Introduction Once a symbol of status, then of oppression, and now of power and fashion, the corset has undergone an extraordinary evolution. This garment has deep roots in the history of clothing and continues to be reinvented by designers and fashion enthusiasts. Let’s explore how it has transformed over the centuries.

The Corset in the 17th Century: A Tool of Status In the 17th century, the corset was an essential garment for women of high society. It was a sign of nobility and refinement, designed to shape the body according to the beauty standards of the time. Corsets were often decorated with luxurious embroidery and made from expensive materials, making them accessible only to the wealthiest classes.

The Industrial Revolution: Democratization of the Corset With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, the corset became more accessible. Mass production reduced costs, allowing even middle-class women to wear corsets. Although they became more widespread, corsets remained complex and sometimes constrictive fashion items.

The 20th Century: A Symbol of Oppression and Liberation In the 20th century, the corset began to be seen as a symbol of female oppression. Women’s liberation also included freedom from the corset, which was considered restrictive and harmful to health. However, in the 1940s and 50s, with the emergence of fashion icons like Dior, the corset had a revival as a tool to enhance the female figure.

Today: The Corset as a Fashion Statement Today, the corset has made a comeback as a symbol of power and self-expression. It is no longer an everyday garment but is often used in haute couture and streetwear fashion, as well as a transformative tool in cosplay. Modern corsets are designed to be comfortable, supportive, and, most importantly, celebratory of the wearer’s form.

Conclusions From a constraint to a banner of empowerment, the corset continues to be a complex and fascinating garment. Its evolution reflects social, cultural, and fashion changes, demonstrating that even the most traditional of garments can adapt and thrive in modern times.