FAQ on Corsets

A corset is a versatile garment that is worn on the top half of the body. While corsets were historically worn as undergarments, they have come into fashion as outerwear in recent years. Corsets can be bought in a store or custom made.

Q: What is a corset?

A: A corset is a garment worn on the top half of the body. Corsets lace up in the back and are closed in the front by hook and eye closures or a zipper. Wires sewn into the corset give it shape.

Q: Who wears corsets?

A: Corsets are usually worn by women and sized accordingly.

Q: What is a corset used for?

A: Traditionally, corsets were used to give women an hourglass figure. The corset would be laced tightly to make the waist extremely small. Corsets are now worn as lingerie or sometimes as outerwear, depending on what is in style.

Q: Are corsets safe?

Modern corsets are completely safe. However, you should take precaution not to lace the corset too tightly, especially if you wear them often. Wearing a tightly laced corset can damage the ribs as well as internal organs.

Q: Where can I find a corset?

A: Lingerie stores and clothing stores both sell corsets. You can also have a corset specially made for you by a tailor.

Q: How do I know what size to get?

A: Corsets are sold in lingerie stores by bra size and in clothing stores in sizes such as small, medium, or large. Go with the size you generally wear on top. Of course, the only way to know what size to get is to try the corset on.

Q: What are the different types of corsets?

A: As mentioned before, there are different types of corsets, including corsets meant to be worn as lingerie and corsets worn as outerwear. Lingerie corsets may be styled like a brassiere with cups while an outerwear corset will not.

Q: What are corsets made out of?

A: Clothing companies make corsets out of a variety of materials including silk, polyester, and synthetic blends.