BODY WATCH : Figure on an Uplifting Fad

Despite the women’s consciousness-raising movement of the 1960s and ‘70s and the so-called Decade-of-the-Woman ‘80s, one thing hasn’t changed: the lengths to which females will go to increase their bust lines.

In the beginning it was wads of toilet paper, stiff falsies, and various padded and pushup bras. Then it was plastic surgery pandemonium, followed by Wonderbramania.

Now enter “Intrigue”--falsies for the ‘90s.

Billed as the “safe alternative to plastic surgery” by manufacturer Coloplast--a Georgia-based company also known for its post-mastectomy products--these portable polyurethane-covered blobs look like what would happen if you crossed a salmon with a jellyfish.

They come in two sizes and are selling like hot cakes at $80 a pair, say department store and specialty shop retailers.

The attraction? Unlike falsies of yore, these modern-day mounds warm to and move with the body, can be worn with any bra or swimsuit and pass the “hug test.”

It’s “The American Cleavage Revolution--From Passive to Powerful,” a Coloplast press release declares. “Today, an enhanced bust line gives women not only a sense of femininity but also one of self-confidence and power.”

Says Coloplast Marketing Director Marcia Watts:

“We don’t look at wearing Intrigue as a deception. It’s more just a fashion like any other. There’s always been a demand for pushup bras and specialty dresses--it’s all just about enhancing what we already have.”