The 17th century!!!

In the 17th century,  politics across Europe required a less costly use of

fabric. Along with a less-is-more-approach to fashion came the   

decorating and fixation of the busk. The busk fit inside the front of the

corset and was made from wood, ivory, metal, or whale bone. The

lacings that held a busk in place was parted from those that supported

the corset.  Busks were also fashioned into daggers and could be used

as weapons on the occasional unwanted admirer. The basque and 

more expensive fabric and was replaced with "tabs" to help support

petticoats.