in the same way except for such changes as the changes in her physical development make advisable.
We are nearer now than ever before to the correct and rational idea of corsets; if the medical and surgical professions take courage and do not weary in well-doing, if women will not close their eyes to the thing that is for their lasting good—the rational corset—and if the corset makers who know what is right will carry out their principles in spite of fashion, fashion will be controlled by the corset and not the corset by fashion, and women will come into their natural heritage of healthful physical development.
The scientific test of the correct corset may be thus summarized:—
- It must establish the balanced weight of the body in the correct position. This is done by the cut and poise of the corset giving a distinct upward and inward support to the abdominal walls, encasing the pelvis snugly but comfortably, and following the normal curves of the spine which allow the body to preserve equilibrium with perfect ease.
- The natural size of the waist should never be reduced, but in some instances should be increased, as in the raising of prolapsed viscera, and no pressure allowed at or above diaphragm.
- The base of the thorax must not be constricted; in sitting or standing the rib wall should be free to expand to the fullest extent, for pressure upon the rib wall prevents full chest expansion.
- There must be no lateral constricting lines anywhere—the lines of tightness from the lower part of the abdomen at top of pubic bone should pass obliquely over the hip bones and radiate around the back, distributing the pressure in such a manner that there is no constriction across the muscles of the back.
- Top and lower edges of the corset must be of such size and form that no line is visible beneath the gown and no bulging flesh appears.
The corset which endures these tests will fulfill the ideals of physician, wearer and corset maker, providing those ideals are based upon scientific knowledge, a true conception of physical beauty and an ingenious application of artistic skill.
