1. Tight Laced A brief introduction to the history of corsetry

3. Evolution of the corset Minoan corset 1700 b.c. 13-14 th century 15-16 th century 16 th century iron corset 17 th century 18 th century 19 th century Early 20 th century Late 20 th century

6. Specialist corsets Maternity corset designed to be worn during pregnancy these corsets laced up at the sides and could be loosened as the abdomen expanded. Childs corset Children wore corsets from as early as aged 2. it was used primarily to disciple unruly children as a child in discomfort was less likely to misbehave Men's corset From time to time it became fashionable for wealthy men to also wear corsets. Although this was optional and unlike women was not seen as indecent to be without one.

8. Correlation between wealth, corsets and fainting. Wealthy women were expected to tightly lace their corsets. A loose corset implied loose morals The tighter the corset the smaller the chest cavity became. Leading to shallow breathing and as a result fainting Frequent fainting spells lead society to believe that women were weak, and needed corsets to support their fragile frame

9. Corsets the Renaissance The corset made a come back during the 1980s thanks to designer Jean Paul Gautier designing the costumes for Madonna’s Blonde Ambition tour, leading to many other designers using corset style lacing and boning in their designs. Corsets today are most popular amongst fetishists especially those who practice waist training. The ultimate goal is to achieve the smallest waist possible. Most notably is Cathie Jung who has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records for the smallest waist at 13 inches.