Before the modern bra existed, women wore corsets that shaped the entire torso from bust to hips. The transition to the bra (c. 1910–1920) went through several intermediate forms called corset-bras or corselets — short corsets that supported the bust and cinched the waist but left the hips free.
True corsets with integrated bust shaping are historical; modern "corset bras" are usually longline bras with decorative boning.
How to Identify
- Extends from bust to hips (or at least to natural waist)
- Visible vertical boning channels
- Lace-up back or front
- Often in silk, cotton twill, or satin
