The Difference Between a Corset and Girdle Understanding Undergarments

Most men don't know much about women's undergarments. But, in the case of girdles vs. corsets, most women don't know much about these shaping wardrobe items, either

Most men don't know much about women's undergarments. But, in the case of girdles vs. corsets, most women don't know much about these shaping wardrobe items, either. It is important to know the difference between a corset and a girdle, especially if you're thinking of getting one in order to enhance your appearance. While many people use the two terms almost interchangeably, there are some fundamental differences between these two undergarments. If you want to get the right one to solve a specific problem that you have with your physique, then it's important to learn that difference and differentiate between girdles and corsets.

The difference between a corset and a girdle is actually quite simple. A corset is worn on the torso. It compresses the ribcage and abdomen in order to give the body the impression of a small, defined waist. It also works to push up the chest in order to enhance the appearance of a small waist. A girdle, on the other hand, is worn over the hips. It shapes the hips, thighs, buttocks, and lower abdomen. The two may be worn together or separately, depending on what parts of the body the wearer wants to compress, conceal, or enhance.

The way that girdles and corsets work is also different. While both garments work to compress unwanted fat, the difference between a corset and a girdle is that a corset usually laces up and is tightened by pulling on the corset strings, while a girdle is a tight article of clothing that compresses simply by the virtue of its being tight. Modern day corsets may employ means other than laces to tighten, such as hook-and-eye closures, but the resulting look is the same. It's important to know what kind of look you're going for if you want to choose the right garment for your needs.

If you want that wasp waist, then you need a corset. If you want to diminish the appearance of your derriere, then you need a girdle. There are also some shaping undergarments that combine elements of both the girdle and the corset in order to provide total-body shaping. But now that you understand the difference between a corset and a girdle, you can choose the right undergarment to get you the look that you want. You may even decide to get both, or an undergarment that does both, for a total body makeover.

About the Author

Bridget Hendricks For more information on Girdles visit Body Magic Body Shaper