1860s short corset

c.1868- 1870. A light drab batiste shorter style corset of the later 1860's.
During the brief "Empire" line fashion of the late 1860's, corsets became shorter to reflect this passing fashion. According to C. Willett and Phillis Cunnington, shorter length corsets remained popular until the mid 1870's when a longer corset was needed for the newly
fashionable cuirass bodice.
The corset does not have a extreme bust/waist ratio as later 19th century corsets would have as a full crinoline or crinolette supported skirt would have been worn which would have made the waist look smaller in comparison. It provides vert little hip support or reduction as this area of the body would have been camouflaged by a crinoline/crinolette. The main action of this short corset was to support the bust and give a slightly higher waistline typical of the later 1860's.
This corset is boned with cane and is not lined. The front fastens with a short, curved busk.
Measurements: Bust 31 1/2", Waist 24", Hips 31 1/2", Busk length 8 1/2".