Mary Phelps Jacob, later known as Caresse Crosby, was born into a wealthy and socially prominent New York family. Her lineage and upbringing afforded her certain privileges and opportunities, setting the stage for her later unconventional life.

Growing up in New York high society, Mary received a traditional education and experienced a life of comfort and social engagements. This environment exposed her to the constraints placed on women's fashion and the limitations of the existing corsetry.

As a debutante, Mary participated in the elaborate social rituals of her class, further highlighting the discomfort and restrictiveness of the prevailing fashion trends. This experience likely fueled her desire for more comfortable and practical undergarments.

Frustrated by the impracticality of wearing a corset under a sheer evening gown, Mary fashioned two handkerchiefs together with ribbon and cord to create a supportive and liberating alternative. This was the prototype for the modern bra.

Mary Phelps Jacob, at the age of 22, received U.S. Patent No. 1,115,674 for her 'Backless Brassiere'. This marked a significant moment in fashion history, although she initially underestimated the invention's commercial potential.