The corset is a garment that is by no means a novelty. It has been used for many years. Early corsets have been worn since the end of the Renaissance era. However, its history goes back much further.
Over time, the use of the corset continued to gain popularity, becoming known throughout the world. Today, many women wear different models of corsets.
The history of the corset
Although early corsets are attributed to the beginning of the 20th century, the reality is that the first findings date back to 1000 B.C. It has been investigated that this garment was commonly used by the Minoan people. These people lived in Greece.
The first image of a historical corset dress belongs to the Minoan serpent goddess. Despite the many years of difference, the purpose of the corset is the same: to refine the waist.
For the Middle Ages, it was not necessary for women to accentuate their figure. This is because the body was considered sinful. In this sense, the ideal of the corset as it is known today did not gain so much popularity.
It was between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries that the initiative expanded. The ladies of French royalty and other regions began to prioritize the image of a tiny waist.
Impact of the corset on tailoring and fashion concepts
Early corsets changed the way women looked at fashion in the 16th century. The same happened with tailoring, considering that the intention at the time was to shape and slim the body as much as possible.
Within the use of this garment, some myths arise, especially those related to corsets in the Victorian era. The reality behind this trend is that it not only implied having a slim waist. It was also a fixation on showing a flat back and raising the bust line.
The advent of the modern corset
Right now, there is a wide variety of modern corsets. Over time, the way this garment is designed has evolved. The first changes date back to the 20th century.
Corsets in the Victorian era sought hourglass fits and the inclusion of materials such as steel rods. By the end of the 19th century, the recommendation of doctors was to avoid these rigid garments on the body. However, many women still relied on corsets to support muscles and posture.
There was a time when early corsets were a thing of the past. It was then that women's clothing became more common. Because of this, by 1900, the corset evolved into a more flexible style: the girdle.
World War II and the decline of the Victorian corset
The last vestige of corsets in the Victorian era was in World War II. By then, it was not possible to use complex materials for such garments.
The return of the corset and its modernization
The resurgence of the corset, to this day, took place between 1970 and 1980 thanks to the idea of female empowerment. This initiative was born thanks to the designers Jean-Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood.
A clear example of the return of the corset as a modern garment is Madonna's Blonde Ambition Tour, where she was seen wearing a uniquely styled corset.
Differences between the ancient corset and the modern corset
|
Feature |
Antique corset |
Modern corset |
|
Purpose |
Shape the figure to create a slim waist, a fuller girth and a high bust line. |
Fashionable garment to define style, provide support and help improve posture |
|
Materials |
Steel, whalebone, wood, stiffened fabrics |
Elastic materials, plastic, flexible steel to the body, polyester, elastane |
|
Design |
Strong and rigid seams |
Curvier and smoother design |
|
Adjustment |
Tight to the point of generating discomfort |
Adjustable and comfortable. Functional for simple range of motion |
|
Usage |
They were used all the time, even when sleeping. |
They may be used for specific occasions or for particular purposes. |
|
Effects on the body |
Deformities, internal damage, problems in sustaining posture without the use of the garment |
No physical damage if used correctly. Can help correct posture. |
Early corsets do not have the same characteristics as modern corsets. The latter is made with materials that are friendly to those who wear them. In addition, they offer greater comfort and do not present risks as long as they are used properly.
Conclusion
The corset is, right now, a convenient garment to show elegance and a distinctive appearance. It also has other attributes, such as promoting better posture. If you want to choose a corset that is right for you, we invite you to review the options available at Enviable Summer Shop.
Summary of the article
The corset is one of the most controversial garments in history. Its origin is quite ancient, and they were initially used in order to flatten the torso and have an accentuated waist.
Over time, this garment became popular, but it posed a health risk. Due to its manufacture with rigid materials, doctors did not recommend its use. Over the years, the return of this garment brought with it an important transition.
We went from rigid corsets to flexible and elegant garments, adjusted to any occasion. Thanks to this, they are part of a trend that never goes out of fashion.