Time Machine: Sexy Corsets throughout History

Time Machine is a SexiDesign.com weekly blog series exploring the past, present, and future in sexy designs.

Time Machine for December 14th, 2009

Corsets-the epitome of femininity and sexiness, these delightful beauties have enhanced the cleavages of women around the world for centuries. Best known from the 16th and 17th century designs, corsets created elegant silhouettes at the expense of comfort.

Construction

Early corsets were constructed of several fabrics including: linens, leather, and silks. Special boning allows for stiffening of the bodice to create the support needed to enhance and lift the breasts. One of the more famous elements is definitely the sexy back (or front) lacing pulled through eyelets that could be unlaced by a patient lover or helper.

Beauty is pain

Corsets are also famous for the intense pain suffered by many fashionable women who wanted the smallest waist possible. Strain on the ribs made it nearly impossible to take deep breaths, often causing women to pass out. Overuse of corsets could also lead to a permanent change in the natural silhouette of a woman.

21st Century Corsets

Corsets today are definitely less extreme, often crafted of weaker materials which don’t provide a lot of strain on the ribs to support the breasts. Corseting techniques can be found amongst popular apparel, undergarments, and is a common design element in wedding dresses. Used more for the element of fantasy, corsets are a must have to any lady’s lingerie collection.