History

Design

Mens girdles

 

  

No 4. The Carlton. A great favourite with military gentlemen. Silk Coutille, from 30/-; Black and Coloured Sateens, lined, from 50/-

Advertisement in Society, Oct 21, 1899
Valerie Steele: Fetish p73

Girdles are usually thought of as women's garments, and many people think that men who wear them must be rather odd. But there have been a number of occasions in the past when men have fairly openly worn corsets, without attracting any particular public opprobrium.

Sixty years ago men and women were supposed to stick strictly to their own clothing, and cross dressing was strongly discouraged. Women have since overcome this taboo, and can wear virtually anything they please, but many people still look very much askance at a man in 'women's clothing'. However there are a large number of men who are fascinated by girdles, and many of them go on to wear them. Indeed it has been half-seriously suggested that today more girdles are sold to men than to women. Some of these men are transvestites, and wear full women's clothing, often in an exaggerated form, but many more wear them full or part-time under their normal clothes.

In this section we will consider the history of corsetry for men, the special requirements of men, and some practical solutions.

 

The section on Men's girdles is illustrated with examples of my personal wardrobe. If you would prefer not to see these don't visit it.

 

 

 

 

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