Women – and even men – have been wearing some form of body shaper undergarments for centuries. They have changed in make, style and comfort throughout their history, but their purpose has always been to make the wearer’s body fit the current societal mold.
The most well-known body shaper undergarment is the corset, which has undergone numerous iterations in its long history and is still worn today, although more commonly as a fetish or fantasy piece of lingerie.
Although corsets are famously designed to cinch a woman’s waist while hefting the bosom and smoothing the hips, this usage did not begin in earnest until the 18th century. Nor did it stay in fashion – corsets in the early 19th century were somewhat looser and more comfortable, skimming the body and concentrating on keeping the back straight. As the century progressed, the corsets became increasingly constricting, emphasizing an hourglass figure.
In the 1920s, corsets changed to flatten the breasts and de-emphasize curves, creating a boyish slim figure. Corsets soon fell out of fashion, but body shaping was still all the rage. Girdles became popular, flattening stomachs and hips so that slim, straight skirts could look smooth. As women began to want more comfortable clothing but still desired some shaping, control-top pantyhose took center stage.
Modern body shaper undergarments are more comfortable, flexible and practical than anything women have ever worn to try and slim or emphasize curves. Whether you need something that trims the waist, the hips, the bottom, the thighs, or any combination thereof, you can find it easily. Most modern shapewear is made of a combination of nylon and Spandex, rendering it more truly seamless and invisible under clothes than corsets or girdles ever were. It is also easier to take care of – nearly all shapewear can be washed by hand in cold water and hung to dry with little fuss.
You can also find shapewear to enhance features – bras have always had the option of lifting and padding, but there is a whole world of butt enhancing shaping undergarments so you can add a little pop to your backside.
Who Wears It?
The perception is that only plus sized women choose body shaping undergarments, but this has never been the case historically (witness the characters’ girdles on Mad Men) and still isn’t. While it’s true that a full-figured woman might opt for shapewear that slims some curves, plenty of slimmer women also like the smoother lines that shapewear provides. And because it no longer severely constricts breath or function, it’s much easier and more pleasant to integrate into a wardrobe.
Lovers of retro dressing and lingerie also wear shaping undergarments, but this is to be more period-exact and make the clothes look better. While you can find vintage girdles, you might have more joy with new retro lingerie. Check out online shops for a range of great selections – here are a few to start you off:
