by Nicole Bailey

Created on: April 15, 2009

When most people think of corsets, they picture the scene in "Gone with the Wind" where Vivian Leigh stands against the bedpost, gasping as her corset is tightened. Corsets conjure up images of uncomfortable, restricted, fainting women who can barely breath, let alone eat or move. With rare exception, these images are actually false. Yes, there have been select brief periods of time where it was fashionable for upper class women to bind themselves so tightly that they actually did themselves injury. Throughout most of history, however, the corset was a practical piece used to flatter the female figure and encourage good health. Oh yes, and to flatter the womanly figure.

The most noticable function of corset binding is that it slims the waist of the woman and draws attention to the contrast between a slim waist and curvy hips. Obviously this look is not for our hipless, bone thin models of today! Some styles of corset also serve to push up the breasts, offering them support, while making them more noticable under clothing. These are the benefits of wearin g a corset we see right away upon viewing the corsetted figure. There are also, however, invisible benefits.

Anyone who has put on a corset knows that, when the corset fits well and is adjusted correctly, it provides infinite posture support. A well laced corset with strong ribbing (traditionally of bone, now of a heavy plastic) will force the back into a straightened position. This is uncomfortable for some modern women with a more slouched carriage, but with time the corset actually forces the female to carry herself upright. Those who already have healthy posture will find it even easier to maintain when wearing a corset. The result of the straightened pose is not only more attractive, graceful carriage of the body, but better breathing. A corset that fits well (not so tight that the woman cannot breath normally, but restrictive enough that it does in fact make the woman sit up straight) will align the spine as well as the insides. Just by shifting things around a tiny bit in the chest and stomach region, most women feel a noticable ease of breath. A corseted woman stands and sits straight, looks graceful, and breaths easy. Plus, the corset will prevent her from eating to the point of discomfort, as the garment will quickly tell a woman when she has over-filled her stomach.

Corsets were largely abandoned as feminists made the move away from garments that were seen as restrictive and confining, but what many don't know is that these pieces did serve a distinct purpose: they carried the weight of heavy clothing, and they helped improve the health and figures of the ladies who wore them. Today, corsets are largely used solely for fashion purposes. These dainty numbers are often made of silk and have little to no supportive ribbing. One can, however, still find quality, practical corsets at re-enactment stores. A well made corset will be made of heavy material, have strong ribbing, and a thick lace that runs up the back. The front should include a hook/eye closure. When purchasing a corset, be sure to find one that fits: when you sit, it should not pinch your underarms, or dig into the hips. You will need assistance when lacing up.

A corset may feel a lot different than your regular bra, but you will notice the benefits in both the short and long terms as your breathing becomes easier, your posture improves, and your clothes begin to hang better on your form.

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