|
These images are randomly selected from the WAISTED EFFORTS section on
19th century corsets.
 |
A hand beaten copper boiler used to steam heat/shape new corsets. The
corset would be sprayed with a starch mixture on the inside, then attached
to the copper 'maiden' by tapes. The top of the corset placed under the
flange at the top, and resting on a small node at the bottom. These copper
maidens were bolted to steam tables that filled a factory floor, then live
steam was driven through them until very-hot, but not to scorching heat
was produced. This would mold the corset into the desired shape, and dry
it at the same time. The corsets were then packaged for
shipping. |
| Two copper maidens, back view. The one on the left has a waist of 23
inches and hips of 38. The right one has a waist of 31 inches with a hip
of 44 inches. |
 |
 |
This and the next image are views of a sample corset, used by
salespersons to demonstrate quality workmanship in construction, strength
of steels etc. all essential elements in a well fitted "S" shape
corset. |
|
|
 |
This and the next image are views of a corset of the 1890's - showing
that not all corsets had to be heavy. This one is made from interlaced
tapes, 1-1/4" wide, woven to shape around the waist. The bottom section
was of an open weave fabric, producing a lightweight corset. The bones at
the sides and the centre back, as with the busk in front was the support.
These images show the corset with a bust improver in position. These were
used to give the fashionable full chested look that contributed to the
over-all S-shape. |
   
 |
| This and the next two images show a corset of the late 1890's showing
a moderate form of the straight "S" shape. The back tying shows that the
corset was not tied closely top to bottom, but instead focused on the
tight lacing at the centre back waistline - this caused the body to stand
erect and pushed the posterior out and the bust forward. It was this
forced positioning, beginning about 1880, that gave rise to many of the
lower back pains that resulted in corset wear. Many attempts were made to
create healthier corsets with all manner of electro-magnets, eyelets for
air circulation and special construction to aid the comfort of the wearer.
This was especially important given that corsets were not custom made for
the mass public, simply sold by waist size. David Hale Fanning, founder of
the Royal Worcester Corset Co. in Worcester, Mass. was the person
responsible for creating corsets for various sizes, i.e. short, medium,
tall etc. |
 |
  |
| |
|
