Corselets

Corselets

Corselets, also known as corsets, are a type of undergarment that has been worn by women for centuries. They are designed to shape and support the torso, creating an hourglass figure by cinching in the waist and lifting the bust. Corselets are typically made of a strong, flexible material such as satin, silk, or cotton, and are reinforced with boning made of steel or whalebone. The history of corselets can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome, where women wore a type of corset called a strophion. However, it wasn't until the 16th century that corselets became popular in Europe, particularly in France and England. During this time, corselets were worn by women of all social classes and were often highly decorated with embroidery, lace, and jewels. In the 19th century, corselets became even more popular and were worn by women of all ages. They were often laced tightly, causing discomfort and even health problems such as difficulty breathing and fainting. However, in the early 20th century, corselets began to fall out of fashion as women began to embrace looser, more comfortable clothing. Today, corselets are still worn by some women for special occasions such as weddings or formal events. However, they are no longer considered necessary for everyday wear and are often seen as a symbol of the restrictive gender norms of the past.

undergarment, hourglass figure, boning, history, fashion

— Paul Jackson

CITATION : "Paul Jackson. 'Corselets.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=406504 (Accessed on October 03, 2024)"