The corset first became popular in sixteenth-century Europe, reaching the zenith of its popularity in the Victorian era. While the corset has typically been worn as an undergarment, it has occasionally been used as an outer-garment; corsets as outer-garments can be seen in the national dress of many European countries.

When did people start wearing corsets instead of stays?

It is thought that in the 1840s and 1850s that tightlacing first became popular, though historical documents from the time tell us that padding was increased at the bust and hips to give the illusion of a narrower waist. The corset differed from the earlier stays in numerous ways.

What was worn before corsets?

Historians are unsure if women wore corsets during the Middle Ages as it is thought that they usually covered from head to toe in a modest way. Tunics and long clothing were usually worn and did not accentuate a womens curves that greatly worn more for comfort rather than fashion.