While the ideal for beauty has changed over time, an hourglass silhouette has remained a constant object of admiration. The art of corsetry almost died out with the first and second World Wars, but was revived in the 1980s and 1990s and has now become an item of mainstream contemporary fashion. This beautifully illustrated guide to corsets explores the varied history of the corset from the rudimentary tightlacing found in Ancient Greece and Rome and extravagent designs worn by Edwardian women to the work of designers such as Dolce and Gabanna and Gucci today. Filled with wonderful images of corsets throughout the ages, the work of current corset makers is particularly highlighted to provide inspiration for making your own corsets. This is a beautiful look at a fascinating subject- both a wonderful gift item and a resource book for fashion students or anyone with an interest in fashion.