Corsets and Bustiers

Corsets are truly the first formal style of intimate apparel. The corset was used primarily to reshape a woman's body. Rather than simply enhancing the shape of a woman's body, historically the corset and bodice were so rigid and tight that women would faint or even be injured wearing the corset.

Historically, the corset was the primary means for women, young and old, to improve their status in society. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the obsession with fashion coupled with a woman's sense of self, her wealth and status were reflected in her measurements. It was believed that the smaller a woman's torso and waist the higher her perceived class and status. The corset was used to trim several inches from the waist using heavy straps, thick ties and metal sewn into fabric sleeves.

Corsets have become more accepted as a fashion statement today. The corset achieved renewed popularity in the 1980's following the popular singer Madonna's use of the corset as a risqué fashion statement.

Corset manufacturers, today, design corsets with style, appeal and comfort in mind. Bridal corsets from Lady Marlene are among the most comfortable and beautiful corsets available to the bride-to-be. Sexy corsets from Shirley of Hollywood are both classy and sexy, sporting some of today's sexiest fabric combinations.

Whether worn as an elegant undergarment for brides or as a sexy fashion statement, the corset continues to shape a woman's sense of beauty and self.