Corsets: only 10 years ago, the term conjured up images of uncomfortable Victorian women squeezed into difficult contraptions. But it’s 2012, and that means that corsets are now a fun and sexy option for any lady’s lingerie wardrobe. They’re everywhere, from popular webstores to specialty lingerie boutiques and even common mall shops. And apparently a lot of women are taking advantage of the corset craze. eBay has seen a 185% increase in corset sales in just the last three months—that’s 1900 corsets worldwide. America especially loves its corsets this year, representing 35% of the shapewear’s total sales. The only country ahead of the US is the UK, beating us by 5 measly percentage points at 40% of eBay sales.
No female pop star’s concert is finished without an over-the-top corset—just ask Lady Gaga, Rihanna, or Katy Perry. Queen Elizabeth II’s bra maker, Rigby and Peller, has noticed a 45% spike in sales since 2011.
The traditionally uncomfortable corset (all whale bone and steel) has changed a lot since its good old days. What girl on the go really wants to worry about puncture wounds from her underwear? That’s definitely not my idea of a good time. Today’s corsets now offer compression and contouring with comfort.
Although corsets have traditionally signified oppression and subservience, women have reclaimed the corset. It’s a powerful way for a lady to express her sexuality and the strength of her femininity. They’re also a celebration of the female form. In 2012, you wear a corset to get the curves you love, à la Christina Hendricks and Dita Von Teese, not to hide the body you have.
Since most women I know have a pair of Spanx in their underwear drawers, why not add a corset into the mix?
(Images Courtesy of StyleBistro and Esquire)
