Corset

About this artwork

Step into the elegant world of early 20th-century American fashion with this silk corset from B. Altman & Co., 1901. Produced by the renowned New York department store known for its upscale ready-to-wear and luxury goods, this garment exemplifies the height of Edwardian style. Crafted from fine silk, a premium material prized for its sheen, durability, and comfort against the skin, the corset was a staple in women's wardrobes, designed to cinch the waist and create fashionable S-curve silhouettepushing the bust forward hips back for an hourglass effect. Historically, corsets like this one reflected the rigid beauty standards and social expectations of the Gilded Age, where undergarments sculpted the body to fit voluminous gowns and tailored suits. By 1901, innovations in construction allowed for lighter, more flexible designs compared to Victorian predecessors, blending functionality with femininity. This piece, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute thanks to a 1952 gift from Mrs. Rudolph Rosenthal, offers a tangible glimpse into how American women navigated fashion's demands amid emerging movements for dress reform. Though not a traditional artwork, its exquisite silk workmanship highlights the artistry of mass-produced couture, bridging commerce and culture in a transformative era.