Lingerie is no longer something to be hidden away, but rather a form of everyday fashion that is meant to be seen, with plenty of styles and designs to choose from. But what has contributed to the evolution of lingerie throughout history? In this article, we’ll dive into the evolution of lingerie from corsets to the comfortable and empowering styles of today.
A Brief History of Lingerie
The earliest forms of lingerie can be traced all the way back to the ancient Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans who often used lingerie to help shape their clothing or simply for added comfort.
As time passed and clothing styles changed, so too did the styles and materials of lingerie. Over a period of many hundreds of years, women used corsets and other lingerie to help achieve a desired shape or to achieve a certain silhouette.
The Different Types of Lingerie Throughout Time
Corsets
Corsets were the garment of choice for many women in the 1900s, and were used to cinch the waist and sculpt the body. Corsets were made out of a variety of materials such as whalebone, leather and fabric, were usually worn as an undergarment and fit snugly to the body.
Corselets
Corselets were similar to corsets in that they were designed to help shape the torso, but they did not reach down as far and were more lightweight. They were also less constricting, and often came with garters to hold up stockings.
Girdles
Girdles were originally designed to provide extra support and to hold the organs in place. They were popular during the 1950s and 1960s and were often used as a way to help create a more streamlined look.
Modern Lingerie
Today, lingerie is no longer about constricting the body, or about hiding it away, but rather about celebrating and enhancing a woman’s natural shape.
Comfort Plays an Important Role
Women are seeking out lingerie that offers comfort, as well as looks beautiful. There are a variety of different materials used in modern lingerie, including silk and stretch lace, that is designed to feel comfortable against the skin.
The Different Types of Modern Lingerie
Bra and Panty Sets
Bra and panty sets are a lingerie classic, and there are so many different styles and designs to choose from. They can range from simple and plain to lace and frills, and come in a variety of materials and designs to suit both your taste and body shape.
Chemises
Chemises are a romantic and elegant lingerie option, they often come with lace detailing and mesh panels, and are perfect for creating a sense of sensuality.
Shapewear
Shapewear is a great way to help smooth out areas of the body and create a more flattering silhouette, without sacrificing any of your comfort.
The Emergence of Comfortable and Empowering Styles
In recent years, lingerie manufacturers have focused on creating styles that are not just aesthetically pleasing, but that are also comfortable, supportive and empowering for women. With the rise of body-positive movements, lingerie is finally becoming more accessible and diverse, bringing a greater sense of inclusivity to the industry.
Brands with Empowering Messages
There are now a number of lingerie brands that are designed specifically to make women feel more confident and empowered. Brands such as ThirdLove, Parade, Nubian Skin and Neon Moon, to name a few, are designed to help women feel confident, beautiful and comfortable in their own bodies.
The evolution of lingerie over the years has taken many different forms, from corsets and corselets to much more comfortable and empowering styles. Lingerie is no longer just an added accompaniment to an outfit, but something to be celebrated and enjoyed for its beauty and comfort.
