The 16th Century!!!

In the 16th century costume was a symbol of position,rank and also wealth. In the French court, under the influence of Italian-born Catherine de Medici, ladies in waiting were instructed to cinch their waists to a size no bigger than thirteen inches around.

                                    Catherine de Medici

Also in the court a steel framework corset was introduced. It was made up of four plates with perforation ornamental designs, that was connected at the sides and front while leaving the back open to in order get in or out of.

Also during this time the parting of the bodice from the skirt of a garment aimed for a tighter fit on the upper body while the skirts grew heavier and  fuller. An under-bodice was needed to accomplish the fashionable look. It was also very similar to the men's garments in the medieval times!

The under-bodices were generally made from paste-stiffened linen and given support from wooden busks and were known as "bodys or "corps". Later on in time iron was added to re-enforce the under-bodice. Sometimes lengthened over the hips with an extra piece of fabric called a basque that could then be changed with padding to change the shape of a woman even more. The under-bodices  became so elaborately adorned during this time it was fashionable to wear clothing that showed the undergarment. Because the lacings had been moved to either the back or front, a stomacher was worn to hide them.