Solar-powered bra 'able to charge an iPod'

A Japanese lingerie firm today unveiled the perfect gadget for eco-friendly sun worshippers – the solar-powered bra.

The bra comes with a detachable solar panel, worn around the stomach, which can produce enough energy to power an iPod or mobile phone as the wearer lazes on the beach, the makers claim.

It is also equipped with plastic pouches that can be filled with water, allowing wearers to quench their thirst without having to buy and then throw away hard-to-recycle drinks bottles.

And the bra itself is made of high quality organic cotton, to ensure its production has the smallest possible impact on the environment.

But the fetching "Photovoltaic-Powered Bra" won't be on shelves any time soon. It is still at the "concept" stage and has several problems that need to be ironed out.

For one, it is damaged by rain – a big drawback for those used to the vagaries of English summers.

The makers, Triumph International Japan, concede that that the bra will not become popular in its current form, as outer clothing renders its solar panel ineffective.

"People usually cannot go outside without wearing clothes over it," said Yoshiko Masuda of Triumph.

Triumph is developing a reputation for innovative, eco-friendly lingerie. It has previously released a bra than can be turned into a reusable shopping bag, and a bra designed to encourage the use of reusable chopsticks.