For the woman who wants to stay both warm and environmentally conscious this
winter -- and isn't bothered by extra bulk under her shirt -- a lingerie maker
unveiled a thick bra that can be heated in a microwave.
A model stands beside a manequin
as they display the latest high-tech thermal underwear 'Warmbiz Bra' by
lingerie maker Triumph International at the company's headquarters in
Tokyo. [AFP] | Triumph International
modeled the bra in Japan which has launched a "Warm Biz" campaign urging people
to bundle up to save on heating.
The bra pads are filled with an eco-friendly, reusable gel that can be heated
up in a microwave or with hot water. For good measure, a pendant of a hot pepper
dangles from the front.
But the bra isn't for those favoring understated attire. A long strap flows
down from the back, which is meant to be wrapped around like a boa to keep one's
neck warm.
"We hope this will not only help prevent global warming but also provide a
little fashion chic to the office," Triumph's Japan branch said in a statement.
But for the time being, the bra, which comes with matching shorts, won't be
in stores, with the lingerie maker instead using the technology to develop other
warm clothing.
Japan, the land of the Kyoto Protocol, is encouraging people to set their
heating at no more than 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit) this winter to save
energy.
It follows a "Cool Biz" casual-dress campaign promoted by Prime Minister
Junichiro Koizumi, who eschewed his tie for most of the summer, to reduce
air-conditioner use and therefore greenhouse gas emissions. The drive is
estimated to have saved enough energy to supply 240,000 households for a month.
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