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Man in tight stays 1788
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Man in tight stays 1788
Tight lacing 1788. A painfully fashionable young man wearing corsets to achieve a fashionable figure, bowing, perhaps in a dance. "These tight stays will be death of me, " he says. Date: 1788
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Media ID 32222144
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1780s 1788 Bowing Caricatures Fashions Lacing Mens Satire Satires Satirical Satirising Stays Tight Fashionable Painfully
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This satirical illustration from 1788 captures the painful lengths that some men went to in order to achieve a fashionable figure during the late 18th century. The young man depicted is seen wearing tight stays, or corsets, which were commonly worn by both men and women of the time to create a slim waistline.
Despite the discomfort caused by these restrictive garments, the man bows gracefully - perhaps in preparation for a dance or social event. His expression suggests a mix of pride and suffering as he laments, "These tight stays will be death of me."
The caricature serves as a humorous commentary on the extreme measures taken in pursuit of fashion trends during this era. It highlights not only the physical pain endured by individuals who adhered to such standards but also pokes fun at society's obsession with appearances.
Through exaggerated features and exaggerated proportions, this illustration offers a glimpse into the absurdity of 18th-century fashion ideals. It reminds us that throughout history, people have gone to great lengths - sometimes literally squeezing themselves into uncomfortable garments - all in the name of style.
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