Men wearing corsets might sound strange, but this was a common practice throughout history. These vintage garments have started coming back slowly but surely, and there are many interesting facts about corsets you might want to learn. But the most important question is — can men wear them today?
Corsets’ history
The earliest evidence of corsets in history points to ancient history. But, the popularity of corsets started growing in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. In England, they were known as stays or bodies back then. They were worn as under or outerwear, and French women especially found it to be an important aspect of beauty.
Earlier models were made of silk and starch, and they weren’t as tight as you might expect. The idea behind it all was to avoid damaging the fabric. While there is evidence of metal corsets, historians believe that they were either worn as an orthopedic device or that they were never a part of mainstream fashion.
Slowly but surely, corsets became a must among elites of the period. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, corsets, as we know them today, started to appear. These models were tight to provide support for the body and to ensure that the wearer had the right posture. What is interesting is that men often wore them as well. Together with high heels, they were popular accessories in the eighteenth century, but over the years, this garment became associated with women only.
Why women wear them the most
Corsets have been associated with sophisticated lifestyles the elite had. And many wanted to have a taste of it. Needless to say, three hundred years ago, that would’ve been just a dream. But today, it allows people to express themselves and try out something new.
Additionally, corsets allow women to have ideal proportions and show off their bodies. The hourglass shape is still ideal for many people across the globe, and it gives a chance to the wearer to have a small waist (even if they don’t have it naturally). We have many alternative subcultures that love corsets too. These garments are rather popular among goth and steampunk communities, for example, and they always look amazing.
Over the years, the purpose of corsets and their accessibility have changed. Anyone can get it today, and it’s not something reserved for those fortunate enough to afford it. Corsets today can be used as a part of any outfit, and you might see them when you go outside next time. Of course, women are still in the majority, so men interested in wearing them might seem like unicorns.
Does wearing it make a man gay?
One of the main misconceptions is that wearing corsets will make a man gay. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. People often look for signs and actions that will magically turn someone gay, while the reality is a bit different. Being gay is what makes someone gay. If you are a guy that dreams of other guys and wishes to have sex with them, congratulations — you are gay. Otherwise, there is nothing to worry about.
Using a specific piece of clothing won’t have any impact on your sexuality. And the truth is, both men and women used to wear corsets throughout history. In the 19th century, men used them to slim their figures, but the general opinion has varied. In France, men who wore corsets were named dandies, and today, many believe that it is related to one’s sexuality.
But if history taught us anything, it is that anyone should be able to wear whatever they like. Either way, nothing will change. Mocking people for their taste is childish, and even though men’s fashion has tried to distance itself from corsets, it failed every single time.
How time have changed
Today, corsets are made using various materials. Tight lacing and silk is no longer the only viable option, and the same thing applies to whalebones. In the past couple of years, the popularity of latex has gone through the roof. What is interesting is that people rarely use corsets today to fix their postures. Instead, they are a part of the outfits and styles of so many people. Furthermore, some use corsets as a way of lifestyle. And for them, these accessories are so much more.
Of course, if you plan on wearing a true corset, you might want to consider waist training. Otherwise, wearing it will be uncomfortable or even painful. And this is why latex models are incredible. They don’t put a lot of strain on the body since the material is delicate, but it will be more than enough to allow you to understand the nature behind these garments.
It will also allow you to experiment with different models in the future since you will get used to the feeling of wearing a corset. Additionally, people are more open today about their tastes and kinks, which means that more and more men are willing to start wearing corsets. While they might experience judgemental stares, the situation seems to be a bit better and going in a better direction.
Evidence of inclusivity
It is common in fashion for trends to return after a couple of years or even decades, and the same thing applies to corsets. They were once an essential part of wardrobes for both men and women in the 18th and 19th centuries, and they keep coming back.
There are many men who wear them today as a part of their lifestyles. Of course, we are not counting Andy Warhol, who had to wear surgical corsets for health reasons. One of the most recognizable corset wearers is Marilyn Manson, who is known for his unique style and fashion taste.
And if wearing a corset is something you might be interested in, you should give it a try. There are many communities and groups where this type of clothing is more than acceptable. Once you find your style and start digging around, you will notice that it is a lot more common than you believed.
