Variations in Corset Design Throughout History

The corset is a favourite among many different types of people, from Goths to Emo kids and fans of Jane Austin books to burlesque dancers. The corset is back and it is here to stay but if you've looked into getting one you will find there are many different styles so here are a few pointers.

There are two main styles of corset the under bust and the over bust. Over bust corsets extend over the woman's breasts from the armpits and down to the hips, there by enclosing the torso. An underbust corset on the other hand begins at the bust and then extends down to the hips. Both of these styles have been used and modified throughout history to create different types of look.

Tudor and Elizabethan corsets were the first around. These lace up at the back and push up the bust therefore giving a small waist. These are likely to be very uncomfortable around the armpits and the bust.

Wasp-waist corsets, also known as waspies, were around during Victorian times. These underbust corsets got their name due to the shape they give a woman's body. These corsets pull in sharply at the waist to give a slim look as well as pushing the bust upwards.

Later Victorian corsets were a bit more forgiving. They were similar to the wasp-waist corsets but with a gentler curve. This style reach down lower than others to cover the hips. More support is given all over and this style of corset gives the hips and the lower body more of a swaying effect.

Edwardian corsets known, as the S curve are a type of underbust corset that is long at the front which causes the bust to be pushed forward while the bottom is pushed out behind giving an S curve shape.

Another type of corset is known as a waist cincher. Waist cinchers are like small corsets that focus on the waist and they extend from the ribs down to the hips. Waist cinchers have a slimming effect and are a good alternative to garter belts and girdles and can be attached to stockings.