Corsets and Bustiers

Bustiers

A bustier, sometimes also called a merry widow or long-line bra, is a garment that has been worn by women for centuries. A bustier fits tightly to the torso while strips of stiff material known as boning create structure that slims the waist and supports and enhances the bust. You can find information on proper  fitting of a bustier here.

Corsets

Corsets were invented in the 16th century by Catherine de Médicis, the wife of King Henri II of France. At that time, she put a ban on "thick waists" during public appearances. How would that go over in today's world of political correctness?  For the next 350 years or so, women tortured themselves with corsets made from whalebones and steel rods. For a memory flashback, think of the movie "Gone With The Wind" where Mammy was lacing Scarlett up into her corset.  In the early 1900s, that style of corset went by the wayside to make room for the invention of the modern-day brassiere and girdle.

For a corset gallery of information and photos of corsets and bustiers visit the Corset Gallery.

Time: ending soonest----------------------Price: highest first Price: lowest first Time: ending soonest Time: newly listed