Corset 101

The corset is every woman’s ticket to the classic hourglass figure. Worn properly, corsets make your waist smaller, lift and support your bosom, and improves your posture. From an orthopedic point of view, the corset also offers excellent support for your back when you have to sit on a chair for a long time. Indeed, corset-wearing can positively influence any woman’s appearance.

But although most corsets are custom-made to fit, women often find it difficult to get used to wearing this rather complicated lingerie. So here’s a short 101 on how to wear your corset properly, and how to maximize its body sculpting effects.

Figuring out the laces

Make sure that your corset is two to four inches smaller than your normal waist line. Most stores will deliver it with garters attached and laced up, and with two long loops at the waist, midway between the top and the bottom.

First, loosen the lacing at the back until you can comfortably put the corset around you. Then, fasten the front busk at one of the two middle snaps (it will be harder to continue of you start from one of the top or bottom snaps). Exhale and contract your tummy inwards as you fasten. To close the top of the corset, look over your shoulder in a mirror as you put your thumb under the laces and work down to the middle. Pull the loose lace ends. Do the same from the bottom up to the middle. Again, pull the loose lace ends. Continue several times until the corset is closed.

Some corsets have a separate panel of fabric for cushioning the eyelets. If your corset has this, place it underneath the back lacing before you start to tighten the lace.

Follow this same process in reverse to take your corset off. Remember: unloosen the ties first before unsnapping the front busk at the middle snap. If you don’t, one of the front snaps may pop off.

Getting used to the corset

Corsets are usually made of such firm materials as satin, brocade and cotton. A built-in strong front clasp makes it possible to put the corset on and pull it off fast. The lacing at the back works just like the lacing of shoes.

The fabric and spiral steel of the corset needs some time to “remember” the contours of your body. Some experts would advice that you should wear the corset everyday for two to three weeks. For effective, long-term waist reduction, you should be able to comfortably wear a snugly-laced corset for longer and longer periods of time. Do not lace it too tightly only to take it off after a few minutes. The goal is to tolerate it for longer periods.

If there is an upcoming special occasion, wear the corset loosely several hours in advance. Tighten it slightly every half and hour or so until you get to your desired (but comfortable) reduction.

The corset should never cause pain. You know you are wearing it correctly when you feel a pleasant "hugging" sensation and your posture is comfortably erect.

Last few reminders

Always drink plenty of water. Avoid carbonated beverages as your chances of getting heartburn increases when you wear a corset.

Do not overeat. Avoid fats, sugars and carbohydrates, and stick to healthy amounts of food and snacks. To avoid stomach cramping, never eat too much just before or after you wear your corset.

Many corset wearers have experienced permanent waist reduction and weight loss by mixing a healthy diet and exercise with corset-wearing. The corset is therefore a worthwhile investment. And even if you do lose weight after you begin corseting, you can go on wearing your favorite corset because it was made for a smaller waist.