A corset is a structured garment designed to shape and support the torso, primarily to constrict the waist and create a desired body silhouette, often an hourglass figure. Traditionally, corsets are made from strong fabric reinforced with boning-stiff strips of materials like whalebone or steel-and feature lacing, usually at the back, to tighten or loosen the fit. They were historically worn as undergarments to shape the body and support posture, especially in European women's fashion from the 17th to early 20th centuries
. Corsets differ from similar garments such as bustiers, which focus more on lifting the bust without significant waist shaping, and waist trainers, which are simpler and less structured. Besides aesthetic purposes, corsets have also been used for back support and medical reasons
. The term "corset" comes from the Old French word cors , meaning "body," and has evolved in form and function over centuries, reflecting changes in fashion and social norms. Modern corsets may be worn as fashion items, lingerie, or for costume purposes, often lacking the rigid structure of historical corsets but still inspired by their design
