A corset is a garment with a stiff or rigid structure. It has fitted sides that extend from the breasts to the hip and is often made of lace fabric.

A corset may come with stockings, panty hose or garters where stockings may be attached. Don\'t confuse a corset with a bustier! A bustier is a stretchable corset.

Corsets can have medical or body forming functions. When used medically, a corset is an orthopedic instrument that supports bones to correct body deformities. Wrapped along the torso, it can provide support to an injured spine. It serves as a brace or splint to strengthen the spine and keep it stable.

When used to form the shape of the body, a corset is worn as an undergarment, traditionally without straps. It includes laces, boning, and snap closures. The boning, made of whale bone, makes the corset stiff and extends through the corset. It serves dual functions: it lifts the breasts and makes the waist appear slimmer. The boning can be bendable to add extra shape to the body.

Most corsets have lace at the center of the back. The lace is used to adjust the tightness of the corset by pulling the corset tight to the body. Some corsets have set of hooks and eyes instead of lace to close the back.

A corset is also a fashion statement that has endured until now because it makes women appear thinner. By thinning the waist above the hips, a corset provides the body an hourglass shape.

Some modern corsets have strap, and may or may not have sleeves, so they can be be worn under a jacket, shawl, or bolero.

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