In the 1860s and 70s corsets were blamed for many health ailments so designers and manufactuers decided to start exploring and marketing new "healthy" corsets. Starting in the 1880s there was also a new interest in sports, physical wellness and comfort.
I have attached images of a few of my personal favorites.
In 1878 Dr. Gustave Jaeger began marketing the idea that undyed wool next to the skin promoted good health. His corset is reinforced with heavy cording to produce a more comfortable and healthier corset. Adjustable shoulder straps and front buttoned created a practical rather than attractive silhouette. First produced by the Artex Company in 1888 wool is still used today to keep the body warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
The image I have attached is one of his corsets from the 1890s made of wool and reinforced with cording.
Another interesting corset from this period is the electric corset which came from the metallic composition of the garment.
Finally, the ventilated corset was designed for summer and sports wear. It had spaces between the whalebone and cotton tapers, that allowed the air to circulate and let the wearer sweat. This British corset dates from 1890-1900 and is made of cotton and whalebone and trimmed with broderie anglaise and silk ribbon and steel center back supports.
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