Object Analysis - Corsets
Q.2 using the model of object analysis, analyse one fashion article.
(Choose a garment, which can be used to discuss fashion from the point of view of the consumer. This garment must be able to demonstrate how the consumer individually constructs their identity and conveys that identity through the style and styling of clothing. You should treat this garment as an object as a form of evidence, which can help you to explain theories of fashion discussed in the sessions. The intention of your analysis is to examine the ways in which we can ‘read’ objects and images, understand their meanings and explain them in the context of broader theoretical and social concerns. You should aim to be as analytical as possible. You may want to use further objects or garments or examples within your presentation to help to explain your ideas though only 1 object should be your main focus. You can either use the actual object or use images and films to analyse and discuss your findings. Therefore your essay should be supported by ideas from readings and books as well as the objects and images themselves.)
I have chosen to analyse the corset. No other garment in Western history has assumed such political, social, and sexual significance. In this essay I will look at the history of the corset and how it transformed each century. I will also explore other sides of the corset; the fetishism that is associated with it, the medical implications, and its place in contemporary fashion.
The first corsets were called ‘payre of bodies’ corsets from the were originally derived from the ‘basquine’ which derived from the medieval cottes, and surcots’ they were similar in use to the corset, and consisted of a tight-fitting bodice that was worn over the top of other garments, and much like the corset were laced up at the back. A stiffer version of the corset was crafted from cast iron, and was designed for women with severe physical deformities. The famous army surgeon Ambroise Pare described
(Choose a garment, which can be used to discuss fashion from the point of view of the consumer. This garment must be able to demonstrate how the consumer individually constructs their identity and conveys that identity through the style and styling of clothing. You should treat this garment as an object as a form of evidence, which can help you to explain theories of fashion discussed in the sessions. The intention of your analysis is to examine the ways in which we can ‘read’ objects and images, understand their meanings and explain them in the context of broader theoretical and social concerns. You should aim to be as analytical as possible. You may want to use further objects or garments or examples within your presentation to help to explain your ideas though only 1 object should be your main focus. You can either use the actual object or use images and films to analyse and discuss your findings. Therefore your essay should be supported by ideas from readings and books as well as the objects and images themselves.)
I have chosen to analyse the corset. No other garment in Western history has assumed such political, social, and sexual significance. In this essay I will look at the history of the corset and how it transformed each century. I will also explore other sides of the corset; the fetishism that is associated with it, the medical implications, and its place in contemporary fashion.
The first corsets were called ‘payre of bodies’ corsets from the were originally derived from the ‘basquine’ which derived from the medieval cottes, and surcots’ they were similar in use to the corset, and consisted of a tight-fitting bodice that was worn over the top of other garments, and much like the corset were laced up at the back. A stiffer version of the corset was crafted from cast iron, and was designed for women with severe physical deformities. The famous army surgeon Ambroise Pare described